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

Daniela Vergara

It’s been a dream to tell my story that show cases my roots with modern techniques and fusion of cuisines I’ve learned along the way.

Currently 18

in their Group

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

The first cut is on Thursday the 11th of June at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

Dungeness Crab Empanadas charred jalapeño, avocado purée, harissa aioli, corn masa.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My culinary inspiration comes from my mother and the vibrant traditions of Colombian cuisine — bold flavors, slow cooking, fresh herbs, and the warmth of gathering around the table. Her cooking taught me that food is memory, hospitality, and celebration

What would you do with the $25,000?

The $25,000 would allow me to launch a modern Colombian pop-up in San Francisco — a project rooted in family tradition, coastal Colombian flavors, and California seasonality. Inspired by my mother’s cooking, the experience would celebrate hospitality, storytelling, and communal dining through thoughtfully crafted food and music-driven gatherings.

James Beard Foundation

Vote for Daniela Vergara 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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