"Top Chef" Season 22 features Canadian cities and cuisine

The new season of "Top Chef" takes place across Canada, featuring cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal. Season 22 includes 15 contestants vying for a grand prize of $250,000. The show airs on Thursday nights on Bravo. Judge Gail Simmons, who is from Toronto, feels this season is very special. She believes it is important to showcase Canada, especially given the current cross-border tensions with the U.S. Simmons said, “I think it’s going to give Canada its moment in the sun.” This season aims to highlight Canadian cuisine and culture. Simmons emphasized that Canada has a different identity and history compared to the U.S. She hopes to promote understanding and respect between the two countries through food. Judge Tom Colicchio described this season as his favorite, noting the high skill level of the contestants. He said, “There were probably nine that could have won.” The show has been nominated for 50 Emmy Awards over the years and won once. The show's focus is on the contestants and their cooking, rather than drama. Host Kristen Kish said the contestants have impressive backgrounds and skills. Simmons added that the audience’s trust is crucial, as viewers cannot taste the food themselves. Overall, the judges and contestants aim to connect with viewers through their passion for food and cooking.