Kurt Upton of Liberty Street Lunch has moved through the first round of Favorite Chef and is in the top 10.

“I have been in business since July 2019 in Warren, but have worked at a few establishments locally for the past 13 years,” Upton said. “I started doing dishes at Wayside in Youngsville when I was 14 and have been in kitchens ever since — over 26 years.”

“From the dish tank to head chef, I have worked my way up in many different kitchens,” he told Favorite Chef.

“I love this industry and this area so I’m truly blessed to be here cooking daily,” he said. “I hope to continue to grow Liberty Street Lunch and possibly open another restaurant in the future, while continuing to consult new and startup restaurants.”

The winner of the contest will be featured in Bon Appetit and receive $50,000.

The online voting that will determine which five chefs make it through the next cut ends at 8 p.m. Thursday, March 11.

Those interested in casting their vote may visit favchef.com/2021/kurtis-upton.

Individuals may vote for free once a day. There is a way to buy additional votes, with the proceeds benefiting Feeding America.