NBC is introducing a new cooking competition with a difference, hosted by culinary stars José Andrés and Martha Stewart. Yes, Chef! aims to improve aspiring chefs, targeting not just their cooking skills but also their attitudes. The series premieres Monday, April 28.
Here’s the Lowdown: Premiering April 28 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on NBC (and next day on Peacock), Yes, Chef! presents 12 chefs nominated by colleagues or loved ones due to issues like egos or hot tempers. Hosts José Andrés and Martha Stewart will guide them through challenges designed to test culinary abilities and encourage personal development. Chefs taking part are Emily Brubaker, Julia Chebotar, Michelle Francis, Lee Frank, Torrece ‘Chef T’ Gregoire, Zain Ismail, Jake Lawler, Ronny Miranda, Christopher Morales, Petrina Peart, Peter Richardson, and Katsuji Tanabe.
What This Means Now: This show combines the popular cooking competition format with a personal transformation element. Spectators can anticipate kitchen drama fueled by high-stakes challenges and clashing personalities, all under the scrutiny of two food world giants. The winner receives a $250,000 prize.
The Bigger Picture: Produced by Magical Elves (Top Chef), Yes, Chef! takes a unique angle in the reality cooking genre by explicitly focusing on behavioral improvement alongside culinary skill. The format includes weekly Most Valuable Chef selections and cook-offs, suggesting strategic gameplay. It represents NBC’s continued investment in unscripted programming featuring well-known figures.
