Celebrating Women in the Culinary World
Honoring National Women’s Month & Day
March is National Women’s Month, and March 8 marks International Women’s Day—a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of women across industries, including the culinary world. From kitchen pioneers who broke barriers to today’s female chefs, restaurant owners, and food activists, women have played an essential role in shaping how we cook, eat, and celebrate food.
Women Who Paved the Way
Historically, professional kitchens have been dominated by men, but women have always been at the heart of culinary traditions. Julia Child, Edna Lewis, and Alice Waters are just a few women who revolutionized the industry. Child brought French cuisine to American homes, Lewis preserved Southern cooking with deep cultural significance, and Waters pioneered the farm-to-table movement. Their influence continues to inspire today’s chefs and home cooks alike.
Modern Trailblazers in the Kitchen
Today, women are leading the way in restaurants, catering businesses, and food sustainability efforts. Many are using their platforms to advocate for better food sourcing, fair wages in the industry, and culinary inclusivity. Female chefs like Dominique Crenn, Mashama Bailey, and Nyesha Arrington are redefining fine dining, while others are building community-focused food businesses that emphasize local and seasonal ingredients.
Women in Culinary Entrepreneurship
Beyond the restaurant scene, women are thriving as food entrepreneurs—launching catering companies, pop-up restaurants, and artisanal food brands. Their contributions extend beyond cooking; they are shaping food policies, leading sustainable farming initiatives, and creating platforms for diverse culinary voices to be heard.
Chef Becky’s Journey
At Bex Kitchen, Chef Becky Geisel has built a business that reflects her passion for whole foods, local sourcing, and community engagement. Her journey as a chef and entrepreneur has been deeply influenced by strong women, including her mother, whose health journey inspired Becky’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle through whole food. Through her café, catering, and community events, she continues to uplift and support women in the culinary world and beyond.
Supporting Women in Food
This National Women’s Month, consider supporting women-led food businesses, learning about female culinary pioneers, and uplifting the voices of women in food. Whether it’s dining at a woman-owned restaurant, purchasing from a female artisan, or simply recognizing the contributions of women in your kitchen, every act of support counts.
Women have always been at the forefront of shaping culinary traditions. This March, let’s celebrate their past, present, and future in the ever-evolving world of food.
