There remains in South Florida a visibility problem with women chefs in the kitchen. In the most recent James Beard semifinalists announcement, the only woman making the list was Val Chang of Itamae, along with her father, and brother, Nando.
But an upcoming special collaboration dinner in Wynwood focusing on women chefs. Hai for Her, held Mar. 7 and 8 at Uchi, hosted by Hai Hospitality’s female culinary team in recognition of International Women’s Day (Mar. 8.) The goal is to shine a light on female achievements and gender empowerment, says Amber Quist, chief brand officer.
Launched three years ago in Austin, the rotating annual dinner series brings together female leaders across Hai’s brands, Uchi, Uchiko, Uchibā, and Loro, to deliver a unique dining experience benefitting a female-focused non-profit, says Quist. “After covid forced us to take a year off from the event, we’re excited to bring it back and host in Miami, where Hai proudly has chef Dina Butterfield and general manager Mimi Yao leading the team.”
For this year’s event, Butterfield, Yao and Vicki Rodpai will welcome Hai Hospitality chefs from around the country, including chef Rhonda McCullar of their Dallas restaurants; head pastry chef Ariana Quant; and Loro Austin bar manager Katie Arnold. They will compose a multi-course omakase with pairings.
Here’s the menu:
• Oyster
• Brisket dumpling, “loro” brisket, uni foam
• Striped bass, koji, bok choy
• Blue fin crudo, mushroom ponzu, shitake bacon
• A5 tartare + lobster – surf and turf
• Intermezzo: herb sorbet, aloe foam
• Lamb belly, Mexican lager, burnt miso red pipian
• Masu sashimi
• Okashi
Event tickets are $225 and can be booked here. This will benefit The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade.
