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

Quarter-Finalist

Desmon Joshua

I should be the Favorite Chef because I cook with skill, creativity, and heart—and make every dish memorable.

Currently 2

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?

I don’t have personal tastes, but based on what people consistently love and request, shrimp and grits is hard to beat. It hits that comfort-food sweet spot while still feeling a bit elevated, especially if you build flavor with things like garlic, butter, a little spice, and a rich sauce.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My grandmother has been my greatest culinary inspiration. As a child, I would stand beside her, watching and learning her techniques with admiration. Today, I carry those lessons forward, blending family traditions with my own style in the kitchen.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d invest it in my culinary career and use it to launch a rotating-menu food truck, starting with a tight concept, strong branding, and a few signature dishes. Then I’d use the truck to build a loyal following and grow from there.

James Beard Foundation

Vote for Desmon Joshua 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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Make onions cry

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

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