Les Dames d’Escoffier St. Louis is the St. Louis chapter of an international organization of women leaders in food, beverage, farming, hospitality, and the culinary arts. Think chefs, sommeliers, bakers, distillers, farmers, food writers, restaurant owners, educators, chocolatiers, nonprofit founders, and the people quietly making the region’s food culture actually happen.

Our mission is simple and serious:

• Support and elevate women in culinary fields

• Preserve and share food culture and craft

• Give back to the St. Louis community

• Open doors for the next generation of women in food

We do that through scholarships, micro-grants, educational programs, mentorship, community partnerships, and hands-on outreach.

Where your bid goes:

• Micro-Grants to help women start or grow food-related businesses

• Scholarships for culinary students and professionals advancing their training

• Educational programming that strengthens our region’s food ecosystem

• Community support initiatives involving food insecurity, access, and empowerment

Your bid isn’t just buying a dinner, a class, or an experience. It’s putting real resources into the hands of women who are creating the future of food in St. Louis.

Why this matters:
The food world is tough. Margins are thin. Training is expensive. Mentorship is often informal and uneven. Many talented women lack access to capital, connections, or visibility. Les Dames exists to level that playing field.

Who we are:

• Collaborative, not competitive

• Warm and grounded, not pretentious

• Passionate about food, flavor, and generosity

• Happy to roll up our sleeves and make things happen

In short: When you bid, you’re fueling creativity, opportunity, and leadership.
You’re investing in women who feed communities, preserve culture, build businesses, and nourish St. Louis in every sense of the word.

Thank you for supporting Les Dames d’Escoffier St. Louis. Your generosity truly grows something.