Chapters
Les Dames d’Escoffier International started with one chapter in New York City in 1976, founded by Dame Carol Brock. Today, LDEI is composed of 40 chapters in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Italy, totaling over 2,800 women leaders in the fields of food, beverage and hospitality.
News
In Her Own Words: For Marilyn Freundlich, 1 + 1 = 12
For many of us, networking is strategic, intentional and sometimes exhausting. However, for others, like Marilyn...
Elizabeth Blau raises the bar on what it means to be a restaurateur
She’s been a leader in transforming Las Vegas into a dining destination, but along the way, she never forgot to pay it forward and harness the power of connection.
The Most Powerful Voices in Food Policy Are Already in the Kitchen
Chefs and restaurant owners hold a position of rare trust in American public life. More than one million restaurant locations across the United States, from quick-serve counters to white tablecloth dining rooms, make this one of the country's top employment sectors....
Resilience in a Changing Restaurant Economy
Restaurant operators are at the intersection of positive industry-wide growth and challenges that impact their daily business operations in tangible ways. The National Restaurant Association projects $1.55 trillion in restaurant and foodservice sales for 2026. While...
LDEI Names Seven Distinguished Leaders as 2026 Ambassadors
Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), the global organization dedicated to advancing and supporting women leaders in food, beverage, and hospitality, today announces the inaugural class of LDEI Ambassadors, seven distinguished members who will serve as visible...

The Feast

Annual Conference
Join us in Chicago on March 18-20, 2027 for our most highly-anticipated signature event of the year! Registration opens soon.

Corporate Partners
LDEI offers corporate partners exclusive access to a powerful global network of women shaping the culinary and hospitality industries.

Origin Story
LDEI’s Founder, Carol Brock, was a true pioneer. Follow her journey from humble beginnings to international leader.


