Susan Bae is the Executive Pastry Chef and Owner of Moon Rabbit in Washington, D.C. She was named North America’s Best Pastry Chef 2025 by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and received the 2026 James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker. A member of the James Beard Foundation’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (WEL) program, her work has been featured in The Washington Post, Food & Wine, Cherry Bombe, Eater, The New York Times, and Pastry Arts Magazine.
A founding member of Moon Rabbit, Bae has played an integral role in shaping the restaurant’s culinary identity since its inception. The restaurant has earned national and international recognition, including a No. 24 ranking on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 and recognition from The New York Times & The Washington Post. With more than a decade of experience spanning California, Texas, and Washington, D.C., Bae draws inspiration from nature, nostalgia, and unconventional savory flavors. Her approach to pastry explores the intersection of sweet and savory, reimagining familiar flavors through classical techniques, contemporary applications, and thoughtful composition.
At Moon Rabbit, Bae leads an all-female pastry team, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages individuality, curiosity, and creative expression. Her philosophy emphasizes intentionality, balance, and the exploration of unexpected flavor combinations while remaining rooted in the pleasures of food. Beyond the kitchen, she is committed to supporting her community through organizations including World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry, The Human Rights Campaign, and Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate.