Christopher Nicholas Zeigler

Who or what inspires you to cook?

When I was little, my grandmother always had something good cooking on the stove. She didn't have much money, and living through both depressions, she learned to cook affordable and delicious meals. I made my first gumbo at seven and spent my teenage years watching the Food Network, admiring chefs like Bobby Flay. Later, a friend introduced me to Thai cooking, sparking my love for Asian flavors.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Smash burgers.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I would finally kickstart my dream of owning a food truck business. Imagine this: a vibrant, mobile kitchen where I can share my passion for cooking with people everywhere. With that money, I could get a decent truck, customize it to have everything I need, and start serving delicious meals inspired by all the flavors I've fallen in love with over the years. This food truck would be a rolling celebration of food and community, bringing smiles and amazing tastes to everyone.