Les Dames d’Escoffier Miami Chapter Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in 2005 by the Les Dames d’Escoffier International South Florida Chapter. Auguste Escoffier, the namesake of Les Dames d’Escoffier, was the most innovative chef in history, one whose philosophy and accomplishments serve as both model and inspiration to culinary professionals today. Escoffier began his long and distinguished professional culinary career at the age of 13 and retired 61 years later. During his lifetime, he made French cuisine world famous. Escoffier revolutionized and modernized menus, the art and practice of cooking and the organization of the professional kitchen as well.

His culinary innovations included abolishing ostentatious food displays and elaborate garnishes, reducing the number of courses served at a formal meal, lightening sauces and emphasizing seasonal foods. He also restructured the kitchen so that it operated as a single integrated unit, a system that prevails today.

On the social front he organized programs to help feed the hungry and financially assist retired chefs. Escoffier’s professional stature was recognized by the French Government, which made him a Chevalier of the Legion d’Honneur in 1920 and an Officer in 1928. His memoirs, Escoffier: Memories of My Life, have now been translated into Englis