1976: Les Dames d’Escoffier New York (LDNY) was founded by Carol Brock, a pioneering
food writer and dynamic trailblazer in the culinary world. Her vision was to elevate women in the
male-dominated culinary field.
LDNY is dedicated to philanthropy, education, and advocacy for women in the culinary and spirits industries, offering scholarships, educational programs, and networking
opportunities.
Dynamic and Charismatic: Carol Brock was not only a leader but also known for her vibrant personality. She was described as the life of the party, often seen dancing at events in glamorous attire.
Professional Achievements: Brock’s illustrious career spanned roles as a food journalist at The Daily News in New York, a food editor, a recipe developer, and a contributing editor on several Good Housekeeping cookbooks and restaurant critic and Culinary Arts Coordinator for Great Neck Adult Education
Persistent and Persuasive: Carol was known for her straightforward and persuasive nature.
She was driven to make meaningful contributions, especially for women in the culinary industry.
Networking and Influence: A natural connector, Carol fostered long held relationships with influential people and was at her best generating new ideas, often while socializing.
1973: Carol Brock received a charter from the New York Chapter of Les Amis d’Escoffier, an all-male professional fine-dining society. Despite skepticism from male epicureans and journalists, none of whom could name even one “leading” New York woman they believed would qualify as members, she succeeded in forming a women’s chapter.
Breaking Barriers: Brock’s determination to create a platform for women led to the establishment of LDNY, with a focus on showcasing women’s achievements and breaking the “Pyrex ceiling.”
Founding Members: The initial group included prominent women like Beverly Barbour, Mary Lyons, Elayne Kleeman, Helene Bennett, and Ella Elvin, who were shared the vision of education, advocacy, and philanthropy.
1976 Landmark Investiture: On November 8, 1976, 50 pioneering women gathered at the French Consulate for the first reception dinner of LDNY, marking the international movement that would become LDEI.
Scholarships and Mentoring: Since its founding in 1976, LDNY has awarded more than $2 million dollars in educational scholarships to support young women pursuing careers in food, beverage, and hospitality. Sara Moulton, Author/Chef/TV show Host/Producer was an early recipient of an LDNY scholarship and later became a LDNY Dame.
International Expansion: As of 2024, LDNY has grown to over 200 members, with LDEI,
Les Dames d’Escoffier International encompassing 43 chapters and 2400 members worldwide including such powerhouses in their field such as, Dame Lidia Bastianich; Dame Betty Fussell; Dame Rozanne Gold; Dame Carla Hall; Dame Patricia McCann; Dame Abigail Kirsch; Dame Rita Jammet.
Tribute to Carol Brock: Carol Brock’s legacy is celebrated for paving the way for women in the hospitality fields. Her contributions and dynamic personality continue to inspire current and future members.
Events and Membership: LDNY hosts a variety of dynamic and inclusive events, geared
towards the organization’s founding principles of education and philanthropy, and to connect the broad and dynamic membership. Cornerstone events include The Next Big Bite and The Next Big Sip. Happy Hours, educational seminars, networking events and regional gatherings bring members together while raising funds for the annual scholarship awards.. As an all volunteer organization, Dames actively participate in the Scholarship Reception and the annual New Member Induction event, and to support not only LDNY’s mission to create a supportive culture in their communities to achieve excellence and leadership in the food, beverage and hospitality professions, but also to uplift the next generation of women.
Foreword by Carla Hall, Dedication by Lidia Bastianich
Les Dames d’ Escoffier New York, the most influential and accomplished women in the food and wine world, present their favorite recipes for everything from simple weekday meals to spectacular party dishes.
Profits benefit Les Dames d’Escoffier New York’s Scholarship Fund.
Each vetted LDNY member is a respected professional in her area of specialization, from longstanding thought leaders to rising stars and change-makers. As our membership, collective expertise and inclusivity continue to grow, our organization embodies the many professions and skills of today’s culinary industry as a whole.
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