16 Chefs On The Women In Food Whose Cooking Inspires Them

There's no denying that we still have a ways to go when it comes to gender equality in the restaurant industry. But, when we hear about the female chefs who continue to set the food world aflame (pun intended), it makes us think about how far the pioneers have come, and all the talented cooks out there whose food we have yet to try.

In the spirit of International Women's Day, we asked 15 chefs to recommend their favorite female-helmed restaurants. The women we spoke with include industry leaders, award winners, restaurant owners, head cooks, TV hosts, and fierce competitors. They shouted out mentors, idols, friends, and innovators; many of them, had difficulty picking just one person to recommend.

Read on to hear the inspiring thoughts they shared about fellow chefs and prepare to add a bunch of restaurants to your must-eat list.