Fans Young and Old Meet Emeril Lagasse

Two young Emeril Lagasse fans were dressed in their best chefwear to meet him on Friday afternoon.

John DeSena, 8, of Westfield, was dressed in an apron, which Lagasse signed for him. He's been watching the celebrity chef's television show since he was 3 years old. With him was Marco Damiano, 5, of Kennelon, who was dressed in a chef's hat an apron. He plans to open his own restaurant some day.

Neither knew each other before Friday, but had met while they were standing in line to meet Lagasse at the William Sonoma at the Mall at Short Hills. They met the chef together while their mothers took photos of the boys, and their mothers were trading contact information following the meeting.

Lagasse was there to promote his new book "Farm to Fork," which he was signing at the store. People were lined up at least 15 minutes before he was to start signing in the mall.

The book offers recipes to inspire cooks to utilize organic and locally-grown produce.  In the book, Lagasse offers recipes and also how to take advantage of local seasonal ingredients.

Recipes range from Honey Brined Pork Chops with Nectarine Chutney, Sweet Corn Maque Choux, Five Grain Salad, to Spinach Sautéed with Garlic, Figs, and Honey and Corn, Tomato, and Lobster Salad and Watermelon Rind Crisp Sweet Pickles.

Farmers Market season isn't far off in Millburn-Short Hills. The market is scheduled to open on June 15 and will be held each Tuesday through October at the corner of Main and Essex streets. Lagasse said people heading to the market should look for what's freshest and the most local.