The Bad Bitches are a dynamic duo of women who know their way around a kitchen and a set of knives. Between Sarah Adams and Nikki Anhalt, the two have created a culinary movement, uniting women behind the scenes and crafting one of a kind experiences for their guests.
From Nashville to New York, fun-loving and socially conscious foodies are jumping at the opportunity to experience complete-immersion dining with meal events powered by the Bad Bitches: over-the-top parties that include a menu, paired cocktails, and a theme that’s carried out to the tee in decor and design. Perhaps most importantly, the pair also started a fund that supports women in the food and beverage community working to further their education. Some need new knives, some need to pay for their sommelier exam, and others need grants to support their culinary creativity. (If you are interested, check out their application here.)
I had the chance to talk with one of the Bad Bitches herself, Nikki Anhalt. We sat down for coffee and tea at the amazing new Mercantile and Mash #YUM and she dished on all things #BBCHS
What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women in or aspiring to be in the Charleston restaurant industry?
It all comes down to work ethic and being equipped with all knowledge you need to be the best in your field. Things are changing and we can shine a light on it. We’re here to put a light on joyous women in the industry. But we work really hard. Keep your head up. Like Tupac, keep your head up.
What’s the best piece of advice you have received?
Shut up and be humble. I thought I was cool and that hurt my feelings for a second but power lies in awareness. Be humble and earnest. The best advice was to cool my jets. You give more impact if you personify your craft instead of talk about it.
Looking back at yourself as a child, what traits make you the best organizer of this type of group?
Literally all I did was watch Food Network. Being only 9 years old I doing breakfast in bed for my family. I included a hershey kiss, picked a flower, no doubt, anyone in the family can tell you, I was born to host.
Did you ever doubt this was the path for you?
I never strayed. I worked at coffee shop, washed dishes, made salads, and coffee. I loved it! I moved to Charleston and went to Johnson and Wales. I started as a line cook while studying pastry and got overwhelmed. So I up and moved to Belgium. Now I’m back and switched to front of house, where I can function at a high level, bartending, and of course, snuggling people.
Photo by Amanda Greeley
What is your spirit animal?
Unicorn, bitch! Because they’re magical and sparkly.
Who is your Charleston girl idol?
Michelle Weaver at Charleston Grill. I interned at Charleston Grill when I was baby Nikki at 19 and she’s now Executive Chef, running the hustle at a high level. She has a real special place in my heart and cooked the first event dinner.
What is your favorite part of doing these events?
There was a moment at that very first dinner, I knew it was special. The experiences we’ve had and being able to give money away was amazing. I saw all these women laughing, seamless beautiful interaction, cooking at a high level, which is so rare.
At the end of the dinner you look up and you never have to remind people to take out the trash, women are just doing it. They’re self motivated, getting shit done. You don’t know it until you’ve seen it, so many women just crushing it.
Photo by Amanda Greeley
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Watching bad bitches come together. I think about what it would have meant to me to have someone pay for me to go to a stage, help me buy new knives, or pay for a sommelier exam. When we had the scholarship brunch we knew we were watching people people further their careers. Being able to help people and do what I love is so fulfilling.
The Bad Bitches will be taking over @CharlestonGrit on Instagram this week, March 3-6, for Charleston Wine + Food, and again March 15-19 for Charleston Fashion Week.
Keep An Eye Out For Wild Shit!
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