The culinary world has long been a bastion of creativity, passion, and diversity. Within this vibrant industry, there is a remarkable community of talented chefs who identify as queer. These visionary individuals not only bring their exceptional culinary skills to the table but also contribute to breaking down barriers and challenging traditional norms. These LGBTQ+ chefs have not only gained recognition for their exceptional culinary talents but have also become inspiring figures, shaping the future of the food industry.
LGBTQ+ Chefs In The Culinary Space:
1. Melissa King
Considered one of the best chefs in San Francisco, Melissa King is impressively reimagining the culinary world She uses influences from her Cantonese-American upbringing and combines Asian flavours with California cuisine to create stunning dishes, as she did for the 2022 Met Gala.
2. Ritu Dalmia
An Indian chef, Ritu Dalma is known for her Italian cuisine. She is also the owner of seven Italian restaurants. Her unique perspective and contribution to the culinary landscape have earned him widespread recognition.
3. Dominique Crenn
Chef Dominique Crenn is a record-breaker in the culinary world. In 2018, Crenn became the first woman chef in the U.S. to receive three Michelin stars, and in 2021, she received the World’s 50 Best Icon Award. Moreover, her food takes a modern and artistic approach inspired by her French heritage.
4. DeVonn Francis
The Jamaican-American artist and queer chef founded Yardy in 2017 in New York City, a studio space to explore his heritage and culture. Whether it’s throwing Caribbean-inspired dinner parties or hosting creative salons with local artists, Francis’ approach to food and community is distinctly queer.
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5. Jo Chan
Chef Jo Chan was one of the contestants in season 19 of Top Chef. The chef makes cuisine, bringing a blend of Asian and Italian cuisine. Her culinary achievements have made her a prominent figure in the culinary landscape, demonstrating the power of food to bridge cultural divides.
6. Anita Lo
Anita Lo, a renowned American chef of Chinese-Malaysian descent, has left an indelible mark on the culinary scene. Known for her inventive approach to blending flavours, Lo has been celebrated for her fusion of Asian and Western cuisines.
7. Mashama Bailey
Mashama Bailey, an African-American chef and restaurateur, has played a vital role in revitalising Southern cuisine. Her culinary achievements have made her a prominent figure in the culinary landscape, demonstrating the power of food to bridge cultural divides.
8. Kristen Kish
In 2013, Chef Kristen Kish was the first woman of colour to win ‘Top Chef’. Her food is described as a mix of French and Italian, which also pays homage to her Midwestern roots. She brings an artful blend of seasonal and modern.
9. Yotam Ottolenghi
Yotam Ottolenghi, an Israeli-born British chef, restaurateur, and food writer, has transformed the way people approach vegetarian and Middle Eastern cuisine. With his unique culinary style, he has popularised vibrant and flavourful dishes. Ottolenghi’s success and openness about his sexual orientation have made him an influential queer chef in the culinary world.
Do you know of any more LGBTQ+ chefs?
Cover image credits: Instagram/Melissa King; Instagram/Ritu Dalmia