Women’s contribution to the hospitality industry has skyrocketed through the years with numerous bars, restaurants and hotels being run by impressive female owners who bring their expertise to the business. With International Women’s Day being celebrated each year, we’re highlighting some of the best women-owned hospitality businesses bringing diversity and promoting gender equality in the city of Los Angeles.

Locals of the Los Angeles area will recognize the name Coolhaus as some of the best ice cream you can get in the city. Started in 2008 by Natasha Case and Freya Estreller, the creamery quickly gained popularity prompting the owners to expand to another building and several ice cream trucks.

This East Hollywood wine shop features wines made by female winemakers and caters to a female clientele. Founder Coly Den Haan is a certified Sommelier that started Vinovore in hopes to further women’s role in the wine community. She has played a large part in starting multiple wine loving women’s groups that regularly connect to learn more about the industry.

Genever, started by Red Capiz Partners, is one of the only bars owned by a group of women in Los Angeles. Located in Filipinotown, Genever is an intimate escape that highlights gin-related cocktails, but also serves wine and beer as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Genever prides itself on the use of local produce, syrups and shrubs made in the Los Angeles area.

Kismet is an inviting Mediterranean restaurant that does more than just make food. Sarah Hymanson and Sara Kramer are dedicated to creating opportunities and positive influences within the East Hollywood community. Their wine list of small producers and ingredients sourced from local farmers helps to support other small businesses in the LA area.

Head chef Jessica Koslow is an inventive and well-rounded chef whose food has become a staple among Los Angeles’ trendy crowds. You’ll always find a line stretching out the door of Sqirl in East Hollywood as people crave their well-known breakfasts and brunches.

Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, the head chefs and owners of Lucques, dish out taste and sophistication with their Mediterranean-focused cuisine. Great wine, a warm atmosphere, and wonderful food are always on the menu at this West Hollywood locale.

Bar Franca has made waves as a refined and elegant cocktail bar located on Main Street in Downtown Los Angeles. The drinks are world-class with an atmosphere that transports you to a charming, French hideaway. Owner Rachel Thomas’ vision for a laid back but sophisticated cocktail bar that would fit right in with the historic core of Downtown came to life in this dimly lit escape.