Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000

Maurice Graham

Cooking for my family has always been love, never work. southern roots, soulful flavors, and passion are simply in my DNA.

Currently 2

in their Group

Vote

You decide who will appear in Taste of Home magazine, and win $25,000!

The first cut is on Thursday the 11th of June at 7PM PDT

Want to learn more about our competition?

Learn More
Connect
What is your signature dish?

My favorite signature dish is my Southern collard greens slow-simmered low and patient with smoked turkey until the pot liquor turns rich, savory, and full of soul. The greens are tender, smoky, and seasoned deep down to the stem with flavors that taste like Sunday dinner after church at grandma’s house. Every bite carries that Southern comfort feeling, warm, soulful, and made with love, tradition, and a little bit of Mississippi’s magic.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

Both of my grandmothers are the heart behind my cooking. One taught me how food brings comfort, love, and family together, while the other taught me the importance of flavor, patience, and cooking from the soul. I grew up watching meals turn into memories around their tables. Every dish I make carries pieces of both of them, and that Southern tradition, love, and passion are what people truly taste in my food.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win the $25,000, I’m investing it directly into the future of Southern Porch Coffee Co., by purchasing and building out my coffee trailer. This dream is bigger than coffee, it’s about creating a mobile space that brings people together through Southern flavor, comfort, and community. The winnings would help turn years of passion, planning, and family inspiration into a business people can experience one cup at a time.

James Beard Foundation

Vote for Maurice Graham 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.


1 Vote
10 Votes
25 Votes
50 Votes
100 Votes
250 Votes
Other Amount

Enter donation - $1 per vote

Make onions cry

Sharpen your knives and show the world why you’re the Favorite Chef.

Learn More