Although the culinary scene has been dominated by men over the years, female chefs are quickly claiming their stake in the kitchen. After all, when it comes to the chopping board, these Chicago-based chefs (and our stomachs) know that good food simply speaks for itself.
1. Stephanie Izard
After winning Bravo’s “Top Chef,” Stephanie Izard, alongside business partners, Rob and Kevin of BOKA Restaurant Group, began conceptualizing Girl & the Goat, a restaurant in the West Loop that specializes in innovative small plates. 809 West Randolph St.
Photo via NBC Chicago
2. Mindy Segal
Pastry chef Mindy Segal is the owner of HotChocolate Restaurant and Dessert Bar, an urban cafe that serves contemporary food and desserts. 1747 North Damen Ave.
Photo via Eater
3. Gale Gand
Gale Gand is a nationally acclaimed pastry chef, a founding partner of Tru, and a television personality on the Food Network. 676 North St. Clair St.
Photo via Eats Abroad
4. Tanya Baker
After working as line cook and chef de cuisine in Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, Tanya Baker joined The Boarding House team as its executive cook. 720 North Wells St.
Photo via Chicago Tribune
5. Zoë Schor
Former Ada St. chef, Zoë Schor, recently branched away to open her own venture, Split-Rail, which will officially open in late 2016.
Photo via Chicago Tribune
