Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) – Atlanta Chapter will host its 13th annual Culinary Futures Reception on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, bringing together culinary enthusiasts, industry professionals and community supporters for an inspiring evening benefiting the chapter’s Aspiring Culinarian Scholarship Fund. This year’s event welcomes Cat Cora, the first female Iron Chef and a culinary icon known for empowering aspiring women in the food world.

Hosted at the Fashion Theatre at AmericasMart Building 3, Floor 15, the reception takes place from 6-8 p.m., with an exclusive VIP meet and greet beginning at 5:30 p.m. VIP guests will connect with Cat Cora one-on-one, hear insights about her creative process and enjoy early access before the event opens to the public.

Guests can expect signature cocktails, Cat Cora–inspired bites and a vibrant evening of networking—all in support of the LDEI Atlanta Culinary Futures program, which provides need-based scholarships to female high school seniors pursuing degrees in culinary arts, hospitality or related studies. Each year, funds raised help young women take crucial steps toward their culinary dreams.

“Culinary Futures is a celebration of the women shaping the future of food and hospitality,” says Wendy Bohannon, president of the Atlanta Chapter of LDEI. “We are especially honored to welcome special guest Cat Cora, whose groundbreaking career continues to inspire the next generation of culinary talent. With 100% of event proceeds directly funding our Aspiring Culinarian scholarship, LDEI Atlanta has the privilege of investing in the futures of remarkable students who will lead our industry forward. We’re grateful to our community, the housewares industry and partners for making this investment in the next generation possible.”

Tickets are $75 for general admission and $125 for VIP admission (includes early entry + meet & greet with Cat Cora) and can be purchased online.

The 2026 Culinary Futures Reception is made possible through the support of generous sponsors, including ANDMORE, HIC (Harold Import Company), Enchanted Moments and The Cook’s Warehouse.

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About Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Atlanta Chapter

Les Dames d’Escoffier International is a philanthropic organization of women who are leaders in the culinary field. The Atlanta chapter (LDEI-Atlanta), founded in 1996, has more than 145 members who are professional chefs, restaurateurs and caterers, farmers, food retailers, event planners, cookbook authors, food journalists, wine industry professionals, food publicists, culinary educators and hospitality executives. For more information, please visit ldeiatlanta.org.

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