Chef Stephanie Izard: Award-Winning Chef
Chef Stephanie Izard is a celebrated chef, restaurateur and culinary innovator known for bold, globally inspired flavors and award-winning restaurants that transformed Chicago’s dining scene.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 4
- James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Great Lakes
- Founder of acclaimed restaurants including Girl & the Goat and Little Goat
- Known for globally inspired, bold and inventive culinary style
- Formats: Celebrity chef, keynote culinary personality and award-winning restaurateur.
- Audiences: Food and hospitality events, culinary conferences, leadership gatherings, restaurateurs, aspiring chefs and organizations exploring creativity, innovation or team culture through a culinary lens.
- Outcomes:
- Learn how creativity, risk-taking and global inspiration elevate culinary excellence
- Understand leadership and team culture lessons from a high-performance kitchen
- Gain insight into building innovative dining concepts that resonate with diverse audiences
- Travels from: Chicago, IL
- **Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Talent Short Bio
Chef Stephanie Izard is a powerhouse in the culinary world, recognized for her fearless creativity, signature flavor profiles and ability to blend global influences into dishes that feel both surprising and deeply satisfying. She first drew national attention as the Season 4 winner of Bravo’s Top Chef, where her inventive cooking and standout duck dish impressed judges and viewers alike. Her win propelled her into the spotlight as a rising star known for bold ideas and impeccable execution.
Returning to Chicago after her victory, Stephanie opened Girl & the Goat in 2010, a restaurant that quickly became one of the city’s most celebrated dining destinations. Its adventurous menu, eclectic small plates and commitment to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients established her as a culinary trailblazer. She expanded her footprint with Little Goat Diner in 2012, offering a more casual but equally inventive take on comfort cuisine.
Read Full Bio
Chef Stephanie Izard is a culinary force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. With her innovative approach to cooking and an impressive list of accolades, she has earned a well-deserved reputation as a talented and influential chef. Her journey in the world of gastronomy has been marked by creativity, hard work, and a passion for showcasing flavors and ingredients in unique ways.
Izard’s career took a significant turn when she joined the cast of Bravo’s “Top Chef” during its fourth season. She quickly made a name for herself with her creative and fearless approach to cooking. Her signature dish on the show, a duck dish, wowed both the judges and viewers, earning her the title of Top Chef. This win catapulted her into the national spotlight and kickstarted her career in the culinary world.
Following her “Top Chef” victory, Chef Stephanie Izard returned to Chicago and set her sights on opening her own restaurant. In 2010, she realized her dream with the opening of Girl & the Goat. The restaurant became an instant hit, known for its adventurous menu and creative small plates. Izard’s eclectic and innovative approach to cuisine, combining flavors from various cultures and making use of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, became her trademark.
Girl & the Goat’s success was soon followed by the opening of Little Goat Diner in 2012, showcasing a more casual and approachable side of Izard’s culinary prowess. This venture further solidified her status as a culinary powerhouse in Chicago.
Chef Stephanie Izard’s restaurants have received numerous accolades, including Michelin Bib Gourmand awards and James Beard Foundation nominations and awards. She won the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2013, a recognition that further confirmed her culinary talent and influence in the industry.
One of the most striking aspects of Chef Stephanie Izard’s cooking style is her fearless use of ingredients. She often combines flavors and ingredients that might seem unconventional, resulting in dishes that surprise and delight diners. Her ability to balance sweet and savory, spicy and tangy, and various textures in a single dish is a testament to her culinary prowess.
Izard’s commitment to sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients is also a significant aspect of her culinary philosophy. She works closely with local farmers and producers, emphasizing the importance of seasonal and sustainable ingredients in her dishes. This dedication not only supports the local economy but also ensures that her menus are constantly evolving to reflect the best of each season.
In addition to her work as a chef and restaurateur, Chef Stephanie Izard is also an author. She has published cookbooks that share her culinary insights and recipes, allowing home cooks to experience a taste of her creativity in their own kitchens. Her books provide not only recipes but also a glimpse into her culinary philosophy and the inspiration behind her dishes.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Talent Videos
Chef Stephanie Izard Interview: Creativity, Culture and the Making of a Modern Culinary Icon
An 8 minute and 21 second interview where Chef Stephanie Izard shares the stories behind her restaurants, leadership style, inspirations and career-defining moments from Top Chef to building a culinary empire.
Video Summary & Key Moments
This 8 minute and 21 second interview features Chef Stephanie Izard in conversation with The JetSetting Fashionista, offering a candid look into the creative, cultural and personal influences that shape her work. Stephanie begins by explaining the recurring goat theme across her restaurant group. Her last name, Izard, translates in French to a mountain goat in the Pyrenees, which inspired playful brand names like Girl & the Goat, Little Goat, Duck Duck Goat and Sugar Goat.
