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Nora Pouillon
Organic Food Consultant/Chef
Nora Pouillon is an Austrian-born chef, restaurateur, and pioneer of the organic food movement in the United States.16 Born on October 26, 1943, she moved to Washington, D.C. in the 1960s with her French husband.24
Pouillon is best known for founding Restaurant Nora in Washington, D.C. in 1979, which became America's first certified organic restaurant in 1999.36 Her commitment to organic and sustainable cuisine helped legitimize organic food in the mainstream culinary world.3
Key aspects of Nora Pouillon's career include:
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Early advocacy: Upon arriving in the U.S., she was shocked by the prevalence of processed foods and began advocating for healthier, organic options.2
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Culinary education: She started teaching cooking classes and running a catering service in D.C.'s Adams Morgan neighborhood.1
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Restaurant success: Restaurant Nora became a favorite among political and media elites, hosting several U.S. presidents and their families.56
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Organic certification: In 1999, after a rigorous two-year process, Restaurant Nora became the first certified organic restaurant in the country.3
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Retirement: In 2016, Pouillon announced her retirement and plans to sell Restaurant Nora.5 The restaurant closed in June 2017.6
Throughout her career, Pouillon has been a tireless advocate for organic farming practices, sustainable food systems, and healthy eating.7 Her work has significantly influenced the way Americans think about and consume food, earning her recognition as a trailblazer in the farm-to-table movement.5

