Colossal kicks off this year's culinary showdown with intense flavor, major prizes, and huge names (Carla Hall, Aarón Sánchez, Andrew Zimmern) in the culinary industry
PHOENIX, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Favorite Chef 2025 has officially launched, and voting is open. Hosted by Colossal, the nation's leading professional fundraiser, the culinary competition invites cooks from every corner of the kitchen—professionals, food artists, and unapologetically ambitious home chefs—to prove they've got what it takes to earn the title, the cash, and a serious culinary career boost.
But this isn't just a popularity contest with a spatula. It's a multi-million-dollar fundraising campaign, powered by Colossal and operated on behalf of DTCare, a 501(c)(3) charity. Since 2023, the campaign has raised over $9.5 million for the James Beard Foundation, which supports equity, sustainability, and excellence in the food world.
And this year? Colossal brought reinforcements.
Meet the 2025 Chef's Picks
Three legendary names. Three personal picks. Three chances to win big.
- Carla Hall (Top Chef, The Chew) returns to host the competition—and she's bringing her signature energy and wisdom to the winner's exclusive culinary experience.
- Aarón Sánchez (MasterChef, El Toque de Aarón) joins the fun to champion culture, creativity, and serious technique.
- Andrew Zimmern (Bizarre Foods) brings global flavor and a fierce eye for culinary storytelling.
Each chef will select a standout competitor to receive their own prize experience, in addition to the People's Choice grand prize winner. Learn more about the Chef's Pick opportunities on the Favorite Chef Rules page.
What's at Stake?
The People's Choice Favorite Chef will take home:
- $25,000
- an appearance in Taste of Home
- a private cooking session with Carla Hall
And yes—bragging rights for life.
Knives, Pans, and Cutting Board Brands
Some of the most popular knives, pans, and cutting board brands that know kitchens inside and out have partnered with Colossal in 2025. These sponsors include:
- Shun Cutlery– makers of precision-crafted Japanese knives
- SCANPAN® – high-performance, sustainable Danish cookware
- John Boos & Co. – trusted for butcher blocks and cutting boards that last a lifetime
Beyond the Competition
Chef Karen "Kay" Jenkins, the 2023 Favorite Chef, returns as co-host alongside Carla Hall. Her journey from winner to mentor is a reminder that this competition doesn't just open doors—it kicks them wide open.
"This isn't just about who can plate the prettiest meal," says Jenkins. "It's about showing the world who you are through food—and building a future doing what you love."
Hungry Yet?
Voting is live. Stories are being told. Aprons are officially on.
Visit https://favchef.com/ for more information.
ABOUT COLOSSAL
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Favorite Chef, participants have the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact. Colossal competitions serve as fundraising campaigns for DTCare, a United States 501(c)(3) public charity organization, which then grants donation funds to specified charities at the completion of the competitions. Learn more at colossal.org. Who's Next?
Media Contact:
Anne-Marie Pritchett
[email protected]
SOURCE Colossal
Share this article