In 1971 several chefs met in hopes of establishing a local association. The American Culinary Federation Greater Kansas City Chefs' Association was established in 1973 after a charter from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) was granted. A few of the founding members were Gerald Janzen, Klaus Sach, Jess Barbosa, David Kamel, Karl Senn, Wulf Koerper and Kurt Schlegal.

Fours years later, Hans Enderlin, then the Executive Chef of the Muehlbach Hotel, met with Jerry Vincent at Johnson County Community College to make plans for an apprenticeship program. The program began in 1976 and has grown to be one of the largest and most respected in the United States. Pat Sweeney has served as the apprenticeship chairman since 1985 and is credited for developing a nationally recognized program.

The American Culinary Federation Greater Kansas City Chefs' Association now boasts a combined membership of over 500 professional chefs, apprentices, and purveyor members, and is one of the largest ACF chapters in the country.

The Greater Kansas City Chefs' Association not only offers its members a chance to meet and network but is also involved in many community service efforts such as offering support to the Franklin Children’s Center and by supporting the ACF’s Chef and Child Foundation. The Greater Kansas City Chefs' Association has also received many awards and was named the American Culinary Federation’s Chapter of the Year in 1998.