Harry & David, America's premier choice in gourmet food gifting, is teaming up with Iron Chef, TV host, and author Geoffrey Zakarian to share his passion for fine food, entertaining, and healthy living with customers. As culinary ambassador for Harry & David, Zakarian will curate and create products, recipes, and experiences that reflect his philosophy on cooking and entertaining so customers can express, connect, and celebrate life's delicious moments. Harry & David is part of the 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. family of brands.

Zakarian has presided over some of the country's top kitchens, traveling the world for new inspiration to marry with his classical training and techniques in a lifelong effort to deliver paramount hospitality experiences. Now, he's bringing his culinary expertise and signature style to Harry & David.

"I am a long-time fan of Harry & David, starting with the famous Royal Riviera Pears, but these delicious pears are just the beginning of what the brand has to offer," Zakarian says. "I've had such a great time immersing myself in all the Harry & David offerings and taste-testing products, from meats and cheeses to seafood and desserts, so I can share some of my personal favorites through new recipes, experiences, and more."

"We are very excited to collaborate with Geoffrey and share his passion for good food with our customers," says Greg Sarley, senior vice president of merchandising, gourmet foods, and gift baskets. "Across our consumer touchpoints, we look forward to bringing his unique point of view for elevated entertaining to our community, as we help foster relationships through distinctive fare and create meaningful opportunities for engaging with Geoffrey, Harry & David, and each other."

To launch the collaboration, Zakarian has curated a collection of more than 30 Harry & David specialty products, including items from Wolferman's Bakery and Vital Choice. Items within the assortment range from $32 to $200 and will change seasonally. A sampling of key categories and gourmet food products in the inaugural collection include:

• Sustainably Sourced Seafood – Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon, Wild Alaskan Halibut, Wild-Caught Chilean Sea Bass
• Fine Meats – Bone-In Ribeye Steak, Porterhouse Steak, Filet Mignon
• Meat and Cheese – Classic Epicurean Charcuterie and Cheese Collection, Charcuterie and Cheese Assortment, Ultimate Charcuterie and Cheese Collection

Zakarian will share his expertise on everything in the kitchen, from pairing food with wine to making an unforgettable birthday dinner. Customers can channel their inner gourmet chef through how-to videos featuring newly created recipes, such as: Poached Pears with Red Wine, Roasted Rib Eye with Caramelized Shallots, Greek Sunday Morning Yogurt Parfait and Geoffrey Zakarian's Famous Bloody Mary, and much more.

Source: Harry & David