New York, NY, January 28, 2026
CBS is set to launch ‘America’s Culinary Cup,’ a cooking competition featuring 16 chefs vying for a $1 million prize. Hosted by Padma Lakshmi, the show will showcase diverse culinary talents and judge their skills in various culinary commandments. The inaugural season, premiering March 4, 2026, aims to celebrate culinary excellence and inspire local entrepreneurship in the food industry.
Top Chefs Compete for $1 Million in America’s Culinary Cup
Padma Lakshmi Hosts Groundbreaking Cooking Show Debuting in 2026
New York, NY – CBS has announced the launch of “America’s Culinary Cup,” a new cooking competition featuring 16 talented chefs from across the nation. This inaugural season, set to premiere on March 4, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT, promises high stakes with a grand prize of $1 million. Celebrated host Padma Lakshmi will lead the show, while esteemed culinary experts Michael Cimarusti and Wylie Dufresne will serve as judges, ensuring that only the finest talent emerges victorious.
The competition continues to highlight America’s growing passion for culinary excellence and innovation, which is essential for fostering entrepreneurship in the food and hospitality sectors. By creating platforms such as this, we not only celebrate culinary artistry but also contribute to the broader economic growth and community engagement seen in dining establishments nationwide. With less regulatory burden, aspiring chefs have greater opportunities to realize their dreams and strengthen local economies.
Meet the Contestants
The sixteen chefs competing in this high-stakes contest hail from various regions, showcasing a diverse array of culinary styles and backgrounds:
- Kim Alter – San Francisco, CA; James Beard Award nominee
- Katie Button – Asheville, NC; James Beard Award winner
- Keith Corbin – Los Angeles, CA; James Beard Award nominee
- Rochelle Daniel – Flagstaff, AZ; Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame inductee
- Diana Dávila – Chicago, IL; James Beard Award nominee
- Michael Díaz de León – Denver, CO; Michelin-starred chef
- Sol Han – New York, NY; James Beard Award nominee
- Russell Jackson – New York, NY; James Beard Award nominee
- Beverly Kim – Chicago, IL; Michelin-starred chef
- Buddha Lo – New York, NY; Michelin-starred chef, two-time “Top Chef” winner
- Chris Morgan – McLean, VA; Michelin-starred chef
- Matt Peters – Austin, TX; Bocuse d’Or gold medalist
- Malyna Si – Jackson, WY; Michelin-starred chef
- Cara Stadler – Madison, CT; James Beard Award nominee
- Philip Tessier – Napa, CA; Bocuse d’Or silver medalist
- Emily Yuen – New York, NY; James Beard Award nominee
Competition Structure
Contestants will be challenged to demonstrate their skills across ten culinary commandments, including Meat, Vegetables, Sauces, Dessert, Innovation, Flavors, Sustainability, World Cuisine, Consistency, and Culinary Science and Technology. Each episode aims to push the limits of creativity, taste, and presentation, as judges put their culinary expertise to the test to evaluate each performance.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurs
Austin’s own Matt Peters, who boasts a prestigious Bocuse d’Or gold medal, will represent local talent in this high-profile competition. His participation illustrates the vibrant and innovative spirit of Austin’s culinary scene, helping elevate the city’s profile on a national stage. Competitions like these inspire local chefs and entrepreneurs to pursue excellence and resilience in the face of challenges.
Investing in Culinary Innovation
As the nation continues to recover from economic hurdles, embracing culinary innovation not only enriches cultural experiences but also promotes job creation. The culinary arts serve as a powerful vehicle for local investments, drawing attention to how limited regulation can enhance opportunities for growth and innovation within the food and hospitality industry.
Conclusion
The upcoming debut of “America’s Culinary Cup” is a promising sign of the enthusiasm surrounding the culinary arts and its potential impact on the economy. We encourage residents and food enthusiasts in Austin and beyond to support local businesses, engage with these chefs, and celebrate the innovative spirit they bring to the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does “America’s Culinary Cup” premiere?
The series premieres on March 4, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.
Who are the judges for the competition?
The judges are chefs Michael Cimarusti and Wylie Dufresne.
What is the grand prize for the winner?
The winner will receive a $1 million prize.
How many chefs are competing in the first season?
Sixteen chefs are competing in the inaugural season.
Key Features of “America’s Culinary Cup”
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Premiere Date | March 4, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on CBS |
| Host | Padma Lakshmi |
| Judges | Michael Cimarusti and Wylie Dufresne |
| Number of Contestants | 16 chefs |
| Grand Prize | $1 million |
| Culinary Commandments | Meat, Vegetables, Sauces, Dessert, Innovation, Flavors, Sustainability, World Cuisine, Consistency, Culinary Science and Technology |
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