Netflix has dropped the official trailer and key art for Next Gen Chef, the new culinary competition set at the Culinary Institute of America.
The series will premiere worldwide on September 17, 2025, bringing 21 of America’s most talented young chefs into the spotlight.
Hosted by Olivia Culpo, the series blends star power, high-level technique, and the kind of intense kitchen drama food TV fans love.
Inside the Competition
Next Gen Chef is an eight-episode unscripted series that pushes chefs under 30 to prove their culinary mastery. From refining classic techniques to inventing bold new dishes, the contestants must endure challenges that test both creativity and stamina.
With the Culinary Institute of America as its stage, the competition promises authenticity, prestige, and an environment that mirrors the real-life demands of professional kitchens.
Watch the Trailer
Meet the Contestants
The new trailer introduces viewers to the 21 rising stars competing for the title of the next culinary leader:
- Abby Kirn, 30, Private Chef
- Alicia Herranz, 22, R&D Chef at Restaurante Barro
- Andrew Sargent, 29, Sous Chef at Per Se
- Courtney Evans, 25, Sous Chef at 3rd & Fernwood
- Eli Kochman, 24, Chef de Partie at Chleo
- Ilke Schaaf, 23, Line Cook
- Jacob-Bao Nguyen, 30, Private Chef / Owner of Than Thai Pop-Up
- Javauneeka Jacobs, 27, Chef at Frontera Grill
- Joaquin Cariaso, 23, Sous Chef at Charlie Palmer Steak NYC
- Karla Perez, 21, Tournant at Blue Hill at Storm Barns
- Keyana Jadali, 30, Private Chef
- Khan Bataa, 27, Sous Chef at Hamdi
- London Chase, 29, Jr. Sous Chef at Essential by Christophe
- Max Centauro, 28, Sous Chef at Carriage House NYC
- Nikki Patterson-Nash, 29, Private Chef
- Peter McTiernan, 25, Executive Chef at Dio Mio
- Sam Driscoll, 26, Chef de Cuisine at Tavern on State
- Sam Etienne, 28, Private Chef at Rose Catering
- Sam Seideman, 20, Private Chef & Student
- Sidney Rubenstein, 21, Private Chef for the New York Jets
- Zachary Ethan Atkins, 26, Traveling Chef
Each brings a different background and style, creating a diverse field of competitors and guaranteeing a mix of flavors, strategies, and rivalries.
Meet the Host and Judges
Guiding the competition is Olivia Culpo, model, restaurateur, and now host of Next Gen Chef. Alongside her are two experts who will shape the fate of the contestants:
- Carlton McCoy — Master Sommelier and entrepreneur, known for his expertise in wine and hospitality.
- Kelsey Barnard Clark — Award-winning chef, entrepreneur, and author, recognized for her inventive Southern cuisine.
This trio ensures that contestants face critiques grounded in both culinary expertise and cultural relevance.
Guest Judges: Legends of the Culinary World
Adding to the prestige, each episode will feature guest judges, including some of the most celebrated names in food:
- Francis Lam, food writer and critic
- Chef Cat Cora, the first female Iron Chef
- Chef Paul Carmichael, Momofuku
- Chef Susan Feniger, restaurateur
- Chef Dale Talde, James Beard nominee
- Christina Tosi, CEO of Milk Bar
- Chef Kwame Onwuachi, Tatiana
- Chef Daniel Boulud, French culinary icon
- Chef Thomas Keller, The French Laundry
- Chef Grant Achatz, Alinea
- Chef Harold Dieterle, HD Hospitality
- Chef Emma Bengtsson, Aquavit
- Chef Anne Burrell (in memoriam)
- Dr. Tim Ryan, President of the Culinary Institute of America
This lineup ensures that contestants will be challenged and inspired by some of the most innovative minds in food.
Behind the Series
Next Gen Chef is produced by Alfred Street Industries, UltraBoom Media, and Fulwell Entertainment, with executive producers Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, Nan Strait, Dan Volpe, Pip Wells, Tina Nicotera Bachmann, Michael Simkin, Erik Osterholm, Carrie Kaylor, LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, Philip Byron, and Dr. Tim Ryan of the CIA.
The unscripted series format spans 8 x 45-minute episodes, blending aspirational journeys with the prestige of one of the world’s most respected culinary schools.
Why Netflix is Betting on Food TV
Netflix has built a strong track record in food TV, with hits like Chef’s Table and Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend. Next Gen Chef Netflix expands this slate by focusing on the next generation of culinary leaders, offering both drama and discovery for food lovers.
By combining an elite institution, a charismatic host, acclaimed judges, and world-renowned guest chefs, the series is set to appeal to audiences who love both competition reality and aspirational cooking shows.
Premiere Date
Next Gen Chef premieres September 17, 2025, only on Netflix.
The Poster
