Guy Fieri in sunglasses and headset, smiling

Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images

On his wildly popular show "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," host Guy Fieri has interacted with some unique chefs and restaurant owners from all over the country, but few stand out like Alice "Ma" Harper, who captured the hearts of viewers. Harper was in her early 60s when she opened Ma Harper's Creole Kitchen in San Antonio, Texas. Now approaching her late 90s, Harper is still busy in the kitchen, churning out the classic Creole food she learned to make while growing up in New Orleans and cooking for her 15 siblings. She was already a beloved figure in the community, but her exposure on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" introduced this hardworking restaurateur to the nation.

Many have watched the segment featuring Ma Harper and her restaurant on YouTube and have left glowing comments about the chef and owner. "Ma Harper is a national treasure and an absolute riot," one commenter writes. Another says, "Sorry, Guy, that was Ma Harper's episode and you were just in it, lol."

When the episode, titled "Regional Recipes," aired, Fieri described Harper as "livin' and lovin' and laughin' and cookin' and rhymin' and teachin' and winnin' — all at the age of 89!" which pretty much sums up Harper, her delicious food, and the way her fans feel about her.

Much of Ma Harper's appeal has to do with her story

It's true that Alice Harper is a fantastic cook. She's charming, funny, and has excellent camera appeal, but much of San Antonio's admiration for her has to do with her heart and personal story. Prior to going into the restaurant business, Harper worked for over 20 years as an aircraft mechanic for the United States Air Force. At 53, she earned her GED. She survived a stroke, and when most people would have retirement on their mind, she decided to open her own restaurant.

Since opening Ma Harper's Creole Kitchen, Harper has hired people who might have otherwise had a hard time getting a job elsewhere. On the "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" episode, she explains that she's hired employees who are hearing-impaired and several who have recently been released from jail because she's a strong believer in second chances. She doesn't just feed her community; she serves it. After Guy Fieri sampled her legendary gumbo, fried pork chops, red beans and rice, and cornbread, he said, "The food is great," and Harper jumped in and finished, "but the love is greater."