Susan Feniger: Culinary Chef
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Susan Feniger stands as a pioneering figure in the culinary world, renowned for her innovative approach to cooking and her bold exploration of global flavors.
- As a celebrated chef and restaurateur, Susan Feniger has helmed some of the most iconic dining establishments in the United States.
- Beyond the kitchen, Susan Feniger has captivated audiences around the world with her engaging television appearances.
- Susan Feniger's insatiable curiosity and passion for travel have inspired her to explore culinary traditions from around the globe.
- Susan Feniger's commitment to sharing her culinary knowledge extends beyond the kitchen.
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- **Fee range: $50,001 - $75,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Inspirational
Causes
Susan is on the board of two organizations: the LA LGBT Center, and the Scleroderma Research Foundation. In addition, she was raised in a family that emphasized giving back (tutoring as a kid). How to involve giving back in your daily life and career, and teaching our team of young kids these values.
Career
As one of the original celebrity chefs, Susan has been a remarkable example of breaking out of the mold. Not only as one of the first serious female chefs, but also, moving out of the kitchen and creating food as entertainment. From her partnership with Mary Sue Milliken, to her travels around the world, to opening restaurants in LA and Las Vegas, Susan is exceptional in that she is completely career driven, while still being extremely passionate about what she does.
Passion
How passion speaks…not only in fundraising, but also as an employer, employee, talking to investors. Passion is a powerful thing, and also very contagious. Utilizing your passion in a positive way for yourself and others.
Travel
Susan’s love of travel has been immensely important to her career. Bringing foods from one culture to another and educating diners on new foods. Researching other foods is best when you travel. Learning about other cultures through their food.
Partnerships
Working with Michael Eisner. Also, having a business partner for 35 years, versus taking on a solo venture. Not to mention, doing both at the same time!
Sustainability
Susan’s involvement with Seafood Watch (Monterey Bay Aquarium). Leading the charge in terms of buying local, supporting farmers, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Understanding where your food comes from, raising awareness about how the food gets to your plate, and then applying the awareness to making responsible food choices.
Read Full Bio
Susan Feniger is a celebrated chef, author, and entrepreneur. Her professional collaboration with Mary Sue Milliken (CITY, Ciudad, Too Hot Tamales) has led to the groundbreaking Border Grill empire, with locations in Santa Monica, Downtown LA, LAX Airport Tom Bradley International Terminal, Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay, and a second outpost in Las Vegas at The Forum Shops opened in October 2014. In 2013, Susan welcomed her new solo venture, the beloved Mud Hen Tavern in Hollywood.
A classically trained graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, she was a trailblazer from the start, landing a job at Chicago’s famed Le Perroquet as one of the first women in the all-male kitchen. Following that, Feniger worked at Wolfgang Puck’s infamous Ma Maison in Los Angeles, and then further honed her culinary skills on the French Riviera. Susan Feniger opened City Café in 1981, which forever changed the culinary landscape of L.A. by offering eclectic dishes from around the world.
This led to a much larger CITY restaurant in 1985, a pivotal year in which the tiny space was transformed into the first Border Grill, a “taco stand” serving authentic home cooking and street foods of Mexico. The strength of the brand also led to a line of prepared foods under the “Border Girls” name at Whole Food Markets, and the transformation of Ciudad (1998-2010) in downtown Los Angeles to encompass another Border Grill restaurant.
Susan Feniger
In June 2013, Susan and Mary Sue were awarded the California Restaurant Association’s Elizabeth Burns Lifetime Achievement Award, joining the ranks of just a handful of other women who have made history in the restaurant industry. Most recently Susan and Mary Sue were inducted into the 2014 Menu Masters Hall of Fame.
A natural teacher, Susan has co-authored six cookbooks, including her latest, Susan Feniger’s Street Food. Susan Feniger is a veteran of 396 episodes of The Food Network’s popular Too Hot Tamales and Tamales World Tour series and competed on Bravo’s Top Chef Masters in 2010.
Susan shines a light on a number of worthwhile organizations and has been on the board of the Scleroderma Research Foundation for 18 years, the board of the L.A. LGBT Center for 4 years, and involved with Share our Strength and the Human Rights Campaign. She’s an active member of the culinary community, providing a leadership role in many organizations such as founding the Chefs Collaborative, sitting on the advisory board of the LA Sports & Entertainment Commission and serving as an active member of Women Chefs and Restaurateurs.
At the core, Susan’s love of food shines through and is intermingled with her love of interaction with customers and staff. She still takes time to teach cooking classes and work the Border Grill booth at the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market as time and travel allows.
Susan Feniger days are spent in the kitchen, writing and testing recipes, creating menus, managing busy businesses, researching shows, and creating new products. Most nights, you can still find her visiting with guests and working with staff at Mud Hen Tavern and Border Grill.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
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...
- (25)
- (7)
Jack Becker is a leadership strategist, retired U.S. Navy F/A-18 fighter pilot, and founder of Flight Level Solutions, celebrated for translating elite military precision into transformative business performance. With more than 2,000 hours in supersonic fighter jets and an extraordinary record of 21,000 mishap-free aircraft carrier landings, Jack brings unmatched real-world expertise in high-stakes decision-making, […]
- Travels from: Virginia Beach, VA
- Leadership Speakers
- (54)
Dr. Michio Kaku is one of the most widely recognized and respected figures in science today. A world-renowned theoretical physicist, futurist, and bestselling author, Dr. Kaku has dedicated his life to making the mysteries of the universe accessible and inspiring to people across the globe. He is internationally recognized as an authority on Einstein’s unified […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Futurists Speakers
- (14)
W Kamau Bell is a sociopolitical comedian who is the host and executive producer of the Emmy Award winning CNN docu-series United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. On June 26th he makes his Netflix debut with a new stand-up comedy special, Private School Negro. Kamau has a book with the easy-to-remember title The Awkward […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Celebrity Speakers
- (27)
Kina Hart’s professional journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to workplace safety. The day that changed her life began unremarkably, much like any other workday. Yet, what unfolded was an unexpected workplace accident that left an indelible mark on her life. Now, Kina channels her experience into a potent message […]
- Travels from: Ione, WA
- Safety Speakers
- (17)
Jason Schenker is the President of Prestige Economics and Chairman of The Futurist Institute. He is a top-ranked economist, leading futurist, bestselling author, and in-demand keynote speaker who delivers high-impact presentations on economic trends, financial markets, geopolitical risks, AI, technology trends, and the future of work. Through his talks and research, Schenker helps clients anticipate […]
- Travels from: Austin, TX
- Futurists Speakers
- (24)
Amy Vetter is a distinguished speaker renowned for her profound insights into the intersection of technology, accounting, and mindfulness. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she captivates audiences with her unique blend of expertise, warmth, and relatability. With a career spanning over two decades, Amy has established herself as a thought leader in the fields of […]
- Travels from: Cincinnati, OH
- Leadership Speakers
- (45)
Dr. Fei-Fei Li is one of the most influential figures shaping the future of technology and artificial intelligence. Often referred to as the “Godmother of AI,” she is the visionary behind ImageNet—the groundbreaking dataset that gave machines the ability to “see,” launching the deep learning revolution that fuels today’s AI applications. From powering tools like […]
- Travels from: Stanford, CA
- Artificial Intelligence
- (13)
Kerri Strug vaulted into Olympic history with her courageous performance during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. With the world watching, she executed a near-flawless vault on an injured ankle, securing the first-ever team gold medal for the U.S. women’s gymnastics team. Her determination and resilience in that defining moment made her an American hero, […]
- Travels from: Phoenix, AZ
- Summer Olympians
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.
