Dooky Chase's esteemed matriarch Leah Chase is having the best year ever. The reigning Queen of Creole turned 93-years-old this year and even made a cameo appearance in Beyonce's lauded visual album Lemonade. On Monday evening, the James Beard Foundation honored Chase with a Lifetime Achievement Award. As she took the stage, Chase was met with a standing ovation. "This gives me courage to keep going for about 10 to 12 more years," she told the crowd during her acceptance speech. "I'll be in that kitchen."
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Leah Chase takes the mic during the 2016 James Beard Awards. [Photo: Screenshot via Eater]
In this video produced by the Beard Foundation, chefs Marcus Samuelsson and John Besh, as well as former Xavier University president Norman Francis describe the tremendous influence Chase had within the Civil Rights movement. Chase also takes a moment to recall some of her favorite stories — like the time Obama tried put hot sauce in his gumbo. "Mr. Obama, you don't put hot stuff in my gumbo." Watch the full video above.
Visit Eater for more details on the nominees, New Orleans Beard recipients, the national winners, as well as quips and commentary from liveblogging editors Erin DeJesus and Hillary Dixler.
