Our History
Les Dames d’Escoffier was granted a charter in 1973 by Les Amis d’Escoffier (an all-male organization), when culinary writer Carol Brock received a charter to form a new, autonomous "ladies chapter" for professional women only. The first chapter was established in New York City with a membership of 50 professional women. Today, LDEI has more than 2,400 members in 45 chapters worldwide.
It continues to be the only organization for highly accomplished professional women in food, wine and hospitality.
The membership of LDEI, alone among industry groups, cuts across diverse segments, including farmers, fisherwomen, chefs, restaurateurs, caterers, culinary school proprietors, educators, culinary historians, food editors and writers, book authors, hoteliers and hotel executives, vintners and wine merchants, chocolatiers, bakers, food scientists, dietitians, TV and film producers, communications and marketing specialists, policy makers, lawyers and food merchants, food activists, manufacturers and purveyors.
The New England Chapter was founded in 2009 by a handful of women looking to unite the region’s talented female food producers, chefs, farmers, writers, and advocates. Uniquely, this chapter focuses heavily on food systems advocacy and awareness.
“Les Dames d’Escoffier is a leadership culinary organization composed of women who have not only achieved success in their professions, but who contribute significantly to their communities. I am proud to be a member.”
— Julia Child
Julia Child was the first recipient of the LDEI Grande Dame Award, given in recognition of extraordinary and unusual contributions to the fields of food, wine, other fine beverages, nutrition, and the arts of the table.