Hallmark Channel's New Series, 'Emeril's Table,' Premieres 9/26

Hallmark Channel's new daytime entry, "Emeril's Table," featuring Chef Emeril Lagasse, will debut Monday, September 26th at 11:00 am e/10:00 am c (airs weekdays at 11), it was announced today at the annual gathering of television critics in Los Angeles.

A culinary icon whose warm take on food television has been followed by adoring fans of all ages, Lagasse's new series (the newest addition to the Hallmark Home branded block of originals) is a celebration of family and friends around the dinner table. The engaging and informative daily program showcases Lagasse in his element, sharing his love of food with five lucky guests seated at his chef's table.

In this intimate and always entertaining half-hour, produced in association with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Chef Emeril gives the ultimate cooking lesson to a wide range of visitors: from newlyweds and busy moms, to fire fighters and vegetarians, giving viewers at home an exclusive opportunity to break bread with the renowned chef.

As Emeril inspires and engages them - and answers some of their most burning culinary questions and food dilemmas - he'll also share fresh, fun ideas, recipes, tips and techniques. After all, Emeril knows that great food is meant to be shared!

"I have truly enjoyed filming this special series," says Emeril. "Some of my most fulfilling memories have been in the kitchen preparing a meal with my family and friends, and 'Emeril's Table' creates that same kind of connection." He added: "Food brings us all a little closer together and I hope that as we're gathering around my table each day everyone will invite us in to their kitchens and be inspired to cook along."

Chef Emeril Lagasse received his first culinary experience from his mother, Hilda, when he was a boy growing up in the small town of Fall River, Massachusetts. Upon high school graduation, Lagasse was offered a full scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music, but decided to pursue a career as a professional chef.

He earned a degree from the respected culinary fortress, Johnson and Wales University, and later received an honorary Doctorate degree from the university. Lagasse is now the chef-proprietor of 12 restaurants in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Orlando, Gulfport and Bethlehem. The recognition and awards he has garnered have made him known to food-loving Americans everywhere. In 2005, he received the "Distinguished Service Award" from Wine Spectator for his significant and long-lasting contributions to the wine industry. In 2006, he was inducted into the MenuMasters Hall of Fame by Nation's Restaurant News. In 2007, he was named "Restaurateur of the Year" by New Orleans CityBusiness and in 2009, he received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from Food Network's South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

As a national TV personality, Emeril has hosted over 2000 shows on the Food Network, and is the food correspondent for ABC's "Good Morning America." In addition to his television presence, Emeril has a live, call-in radio program, Cooking with Emeril, which airs exclusively on Martha Stewart Living Radio on SIRIUS XM. He also has a column in Everyday Food magazine where the chef and his six-year-old son, E.J., provide delicious family-friendly recipes. Emeril is the author of 15 inspiring cookbooks including Emeril's New New Orleans Cooking which introduced his creative take on Creole cuisine. His newest release, Sizzling Skillets and other One-Pot Wonders, hits shelves September 27th.

"Emeril's Table" is produced for Hallmark Channel by Emeril Primetime Productions in association with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Martha Stewart and Fran Brescia-Coniglio are executive producers. The series is directed by Scott Preston.