The Favorite Chef competition brings together thousands of chefs, home cooks, and culinary creators to compete for the ultimate prize and raise awareness for James Beard Foundation.
Lawyer-turned-chef and first-generation Iranian American, chef Keyana's path to culinary success is inspiring. After realizing her true passion lay far from the confines of legal documents, she enrolled in culinary school and has since worked in Michelin-starred restaurants. Now a private chef, Keyana will take home $25k, cook with Carla Hall, and rub shoulders with the best at the 2024 JBF Gala For Good™.
Taste of Home magazine is a culinary treasure trove, offering a delightful blend of delicious recipes, cooking tips, and heartwarming stories. From comforting classics to innovative creations, this publication celebrates the joy of home cooking and features the annual Favorite Chef—look out for our 2024 champion on the cover of an upcoming issue.
Carla Hall, acclaimed chef and TV personality, rose to fame on "Top Chef" and "The Chew." Her infectious charm and culinary expertise have won hearts worldwide. Now, as host of her own HBO show “Chasing Flavor” and presenter of Favorite Chef, she continues to inspire with diverse cuisines, making cooking an irresistible adventure for all.
Chef Emily's culinary journey has reached a remarkable milestone becoming Carla's Pick with her stunning presentation of a tea-based Pho featuring bright colors and contrasting textures. This creation reflects her beloved family-owned tea and spice shop, while also showcasing her deep knowledge of worldly flavors. Emily will now embark on an extraordinary NYC foodie experience and meet the one and only Carla Hall.
We want to extend our appreciation to everyone who participated in this year's competition! The James Beard Foundation celebrates, supports, and elevates the people behind America’s food culture. Favorite Chef is proud to support their mission to create a more equitable and sustainable future in the restaurant industry.
Cutco® is a family-owned, small-town manufacturing company that provides not just American-made premium knives, but kitchen solutions and knife know-how that can simplify and ease any cooking challenges.
Since 1887, John Boos has been a trusted provider of high-quality cutting boards, butcher blocks, and work spaces that have inspired home cooks, chefs, and food service industry workers for generations.
Chef Works® is the leading manufacturer of chef uniforms and chef wear programs within the food service and hospitality industries around the globe.
Creating a culinary masterpiece is a process from start to finish. Competitors enjoy exclusive workshops, where they gain insider tips and techniques from top culinary professionals like Chef Carla Hall and Food Network's Chef Terry Matthews, known as "The BBQ Daddy."
From humble beginnings, Chef Kay’s passion for cooking was fueled by a heart to serve others. Through unwavering support from her fans, including overseas military members and ICU nurses, she soared to the top. This blessed chef’s victory resonates beyond the prize, “It's more about what we were able to do for others, including up-and-coming cooks.”
Chef Sémone Hopkins, an Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) and Culinary Institute of Virginia (CIV) alumna. Chef Hopkins is rapidly growing two small businesses proving that hard work, talent, and drive can bring great success. “After the win, I received so much press attention, have been featured in newspapers, and have been interviewed on popular podcasts.”
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Favorite Chef, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
