Renee Erickson is a James Beard award-winning chef, author, and co-owner of multiple properties in Seattle, Washington: The Walrus and the Carpenter, The Whale Wins, Barnacle, Bar Melusine, Bateau, Westward, and several General Porpoise Doughnuts and Coffee locations.

As a Seattle native, Erickson's restaurants highlight the bounty of the Pacific Northwest with a European sensibility. Bon Appetit Magazine has compared her to M.F.K. Fisher, Elizabeth David, and Julia Child. Erickson's food, casual style, and appreciation of simple beauty is an inspiration to her staff and guests in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

In 2014 she published her first cookbook “A Boat, a Whale and a Walrus” to critical acclaim, finding itself on top reading lists while winning a 2015 PNBA book award - the first for a cookbook. Her next book “Getaway: Food and Drink to Transport You," was released in 2021.

Erickson graduated from the University of Washington with a BFA and currently serves on the board at UW's School of Art + Art History + Design. She lives in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood with her husband Dan, KittyB, and her pooch Mr. Arlo.

James Beard Award Food & Beverage, Chef, Restaurateurs, Restaurants & Dining, Cookbook & Culinary Authors, Authors,