That’s right… I was in the front row for a taping of Emeril Live today… kicking it up a notch and all that jazz… it was a blast!

It’s quite a slick production, truly done in real time… and Big E is a pro, with great comic timing and an amazing connection with his audience… young, old, a real melting pot of ethnic backgrounds, all sat rapt, breaking into applause whenever he added garlic! Yeah. Or poured in a generous splash of something boozy.

I’m going to write more for the food section… and more about all the great food I’ve been eating, but I’m running out to the James Beard Awards… featuring some of New Orleans best chefs.

… did I mention I’m going to a taping of Emeril Live! next week??

I’m going to NYC Friday for the James Beard Foundation Awards, the annual Oscars for the food set. This year, the celebration will honor New Orleans and its incredible chefs and restaurants.

Before the awards ceremony Monday night, I’m going to get a behind-the-scenes peek at the Food Network… anything you want me to ask? Or, to be on the lookout for?