In honor of Women’s History Month, we’ll be interviewing a female voice in Charlotte’s food and beverage industry each week in March. Today, we’re speaking with Samantha Allen, owner and pastry chef of Wentworth & Fenn at Camp North End, on the impact of being authentically yourself and how female leadership prepared her for owning her own business. 

Unpretentious Palate: When did you realize there were few females in leadership and ownership roles in the restaurant industry?
Samantha Allen: Sadly, since the beginning of my career, 15 years ago. It was always more male-dominated than female — especially back then. We’ve certainly made strides within the food and hospitality industry. But, there’s still a bit of stigma with females in leadership positions. 

UP: Why does representation matter and how does it benefit the restaurant industry? How can the industry change?
SA: Representation is everything. If we don’t stand up for our industry, business, and self, we’re just doing ourselves and those who want to own a business or be in a leadership role one day a disservice. We are a forever evolving industry. I think the more people see it, the more it will become the norm. 

UP: What does it mean to you to be an owner and leader in the restaurant and hospitality industry?
SA: Especially in a time like this, it makes me feel incredibly lucky and humbled. It means a lot to be a part of the small business community here in Charlotte. Hopefully, we can pave the way for more small businesses to open and thrive. Whether it be mentoring, inspiration, or hope for others who want to live out their dream. 

UP: How can diners encourage change in the industry?
SA: By support. Plain and simple. 

UP: How are you trying to make things better for future generations of female professionals in the restaurant industry?
SA: I think it’s incredibly important to be your authentic self. It’s okay if you’re not everyone’s cup of coffee. However, you’ll make a hell of an impact on those who do like your products, business, or whatever it may be if you stay grounded. Showing others it’s okay to not go by society’s standards and doing it your way is the best thing to show those who might need the inspiration. 

UP: Who is one female in the restaurant industry that you think Charlotte diners should know and why?
SA: Jasmine Macon of Leah & Louise. She is the most talented and humble lady I know. She deserves so much more credit than she knows.

UP: Which female in the industry do you admire?
SA: Sara Zanitsch of The Fig Tree Restaurant. She is a hell of a business woman, incredibly detail oriented and knowledgeable about the restaurant industry as a whole. I learned more from a front-of-house perspective than I ever have in my time being a pastry chef. It shaped how I see things now that I own my own business.

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