CA ProStart Cup 2027
The CA ProStart Cup is the state’s premier culinary arts and restaurant entrepreneurship competition for teens. High school students put their skills to the test in front of industry experts. Winners receive scholarships and the chance to represent California at the National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore!
See ProStart in Action
Sponsorship Opportunities
Showcase your brand to rising stars as well as to California’s restaurant leaders! Sponsorships start at $2,500 and have unique engagement benefits. Email us Foundation@calrest.org.
How the Competition Works
Hundreds of California’s top ProStart students compete in two team competitions: culinary and management. The top five teams receive college scholarships. The top team in each category goes on to represent California at the National ProStart Student Invitational in Baltimore!
BJ's Restaurants Culinary Cup
Teams of up to four teens must create an original 3-course meal in under 60 minutes. They must do it all on two butane burners. Students are judged on knife skills, safety and sanitation, taste, complexity, and more.
BJ's Restaurants Management Cup
In this “Shark Tank” style competition, teens pitch an original restaurant concept to a panel of expert judges. They must create a full business plan that includes a menu, marketing plan, a SWOT analysis and more.
Other Happenings
College + Career Expo
ProStart students get to connect with over 30 companies and colleges. This hospitality-focused expo is designed to help students chart their path for first jobs, college options, and professional careers.
ProStart Executive Mentor Program
Three outstanding ProStart juniors are selected to participate in a year-long mentor program with a hospitality executive. The program features quarterly meetings, a leadership training, and a $1,000 college scholarship.
Fresh Burger Battle by Habit Burger & Grill
Teens have 10-minutes to create the perfect topping for a hamburger in the “Fresh Burger Battle presented by Habit Burger & Grill”. The best part? It’s judged by the R+D and marketing teams from Habit!
Industry Experts
More than 60 industry experts volunteer a full two days to judge this incredible competition! Imagine being 16-years-old and pitching your restaurant concept to the president of a national restaurant brand? That’s the type of access and experience our students get.
And the 2026 ProStart Cup Winners Are...
BJ's Restaurants Management Cup:
1st
Orange County School of the Arts
2nd
Bonita High School
3rd
San Dimas High School
Winning restaurant concept: “Funtastical” is a quick casual restaurant where the ordinary is out and the unexpected is in, focused on amazing food inspired by the snacks that you would enjoy while playing board games.
BJ's Restaurants Culinary Cup:
1st
San Dimas High School
2nd
Bonita High School
3rd
Orange County School of the Arts
Winning menu: Appetizer – hamachi, salmon, and tuna crudo // Entree – duck breast and truffle risotto //Dessert – banana mousse and pineapple compote
ProStart Educator of the Year
Chef Zamudio
Leuzinger High School, Lawndale
Have Questions? We've Got Answers!
Where can I find ProStart School Resources?
You can find resources for your school on our CA ProStart Cup Resources page.
Where can I find current ProStart Cup Competition Rules?
You can find the rules for ProStart Cup on our CA ProStart Cup Resources page.
Is there a charge for attending the event?
No! The event is open to the public. We encourage parents, family members, and school faculty to cheer on your students. Please note: meals are designated for registered competitors only.
Can we bring signs?
Yes! Show your spirit by bringing signs. Noise makers are discouraged as they can distract competitors.
What's the schedule?
The schedule of events can be downloaded here.
Save the Date!
March 1 + 2, 2027
Have questions or want to get involved? Contact Foundation@calrest.org.