Leah Chase

File:Leah Chase Listen book cover.JPG

Leah Chase Listen book cover

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Leah Chase (January 6, 1923 – June 1, 2019) was an American chef, author, and television personality. She was known as the "Queen of Creole Cuisine" and was a prominent advocate for African-American art and culture. Chase was the executive chef and co-owner of Dooky Chase's Restaurant, which became a gathering place for civil rights activists in the 1960s.

Early Life

Leah Chase was born in Madisonville, Louisiana, a small town on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. She was one of 13 children in her family. After completing her education at St. Mary's Academy in New Orleans, she moved to the city to pursue work.

Career

Chase began her career in the culinary world by working in various restaurants in the French Quarter. In 1946, she married Edgar "Dooky" Chase Jr., whose parents owned a street corner stand that sold lottery tickets and po'boys. Leah and her husband transformed the stand into a sit-down restaurant, which became known as Dooky Chase's Restaurant.

Dooky Chase's Restaurant

Under Leah Chase's leadership, Dooky Chase's Restaurant became famous for its Creole cuisine. The restaurant was also a significant meeting place during the Civil Rights Movement, hosting leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and Rosa Parks. Chase's gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken became iconic dishes.

Contributions to Art and Culture

Leah Chase was a passionate supporter of African-American art. She collected works by African-American artists and displayed them in her restaurant. She also authored several cookbooks, sharing her recipes and the history of Creole cooking.

Awards and Honors

Chase received numerous awards and honors throughout her life, including the James Beard Foundation's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. She was also inducted into the Louisiana Restaurant Association's Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

Leah Chase and her husband had four children. She was deeply involved in her community and was known for her philanthropy and mentorship to young chefs.

Death

Leah Chase passed away on June 1, 2019, at the age of 96. Her legacy continues through her family and the ongoing operation of Dooky Chase's Restaurant.

Related Pages

• Creole cuisine
• Dooky Chase's Restaurant
• Civil Rights Movement
• James Beard Foundation
• Louisiana Restaurant Association