Chef David Vargas has been honored by the James Beard Foundation as Outstanding Chef America, 2023, semi-finalist and awarded “Chef of the Year, 2022” by the New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association. His mission is to bring people together at the table. David is proud to share his Mexican heritage by featuring beautiful local seasonal product on every plate at his award-winning, nationally recognized Vida Cantina in Portsmouth, NH. A James Beard nominated chef, (Outstanding Chef in America semi-finalist 2023; Best Chef Northeast semi-finalist 2022, 2020, 2019) David grew up in Southern CA and has spent a lifetime learning, living, and celebrating his Mexican heritage.