20 women who made marks on food scene
Memphis food trailblazers also make a difference in city
This month marks the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. To help celebrate that milestone, we’re recognizing the women in Memphis who have made an impact on the Bluff City’s food scene.
These 20 women are not just talented chefs and restaurateurs, they are also industry leaders and trailblazers who are making a difference in the city.
Each offered her tried-and-true recipe for success.
Karen Carrier of The Beauty Shop
Since 1987 Karen Carrier has been making her mark on the Memphis culinary scene.
This award-winning chef and restaurateur is the mastermind behind some of the most creative eateries in Memphis: The Beauty Shop, Mollie Fontaine Lounge, Bar DKDC, Back Do / Mi Yard and Another Roadside Attraction catering company.
She was also behind these restaurants which have since closed or are under new ownership: Automatic Slim’s, Do Sushi and Cielo.
While in New York City in the 1980s pursuing a career in painting, Carrier landed a side gig working for a caterer. Six months after starting that job, she dropped out of art school and began her culinary career.
Carrier considers her business her family, and her management style reflects that philosophy.
“I can have every concept in the world, but I can’t do it alone. One cannot cook the food, create the menu, talk to customers, bail someone out of jail and fix the art on the wall or a light out in the ceiling by yourself,” Carrier said.
“You have to treat people the way you want to be treated. You have to build them up. Loyalty and respect are what make a restaurant family, and that in return is the secret of my success.”
Carrier is more than just a restaurateur, she is a force of creative energy.
“To me the most important thing is the ability to awaken the emotion in others. We are craftsmen with a spiritual message. You connect with people at a table, sharing stories. There are things one should understand in this crazy business of food — part of one’s success is luck and part is your passion, determination, your art and the belief that you will