Since 2008, Ment’or has been dedicated to helping America’s best chefs train for the privilege and honor of representing the United States at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France. The result of that patience and determination was realized for the first time in 2015 when Team USA stood on the podium with the Silver Bocuse, garnering the recognition and respect of the international culinary community. In January of 2017, we were proud to return from Lyon with the Bocuse d’Or, having realized Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s dream of the USA winning Gold.
Team USA is chosen through a national selection process which is led by esteemed members of the Ment’or Culinary Council, previous Team USA coaches and Team USA candidates. Head Chefs from around the country apply to compete in the Team USA National Selection Event.
This year’s National Selection event will take place in January 2026 and will be centered on a culinary challenge that highlights each chef’s individual creativity, vision, and personality.
After the national selection, the newly crowned Team USA will compete regionally in the “Americas Continental Selection” for a chance to be among the 24 countries that advance to the Bocuse d’Or finale in Lyon. The finale takes place over two days in January 2027, with 24 teams cooking in a high-energy, arena-style setting — think the World Cup for chefs. Candidates present final dishes inspired by the year’s theme.
Throughout their training and preparation, the team receives support and ongoing feedback through tastings and coaching sessions with culinary advisors and members of the Board.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete for a place in U.S. culinary history, and we are now seeking qualified head chefs for the prestigious Team USA Head Chef position. If you are interested in applying, please click below:
Team USA 2027 Head Chef Application
Team USA 2027 Head Chef Essay Questions for reference
