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

Michael Lombardi

Chef bringing intensity, creativity, and grit to every kitchen. Proven in high-pressure environments with passion and discipline.

Currently 2

in their Group

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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

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What is your signature dish?

My signature dish is an elevated take on a classic Italian comfort food: Eggplant Parmesan crafted completely in my own style. This dish is deeply personal to me because it blends tradition, family roots, and creativity into every layer. It’s not just food on a plate — it’s a story of patience, technique, and passion.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My grandmother has guided me with purpose and direction since I was five years old. Even today, I can still hear her voice in my head, with her strong Italian accent, reminding me, “Don’t forget to stir the sauce.” Those moments in the kitchen shaped not only my love for cooking, but the passion and heart I bring into every dish I create.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would Pay it forward, and donate proceeds to a https://www.health4youths.org https://www.marysplacebythesea.org

James Beard Foundation

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