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Published : 05 Jul 2026, 12:40 PM
Canadian-Bangladeshi chef Madiha Turshin has secured a place among the top five finalists in the prestigious international Favorite Chef 2026 competition.
The honour marks “a significant milestone that recognises her innovative culinary philosophy rooted in nature, sustainability, and cultural storytelling,” according to a press release.
Favorite Chef 2026, presented by American chef and television personality Carla Hall with support from the James Beard Foundation, seeks to celebrate culinary talent from across the world.
“Chef Turshin's advancement reflects growing international recognition of her distinctive approach to contemporary gastronomy, where cuisine becomes an artistic expression of heritage, ecology, and identity,” the press release said.
“Unlike traditional culinary presentations, Chef Turshin transforms every plate into a living landscape. Delicately curated edible flowers, wild herbs, and seasonal botanicals are thoughtfully incorporated not merely as garnishes but as essential ingredients that tell stories of culture, biodiversity, and the natural environment. Each creation is designed to engage all five senses while highlighting the harmony between food, nature, and artistic expression.”
A graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Grand Diplôme programme in Thailand, Turshin’s dishes combine classical French culinary techniques with the traditions of her Bangladeshi heritage.
She considers herself an enthusiastic forager, regularly gathering edible blossoms, seasonal herbs, and wild botanicals from nature while incorporating locally available ingredients into menus.
Through the culinary platform Yum Moments, she also encourages people to reconnect with nature through food.
Public voting for the Favorite Chef 2026 competition remains open until 7pm PDT on Jul 9. Turshin called on her supporters from Bangladesh and Canada to help promote her culinary vision by taking part.
