Traci Des Jardins

Traci Des Jardins

Traci Des Jardins with Gary Danko in 2009

Traci Des Jardins is a renowned American chef and restaurateur known for her innovative approach to California cuisine. With a career spanning over three decades, Des Jardins has made significant contributions to the culinary world, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Early Life and Education

Traci Des Jardins was born in Firebaugh, California, and grew up in a family with French Canadian and Mexican heritage. Her early exposure to diverse culinary traditions sparked her interest in cooking. Des Jardins pursued her passion by studying at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco.

Career

Des Jardins began her professional career working in some of the most prestigious kitchens in Los Angeles and New York City. She honed her skills under the tutelage of renowned chefs such as Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon.

In 1998, Des Jardins opened her first restaurant, Jardinière, in San Francisco. The restaurant quickly gained acclaim for its elegant French-inspired cuisine and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Jardinière became a staple in the San Francisco dining scene until its closure in 2019.

Des Jardins has also been involved in several other culinary ventures, including Mijita, a casual Mexican eatery, and The Commissary, which showcases Spanish-influenced dishes. Her ability to blend different culinary traditions has earned her numerous accolades and a loyal following.

Culinary Philosophy

Traci Des Jardins is known for her dedication to sustainability and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. She believes in the importance of supporting local farmers and producers, which is reflected in her menus. Des Jardins' cooking style is characterized by its simplicity and elegance, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.

Television and Media

Des Jardins has appeared on several cooking shows, including Top Chef Masters and Iron Chef America, where she showcased her culinary expertise to a broader audience. Her appearances have further solidified her reputation as a leading figure in the culinary world.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Traci Des Jardins has received numerous awards, including the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Pacific. Her contributions to the culinary arts have been widely recognized, and she continues to inspire aspiring chefs around the world.

Personal Life

Des Jardins is an advocate for various social and environmental causes. She is actively involved in organizations that promote sustainable agriculture and food security. Her commitment to these causes is reflected in her work both inside and outside the kitchen.

Participants in Earth Day at Iron Horse Vineyards 2017

Related Pages

• California cuisine
• James Beard Foundation Award
• Top Chef Masters
• Iron Chef America