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

Quarter-Finalist

Charles Steffens

Inspired by my mother's cooking and global military travels, I bring passion, creativity, and heart to every dish I create.

Currently 10

in the Quarter-Finals

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

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 23rd of July at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

Banana's Foster French Toast, Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone or Plank Salmon

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My culinary inspiration comes primarily from my mother but was reinforced and polished by my travels during military service. My mother taught me the value of home-cooked meals, family traditions, and cooking with love. Later, military assignments allowed me to experience diverse cultures and cuisines from around the world. Together, those experiences shaped my appreciation for food and inspired me to explore new flavors while honoring the comfort of traditional cooking.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would provide financial relief and peace of mind. It would help me pay down debt, strengthen my savings, and better prepare for unexpected expenses. As a small business owner, it would also give me greater flexibility to focus on growth and serving my customers. Most importantly, it would reduce stress and help create a more secure future for me and my family.

James Beard Foundation

Vote for Charles Steffens to be the next Favorite Chef while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting the James Beard Foundation and their mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry toward a new standard of excellence.


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