When the news dropped on Wednesday, July 23, that “Top Chef” is bringing season 23 to Charlotte, we got hungry with anticipation. So we grabbed our forks and did some digging.

📺 Show details

ICYMI... The show will be filmed in Charlotte — with some episodes in Greenville, SC (hey, GVLtoday) — and will focus on Southern hospitality, regional history, and up-and-coming culinary stars. The cheftestants will compete for a feature in Food & Wine magazine, a spot at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, and a cash prize.

Host Kristen Kish and judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons could be spotted across the Queen City when production starts this summer + the show airs sometime in 2026.

We can't wait that long. Here's what Charlotte's culinary masters have to say about the show coming to the Queen City.

Jeff Tonidandel and Jamie Brown will be featured in an upcoming documentary series chronicling their restaurant experience in Charlotte. | Photo via Susie Films

🍽️ Locals weigh in

“We’re honored to be part of Charlotte’s culinary scene during such an exciting moment for the city. We can’t wait to see how "Top Chef" brings Charlotte’s story to life on screen, and our team is ready to step up however we’re needed to help showcase what makes our city so special.” — Jeff Tonidandel, Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group

"We’re excited that the next season of "Top Chef" will be coming to Charlotte and Greenville, two cities in the Carolinas whose culinary scenes are worthy of celebration. We look forward to seeing what the chefs will create using the wide range of local ingredients we know and love here at L’Ostrica, and we hope this coming season will help shine a spotlight on the diverse talent and immense energy we have in our kitchens and on our farms." — Cat Carter and Eric Ferguson, L'Ostrica

“This is a huge win for our city and our culinary scene. Charlotte’s food culture has been growing rapidly, and national recognition like this puts a well-deserved spotlight on the talent, creativity, and diversity of our chefs and restaurants. Can’t wait to see Queen City shine on screen!” — Chef Dave Feimster, Director of Operations, Fahrenheit

"There is a lot of talent in this city, and it's exciting to be recognized for our hospitality industry in particular. What a celebration for our entire city. We look forward to having their crew in Charlotte.” — Frank Scibelli, FS Food Group

🎥 Get involved

Want to attend a taping? The process to participate is cloaked in secrecy, but Danielle at GVLtoday did some digging.

If you're a chef, you can always apply.