As the hospitality industry continues, with the food service industry forecast to reach $997 billion in sales in 2023, we’re seeing more and more women take on leadership roles and make a significant impact. From top chefs to successful restaurateurs, these women are changing the game and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
Chef and restaurateur Dominique Crenn has earned three Michelin stars for her San Francisco restaurant, Atelier Crenn. In 2019, Atelier Crenn ranked No.35 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and The winner of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Icon Award 2021. She is known for her innovative and artistic cooking approach and commitment to sustainability. In addition to her culinary achievements, Crenn also advocates for gender equality in the industry.
2- Nina Compton
Nina Compton is a James Beard Award-winning chef and the owner of Compère Lapin in New Orleans. Her Caribbean-inspired cuisine has earned her numerous accolades, and she is also a regular on cooking shows like Top Chef. In addition, Compton is a champion of diversity and inclusion in the industry and has launched initiatives to mentor and support underrepresented groups.
Christina Tosi is the founder and CEO of Milk Bar, a dessert empire that has expanded to multiple locations nationwide. She is also a judge on MasterChef and has authored several cookbooks. Tosi’s innovative approach to dessert-making has earned her widespread recognition, and she is also an advocate for women’s empowerment in the industry.
Missy Robbins is a James Beard Award-winning chef who owns several acclaimed New York City restaurants, including Lilia and Misi. She is known for her inventive Italian cuisine and commitment to using high-quality, seasonal ingredients. In addition to her culinary achievements, Robbins is also a mentor to young chefs and an advocate for women in the industry. She has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to the industry, including being named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs.
5- Clare Smyth
Clare Smyth is the chef and owner of Core by Clare Smyth, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in London. She was the first female chef to run a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the UK and has also been awarded an MBE for her contributions to the hospitality industry. Smyth also mentors young chefs and is passionate about creating opportunities for women in the industry.
6- Ana Ros
Ana Ros is the chef and owner of Hisa Franko, a Slovenia restaurant named one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. She is known for her innovative approach to traditional Slovenian cuisine and her commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Ros is also an advocate for sustainability in the industry and has implemented several eco-friendly practices at her restaurant.
Mashama Bailey is the chef and co-owner of The Grey in Savannah, Georgia. Her cuisine blends Southern comfort food with global influences, and she has been named a James Beard Award finalist multiple times. Bailey is also a vocal advocate for social justice and has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting marginalized communities.
8- Asma Khan
Asma Khan is the chef and owner of Darjeeling Express in London, recognized for its authentic Indian cuisine. She is also a champion for women in the hospitality industry and has launched an initiative to mentor and support female chefs. Khan is also a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion and has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting marginalized groups.
Nancy Silverton is the co-founder of La Brea Bakery and the founder of Mozza Restaurant Group. She is a pioneer of the artisanal bread movement and has earned numerous accolades for her contributions to the hospitality industry. Silverton also advocates for food education and has worked to create opportunities for young chefs to learn and grow in the industry.
Pim Techamuanvivit is the chef and owner of Kin Khao, a Thai restaurant in San Francisco named one of the best restaurants in the country by Bon Appetit and Food & Wine. She is also the author of the cookbook “The Kin Khao Cookbook: Recipes from San Francisco’s Celebrated Thai Restaurant.” Techamuanvivit is passionate about sustainability and uses locally sourced, organic ingredients in her dishes. She is also an advocate for social justice and has spoken out about the need for greater diversity in the industry.
These ten women are just a few examples of the many talented and inspiring leaders in the hospitality industry. Their contributions have transformed the culinary landscape and set an example for others. In addition, they advocate for diversity, inclusion, and sustainability and have used their platforms to raise awareness about important issues affecting the industry and the World.
As the industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women and other underrepresented groups. By supporting these leaders and creating opportunities for others to follow in their footsteps, we can help build a more inclusive and equitable hospitality industry for everyone.
