Behind the Scenes of Favorite Chef: What I Took Away from the Experience
By Lillian Cumic

When I entered the Favorite Chef competition, I didn’t know quite what to expect—only that I was ready to share my passion for plant-based cooking on a larger stage. What followed was a whirlwind of support, community, reflection, and ultimately, transformation.

Photo shoot at PLATFORM by James Beard Foundation located at Pier 57 in NYC

As the only finalist representing Hawai‘i in the semifinals, I felt an enormous sense of responsibility and pride. Hawai‘i has given me so much—a place to root myself after decades in Japan, a community that embraces food with heart and soul, and the freedom to create without limitations. This competition became more than just a chance to win a title. It became a platform to honor where I come from, the people who’ve supported me, and the way I’ve chosen to live and cook.

Support from Chef Sam Choy

I was blown away by the outpouring of encouragement—from friends, family, and even complete strangers who resonated with my message and food philosophy. My friend Andrea Petrovanie-green rallied a behind-the-scenes campaign I nicknamed my “Band of Sisters” that made me feel like I had an army of kindness at my back. Whether you voted once or every single day, I felt every bit of that energy.

An apron from the producers of the competition.

There were so many highs—interviews, new connections, even a feature that will be published in Taste of Home this December, highlighting my Hawaiian Poke Bowl recipe. But the best part? Knowing I stayed authentic throughout. I didn’t compromise on who I am or what I believe in, and I made it all the way to the final round, finishing as the runner-up in a global competition from more than 95,000 contestants!

One of the most memorable parts of the journey was flying to New York City for the Taste of Home Christmas edition photo shoot with the Top 4 finalists. I brought my brother Frank Cumic with me—my biggest supporter and adventure buddy—who has stood by me through every twist in my path. Sharing that magical New York moment with him, from walking the city streets to stepping into the iconic photo shoot, made the experience even more unforgettable. We laughed, explored, and soaked it all in together. Having him there was a full-circle moment and a reminder that none of this happens alone.

Frank is a personal trainer in Sydney. Follow him on IG @gamechangept

More snippets from my Favorite Chef journey HERE

This experience reaffirmed what I already knew deep down: that cooking is about connection. And that being a chef is not just about what you serve on a plate, but the story, the intention, and the love you infuse into every step.

Taste of Home’s Favorite Chef photo shoot in NYC August 2024

Thank you to everyone who came along for the ride. I’ll carry this experience with me into every future project, every recipe, and every conversation. Because the truth is—I already feel like I won.

FOLLOW LILLIAN:

Instagram: @Lillian.cumic

Facebook: @Chef Lillian Cumic

TikTok: @lilliancumic

LinkedIn: @Lillian Cumic

Chef Lillian Cumic is Taste of Home’s Favorite Chef Runner-up

Chef Lillian Cumic nominated as one of the “Dynamic Women” by MODERN LUXURY HAWAI’I magazine’s SEP/OCT 2024 edition

Vegan Chef Lillian Cumic Walks the runway at International Fashion Week Hawai’i May 23, 2025