Celebrating a Living Legend: Jacques Pépin’s 90th at Oak & Reel

Shellfish Raviolo

As part of the incredible Culinary Collective series at Oak & Reel, we had the honor of attending one of the 90 Chefs for 90 Years celebration dinners honoring the legendary Jacques Pépin. A full house of food lovers, chefs, and admirers gathered not just to eat, but to pay tribute to one of the most iconic figures in culinary arts.

And yes, the dishes were absolutely amazing. From the inventive plating to the thoughtful homage paid to Chef Pépin’s classic techniques, every bite told a story. But what stood out even more than the food was the atmosphere elevated, electric, and filled with reverence.

Sweetbreats & Escargot

The fashion? Unforgettable. Detroit showed up and showed out. The room sparkled with style, sophistication, and a sense of occasion, befitting the legacy we were there to celebrate.

This event was one of 90 chef-hosted celebrations across the country, each marking a year of Jacques Pépin’s extraordinary life and career. Even more meaningful, proceeds from each dinner support the Jacques Pépin Foundation, which is devoted to empowering communities through culinary education. It’s a mission as generous and inspiring as the man himself.

Brioche - Crusted Cod

To Jacques Pépin: thank you for a lifetime of flavor, finesse, and heart. To know that you’ve touched so many lives that ninety chefs and restaurants came together to honor you it’s a testament to the enduring power of your legacy.

And to Oak & Reel: thank you for being the kind of place where food becomes art, and where legacies are honored not just with applause, but with plates that speak volumes.

—Follow along with our culinary adventures at Jabri Fine Dining, where we explore the most unforgettable meals around the world—and right here at home.

Our menu for the evening:

Poireaux Vinaigrette

Sweetbreats & Escargot

Shellfish Raviolo

Brioche-Crusted Cod

Glass of Wine

Tournedos Rousini

Michigan Cherry Tarte