Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
I bring bold vegan flavors, healing food, and heart to every unforgettable dish that nourish and elevate every experience.
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesVegan Seared Seitan Medallions with velvety roasted garlic cashew cream, finished with a red wine reduction and served over herb-infused wild rice and seasonal vegetables. It’s bold, rich, and deeply comforting, elevating plant-based cuisine into a luxurious, soul-nourishing experience that feels both indulgent and intentional.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My culinary inspiration comes from Tyler Florence’s refined comfort, Michael Symon’s bold, soulful flavors, and Cat Cora’s elegant, global approach. Together, they inspire me to create elevated vegan dishes that are both comforting and sophisticated, blending technique, heart, and fearless creativity into every plate I serve.
What would you do with the $25,000?I would use the $25,000 to bring Luxe Street Vegan to life; launching my mobile culinary and wellness concept, securing equipment, and creating a signature line of plant-based sauces. It would allow me to serve underserved communities, host healing food experiences, and build a brand that nourishes, inspires, and creates opportunity through elevated vegan cuisine.
Vote for Lakeera Nelson 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.
