Les Dames d'Escoffier Washington, D.C. Regional Chapter is a member of Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI), a philanthropic organization comprising 42 chapters across the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and Italy, and totaling more than 2,600 women leaders in food, beverage, and related sectors. Our members are women of achievement in their fields as well as in their communities.

The DC Regional Chapter taps into the expertise of our members to produce educational programs for members and the public on a wide range of topics, such as food sustainability, nutrition, food policy, and culinary traditions.

A key component of our organization is our scholarship and grants programs. Our scholarships support women in their culinary education, while our yearly grants aid local grassroots nonprofits that are focused on women and families through culinary arts. Since our founding in 1985, we have distributed more than $500,000 in scholarships and grants. 

Our biennial symposium, Bringing it to the Table, is our premier full-day educational program. It brings together industry leaders, chefs, and culinary enthusiasts to delve into the intersection of food, culture, and community. Our biennial gala raises funds for grants, scholarships, education programs, and operations. Our members have additional opportunities to connect with each other through in-person and online gatherings where they socialize, network, and learn. We also participate in LDEI worldwide programs, including Green Tables, the Global Culinary Initiative, and the Legacy Awards.