Cheffes de Cuisine: Women and Work in the Professional French Kitchen

Rachel E. Black's book "Cheffes de Cuisine" explores the experiences of women in Lyon's culinary industry, highlighting issues of gender inequality and the strategies women use to navigate male-dominated workplaces. It also charts how constraints imposed by French culture minimize the impact of #MeToo and other reform-minded movements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2021
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

Works of Distinction


The LDEI M.F.K. Fisher Prize for Excellence in Culinary Media Content, 2022, recognizes exceptional works that showcase the artistry and innovation in culinary media. One notable work that received this prestigious award is "Cheffes de Cuisine: A Rare Woman's Eye-View of Working in the Professional French Kitchen." This captivating book offers a unique perspective on the experiences of women working in the professional French kitchen, shedding light on issues of gender inequality within the industry.


While women have made significant strides in entering the culinary professions in France, it is disheartening to note that men continue to dominate the major awards and Michelin stars. Rachel E. Black's book explores the experiences of women in Lyon, a city known for its female-led kitchens, to examine the gender divide in the French culinary industry. Through a combination of historical voices, present-day interviews, and participant observation, Black uncovers the strategies women employ to navigate male-dominated workplaces or, in some cases, avoid men entirely in the kitchen.


One of the key findings of the book is that constraints imposed by French culture minimize the impact of movements like #MeToo and other reform-minded initiatives. Black argues that the traditional gender roles and hierarchies within the culinary industry continue to hinder the progress of women and perpetuate gender inequality. However, the book also celebrates the successes of women who have overcome these obstacles and achieved great success in the professional French kitchen.


"Cheffes de Cuisine" is an evocative and original work that sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the culinary industry and other male-dominated professions. It provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about gender equality and encourages readers to recognize the contributions of women in these fields. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in culinary arts, gender studies, or social justice.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252086052