Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
I move cacao beyond chocolate—through desserts, savory, and elixirs—creating moments that comfort, surprise, and stay with you
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text Updates
Ember & Earth Housemade Cacao Tagliatelle with Ivory Mole Cream, Dark Mole Essence, and Charred Garden Vegetables, finished with toasted pepitas, toasted cacao nibs, microgreens, and viola petals.
Who is your culinary inspiration?While I admire many ingredient-driven chefs, cacao itself has been my greatest inspiration—its versatility, depth, and ability to tell a story through food.
What would you do with the $25,000?I would use the $25,000 to continue innovating with cacao beyond traditional chocolate—developing new culinary creations, expanding my craft, and supporting sustainable cacao sourcing and education.
Vote for Julie McLean 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.
