“Top Chef” is back for another round of culinary competition, and this time the cameras are rolling in the Carolinas. Bravo confirmed that production for Season 23 kicked off this week, with returning judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons joined by host Kristen Kish.
Sneak Peek at The Upcoming Season of Bravo’s ‘Top Chef’
The network shared a behind-the-scenes photo on the official “Top Chef” Instagram account, showing the trio reunited at the judges’ table. The caption read: “Our judges and host are back in the Top Chef kitchen! Season 23 has kicked off filming this week, and we’re so excited to be in the Carolinas!”
Fans took to the comments to share their excitement for the upcoming season, with some even offering their services. One wrote, “I’m SUPER good at eating delicious food and smiling in the background if you need some taste testers.”
Southern Hospitality at the Center of Season 23
As previously announced, the upcoming season will be based in Charlotte, North Carolina, with additional episodes filmed in Greenville, South Carolina. The choice of location reflects Bravo’s focus on showcasing emerging culinary hubs across the country.
Bravo described the new season as a celebration of the South’s culinary traditions, landscapes and ingredients. “This season will showcase the finest in southern hospitality, embracing the rich history, agriculture, and outdoors, as a new batch of accomplished and renowned chefs vie for the ultimate Top Chef title,” the network said in a press release.
Kish, who became host in 2023, also expressed excitement about exploring the new setting. “When we go to a new city on Top Chef — it becomes the backdrop of the season, inspiring our challenges and motivating the chefs to spotlight local ingredients,” she told People. “I can’t wait to explore all that the Carolinas have to offer.”
Set Secrets From the Judges
While fans await the premiere, Colicchio, Simmons and Kish have shared a few tidbits about life on set. Speaking to Bravo’s Daily Dish earlier this year, Colicchio revealed that the judges “eat copious amounts of candy” between takes. Simmons added that she usually snacks on “whatever Kristen gives us,” while Kish admitted she prefers “just gummy, chewy, sour. Delicious things.”
The playful behind-the-scenes details have long been part of the show’s charm, balancing the intensity of competition with moments of levity.
“Top Chef” Season 23 will premiere on Bravo in 2026, with episodes also streaming on Peacock. The series continues to spotlight different food scenes each year, with past seasons set in Wisconsin, Houston, Portland and, most recently, Toronto, Canada. Season 22 wrapped earlier this summer, crowning chef Tristen Epps-Long as the winner.
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