Step aside, The Great British Bake Off (but don’t because we love you), there’s a new cooking competition on the small screen. Yes, Chef!, co-hosted and judged by Martha Stewart and José Andrés, blends high-stakes culinary challenges with mentorship from some of the industry’s most accomplished chefs. Contestants, many of whom are just beginning their journey in the food world, are pushed to their limits as they learn, compete, and fight for their spot at the top. With each episode packed with tension, flavor, and fire, Yes, Chef! promises to serve up more than just mouthwatering dishes—it’s a recipe for drama, growth, and gourmet glory. Ahead of the premiere on NBC on April 28, here’s everything you need to know about the series.
Who Will Host Yes, Chef!?
Yes, Chef! will be co-hosted by two culinary icons: Martha and José. Martha Stewart, a home and hospitality icon, brings her extensive experience in cooking, entertaining, and media to the show. José Andrés, an Emmy Award-winning chef, is renowned for his innovative cuisine and philanthropic efforts. Together, they will guide and mentor the contestants through a series of intense culinary challenges designed to test their skills and personal growth.
Hosts Martha Stewart and José Andrés stand before contestants in episode 1.
Who is competing on Yes, Chef!?
This culinary showdown pits industry newcomers against elite mentors, putting 12 highly skilled chefs who have been nominated by their bosses, co-workers, friends, and even family to the test. To learn more about these talented 12 contestants, read their full bios here.
What is Yes, Chef!?
As the hosts and judges, Martha and José will guide the contestants through a weekly series of culinary challenges designed to test skill, creativity, and grit—as well as overcome their personal issues. Each episode features two challenges, starting with the Main Challenge, a team exercise designed to test contestant’s leadership skills in the kitchen. One team will be selected by Martha and José as the winning team, and one chef will be dubbed the Most Valuable Chef, a title that sends them off to a cook-off where they will be able to weigh in on who will be eliminated from the competition that week.
Christopher Moralles and Michelle Francis engage in the competition in episode 1.
What’s the Prize for the Winner of Yes, Chef!?
The winner of Yes, Chef! will receive a $250,000 grand prize, generously provided by the granola brand Purely Elizabeth. The competition emphasizes both technical excellence and the development of a positive, collaborative attitude in the high-pressure kitchen environment. To earn this substantial reward, the victorious chef must not only showcase exceptional culinary skills but also demonstrate significant personal growth.
Where to Watch Yes, Chef!?
Yes, Chef! premieres on Monday, April 28 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, following a new episode of The Voice. It will also be available to stream on Peacock the next day.
