Barb Batiste isn’t just an amazing chef who puts family and bold flavors first—she’s a business owner who worked hard to get where she is today.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we chatted with Barb (Executive Chef and Owner at BSweet) to learn more about her favorite recipes and what advice she would give to a woman just getting started in the restaurant business.
So order in from your favorite local, women-owned restaurant and give it a read.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you and your business?
When I take a moment to recognize the meaning of this day for me personally, I think about how far I’ve come since I opened my business 11 years ago. This day to me means honoring my achievements, my courage, and my determination. I feel very proud to play a small role in the history of the country I was born in as well as the community I live in.
What do you want to say to other women chefs or restaurant owners who are just starting out?
To those women chefs just starting their journey, I would like to tell them never to lose faith, always believe you are strong, intelligent, tenacious and inspiring. Never lose sight of who you are and never let anyone doubt your abilities.
What’s one dish you serve that always makes you proud?
One of the dishes I serve at my restaurant is Lumpiang Shanghai. It is a traditional Filipino pork eggroll.
This family recipe has been handed down from my great-grandmother, grandmother, my mother, and to me. Each Lumpia is hand-rolled with care and made in a home that was always full of love and by women of strength and humility. How can I not feel proud to be among those women in my life?