As a surfer herself, Gretta saw an opportunity to serve healthy SoCal dishes to the early rising surf crowd, but she had problems getting the business up and running. Now she's teaming up with her buddies Shane, a professional chef, and sous chef Nicole to help her turn her dream into a reality.
Chatty Chicken — Chattanooga
After closing his roadside restaurant, Greg Sr. decided to team up with his son Greg Jr. and daughter Megan to turn his fortunes around. In addition to fried chicken — their main concept and Greg Sr.'s specialty — the trio will serve grilled chicken sandwiches, classic Southern sides and sweet tea.
Gourmet Graduates — Providence
Roberto, Keese and Julius are fresh out of culinary school, however, their roads to success haven't been easy, as each has triumphed over personal adversity. Together they consider themselves a force to be reckoned with in the food world, and they want to give dull dining hall dishes a gourmet spin.
Let There Be Bacon — Cleveland
Chefs Dylan, Matt and Jon (from top to bottom) have always wanted to open a restaurant together, but Matt's illness two years ago left him unable to work full time. Now healthy, Matt is ready to get back on track to achieve their dream. They're devoted to one of the major food groups in the North: bacon.
Lone Star Chuck Wagon — Houston
Lance has competed in BBQ competitions for years and has won against trained chefs. He's even developed his own line of BBQ sauces and rubs. With the support of his wife, Rachel (left), and their best friend, Andrea, he's ready to bring big Texas-style home cookin' to hungry people everywhere.
Madres Mexican Meals — Norwalk, Calif.
Javier got his passion to cook from the women in his life, turning his love for cooking into a career despite his father's wishes. After working in Hollywood hot spots, he's ready to be his own boss and is taking his mom, Luisa (right), and his wife, Senorina, on the road to create modern Mexican food.
Middle Feast — Los Angeles
Tommy (right) came from Israel to pursue his culinary dreams. After climbing the ranks, he opened his own eatery, but bad business deals cut its time short. With help from his sister Hilla and his close friend Arkadi, he wants to bring Middle Eastern classics like falafel and shawarma stateside.
Military Moms — Fort Drum, N.Y.
Michele, Carol and Wendy have devoted their lives to their families and the country as wives of military men. Now they're ready to strike out on their own with modern twists on classic comfort foods. Carol brings professional culinary training, Michele has innovative ideas and Wendy's got competitive spirit.
Follow the Race
Go inside the competition with behind-the-scenes photos, exclusive videos and more.