She shares her early life story: born in Evanston, raised on the East Coast, culinary training in Arizona, and two decades in Chicago before relocating to Los Angeles while still actively managing her Chicago restaurants. She describes her restaurant environments as bustling, vibrant and fun, with a focus on hospitality that prioritizes how guests feel as much as how they dine. For Stephanie, a great experience begins with a happy team, and she intentionally builds a culture rooted in teaching, positivity and collaboration rather than the stereotypical kitchen aggression.
Discussing kitchen culture, she contrasts her own leadership with that of a screaming chef she once worked under. That experience cemented her belief that growth requires encouragement, not intimidation. She expands on how this philosophy has shaped her teams and contributed to the consistent success of her restaurants.
Stephanie then reflects on her Top Chef win and later Iron Chef competition, describing both as transformative. Though she was hesitant to attribute her early opportunities to Top Chef, she now recognizes how significantly it expanded her platform. She continues to judge episodes and appreciates how food television has helped the public connect more deeply with chefs and restaurant culture.
The conversation turns personal as she discusses her influences. Rather than a single mentor, Stephanie describes collecting lessons from multiple chefs, including Beau MacMillan and Shawn McClain, along with inspiration from TV chefs and her mother, an exceptional home cook.
She shares favorite Chicago dining picks, such as Joe Flamm’s Rosemary, and reflects on the city’s evolving food scene, including improvements in airport dining. The interview closes with lighthearted questions about Chicago sports loyalties, personal memories and the joy of reconnecting at the Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience.
Key Moments
- 01:40 How she describes her restaurants and the importance of team culture
- 02:26 Leadership style and moving away from “screaming chef” kitchen culture
- 03:20 Top Chef and Iron Chef reflections and their impact on her career
- 05:10 Mentors, inspirations and shaping her culinary voice
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (13)
Dr. Deborah Gilboa, affectionately known as “Dr. G,” stands as a beacon of resilience in today’s chaotic world. As a board-certified family physician, she brings a unique perspective to the table, merging medical expertise with a profound understanding of human psychology. Dr. G’s mission is clear: to empower families, educators, executives, and businesses with the […]
- Travels from: Pittsburgh, PA
- Resilience Speakers
- (21)
Kudzi Chikumbu, a dynamic force in the realms of lifestyle influence and digital creativity. As the Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok, Kudzi is at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of social media and empowering creators worldwide. With a wealth of expertise, a passion for storytelling, and a commitment to driving positive […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Digital Speakers
- (36)
- (3)
Ryan Jenkins, CSP® (Certified Speaking Professional)™, is a globally recognized keynote speaker, virtual trainer, and a distinguished Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Renowned for his expertise in leadership, generational differences, team connection, and the future of work, Ryan delivers compelling talks that inspire audiences worldwide to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace with confidence […]
- Travels from: Atlanta, GA
- Generational Speakers
- (12)
- (1)
Lewis Pugh stands out as a remarkable figure. Renowned for his awe-inspiring feats of endurance in the world’s most frigid and treacherous waters, Pugh is not just an adventurer and environmentalist but also a powerful keynote speaker. Through his remarkable journey, he has been able to bring attention to critical environmental issues and inspire people […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Inspirational Speakers
- (38)
Dr. Amy Cuddy, a renowned Social Psychologist, Award-Winning Harvard Lecturer, and Bestselling Author. Dr. Cuddy is a dynamic and influential speaker, celebrated for her groundbreaking research on nonverbal communication, power dynamics, and the science behind personal transformation. Event planners seeking to elevate their next event should consider booking Dr. Amy Cuddy through Speakers Inc for […]
- Travels from: Venice, CA
- Healthcare Speakers
- (9)
Jim Davidson is a resilience expert who has survived not just one epic mountain disaster, but two. From his real-world survival experiences, he distills hard-won lessons about forging the resilience to overcome change, challenge, and uncertainty. While climbing Mount Everest, Jim and his team survived massive earthquakes and avalanches on what became the mountain’s deadliest […]
- Travels from: Fort Collins, CO
- Adventure Speakers
- (84)
Roger Haskett is an award-winning international keynote speaker and President of Engagement Unlimited. With his innovative keynotes and programs, he ignites positive transformational change in teams and individuals across North America and beyond. Roger’s experience, knowledge and highly contagious positive energy have garnered him countless 10/10 audience rankings “best of conference” survey results and hundreds […]
- Travels from: Vancouver, BC
- Motivational Speakers
- (16)
Scott Bales is not just another technology enthusiast; he is a luminary guiding the world through “The Digital Shift.” As a technology guru, Scott navigates the intricate landscape where innovation, culture, design, and mobility converge in our increasingly digital world. His expertise extends far beyond mere technical proficiency; Scott delves deep into the realms of […]
- Travels from: Singapore
- Futurists Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
