Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
I would love to start my own tea house filled with delicious wellness-inspired food, happy chatter and flowing whole leaf tea.
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesI don’t think I could pick just one. My top three go-to dishes are my famous hot honey fried chicken, blueberry buttermilk swim biscuits and beef stew. All of these have sent many visitors home with a smile, happy brain and full tummy.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My culinary inspiration is my paternal grandmother, or as I call her, my Granny. She taught me that food can heal bodies, bring a community together, sooth aching hearts and feed the soul. With every meal she cooked, she poured love into those who matter the most - her friends, family and even a stranger or two. She knew that what and how you eat, determines your mood. Now, I carry on her legacy by serving a lot of love and a little sass.
What would you do with the $25,000?If I were to win the $25,000, I would combine it with my savings and open my tea house. My local area is so desperate for a place where locals feel loved, connected and well fed. They’re looking for somewhere just like Granny’s front porch. If I were to win, I’d open the best little tea house and eatery anyone has ever seen!
Vote for Jessica Walker Watson 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.