As the newest food television competition to join the conversation, Yes, Chef on NBC has an added complexity of gamesmanship within the program. Although her time on the show was short, Chef T reflected positively on the experience. During a recent conversation, she revealed that there was much success achieved.
The premise of Yes, Chef has two very different components. First and foremost, the chefs must impress Jose Andres and Martha Stewart. Appeasing these sophisticated palates is not easy. From flavor to presentation, the dishes cannot be simplistic.
Additionally, this food television show is about playing the game. The ability for the MVP to pick their opponent for cook-off says a lot about each of the chef’s personality. Do they go for an obvious target? Do they try to knock out a competitor? It is not just a simple decision. If the goal is to walk away with the title, no one should just pick blindly.
In the second episode of Yes, Chef, the chef sent home, Chef T feel victim to the gamesmanship of the food television program. She was picked to be eliminated by Chef Megan. Even though Chef T had great dishes in both challenges and she did not get to cook for her life, she was sent home. It is the twist in this show that makes it unlike any other.
After her elimination episode aired, Chef T graciously gave some insight into her experience and how she continues to grow from the experience. Of course, she was disappointed to be eliminated early. Still, there were positives from being part of Yes, Chef.
Since Chef T had been on other food television competitions, she appreciated the Yes, Chef premise. As she explained, “some shows create a kind of energy that absolves themselves from consequences. It was not just about winning a prize. Each challenge was meant for you to evolve into the best version of yourself. That concept intrigued me.
“I think that everyone wants to be the best version of themselves. I’m a business owner, and every day is a learning opportunity for me. Sometimes, it is hard to see the forest through the trees, but you need an objective.”
While viewers will salivate over the delicious food, the true story of Yes, Chef is the personal journeys of the chefs. In a way, this show helps people to realize that chefs are under pressure, have shortcomings, and may not be perfect.
Chef T hopes that people walk away with a willingness to be more understanding of their dining experiences. She explained, “when people see you on TV, it creates an unrealistic dining experience for them. They can be unable to disassociate reality TV versus you as an individual in real life. Chefs can be rock stars, but they are real people, too.”
At the heart of any chef is the willingness and desire to put the best hospitality into that meal. While everyone can strive for perfection, the reality is that people can have a bad night. A little grace can go a long way when those bumps in the road happen.
Chef T spoke openly. “Success is not driven by first place. At the end of the day, if I can walk out there with my happiness and a new perspective that is positive about my life, my craft, myself personally, I’m OK with that.”
But, Chef T was not pleased with how she left the competition. She admitted that it stung when another woman chef eliminated her because she was a threat.
She said, “I have worked hard to be in this industry. I stood my ground and tried to be consistent. It is not about being the best or the worst, it was an opportunity to continue to be consistent.”
Although she did not earn the Yes, Chef title, Chef T has a great attitude about the experience. She said, “every day, I wake up with the spirit of gratitude. First, I was selected, and I was grateful for the opportunity. I have learned and earned the right to cook my truth and put my truth on that plate every single day.” Anyone who wants to experience how her positive outlook influences her food can visit her restaurant Union 41 in Bristol, Virgina.
Yes, Chef airs new episodes Monday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Episodes can be streamed the next day on Peacock.