Charlotte, NC, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Bravo’s culinary competition series, Top Chef, will commence filming its 23rd season primarily in Charlotte, NC, with episodes set in Greenville, SC. The season will showcase local chefs using regional ingredients, starting in summer 2025 and airing in 2026. Esteemed judges Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio return alongside host Kristen Kish, promising high-stakes culinary challenges that highlight the southern hospitality and diverse culinary scenes of the Carolinas.
Charlotte, N.C. – Bravo’s acclaimed culinary competition series, Top Chef, is set to film its 23rd season in the Carolinas, with the majority of production taking place in Charlotte, North Carolina, and several episodes filmed in Greenville, South Carolina. The series aims to highlight the rich culinary heritage of the region, focusing on its southern hospitality, vibrant history, agricultural diversity, and stunning natural landscapes.
The new season will introduce a talented group of chefs who will compete for the prestigious title of Top Chef. These chefs will have the opportunity to utilize the freshest local ingredients for their Quickfire and Elimination Challenges, a central component of the show’s format that tests culinary skills and creativity under pressure. The filmmaking will commence in the summer of 2025, with the highly anticipated premiere scheduled for 2026.
Returning for this season will be esteemed judges Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio, along with host Kristen Kish. Their involvement promises to maintain the high standards that fans have come to expect from the series, which has been a staple for culinary enthusiasts. Recently, the show has been recognized with numerous awards, including 53 Emmy nominations and two wins, reflecting its status within the television landscape.
Ryan Flynn, senior vice president of current production at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, has expressed enthusiasm for bringing the show back to the South, a region known for its dynamic culinary scene. As highlighted by Steve Bagwell, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, Charlotte is evolving as a culinary hub with diverse offerings ranging from traditional southern cuisine to innovative dining experiences. This upcoming season aims to stimulate interest in local culinary arts and showcase the best of what Charlotte and Greenville have to offer.
Heath Dillard, CEO of VisitGreenvilleSC, also underscored the significance of showcasing Greenville’s thriving food scene. The region’s unique flavors and cultural influences will be central to the challenges faced by the competing chefs, as they are tasked with crafting dishes that resonate with local taste preferences and ingredients.
The competition format typically begins with around 16 chefs participating in elimination-style challenges, each tasked with creating specific dishes under time constraints. Winners of the Quickfire challenges will gain immunity from elimination, giving them an edge as the season progresses. The ultimate champion of the season will receive a substantial cash prize of $250,000, as well as potential commercial opportunities, a lucrative incentive that adds to the stakes of the competition.
Previously, the show filmed its last season in Canada, with chef Tristen Epps-Long emerging victorious. The competition has visited various notable locations, including Wisconsin, Houston, and Portland, and now it will bring its culinary spotlight to the Carolinas.
Fans of the series can look forward to an exciting blend of regional specialties and the high-stakes drama that has become synonymous with Top Chef. The combination of talented contestants and the culinary richness of Charlotte and Greenville sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead.
FAQ Section
What is Top Chef?
Top Chef is a popular reality television series that showcases chefs competing in various culinary challenges.
Where will Season 23 be filmed?
Season 23 will be filmed primarily in Charlotte, North Carolina, and some episodes will take place in Greenville, South Carolina.
When does filming begin for Season 23?
Filming is set to begin in the summer of 2025.
When will Season 23 premiere?
The season is scheduled to premiere in 2026.
Who are the judges and host for this season?
Judges Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio will return, along with host Kristen Kish.
What can viewers expect from Season 23?
Viewers can expect a focus on southern hospitality, local ingredients, and the culinary landscapes of Charlotte and Greenville.
What is the prize for the season’s winner?
The winner will receive a cash prize of $250,000 and other commercial opportunities.
Key Features of Top Chef Season 23
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Filming Locations | Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina |
| Filming Start | Summer 2025 |
| Premiere Date | 2026 |
| Judges | Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio |
| Host | Kristen Kish |
| Season Winner Prize | $250,000 and other opportunities |
| Awards | 53 Emmy nominations, 2 wins |
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Additional Resources
- Axios: Top Chef in Charlotte and Greenville
- 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 Heading to 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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