The "Next Gen Chef" is a Netflix cooking competition series set at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), featuring 21 of America's hottest young chefs under the age of 30 competing in rigorous culinary challenges. The show premiered in September 2025 and showcases emerging chefs guided by CIA faculty and alumni judges. Many contestants are alumni or young professionals working in notable restaurants or as private chefs. Here is where some of the notable Next Gen Chef contestants are now:
- Abby Kirn, a standout from the show, is now running multiple projects in New York and California, focusing on sustainable cooking and community-driven culinary ideas.
- Joaquin Cariaso works as a Sous Chef for the Union Square Hospitality Group and at Manhatta restaurant in New York, continuing to build his culinary career and share his creations on social media.
- Ilke Schaaf is a Line Cook at Clover Hill, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Brooklyn, blending her Namibian heritage with modern techniques and maintaining a presence on social media.
- Max Centauro is an Executive Chef at Chica & The Don, having progressed from a sous chef position to leading his own kitchen.
- Other contestants hold roles such as private chefs, sous chefs, and executive chefs across various respected restaurants, showcasing a wide spectrum of culinary career paths after the show.
The series was hosted by Olivia Culpo, judged by CIA alumni Kelsey Barnard Clark and Master Sommelier Carlton McCoy, and featured guest judges from prestigious culinary backgrounds. The competition provided these chefs a platform to enhance their careers and gain wider recognition in the culinary world.
