Yūgen team
It’s no secret that women are making more and more of a mark in the food world. Both in and out of Chicago, female chefs, bartenders, restaurateurs, and managers are breaking the culinary glass ceiling in a big way. Because today marks International Women’s Day, we are highlighting just a few of the amazing women in the Chicago food world. For a taste of excellence, visit their restaurants and watch these women shine…
Yūgen {652 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.265.1008}: From executive chef to general manager to pastry chef and beyond, this is a female-run restaurant, and they’re proud of it! They bring a highly elevated experience that includes seasonal tasting menus and creative cocktail pairings.
Mindy’s Hot Chocolate {1747 North Damen Avenue, Chicago; 773.489.1747}: If you haven’t heard of Mindy yet, we are here to rectify that as quickly as possible. Mindy and her sweets-centric restaurant have been lauded for years with various honors, and it’s the ultimate Bucktown brunch spot. Of course order the hot chocolate, but the Brioche Doughnuts are also amazing.
SushiDokku
sushiDOKKU {823 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.455.8238}: Owners Angela Lee and Susan Thompson have multiple restaurants in Chicago, with sushiDOKKU being a true collaboration on all fronts. This is the perfect place to gather with a group and try a wide range of maki, nigiri, and tempura.
Cupitol {various locations}: Restaurants run in Sellia Georges’ family, and she continues the trend with her two Cupitol locations in Chicago and Evanston. She has put her personal touch on both locations, to great success. The Evanston cafe was recently awarded “Best Brunch” in Evanston by the Daily Northwestern! Come and try it for yourself!
Two Lights Seafood and Oyster {227 West North Avenue, Chicago; 312.929.3091}: Just across from Second City, this female-led seafood spot has a dreamy interior and an even dreamier menu. From Torched Faroe Island Salmon Tartare to the Two Lights Brown Butter Lobster Roll, every bite will have you begging for more.
Kamehachi {multiple locations}: Chicago’s original sushi house has been female-owned and run for more than 50 years, with granddaughter Giulia now at the helm. Their initial location in Old Town still attracts both new foodies and loyal customers decades later, and the restaurant’s success has led to multiple other locations opening up in Chicago. Come on the weekends for their now-famous BATSU! shows in their Old Town Lounge.
Saigon Sisters {various locations}: Sisters Mary and Theresa began their culinary adventure selling spring rolls at farmer’s markets. From there, they opened their location in the Chicago French Market, bringing their mother, Mama Suu, into the business with them. Now, they have multiple other restaurants, all run by their tight-knit, food-loving family.
City Winery {various locations}: Winemaker Caroline Schrader will be the belle of the ball at City Winery’s “Women in Wine Tasting Party” tonight at their West Loop winery. Join them to celebrate the holiday with a walk-around tasting featuring sparkling, red, and white wines from women winemakers around the world.
BLVD {817 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.526.3116}: In celebration of International Women’s Day, BLVD will be donating a portion of the proceeds from all Champagne pours this Friday and Saturday, March 8 and 9, to Girls in the Game. This local organization uses sports as a vehicle to build health and leadership skills while instilling confidence and self-esteem in young girls.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post Who Run the World? Chicago Women Restaurateurs appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.