Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
I cook with soul, passion & purpose. Every dish tells a story. I don’t just feed people I bring them together. I was born for this.
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesMy signature dish — Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Quarters accompanied by Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Fingerling Potatoes and Sautéed Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon Zest
Who is your culinary inspiration?My culinary inspirations are Marcus Samuelsson and Kwame Onwuachi — two chefs who built their legacies through resilience, diverse technique, and an unwavering commitment to cooking with intention and identity. Their journeys remind me that great cuisine tells a story, and that’s something I bring to every plate I create.
What would you do with the $25,000?The $25,000 would fund the launch of my food truck — bringing elevated, chef-driven cuisine directly to my community. From there, my vision is to grow into a full brick-and-mortar restaurant. Beyond the business, I’m passionate about mentoring youth through culinary arts, giving the next generation the skills, confidence, and opportunity I had to work hard to find. This investment builds more than a brand — it builds a legacy.
Vote for Graigry Chatman 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.