The Favorite Chef competition ignites the culinary world by uniting top chefs, passionate home cooks, and creative food artists in an epic showdown of skill and flavor—all while supporting the James Beard Foundation!
Derek’s passion for food is rooted in connection. Through his Food Boat, he brings chefs together, sharing stories and celebrating culinary traditions. His travels have shown that food is a bridge to understanding and appreciating different cultures. Inspired by the chefs he’s worked alongside, Derek blends creativity with respect for heritage, crafting dishes that tell a deeper story. Now, he’ll appear in Taste of Home, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000.
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 2025 champion in the pages of an upcoming issue.
We have proudly raised over $12.2M for the James Beard Foundation through the annual Favorite Chef competition. This campaign cultivates a community of chefs supporting chefs—bolstering JBF's transformative programs that promote inclusivity and sustainability. The James Beard Foundation leads chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence.
Qualified Favorite Chef contenders had the chance to showcase their skills and impress our featured celebrity chefs. Each expert handpicked one standout talent to win a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience.
She rose to fame on "Top Chef" and "The Chew." Now, as host of her own HBO show “Chasing Flavor” and presenter of Favorite Chef, Hall continues to inspire with diverse cuisines, making cooking an irresistible adventure for all.
Award-winning chef and TV personality, Sánchez co-stars on MasterChef and hosts El Toque de Aarón. A James Beard award winner, he’s recognized as a leader for the Hispanic community by major organizations.
Celebrated chef, TV personality, and James Beard Award-winning host, this culinary icon is known for his adventurous palate and cultural curiosity. Best known for Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, he has traveled the globe showcasing unique cuisines.
Chef Christian has officially earned the title of Carla’s Pick for his vibrant, Sonoran-inspired reinterpretation of the deviled egg. A visual and cultural feast, his dish captivated Hall with its bold colors, balanced textures, and heartfelt storytelling—celebrating Mexican heritage with thoughtful intention and just the right amount of edge.
Chef Shawnny has earned the honor of Aarón’s Pick for her heartfelt tribute to her Mexican roots, brought to life through a stunning chile relleno with mole poblano. The dish, inspired by her abuelita’s cherished recipe and the culinary traditions of Puebla, reflects a deep respect for history, family, and culture.
Chef Camille has been named Andrew’s Pick for her soulful and beautifully restrained take on a beloved family classic: Meatballs Napoli with Parmesan Polenta. Inspired by her Tata and deeply rooted in memory, this dish combines red wine-soaked raisins, anchovy-laced tomato sauce, and pine nuts—ingredients that speak to both tradition and creative evolution.
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.
Shun is the premier brand of authentic Japanese cutlery. Blending tradition, innovation, and precision, Shun knives deliver unrivaled sharpness, empowering chefs and home cooks to elevate every meal with exceptional tools.
For over 60 years, SCANPAN® has been manufacturing fine Danish cookware that combines exceptional quality and performance with inspired design. Founded in 1956, the company is committed to safe, sustainable cookware.
Lawyer-turned-chef and first-generation Iranian American, chef Jadali'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. She is now a personal chef in the Bay Area.
From humble beginnings, Chef Jenkin’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.