Regional winner advances to finals after live culinary showdown
~ from Morning Pointe Senior Living
The Smoky Region of East Tennessee has spoken, and after an evening of creativity, competition, and incredible flavor, a winner has officially been crowned.
Morning Pointe Senior Living hosted its Smoky Regional Round of the 2026 Top Chef Challenge on April 15 at Morning Pointe of Powell Assisted Living, where three standout Food Service Directors competed live in front of residents, guests, and a panel of local culinary judges.
After advancing through Round 1, where residents and regional leaders cast their votes, the region’s top three culinary leaders brought their signature dishes to the stage for Round II:
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Victoria Seiber, The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence, Lenoir City
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Brandon Shelton, The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence, Knoxville
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Brandon Turner, The Lantern at Morning Pointe, Hardin Valley
Taking top honors for the Smoky Region was Brandon Turner, Food Service Director at The Lantern at Morning Pointe Hardin Valley, with his Spinach and Chicken Lasagna. His winning dish secured him a spot in the final competition in Ooltewah, Tennessee, where he will compete for the title of Morning Pointe Senior Living Top Chef 2026.
Brandon Shelton earned second place with his Baked Ziti, while Victoria Seiber placed third with her Honey Garlic Shrimp with Sausage and Broccoli.
The live cook-off highlighted not only culinary skill, but also the heart behind each dish. Competitors were evaluated on taste, presentation, creativity, nutrition and balance, resident appeal, cost and feasibility, and overall professionalism.
“This competition really brings to life the passion our dining teams pour into every meal,” said Justin Leiter, Director of Dining Operations for Morning Pointe Senior Living. “It starts with residents choosing their favorites, and then we get to showcase that talent in a way the whole community can experience.”
A panel of respected local culinary voices served as judges for the evening, including Joseph Blauvelt, Culinary Arts Program Coordinator at Pellissippi State Community College; Eric and Mandee McNew, co-founders of KnoxFoodie and digital food influencers; and Camille King, owner of Camille Cooks Personal Chef Service.
Events like the Top Chef Challenge offer a behind-the-scenes look at the thought, care, and creativity that go into dining at Morning Pointe Senior Living communities each day.
The road to the finals continues, with additional regional competitions scheduled in Brentwood and Chattanooga in the coming weeks.
