New Orleans has one of the strongest culinary traditions in the US, if not the entire world.

New Orleans restaurants were among the first businesses in the city to re-open their doors after the levee failures. In fact, some scarcely closed as chefs and kitchen staffs labored around the clock to provide food to rescue workers and first responders.

How can you help New Orleans right now?

Amazingly, it can be as simple as coming to town and eating like a king (or queen.) How hard is that?

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This short documentary was originally presented at the 2006 James Beard Awards in New York City as a tribute to New Orleans chefs who were collectively recognized for their collective efforts.