Diana Kennedy may be best known as a groundbreaking cookbook author. Yet she was so much more: passionate documentarian, fearless environmentalist, sharp-tongued guardian of culinary and cultural traditions. She was witty. Mischievous. And as any who knew her can attest, an undeniable force of nature. 

Through nine seminal books, Diana introduced the world to the rich diversity of Mexican cuisine. Her approach was unfailingly respectful and authentic, always driven by the urgency of preservation. The research methodology was painstaking – a product of uncompromising standards and a deep reverence for Mexican culture. 

She was passionate about food, but also an ardent champion of sustainability, climate change and waste management.  Small wonder this British transplant’s influence continues to reverberate across the globe, inspiring everyone from celebrity chefs and scholars to environmentalists and everyday cooks.

The mission of this foundation is to identify and support initiatives that actively advance the values and ideals that inspired Diana throughout her 99 remarkable years:

• Cultural preservation through responsible documentation 

• Profound respect for indigenous knowledge

• Environmental stewardship rooted in sustainability and ecological responsibility

• Fair treatment, education and empowerment for women and children

• Culinary integrity based on tradition, regional identity and authenticity

• Education and research to deepen public understanding of traditional foodways