Change is in the air for Bravo’s hit cooking show, 'Top Chef,' as a beloved figure takes center stage. Padma Lakshmi has announced her departure after 20 unforgettable seasons, leaving fans curious about who will step into her shoes. Enter Kristen Kish, a culinary star and former 'Top Chef' winner, ready to bring her unique energy to the table. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Kristen the perfect fit and what this means for the future of the show. Keep reading to uncover more about the incredible journey of the new host, Kristen Kish.
Why Kristen Kish is No Stranger to 'Top Chef'
Kristen Kish’s rise to fame began with her triumphant win in Season 10 of 'Top Chef,' set in Seattle. Her path to victory wasn’t without its dramatic twists and turns. Back in 2013, Kristen found herself at the heart of one of the show’s most talked-about controversies. Despite being a fan favorite and widely expected to reach the finale, she was eliminated early during Restaurant Wars. The reason? She took responsibility for her team's performance, even though another contestant made a far more significant cooking error. At the time, judge Gail Simmons summed up the situation perfectly: “It was a very complicated elimination. To date, it was the most complicated and controversial elimination this season. We were all driven crazy by it. Hours of debate at the Judges' Table ensued.”
But Kristen’s story didn’t end there. Determined to prove herself, she fought her way back through the Last Chance Kitchen, earning her spot in the competition once again. This time, she didn’t just make it to the finals—she emerged victorious, defeating runner-up Brooke Williamson. Over the past decade, Kristen has remained a cherished presence on 'Top Chef,' gracing the screen as a guest judge multiple times. Her deep connection to the show makes her the ideal choice to carry the torch forward.
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Kristen Kish Shares Her Excitement About Hosting 'Top Chef'
In a heartfelt statement released on July 9, Kristen Kish expressed her joy and gratitude at being named the new host of 'Top Chef.' “This show is where my journey began—first as a competing chef, then as a guest judge, and now as host. I have the incredible honor of helping to build this iconic brand,” she said. “Sitting alongside Gail and Tom Colicchio, getting to know these incredible chefs and witnessing their creations, feels like coming home. It’s an absolute thrill to be part of this next chapter.” Kristen’s words reflect not only her excitement but also her deep-rooted passion for the culinary arts and the show that launched her career.
What’s in Store for Season 21 Under Kristen’s Leadership?
With Kristen at the helm, 'Top Chef' Season 21 is set to take viewers on an exciting culinary adventure through Wisconsin. The state’s rich culinary traditions and diverse ingredients promise to deliver fresh challenges and inspiration for the competing chefs. This follows the success of Season 20, which marked the first international competition in the show’s history: 'Top Chef World All-Stars.' That season saw Kah-wai “Buddha” Lo achieve a historic back-to-back win after triumphing in both Season 19's 'Top Chef Houston' and the global edition.
Where Does Kristen Kish Call Home?
Kristen Kish’s journey began in Seoul, South Korea, where she was born. At just four months old, she was adopted and raised in Kentwood, Michigan, a suburb of Grand Rapids. Her love for cooking ignited early when, at the tender age of six, she discovered the Discovery Channel’s 'Great Chefs of the World.' Kristen credits her mother and grandmothers for nurturing her passion for culinary arts throughout her childhood. Writing in Kalamata’s Kitchen blog, she reflected, “My food story now is an homage to my childhood memories, delivered through my own creative lens and refined techniques. Once I embraced being true to myself, my life really came together.”
“Cooking has always been more than just a job for me—it’s a way to connect with my past while creating something new,” Kristen added. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by chefs on TV to becoming one of the most celebrated figures in the culinary world is nothing short of inspiring.
Is Kristen Kish Settled Down?
Love has also found its place in Kristen’s life. On April 18, 2021, she tied the knot with hotel executive Bianca Dusic in an intimate backyard ceremony surrounded by close friends and family. Their union marks another beautiful chapter in Kristen’s life, blending personal happiness with professional success.
