Chef Emily Brubaker has claimed victory in the first season of Yes, Chef!, NBC’s high-stakes culinary competition hosted by José Andrés and Martha Stewart. She walks away with the $250,000 grand prize, sponsored by Purely Elizabeth, after a season-long transformation that caught the attention of judges and viewers alike.
Brubaker entered the series with raw culinary talent but struggled with self-doubt and a short fuse in the kitchen. Her husband, Jake, nominated her in the hopes that the format’s pressure-cooker environment would push her to lead with more confidence. It did. By the final episode, she had turned the tables, elevating her composure, commanding her station, and delivering a technically sharp final menu.
Her finale spread started with scallop crudo and poached daikon, topped with caviar. That was followed by an American Wagyu New York strip with potato pavé and tarragon demi-glace. Dessert was a bold swing: foie gras on bread pudding, balanced with honey gastrique and candied hazelnuts.
The judging panel for the final challenge included Marcus Samuelsson, Gail Simmons, and Andrew Zimmern. All three praised her precision, palate, and ability to stay composed under pressure. Jake, serving as her sous chef, noted the shift in her leadership style firsthand.
Brubaker is the current Resort Executive Chef at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, California. She described the win as a turning point, both personally and professionally. Viewership has followed suit. Yes, Chef! has pulled in more than 15 million viewers across NBC and Peacock, solidifying its position alongside America’s Got Talent and American Ninja Warrior in the network’s summer unscripted slate.
NBC has not yet confirmed a second season, but given the format’s ratings and crossover potential, a renewal is a strong bet.
