Top 5 Chef

Mateo Cancio

Because I love what I do, born and raised in Tucson, Az. Now representing Tucson as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy ambassador.

Currently 4

in their Group

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

Voting for Group Finalists ends Thursday the 8th of May at 7PM PDT

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Who or what inspires you to cook?

As a young Chef, my late grandmother taught me and inspired me to start cooking professionally. Now, in my thirties, my family inspires me to continue doing what I love. My family is part of everything that I do, they inspire me to be different and try new elements and styles of cooking.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My favorite dish to prepare at work, either for a “special” or as part of my menu is fresh pasta, something that I learned to do in culinary school. I love turning into something new every time. If we’re talking for myself, I love to make really good Mexican food.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would like to open a small business that represents the Southwest. I know 25,000 is not a lot of money to open a business, but like any other Chef it is a dream of mine. Other ideas are to invest the money into my family, give the best life possible to my wife and son.

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