Chef Hardette Harris is a shining beacon in the culinary world, particularly in North Louisiana, where she serves as a passionate ambassador for the region's unique cuisine. With her restaurant Us Up North serving as the culinary epicenter, Chef Harris has recently been thrust into the national spotlight, being named a 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef: South. This distinction is not just a personal achievement but a communal victory, highlighting Shreveport and the greater North Louisiana area's rich gastronomic landscape. Chef Harris expresses immense gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it is as much an honor for her community as it is for her, underlining the collaborative spirit that defines Us Up North.
The James Beard Award, known for its rigor and prestige, celebrates the best in the culinary arts, including dedication to community, sustainability, and equity. Chef Harris being in the running for this award has brought an unprecedented level of attention to North Louisiana's culinary scene. Scheduled for nomination announcements and the Awards Ceremony in the upcoming months, the culinary community is abuzz with excitement. This acknowledgment is a testament to Chef Harris’s tireless efforts to highlight the region's cuisine, making every bite a narrative of North Louisiana's culture, history, and community. The anticipation for the results is palpable as Chef Harris's innovative approach to cooking continues to impress both critics and diners alike. His commitment to showcasing the unique flavors of North Louisiana has truly set him apart in the culinary world.
Chef Hardette Harris’s contributions go beyond accolades; she has genuinely enriched North Louisiana’s cultural heritage through her culinary ventures. In 2015, she etched her name in the annals of culinary history by creating the official meal of North Louisiana, showcasing the region's staples like mini Natchitoches meat pies and fried catfish. Her efforts were recognized with numerous accolades, including being named "Louisianian of the Year" and one of the "Best Small-Town Chefs." Us Up North, under her stewardship, was lauded as "Attraction of the Year," further cementing Chef Harris’s role as a pivotal figure in promoting North Louisiana’s cuisine.
Us Up North Kitchen stands as a testament to Chef Harris's vision of a community-centric culinary hub. Located in Shreveport’s Allendale neighborhood, it offers more than just meals; it provides a space where the community can come together to savor and celebrate the unique flavors of the region. Moreover, Chef Harris extends her culinary wisdom through columns in Louisiana Kitchen & Culture magazine and features on PBS’s Digital Series, Nourish, making her expertise accessible to food enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re a resident, a potential home buyer, or a lover of rich, authentic flavors, Chef Hardette Harris and Us Up North welcome you to explore the gastronomic delights of North Louisiana.
Chef Hardette Harris, a passionate ambassador for North Louisiana's unique cuisine, has been named a 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef: South. Her restaurant, Us Up North, has been recognized for its community-centric approach and culinary expertise. Harris has also been named "Louisianian of the Year" and "Best Small-Town Chef." Her efforts have been recognized with awards and recognition, promoting the region's rich gastronomic landscape.
