We are an all-female organization dedicated to the education and empowerment of women in food, beverage, and hospitality.
Since 1959
Since our chapter’s inception in 1959, we have encouraged and connected hundreds of female food and beverage professionals from across the Boston area. Our organization consists of leaders who believe in the power of education, advocacy, and philanthropy. We support one another professionally to help our industry and women across the world flourish.
OUR HISTORY
The Timeline of Les Dames d’Escoffier
1846 –1935
Auguste Escoffier was one of the most innovative chefs in history, one whose philosophy, accomplishments and philanthropic deeds serve as both model and inspiration to culinary professionals today.
1936
Former pupils of Auguste Escoffier gathered at the Waldorf Astoria to form an all-male organization of dedicated gastronomes called Les Amis d’Escoffier Society of New York.
1959
Boston natives Eda Saccone and Charles L. Banino, Executive Chef of The Ritz Carlton, had the courage and tenacity to create an all-female culinary alliance modeled after Les Amis d’Escoffier Society of New York. Eda was granted the first Charter in Boston that ultimately launched Les Dames des d’Escoffier.
1966
Joseph Donon, the founder of Les Amis d’Escoffier, granted Les Dames des Amis d’Escoffier its charter, making it the first women’s chapter.
1981
Established the Charles L. Banino Scholarship Foundation which awarded scholarships to deserving female and male students in the culinary industry.
1985
A Tribute to Julia Child at The Copley Plaza with Boston luminaries and White House Chef Henry Haller.
1992
First all-women’s chef dinner at Maison Robert with Julia Child as an honored guest.
1992
The first All Women Chefs’ Dinner at Maison Robert with Julia Child as the honored guest. Les Dames des Amis d’Escoffier joins Les Dames d’Escoffier International, a professional women’s society founded in New York in 1973.
1994
Boston hosted the Les Dames d’Escoffier International Annual Conference at The Ritz Carlton.
2001
Dame Julia Child, Dame Judy Mattera and other Dames gather at the Federalist.
2010
Boston Les Dames d’Escoffier celebrated its 50th Anniversary at the Lenox Hotel.
2014
Boston hosted Les Dames d’Escoffier International Annual Conference at the Royal Sonesta in Cambridge, MA
A commemorative stamp honoring Julia Child was issued by the Cambridge Postmaster. Dame Julia was a member of the Boston chapter until her passing in August 2004.
2022
Les Dames d’Escoffier, Boston announces its Culinary Adventure Awards. In collaboration with Boston University, the award provides funding for deserving female student(s) to explore a culinary dream project.
