As Top Chef Season 22 is set to premiere, another group of cheftestants prepare for their chance at culinary greatness. While many of the chefs have long lists of culinary accolades attached to their careers, earning the Top Chef title puts them in a different category. These five chefs are FoodSided’s ones to watch.
For Season 22, Top Chef filmed in Canada. While the country might be known for poutine, maple syrup and Montreal bagels, the country’s culinary scene is more than those cliches. From arctic char to ice wine, the bounty of deliciousness is as great as Canada’s land mass.
Chefs who are well versed in many types of cuisine, are familiar with ingredients, and are confident in their abilities always do well in Top Chef. Preparation is key, but chefs need to be realistic with their dishes. It is more than the risotto kiss of death. Appreciating that time impacts what can and cannot be done is viral.
5 cheftestants to watch on Top Chef Season 22
Zubair Mohajir
The Chicago based chef has a long list of accomplishments. While those accolades are impressive, Chef Zubair’s ability to crossover from fine dining to Asian street food makes him a threat in Top Chef. As viewers know, versatility is vital in this culinary competition. Striking that balance between well-executed food with impeccable techniques and creative approaches to common ingredients, Chef Zubair could go far into the competition.
Paula Endara
Originally from Ecuador, Chef Paula appreciates how locally sourced, fresh ingredients offer a bounty of flavor and creativity. Currently residing in Kentucky, she blends Bluegrass state favorites with her South American heritage. Only time will tell if she can be as successful as Chef Sara Bradley, the two time Top Chef finalist.
Vincenzo “Vinny” Loseto
The New York native knows a few things about local fishing and that background should be helpful in some challenges. Additionally, Chef Vinny’s is experience in the Bocuse d'Or will help with the presentation aspect to the challenges.
Massimo Piedimonte
As the only Canadian chef in the competition, Chef Massimo will want to do his country proud. The Montreal based chef has big personality and is ready to be in the spotlight. Having spent years perfecting his fine dining expertise, Chef Massimo will want to bring both daring and creative dishes to the competition. Could he make it all the way to the finale like Wisconsin's Chef Dan in last season?
Tristen Epps
Based in Houston, Chef Tristan has a point of view that deserves to be heard. After earned praise at Red Rooster in Miami, he is embarking on his own culinary exploration of neo-Afro-Caribbean cuisine. That knowledge, he should be able to showcase Canada’s culinary diversity. Given Chef Eric Adjepong’s success, Chef Tristan is poised to make a run at the title.
With 15 cheftestants in the running for the Top Chef Season 22 title, there will surely be ups and downs along the way. From Last Chance Kitchen redemption to managing team challenges, it is not always the most celebrated chef who wins. The chef who adapts, learns, and infuses their culinary point of view into each challenge will be the one to impress the judges’ discerning palates.
Top Chef Season 22 airs on Bravo Thursday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Episodes can be steamed the next day on Peacock.