Top 15 Chef

Corey Birger

Every dish I create is a chapter in my story—rooted in passion, crafted with heart, and meant to be shared.

Currently 3

in their Group

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You decide who will appear in Taste of Home magazine, and win $25,000!

Voting for the TOP 10 ends Thursday the 24th of April at 7PM PDT

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Who or what inspires you to cook?

My family, my friends, my ever-growing tribe—feeding them is how I show love. It’s how I say, “Come in, sit down, you’re home now.” I joke that I must have been a Jewish yenta in another life because nothing makes me happier than gathering everyone around a table, making sure no one is leaving hungry, and—if I’m being honest—maybe meddling just a little in their lives along the way. Food, after all, is more than sustenance. It’s conversation

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My adobo pulled pork tacos are pure comfort—bold, smoky, and packed with flavor. Slow-braised pork, simmered in vinegar, garlic, and spices, melts into a warm tortilla, creating the perfect bite. Tacos are more than food to me—they're connection, conversation, and joy wrapped in a tortilla. Whether shared with family or friends, they bring people together, one messy, delicious bite at a time.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d invest in our new company Pine and Cypress 30A, bringing the warmth of the farm and the artistry of handcrafted goods—both in and out of the kitchen—to the beach. This would be a space where flavors, craftsmanship, and community come together, blending rustic charm with coastal life. From thoughtfully curated pieces to slow-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul, it’s about creating something that feels like home, no matter where you are.

James Beard Foundation

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