Welcome!

Les Dames d’Escoffier International is a worldwide organization of professional women of high achievement in the multifaceted field of food, fine beverage, and hospitality. With active chapters throughout the world, Les Dames is dedicated to supporting and promoting the achievement of women in the culinary professions and to fostering excellence through education and charitable activities.

The Seattle chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier was founded in 1988 and consists of 58 members, including chefs, winemakers, cookbook authors, caterers, restaurateurs, chocolatiers, food photographers and consultants.

Our Purpose:

• To further the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of food, wine and arts of the tables
• Promote the education and advancement of, and to offer advice and assistance to, women in careers related to food, wine and hospitality.
• To raise and disburse funds for scholarships.
• To promote high standards in the supply, preparation and service of food, wine and other beverages.
• To advise and assist fellow member in matters pertaining to food wine and hospitality.

Our Mission:

• To award scholarships to deserving people who aspire to a gustatory career
• To mentor women entering the culinary profession
• To support food-related charitable organizations in the local and regional community

To promote this mission, the chapter has awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships to culinary students throughout Washington State. In 2002 it donated $37,000 to establish a scholarship endowment for women students of the Seattle Culinary Academy at Seattle Central Community College.

Membership:

          Women in the Seattle area who are employed in the fields of food, wine, fine beverages, hospitality and the arts of the table for a at least five years may apply for membership, which is by invitation only.