What is the Vegan Chef Challenge (VCC)?
The Vegan Chef Challenge (VCC) is a month-long event showcasing new vegan menu items created by chefs at local restaurants. Typically, ten to thirty businesses take part and the dining public is encouraged to vote for their favorite dishes. We encourage all businesses to add popular vegan items to their permanent menu after the challenge concludes.
The Vegan Chef Challenge began in 2010 in Durham, NC, inspired by Eleni Vlachos and her friend Chef Shirle. Bethany Davis brought the idea to Sacramento, CA, in 2011, where it gained national support from Vegan Outreach. Now, VCCs are expanding across the U.S. and potentially worldwide!
Where do I find participating restaurants and when are they serving vegan food?
This is a community event and it takes place at each participating restaurant throughout each city. There is no central event location. Visit the National Vegan Chef Challenge website and click on the links to visit the VCC in your town.
Don’t see your town on the list and want to organize your own Vegan Chef Challenge? Please visit Start a Challenge to find out how to be a VCC organizer.
How much does the event ticket cost?
You do not need to purchase a special event ticket to enjoy the VCC. Just go to participating VCC restaurants and ask for their Vegan Chef Challenge menu. After you enjoy it, vote!
Where do I vote?
Visit the national Vegan Chef Challenge website and scroll to the city you’re visiting. The link to vote will be on their website.
Why am I being asked to vote?
The VCC is a community event and the diners are the judges! These chefs have worked hard to develop new dishes specifically for this Challenge and, for some of them, outside their normal style of cooking. Let’s show them our appreciation by letting them know how awesome they are!
How many times can I vote?
People don’t have to eat at every restaurant or wait until the end to vote. Please review every dish you try during the Vegan Chef Challenge. Comments are welcome and they help us determine the winners.
What categories are there and what do the chefs win?
The categories and prizes are shaped by voter feedback, ensuring a meaningful experience for participants. Chefs earn recognition through certificates and window clings, while top winners receive exclusive aprons and tote bags. Additional prizes often include cookbooks and unique items generously donated by local businesses and sponsors.
What about me? I’m doing a lot of work here. Can I win anything?
We’ve got you covered! By voting for your favorite dishes, you’ll be entered into a random raffle to win gift certificates to participating restaurants. You can boost your chances by submitting your menu votes and becoming a “super voter.” Plus, some VCC events feature diner passport challenges, offering even more opportunities to win exciting prizes
What is 10 Weeks to Vegan?
10 Weeks to Vegan is a guided challenge that gives you everything you need to know to get started with eating vegan. You’ll switch just one animal product a week to a vegan-friendly alternative, and receive weekly nutritional tips, product recommendations, and recipes that will make your transition a bit easier, and definitely more delicious.
How can I receive the latest updates about my local Vegan Chef Challenge?
Please follow the social media pages to stay connected. Regional Facebook and Instagram pages can be found in your city’s Vegan Chef Challenge website located on the national Vegan Chef Challenge website.
Who sponsors the Vegan Chef Challenge?
The Vegan Chef Challenge is sponsored by Vegan Outreach, a 501(c)(3) organization. Additionally, we seek sponsors to support our events as well. Fill out this form if you’d like to sponsor our event(s)!
How can I host a Vegan Chef Challenge in my city?
Great question! To find more information about starting a VCC in your city, please visit the Start a Challenge page. Vegan Outreach will partner with you to help cover the costs of hosting your VCC and will provide support and resources for a successful event in your city.