News Summary
Bravo’s renowned cooking competition show, Top Chef, will film its 23rd season in Charlotte, NC, and Greenville, SC, beginning this summer. The season will emphasize the distinctive culinary offerings of the South and showcase local chefs through various cooking challenges. Host Kristen Kish, head judge Tom Colicchio, and judge Gail Simmons return to guide contestants. The project aims to highlight Charlotte’s vibrant food scene and Greenville’s culinary accomplishments, benefiting local tourism and exposure for regional chefs and ingredients.
Charlotte, North Carolina—Bravo’s Emmy-winning cooking competition show “Top Chef” is set to film its 23rd season in Charlotte, North Carolina, and several episodes in Greenville, South Carolina. This announcement comes through a partnership with the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority and Visit Greenville SC. Filming is scheduled to begin this summer, with the new season expected to premiere in 2026.
The upcoming season aims to highlight the unique culinary landscape of the South, showcasing Southern hospitality while featuring chefs from various backgrounds competing in an array of culinary challenges. Returning to the series are host Kristen Kish, along with head judge Tom Colicchio and judge Gail Simmons, who will guide the contestants through the rigorous competition.
“Top Chef” intends to spotlight Charlotte as an “emerging and diverse culinary hub,” reflecting its rich blend of global influences intertwined with Southern heritage. As part of the culinary challenges, several judges and hosts will explore local ingredients to emphasize the area’s access to exceptional produce and its culinary diversity.
This filming project comes in the wake of growing recognition for both cities. Greenville has gained acclaim for its culinary achievements, including winning a James Beard Award and hosting various food festivals that have spotlighted local talent and dishes. Steve Bagwell, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, emphasized that the show will showcase Charlotte’s rapidly evolving food scene, which is increasingly being recognized beyond regional boundaries.
The competitive format will feature familiar components like Quickfire and Elimination Challenges, designed to rigorously test the culinary skills of participating chefs. This new season marks a return to the South for “Top Chef,” which previously filmed Season 14 in Charleston, South Carolina, back in 2016. The series’ history includes winning multiple Emmy Awards and being nominated for 19 consecutive years, marking it as a staple in culinary television.
Charlotte has been gaining momentum in recent years as a host city for diverse film and television projects, reportedly contributing to the local economy and enhancing its cultural identity. The presence of “Top Chef” in these two cities coincides with this ongoing trend, as Charlotte also hosted reality shows like “Love is Blind” and “The Ultimatum.” This filming venture presents opportunities for the region to further develop its profile as a destination for culinary tourism.
In addition to the competitive cooking aspect, the season will capitalize on the Carolinas’ warm hospitality and stunning natural landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop for the show. The announcement has been well-received, generating excitement about the potential boost to the area’s tourism and food recognition as it draws attention to local chefs and ingredients.
With its strong focus on culinary excellence and community engagement, the 23rd season of “Top Chef” promises to deliver engaging content while spotlighting the rich food culture of both Charlotte and Greenville. As fans eagerly await the season premiere, anticipation continues to grow for what the chefs will bring to the table in this culinary showcase.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Top Chef to Film 23rd Season in Greenville and Charlotte
Charlotte to Host Filming for Top Chef Season 23
Bravo’s Top Chef to Film New Season in Greenville, S.C.
Top Chef Announces Filming in Greenville and Charlotte
Local Chef Austyn McGroarty Competes on ‘Chopped’
Additional Resources
- Axios: Top Chef Charlotte and Greenville
- Wikipedia: Top Chef
- Eater: Top Chef Carolinas
- Google Search: Top Chef Season 23
- WCNC: Top Chef Season 23 Locations
- Google Scholar: Top Chef
- People: Top Chef Southern Location
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Top Chef
- Food & Wine: Top Chef Season 23 in the Carolinas
- Google News: Top Chef Greenville
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