Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
From soulful home cooking to global flavors — every dish is made with love and meant to make you feel good
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text Updates
My signature dish is my twist on meatballs—savory, seasoned just right, and inspired by flavors from around the world—whether it’s a classic Italian style or a spicy global twist.” That keeps it personal but also lets people know there’s variety!
Who is your culinary inspiration?My biggest inspiration is the feeling good food gives people — comfort, happiness, and togetherness.
What would you do with the $25,000?We’re preparing to open our brick-and-mortar humidor, and with a $25,000 investment, I want to thoughtfully build the experience from the ground up. My husband has his own cigar line, Tampa Fedora Cigars, and we want to create a space that reflects that culture and vibe. Along with the cigars and lounge atmosphere, I want to design a food menu that complements the experience—elevated yet comforting dishes like bourbon BBQ meatballs, smoked wings, Cuban sliders, brisket mac & chee
Vote for Lakeacha Mitchell 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.
