Top Chef Season 21 Sets Its Stage in Wisconsin
Exciting news for food enthusiasts and fans of the popular cooking competition show “Top Chef” – the upcoming season will take place in the beautiful state of Wisconsin. After filming in locations split between Milwaukee and Madison last summer, the show will highlight the state’s incredible culinary scene, fresh produce, and world-class dairy products.
A Milwaukee Chef Represents the Home Turf
Adding to the excitement, Milwaukee’s very own Chef Dan Jacobs will be competing on his home turf for the coveted title of Top Chef. As the only Wisconsin-based contestant, Jacobs will go head-to-head with fourteen talented chefs from across the country. The winner will walk away with a cash prize of $250,000, a feature in Food & Wine, and an appearance at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen.
A Journey of Passion and Inspiration
Dan Jacobs, chef and co-owner of Milwaukee’s revered DanDan and soon-to-open EsterEv in the Bay View neighborhood, is a testament to the culinary talent that Wisconsin has to offer. Jacobs, originally from Chicago, has made a name for himself in the Milwaukee culinary community and has earned his sixth James Beard semifinalist nomination with his fine-dining tasting menu restaurant, EsterEv.
Inspiring with Limitations
The journey to becoming a Top Chef is no easy feat, and Jacobs has faced his own additional challenges. Diagnosed with Kennedy’s Disease in 2016 – a neuromuscular condition causing muscle atrophy and physical limitations – Jacobs has shown incredible strength and determination. By competing on Top Chef, he aims to inspire others with disabilities and break through the physical constraints often faced in the culinary world.
Putting Wisconsin’s Culinary Traditions in the Spotlight
Throughout the season, viewers can expect to see Wisconsin’s culinary heritage showcased in various challenges. Contestants will participate in a cheese festival competition, a Door County fish boil, create a supper club menu, and highlight the versatility of Wisconsin-grown cranberries and Door County cherries. Even Milwaukee’s beloved Famous Racing Sausages will make an appearance, adding an extra dash of local flavor to the competition.
Meet the Season 21 Contestants
- Kaleena Bliss – Chicago, IL
- Kevin D’Andrea – Austin, TX
- Alisha Elenz – Chicago, IL
- Danny Garcia – New York, NY
- Valentine Howell Jr. – Boston, MA
- Dan Jacobs – Milwaukee, WI
- Manny Barella Lopez – Denver, CO
- Savannah Miller – Durham, NC
- David Murphy – San Francisco, CA
- Kenny Nguyen – Athens, GA
- Laura Ozyilmaz – San Francisco, CA
- Charly Pierre – New Orleans, LA
- Amanda Turner – Austin, TX
- Rasika Venkatesa – San Francisco, CA
- Michelle Wallace – Houston, TX
Expect Exciting Twist in Season 21
Season 21 of “Top Chef” promises surprises and thrill with some interesting twists to keep the audience captivated. Episodes will be 75 minutes long, offering even more time to immerse viewers in Wisconsin’s culinary wonders. Contestants will have the chance to win cash in each Quickfire Challenge, and immunity will be up for grabs in Elimination Challenges, ensuring the winner’s safety in the subsequent episode.
Viewers can also anticipate appearances from previous “Top Chef” winners, finalists, and fan favorites, providing valuable guidance and expertise to the contestants. Along the way, esteemed judges and well-known panelists will join the culinary journey, adding their expertise to the excitement.
Experience the Finale and Premiere Date
While most of the season was filmed in various locations across Wisconsin, the thrilling season finale will take place aboard a Holland America cruise ship. The finalists will be challenged to create a spectacular four-course meal for the judges, culminating in a nail-biting conclusion.
Make sure to mark your calendars for the premiere of “Top Chef” Season 21 on Wednesday, March 20, at 8 p.m. on Bravo. Catch the episodes on the Peacock streaming service the following day.
Watch the Sneak Peek
For an exclusive sneak peek at the culinary showdown, check out the full trailer for “Top Chef” Season 21 available below.
