A Hip Charleston Restaurant Where Women Are The Boss

In the heart of Charleston, S.C., on a melting pot street of shops, eateries and residents from all walks of life, stands Cannon Green, a soaring, skylight-lit Mediterranean restaurant and wedding venue. The staff of 70 runs two kitchens, which would not be unusual, except for the fact that it is 80 percent female.

The front of the house is half women. The administrative, sales and events team is all female. And there are 12 women and two men in management positions. The kitchens are largely composed of women, with one male line cook and all-male dishwashers.

"The very last question chef asked me before she hired me," recalls sous chef Beverly Harrell, "was: 'Do you have ability to take direction from females?'"

It's a bustling place: The restaurant seats 200, while the associated wedding space seats 250. Talk to women who work there,