The New Orleans TV chef is Emeril, a six-letter word. Emeril Lagasse is an American celebrity chef, restaurateur, television personality, and author. He is known for his mastery of Creole and Cajun cuisine and his self-developed 'New New Orleans' style. He first appeared on television in the late 1980s as executive chef at the Commander's Palace restaurant in New Orleans. He has since hosted several Food Network shows, including the long-running Essence of Emeril and Emeril Live. He has also appeared on other programs, such as Good Morning America and Saturday Night Live.