Charlotte, North Carolina, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Bravo’s culinary competition series ‘Top Chef’ is set to film its 23rd season in Charlotte, North Carolina, with some episodes in Greenville, South Carolina. Production begins in the summer of 2025, and the new season is expected to debut in 2026. Host Kristen Kish and judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons will highlight southern hospitality and local cooking traditions, showcasing the region’s vibrant culinary scene. This announcement aligns with strong local partnerships aimed at spotlighting the Carolinas’ unique culinary heritage.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Bravo’s “Top Chef” Announces 23rd Season Filming in Charlotte and Greenville
Bravo’s acclaimed culinary competition series “Top Chef” will film its 23rd season primarily in Charlotte, North Carolina, with selected episodes shot in Greenville, South Carolina. Production is set to kick off in the summer of 2025, with the new season expected to debut in 2026.
Kristen Kish will return as the host, alongside esteemed judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons. The season will highlight themes of southern hospitality, offering a glimpse into the rich culinary history and vibrant cooking styles of the Carolinas, particularly in outdoor settings.
The producers of “Top Chef” have praised Charlotte and Greenville, designating them as “perfect chefs’ playgrounds” due to the availability of exceptional local ingredients and a reputation for bold flavors. The episode format will include local chef-influenced challenges, including Quickfire and Elimination tests that utilize regional produce and traditions.
Local Participation and Culinary Connection
Past competitors from the Charlotte area, such as Jamie Lynch from Church & Union and season 22 winner Tristen Epps, an alumnus of Johnson & Wales University, highlight the rich talent pool in the region. The executive producers have expressed enthusiasm about returning to the South, emphasizing the culinary diversity and agricultural roots that characterize both cities.
Local Partnerships and Impact
This announcement is part of a collaboration involving the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority and VisitGreenvilleSC. Steve Bagwell, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, underscored the city’s evolving culinary landscape as a significant factor in bringing the series to the area. Similarly, Heath Dillard, CEO of VisitGreenvilleSC, has emphasized the opportunity to showcase the Greenville culinary community on a national stage.
A History of Excellence
The series, which first premiered in March 2006, has amassed 53 Primetime Emmy nominations and wins, along with accolades from the James Beard and Critics’ Choice awards. Typically, each season features 16 contestants who tackle various culinary challenges evaluated by celebrity chefs. The overall winner is awarded a cash prize of $250,000, along with other opportunities for career advancement.
Related Events
The announcement of “Top Chef” filming in Charlotte and Greenville aligns with the upcoming premiere of the Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group’s docuseries “Fork & Hammer” in October, signaling a robust period for local cuisines and culinary arts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the filming of “Top Chef” Season 23 begin?
Filming is scheduled to commence in the summer of 2025.
Where will the filming take place?
The majority of the filming will occur in Charlotte, North Carolina, with some episodes filmed in Greenville, South Carolina.
Who are the main host and judges for this season?
The host for the upcoming season will be Kristen Kish, alongside judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons.
What are the key themes of Season 23?
This season will focus on southern hospitality and the culinary traditions of the Carolinas, featuring outdoor settings and local ingredients.
What is unique about the culinary scene in the Carolinas?
Charlotte and Greenville are recognized for their exceptional local ingredients, bold flavors, and strong agricultural foundations.
Key Features of “Top Chef” Season 23
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Filming Locations | Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina |
| Start of Filming | Summer 2025 |
| Premiere Date | Expected in 2026 |
| Host | Kristen Kish |
| Judges | Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons |
| Culinary Focus | Southern hospitality, local ingredients |
| Awards | 53 Primetime Emmy nominations and wins |
| Contestants | Typically 16 chefs per season |
| Prize for Winner | $250,000 cash prize |
| Related Events | Docuseries “Fork & Hammer” to premiere in October |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Axios: Top Chef in Charlotte
- WCNC: Top Chef Season 23 Locations
- People: New Southern Location for Top Chef
- Food & Wine: Top Chef Season 23 in the Carolinas
- Greenville Online: Top Chef Season 23 in Greenville
- Wikipedia: Top Chef
- Google Search: Top Chef
- Google Scholar: Top Chef
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Top Chef
- Google News: Top Chef
Author: HERE Charlotte
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