Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
Cooking is more than a hobby to me it’s my passion, my creative outlet, and my peace. My dream is to one day open my own food business.
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesI create signature dishes that blend comfort with creativity, and are healthy. Including a lighter crawfish étouffée made with Greek yogurt, a creamy chicken Alfredo using cauliflower noodles and dairy-free cream, homemade blueberry lemon cinnamon rolls with scratch-made lemon curd and compote, and pineapple brown sugar pork chops with a sweet and savory glaze.My focus is making familiar dishes lighter without losing flavor while developing original recipes that surprise people in
Who is your culinary inspiration?I began cooking very young, standing on a chair beside my grandmother at age 3 to help in the kitchen. I learned to cook from scratch while watching her, gaining an early appreciation for patience, technique, and intention. I also watched cooking shows, studying methods, flavors, and presentation ideas I later recreated. These experiences blended hands on learning and outside inspiration, shaping my creativity, confidence, and passion for developing my own dishes.
What would you do with the $25,000?If I win, I will use the money to finally bring my dream business to life and share my creations with others. I’ve always believed food fuels the soul, brings comfort, and creates moments people remember. Cooking has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being able to share that joy beyond my own kitchen means everything to me. This opportunity would allow me to turn years of love, creativity, and dedication into something real that others can taste, feel, and experience.
Vote for Kamryn McGee 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.