QC restaurateurs named to 40 Women to Watch list

Five Quad Cities area women in the restaurant industry have been honored for their “creativity, leadership and contributions” to the food sector.

The Iowa Restaurant Association recently announced its 2024 list of 40 Women to Watch in the restaurant and hospitality industry across the state.

“What is most striking about this year’s list is the number of women from rural Iowa who were selected for the final list,” Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association, said in a news release. “Many are leading the way in transforming and saving rural Iowa Main Streets.”

The 40 honorees were recognized at an awards ceremony on Monday, Nov. 18.

Local winners include: Yasmin Moreles of The Lemon Stand in Davenport; Tessa Crookshanks of The Merrill Hotel in Muscatine; Connie Schlichting with Kinseth Hospitality; Brenda Ochiltree, owner of the Wilton Candy Kitchen; and Abby Cary of The Fun Station Quad Cities in Eldridge. 

The 40 Women to Watch list recognizes the “creativity, leadership and contributions of women across all hospitality industry sectors,” according to information from the Iowa Restaurant Association.

Here is a closer look at the QC area women honored, according to the Iowa Restaurant Association:

• Yasmin Moreles: Her passion is to provide opportunity to people with the dream of starting their own foodservice operation. The Lemonade Stand Restaurant is a for-profit, mission-based restaurant focusing on people development for the Quad Cities hospitality market. Every employee is technically an “Entrepreneurial Intern” and is given an opportunity to specialize on their particular goals while simultaneously learning the entire operation. This “complete transparency” approach allows the interns to know where the business is succeeding and where it needs more attention. Coined “Turn Key Operator Interns,” the employees are expected to learn kitchen, service, ordering and inventory, scheduling as well as office operations. Ms. Moreles personally coaches each intern through 90-day contracts.

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• Tessa Crookshanks: At age 8, she knew she would be a chef. Even then, she had a passion for the techniques of the culinary arts. Today, the award-winning chef of The Merrill Hotel, Muscatine, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is known for her refined palate, deep understanding of flavor profiles, and commitment to local sourcing. Her nominator writes, “Whether she is putting a modern twist on a classic dish or experimenting with bold flavor combinations, Chef Tessa’s creations never fail to impress and inspire.” Chef Tessa also takes her role as a leader and teacher very seriously. She says: “The inclusive, diverse, and vibrant culture of the hospitality industry holds pace for anyone who is willing to show commitment to their team and the guests they serve.”

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• Connie Schlichting: With more than 25 years of hospitality experience, she is currently the food and beverage director for Kinseth Hospitality, overseeing its portfolio of full-service hotel properties, including Hilton, Marriott, and IHG Brands, in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. She works closely with her managers to ensure financial success for Kinseth and its stakeholders. Her passion is taking an immersive hands-on approach and leading by example all while sharing her vast knowledge with her properties. She has received many accolades including both General Manager and Food and Beverage Manager of the Year awards for three different hotels and brands.

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• Brenda Ochiltree: She is an eighth generation owner of The Wilton Candy Kitchen, which was founded in 1909. In her nearly 20 years as co-owner, Ms. Ochiltree helped her employees prioritize customer service. “Our mantra is good, better, best, never let it rest, till your good is better and your better is best. That is something that we teach all of our employees,” she said. Prior to the Candy Kitchen, the couple owned a funeral home where customer service meant helping grieving families.  Her philosophy is unwavering.  “Be sincere. Treat people as you would want to be treated and do it with a smile.”

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• Abby Cary: Her career showcases the infinite paths available to women in hospitality. The now corporate director of operations for Edwards Entertainment, a company that owns and operates three indoor family entertainment centers across eastern Iowa, she started at age 14 as a host with the company. She moved through the management track, even through mergers and ownership changes. Ms. Cary exudes hospitality and is committed to providing exceptional experiences for her staff and guests alike. “Everyday is a new day to delight the people around you whether it’s your team or your guests,” she said. “That is my favorite part of my position.”