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Saturday Speaker Series — From Southern Accents to Catering and Pomegranate Bistro: A Chef’s Journey in Redmond

March 14 @ 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Photo: Southern Accents, 1984, Redmond, WA

Join the Redmond Historical Society for our second Saturday Speaker Series program of 2026. Local chef and cookbook author Lisa Dupar presents “From Southern Accents to Catering and Pomegranate Bistro: A Chef’s Journey in Redmond”!

This presentation showcases the story of Chef Lisa Dupar’s culinary and entrepreneurial journey in Redmond, which began in 1984. With the opening of her first restaurant, Southern Accents, Lisa brought the warmth and flavors of her Southern heritage to town. Her passion for hospitality and comforting dishes quickly earned her a loyal following, and she expanded into event catering. As her client list and family grew, Lisa sold her restaurant to focus solely on Lisa Dupar Catering. In 2005, she poured her love for community and having a “culinary playground” into opening a second restaurant, Pomegranate Bistro, which offers a welcoming space where friends gather over Southern dishes and Pacific Northwest fare. Lisa’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to flavor, hospitality, and creating memorable experiences that bring people together.

This program will be recorded. Members attend for free with a suggested donation of $5 for non-members. This community event is open to everyone.

Details

  • Date: March 14
  • Time:
    10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Venue

About the Speaker

Photo: Chef Lisa Dupar, Pomegranate Bistro, 2024

Redmond–based chef and cookbook author Lisa Dupar is known for creating memorable culinary experiences rooted in her Southern heritage, classic training, and modern techniques. Born in Mexico City and raised in Atlanta, she spent formative summers in Charleston, South Carolina. After apprenticing at the Westin Peachtree Plaza, she cooked in Zurich and Geneva before becoming The Westin Seattle’s first female chef in 1981. In 1984, she opened Southern Accents, featuring classics like shrimp and grits and gumbo, and soon launched a catering company serving clients such as Microsoft and Boeing. She later opened Pomegranate Bistro and authored the award-winning cookbook Fried Chicken & Champagne. From Mexico City to Seattle, Lisa blends hometown flavor with haute cuisine—always ready to share fried chicken and a glass of champagne.

About the Redmond Historical Society

The Redmond Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Redmond, Washington. Through educational programs, events, and exhibits, the society engages the community in exploring and celebrating Redmond’s rich heritage.

More info: www.redmondhistoricalsociety.org