Five of the Most Inspirational Women in Food – Past And Present

Lara Gilmore is the measured counterpart to her husband, chef Massimo Bottura. Both are equally driven by their passion for food, art and the community. Gilmore not only runs Osteria Francescana’s operational growth which now includes several Gucci Osterias and their hotel Casa Maria Luigia in Modena but oversees their Reffetorio projects worldwide feeding the disadvantaged and homeless with leftover foods in the most civilised and tastefully designed surroundings. Lara and Massimo were among the first to foster a new kind of chef community bringing culinary ideas into the social realm. Food for Soul Refettorios (communal dining halls) repurpose restaurant and supermarket leftovers into civilised, delicious meals served to diners with dignity. Not only do they provide exceptional food, they spread their love for art through ensuring these social projects are beautifully designed.