Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000

Semi-Finalist

Maritza Velazquez

Over the yrs, I acclimated myself in becoming not only a cook but knowledgeable on culinary. This would solidify my sacrifices.

Currently 9

in the Semi-Finals

Vote

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

Voting for the Final 12 ends Thursday the 29th of May at 7PM PDT

Want to learn more about our competition?

Learn More
Who or what inspires you to cook?

Inspiration formed from the poor neighborhood that I was raised. Not having quality ingredients available was the reason. I chose not to be a statistic. Falling victim to diabetes, obesity, or other food illnesses. Wasn’t an option. So, as a teen I asked my mother to teach me. In which she replied, I will have to learn by using my palate! I saved so I can explore other neighborhoods, cooking with clean ingredients. Later landing a host job at Boulud Sud. Being front and center was magical!

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

I truly love making Asian food. I love the unique spices, freshness, and how it touches every part of your palate. The texture, flavor are like music notes. Making you sing for more.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I had two children in two years. Where I work every day to make sure they have a healthier and well rounded lifestyle. As my father was once their sitter, he had two strokes and no longer able to care for them. I would love to take this money to pay it forward and spend quality time discovering new cuisines/quality food and save for medical expenses.

James Beard Foundation

Help Maritza Velazquez become the next Favorite Chef with a tax-deductible donation. Your support helps create a more equitable and sustainable future in the restaurant industry.


1 Vote
10 Votes
25 Votes
50 Votes
100 Votes
250 Votes
Other Amount

Enter donation - $1 per vote

Make onions cry

Sharpen your knives and show the world why you’re the Favorite Chef.

Learn More