James Beard was born 113 years ago today.

Beard is the much-celebrated “Dean of American cookery.”  A pioneer foodie, he was also host of the perfectly-named  I Love to Eat, the first food program on the fledgling medium of television in 1946, the first to believe that classic American culinary traditions might turn into a national cuisine and an early champion of eating local.

Beard nurtured a generation of American chefs and cookbook authors who have changed the way we eat.  31 years after his death, The James Beard Foundation remains at the center of America’s culinary community, and a vibrant legacy dedicated to exploring the way food enriches our lives.

Last but not least: James Beard gave good quote. Here’s a look at some of our favourites: