There are a lot of responses of "Jacques Pepin".

I think he's done a great thing for cuisine in America. His cooking shows are easily accessible and informative and his book Complete Techniques (La Methode and La Technique) is often referenced in my library. I would not want him to cook my anniversary (or birthday) dinner as the OP mentioned however. He can make the classics perfectly, but that isn't what I'm looking for a special occasion.

If it was a family Sunday dinner or a summer beach lunch, Pepin would be my choice.