A few weeks ago, the annual Top Chef conference took place, and let’s just say it brought with it its fair share of surprises for this new season that’s all about pressure. However, one absolutely crucial piece of information had remained under wraps until now: the airing date. The veil has just been lifted on this unbearable mystery, as M6 has not only revealed a few details about the upcoming challenges but also set the date for… March 26th, just about twenty days away!
A season marked by stars
Well, just a few weeks left to get ready for this high-flying new edition. And why not? Besides tackling the traditional challenges, the contestants will face another significant challenge: the possible attainment of a Michelin star at the end of the finale. Indeed, as we learned a few weeks ago, they will be observed and judged all season long by anonymous inspectors, leading up to the finale, after which the grand winner will open their pop-up restaurant, potentially already holding a prestigious star, if the experts deem them worthy. A significant reward that will be granted to the triumphant chef for the entire duration of the restaurant's opening. And while we don't yet know the names of the candidates, considering the stereotypical profiles that pop up every year, we're already betting on the young genius Hugo Riboulet to snag this unique distinction.
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Increasingly Challenging Tests
Aside from this absolutely unique challenge, the contestants will compete in more traditional challenges, which have also been reimagined. Because for this 16th season, there's no question of sticking to the classics. To kick things off, the famous black box is getting a makeover, as this year, the mysterious dish to replicate will not be created by a guest chef, as usual, but by all 5 judges together. It’s a 10-handed creation that is sure to give the contestants a run for their money, since, as Paul Pairet himself admits, it’s a dish with a “questionable coherence.” And Hélène Darroze adds: “We’re pushing the boundaries…”"it's asked whether we went too far, we felt a little unwell ». That sounds promising.
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A string of surprisesIn addition to these drastic changes, which are already very enticing, the production has also announced a few other surprises, such as holding a "Who can beat" high-flying competition to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this legendary challenge. Due to a knee operation, the candidates will not be up against the tough Philippe Etchebest, but will instead face Chef Yoann Conte. And it's shaping up to be just as intense.
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Top Chef Season 16
Starting March 26, 2025 on M6