Les Dames d'Escoffier International

We are a philanthropic organization of women leaders in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. Our membership is highly diversified and reflects the fields of contemporary gastronomy and hospitality. We support our communities through grants, scholarships and mentorship.

2026 Chapter of the Year Awards

Our Chapter Awards celebrate the extraordinary impact of our chapters across the network. From mentorship and philanthropy to innovation and community leadership, they showcase the power of women coming together to create meaningful change. Discover the chapters whose work is helping shape a stronger future for food, beverage, and hospitality.  

2025 Woman of Purpose

In a grand celebration of leadership, education, and community impact, we are proud to announce Dame Hayley Matson-Mathes (Hawaii) as the recipient of its distinguished Woman of Purpose Award in partnership with YETI®. This honor recognizes exceptional Dames who are driving meaningful change in their communities through initiatives centered on global sustainability, food justice, education, and public health.

“Hayley embodies the very spirit of the Woman of Purpose award,” says Stephanie Jaeger, LDEI President. “Her commitment to culinary education, her ability to create opportunity where there was once limitation, and her tireless advocacy for students, teachers, and working professionals have left a lasting mark not just in Hawaii, but across the broader culinary landscape. We are thrilled to honor her contributions.”

News

LDEI Legacy Awards Now Open

LDEI Legacy Awards Now Open

Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 LDEI Legacy Awards, supported by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. Since 2009, the Legacy Awards provide women in food,...

LDEI Legacy Awards Now Open

Legacy Awards Accepting Applications

Applications are now open for the 2026 Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI) Legacy Awards, supported by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. The Legacy Awards provide women in food, beverage and hospitality with transformative,...

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.

the feast

In this online publication, the feast magazine informs, engages and celebrates the members of LDEI.

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Mentoring Network

Meet a group of exceptional Dames who are passionate about inspiring other women to thrive and succeed through mentorship.

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Partners

Join us as a Partner and connect with our influential membership of women in food, beverage and hospitality.

 

 

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LDEI's Origin Story

LDEI’s Founder, Carol Brock, was a true pioneer. From her humble beginnings to the icon she became and the organization that thrives today, see it all in this video tribute.

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