Hallmark Channel's new daytime entry, "Emeril's Table," featuring Chef Emeril Lagasse, will debut Monday, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m.

The announcement was made last week at the annual gathering of television critics in Los Angeles.A culinary icon whose warm take on food television has been followed by adoring fans of all ages, Lagasse's new series (the newest addition to the Hallmark Home branded block of originals) is a celebration of family and friends around the dinner table.The daily program showcases Lagasse in his element, sharing his love of food with five lucky guests seated at his chef's table.Produced in association with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Lagasse gives the ultimate cooking lesson to a wide range of visitors: from newlyweds and busy moms, to firefighters and vegetarians.As Emeril inspires and engages them and answers their culinary questions and food dilemmas he'll also share fresh, fun ideas, recipes, tips and techniques."I have truly enjoyed filming this special series," says Emeril. "Some of my most fulfilling memories have been in the kitchen preparing a meal with my family and friends, and 'Emeril's Table' creates that same kind of connection."Emeril knows that great food is meant to be shared."Food brings us all a little closer together and I hope that as we're gathering around my table each day everyone will invite us in to their kitchens and be inspired to cook along."Lagasse received his first culinary experience from his mother, Hilda, when he was a boy growing up in the small town of Fall River, Mass. Upon high school graduation, he was offered a full scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music, but decided to pursue a career as a professional chef.He earned a degree from the respected culinary fortress, Johnson and Wales University, and later received an honorary doctorate from the university. Lagasse is now the chef-proprietor of 12 restaurants in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Orlando, Gulfport and Bethlehem.The recognition and awards he has garnered have made him known to food-loving Americans everywhere.As a national TV personality, Lagasse has hosted over 2,000 shows on the Food Network, and is the food correspondent for ABC's "Good Morning America."In addition to his television presence, he has a live, call-in radio program, Cooking with Emeril, which airs exclusively on Martha Stewart Living Radio on SIRIUS XM. He also has a column in Everyday Food magazine where the chef and his 6-year-old son, E.J., provide delicious family-friendly recipes. Lagasse is the author of 15 inspiring cookbooks including Emeril's New New Orleans Cooking, which introduced his creative take on Creole cuisine. His newest release, Sizzling Skillets and other One-Pot Wonders, hits shelves Sept. 27."Emeril's Table" is produced for Hallmark Channel by Emeril Primetime Productions in association with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Martha Stewart and Fran Brescia-Coniglio are executive producers. The series is directed by Scott Preston.