Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
I blend passion with purpose cooking to honor my mother’s legacy while striving to inspire and empower the next generation of young chefs.
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesMy signature dish is waffles. I take this classic comfort food to the next level, focusing on perfecting the texture and infusing unique flavor profiles that turn a simple breakfast staple into an unforgettable culinary experience. Ive created Bama Pulled Pork Waffle, Slider Waffles, and Chilli and Waffles.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My mom is my ultimate inspiration. Having us at a young age, she went from only knowing Hamburger Helper at sixteen to creating incredible, unique dinners everyone craves. She never relies on cookbooks; instead, she builds her own vibrant flavors from scratch. Her resilience, creativity, and intuition in the kitchen taught me that cooking isn't just about following a recipe—it’s about heart, soul, and imagination.
What would you do with the $25,000?I would use the funds to give back to my mom, thanking her for every sacrifice she made for our family. With the remaining foundation, I plan to launch my own community culinary classes for youth. My goal is to create a safe, inspiring space where kids can learn essential cooking skills, discover their own creative potential, and build confidence that will serve them for a lifetime.
Vote for Kathy Clark 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.