Food Prize 2026: Official Finalists and Golden Shaker Contenders

The Food Network will always be my first love. There is just something so mesmerizing about watching kitchen geniuses go head-to-head under pressure, whipping up mind-blowing culinary creations I could never dream up in a million years. It is pure art, total excitement, and honestly, a whole lot of fun.

That is why I am so obsessed with the fact that we have our very own version right here in Northwest Louisiana!

Food Prize brings together our region’s top culinary talent for an epic showdown designed to showcase and elevate the masterminds shaping our local food culture.

This year’s six Food Prize finalists fought their way through the tough Golden Fork Dinner Series to earn their spot, and now they are advancing to the main stage at Come and Get It on Wednesday, October 14th.

At Come and Get It, these incredible local chefs will pair up with celebrity chefs to create one-of-a-kind tastings for attendees and judges, bringing bold flavors and unbelievable artistry. But that is not all, our area’s absolute best mixologists will also be going head-to-head at the event, shaking up unique cocktails to compete for the coveted Golden Shaker trophy!

Once the dust settles, three top chefs will advance to The Battle for the Golden Fork on Saturday, October 17. This is a high-energy, Chopped-style live cook-off that is completely free and open to the public! A panel of esteemed judges will evaluate their final dishes and crown the ultimate winner, who will take home a huge $5,000 cash prize, major bragging rights, and the legendary Golden Fork trophy.

Check out the full lineup of contenders below to see who is competing for glory this year!