Emeril Lagasse Celebrates Son's Success at Grand Cayman Festival

The annual Cayman Cookout on Grand Cayman continues to be a highlight for world-class chefs, including Emeril Lagasse, who has attended for 15 years. Hosted by Eric Ripert at The Ritz Carlton, the six-day festival offers intimate culinary experiences, exceptional dining, and parties in a beautiful beachfront setting. Lagasse emphasizes the event's personal nature, highlighting the strong community of chefs and the genuine connections formed with guests due to the limited attendance.

This year's Cookout is particularly special for Lagasse as his son, E.J. Lagasse, a rising culinary star, was recently awarded two Michelin stars. E.J. has evolved from attending the festival as a child to now participating as a chef, bringing his modern Creole cuisine to the event. He now leads the kitchen at Emeril's flagship restaurant in New Orleans, a role for which he received the prestigious honor, becoming one of the youngest chefs globally to achieve it.

The festival's appeal lies in its relaxed, reunion-like atmosphere. Renowned chefs such as José Andrés, Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Gregory Gourdet, and Ming Tsai engage directly with attendees, creating unique experiences like barefoot caviar service on the beach. Lagasse finds joy in watching his son's culinary journey unfold, from assisting him to now receiving top accolades and helming their family restaurant.