05/24/2025
Chef Robin Reaches Final Stages of Favorite Chef Competition Benefiting the James Beard Foundation
https://favchef.com/2025/robin-valdez
Taos, New Mexico— of Taos Pueblo — Chef Robin has officially advanced to the final two stages of the national Favorite Chef Competition — a prestigious culinary contest hosted by FavoriteChef.com that celebrates culinary excellence while raising funds for the James Beard Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting a more equitable, sustainable, and delicious food future.
Known for his Indigenous-forward, world cuisine, Chef Robin’s dishes reimagine familiar American plates using decolonized ingredients from North, South, and Central America. His approach honors ancestral foodways while making them approachable for today’s diner — a bold culinary vision rooted in tradition, storytelling, and innovation.
“My food is about reclaiming identity and reintroducing ingredients that have nourished generations, long before colonization,” says Chef Robin. “This journey isn’t just about winning — it’s about lifting up communities and celebrating where our food really comes from.”
A Competition with a Cause
The Favorite Chef Competition is more than a title. Every vote helps fund critical work through a partnership with DTCare, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations made through voting go toward grants for the James Beard Foundation, supporting culinary education, food justice, and sustainability initiatives.
• 36.5% of donations support competition operations
• Up to 13.5% covers processing and prize-related costs
• 1% is retained by DTCare for administration
• The remainder is granted to the Foundation
Donations are tax-deductible under U.S. federal income tax law.
Help Chef Robin Win — and Give Back
With just two stages left, Chef Robin is asking for the support of the community and culinary lovers everywhere. Every donation casts a vote and helps carry his mission to a broader stage.
Vote and donate now at:
https://favchef.com/2025/robin-valdez
Let’s support Indigenous foodways, culinary diversity, and a chef who’s redefining what American cuisine truly looks like.
Media Contact:
Maria Valdez
Owner Operator La Luna @ La Fonda
505-550-1119
LaLunaEatery.com
One chef will win $25k, an advertorial feature in Taste of Home, and a cooking experience with Carla hall.