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

Semi-Finalist

Stephen Garcia

I want to share my passion for bold flavors, artisanal small bites, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes while hopefully building my brand!

Currently 2

in the Semi-Finals

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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

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Who or what inspires you to cook?

Growing up in a traditional Spanish household in the U.S., Sundays were all about family, food, and love. I was raised watching the incredible women in my life cook, but my grandmother had the biggest impact. At 95, on hospice yet still going strong, she continues to inspire me. She taught me that cooking is more than just food—it’s about tradition, love, and bringing people together. I carry her spirit in every dish I create, and she will always be my biggest inspiration!

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Hands down a traditional seafood paella 🥘

What would you do with the $25,000?

With my wife and I just starting our family and our three-year-old daughter’s future in mind, I’d set aside a portion to give her the best opportunities possible. The rest would go toward growing my new catering business, turning my passion for food into something that can support my family and bring people together. This opportunity means the world to me, and winning would help me build something lasting for both my family and the community I serve.

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