Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
My Thai Lao roots, global travels share every dish I create ,bringing culture, connection and unforgettable flavors to the table.
You decide who will appear in Taste of Home magazine, and win $25,000!
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text Updates
My signature dish is Boat Noodles, a traditional Thai noodle soup known for its rich, deeply flavored broth, tender beef, fresh herbs, and rice noodles. It represents my Southeast Asian heritage and the flavors I grew up with. The broth takes hours to develop and reflects my belief that great food comes from patience, technique, and respect for tradition.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My mom is my greatest culinary inspiration. She taught me the importance of cooking from the heart, respecting ingredients, and sharing our culture through food, (asking anyone who steps in our house ‘Have you eaten yet’ ?) The flavors and traditions she passed down continue to inspire my dishes.
What would you do with the $25,000?The $25,000 would help me take the next step toward opening my dream restaurant. As a chef, I’ve spent years learning, traveling, and refining my craft. This opportunity would allow me to invest in equipment, develop new dishes, and create a place where people can connect through my food and culture.
Vote for Niki Vongthong 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.
