James Beard: America's First Foodie

Today’s American food movement can be traced back to one man: cookbook author, journalist, television celebrity and teacher James Beard.

At the turn of the century, Portland had a bustling market culture, and James Beard's mother was right at the center of it all. Running a boarding house, Beard's mother brought the very best cooking to her guests and in the process taught her son an appreciation for great food at a young age.

Initially interested in acting, James Beard began cooking and entertaining when his savings ran low. Soon, he found himself invited to events and parties across the city. After he began his first catering company, he found that his cooking was beginning to open doors for him.

James Beard was one of the pioneers of clean cooking. He believed in the potential of American cuisine and the power of local farmers markets before there was even a name for this movement.

James Beard played a key role in the very first food shows on television. While he was a bit ahead of the curve and did not experience success right away, his show laid the groundwork for food television in the future.

In a time when sexuality - especially homosexuality - was not openly discussed, James Beard was comfortable, honest and open.

Alice Waters recalls a party early in her friendship with James Beard. Waters was nervous bringing her young daughter over to Beard's home, but the two made a wonderful impression on one another.

Caroline Stuart, a friend of James Beard, discovered a doll that was designed to look like James Beard. The toy was only available for a short time, and very few remain today.

Known for winning "Top Chef Masters" and for his palate-pleasing offal dishes, Chris Cosentino shares the surprising story of how he discovered James Beard's work and legacy.

Executive Producer Michael Kantor comments on the upcoming series from American Masters, "A Chef's Flight." The four documentaries feature James Beard, Julia Child, Jacques Pépin and Alice Waters: the "culinary Mt. Rushmore of America."