Scheduled to premiere on February 13, 2025, exclusively on FOX, Next Level Chef Season 4 brings together a dynamic cast of culinary experts and aspiring chefs under the leadership of three esteemed hosts and mentors: Gordon Ramsay, Nyesha Arrington, and Richard Blais. Here’s a detailed look at each of them and the contestants ready to battle it out in the culinary arena.
Hosts and Mentors
- Gordon Ramsay (Host)
Renowned worldwide as a culinary genius and fiery television personality, Gordon Ramsay has become a household name through hit shows like Hell’s Kitchen, MasterChef, and Kitchen Nightmares. With a career spanning over two decades, Ramsay boasts multiple Michelin stars and an empire of restaurants across the globe. His unparalleled expertise and no-nonsense approach make him a formidable figure in the world of cooking competitions.
- Nyesha Arrington (Mentor)
A celebrated chef and TV personality, Nyesha Arrington is known for her innovative culinary creations and deep appreciation for farm-to-table cuisine. She first gained recognition on Top Chef and has since become a prominent figure in the culinary world, appearing on shows like Chef’s Table and Tournament of Champions. Nyesha brings creativity and mentorship skills to the Next Level Chef kitchen.
- Richard Blais (Mentor)
As a James Beard-nominated chef and winner of Top Chef: All-Stars, Richard Blais has cemented his reputation as a culinary trailblazer. His inventive techniques and love for molecular gastronomy have made him a sought-after mentor and TV personality. Blais has also hosted and judged several cooking shows, including Top Chef and Iron Chef America. His expertise will undoubtedly elevate the competition.
Contestants
1. Arnav Kamulkar
Hailing from the vibrant culinary scene of New York City, Arnav Kamulkar is a 28-year-old chef with a passion for fusion cuisine. He has worked in prestigious restaurants, blending traditional Indian flavors with contemporary techniques. Arnav’s television debut on Next Level Chef marks an exciting new chapter in his career.
2. Ash Delrosario
A 32-year-old culinary artist from Los Angeles, Ash Delrosario is known for her bold approach to plant-based cuisine. She has appeared on local cooking segments and authored a popular vegan cookbook. Ash’s mission is to prove that plant-based dishes can be both delicious and visually stunning.
3. Ashley Applewhite
Based in Atlanta, 30-year-old Ashley Applewhite is a pastry chef with a flair for creative desserts. She has made guest appearances on The Great American Baking Show and worked at high-end patisseries. Her intricate cake designs and innovative flavor combinations have earned her a loyal following.
4. Austin Beckett
Austin Beckett, a 27-year-old private chef from Miami, specializes in coastal cuisine. His vibrant dishes, inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean, have been featured on various food blogs. This is Austin’s first major television appearance, and he’s ready to make waves.
5. Beatrice Heirigs
At 35, Beatrice Heirigs is a seasoned chef from Chicago with a background in French cuisine. She has trained at Le Cordon Bleu and worked in Michelin-starred restaurants. Beatrice has also appeared on Chopped and is known for her meticulous plating and attention to detail.
6. Becca Guevara
A 29-year-old culinary instructor from Austin, Texas, Becca Guevara is passionate about teaching the next generation of chefs. She has made guest appearances on Cooking Channel shows and is known for her approachable teaching style and diverse culinary knowledge.
7. Bobby Hicks
Bobby Hicks, 34, is a barbecue master from Memphis. With multiple competition wins under his belt, he has appeared on BBQ Pitmasters and other grilling-focused shows. Bobby’s smoky creations and larger-than-life personality make him a strong contender.
8. Brandon Rogers
Brandon Rogers, a 31-year-old chef from Seattle, has a background in molecular gastronomy. He has been featured on Food Network Star and is known for his innovative techniques and artistic plating. Brandon thrives under pressure and is ready to showcase his skills.
9. Brennan Dates
At 26, Brennan Dates is the youngest contestant this season. A rising star from Denver, he has worked as a sous chef in some of the city’s top restaurants. Brennan’s youthful energy and passion for global flavors make him one to watch.
10. Cathy Cann
Cathy Cann, 38, from New Orleans, brings a rich heritage of Creole and Cajun cooking to the competition. She has been featured on local cooking shows and has published a popular cookbook. Cathy’s deep-rooted love for Southern cuisine is her greatest asset.
11. Ilena Tovia
A 33-year-old chef from San Francisco, Ilena Tovia specializes in Pacific Island cuisine. Her vibrant, colorful dishes are a celebration of her Samoan heritage. Ilena has made guest appearances on Taste the World and is excited to share her culinary roots.
12. Iman Kawa
Iman Kawa, 36, is a Florida-based chef and food content creator. Known for her Mediterranean-inspired dishes, she has built a strong online following. Iman has also appeared on Food Insider and Epicurious. Her vibrant personality and flavorful creations are sure to shine.
13. Jake Goldberg
Jake Goldberg, 32, from Boston, is a master of comfort food with a modern twist. He has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and runs a popular food truck. Jake’s hearty, satisfying dishes have earned him a loyal fan base.
14. Jeff Kim
Jeff Kim, 29, is a sushi chef from Los Angeles with a decade of experience in Japanese cuisine. He has trained under renowned sushi masters and has appeared on Iron Chef America. Jeff’s precision and artistry make him a formidable competitor.
15. Jimmy Parreira
A 35-year-old chef from New York City, Jimmy Parreira specializes in Italian-American cuisine. He has been a guest on Rachael Ray and runs a successful trattoria. Jimmy’s hearty pastas and flavorful sauces are his signature.
16. Keith Garrett
Keith Garrett, 28, from Portland, is a foraging enthusiast and farm-to-table chef. He has appeared on Chef’s Challenge and is known for his sustainable cooking practices. Keith’s innovative use of wild ingredients sets him apart.
17. Maryam Ishtiaq
Maryam Ishtiaq, 34, is a Pakistani-American chef based in Houston. She specializes in traditional South Asian cuisine with a modern twist. Maryam has been featured on Taste the Nation and is passionate about sharing her cultural heritage.
18. Meg Sheley
Meg Sheley, 31, is a pastry chef from San Diego known for her elaborate confections and artistic desserts. She has appeared on Cupcake Wars and runs a successful bakery. Meg’s attention to detail and creativity are unmatched.
19. Megan Keno
Megan Keno, 33, is a home cook turned food blogger from Idaho. Her blog, known for comforting family recipes, has gained widespread popularity. Megan has appeared on The Pioneer Woman and is excited to bring her homegrown skills to the competition.
20. Mistie Knight
Mistie Knight, 37, from Nashville, is a soul food chef with a heartwarming story. She has been featured on Soul Food Sundays and is known for her comforting, flavorful dishes. Mistie’s passion for cooking shines through in every bite.
21. Natalia Gutierrez
Natalia Gutierrez, 28, from Miami, specializes in Latin fusion cuisine. She has been featured on Taste of the Tropics and runs a popular catering business. Natalia’s vibrant dishes and bold flavors are a testament to her culinary prowess.
22. Nick Caiazzo
Nick Caiazzo, 34, is a pizza master from Brooklyn. He has won multiple pizza-making competitions and has appeared on Pizza Wars. Nick’s love for authentic, wood-fired pizza is evident in every slice.
22. Ruma Kashoro
Ruma Kashoro, 29, is a chef from Chicago with a background in Middle Eastern cuisine. She has appeared on Spice Route and is passionate about sharing the rich flavors of her heritage. Ruma’s dishes are a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation.
With such a talented and diverse lineup, Next Level Chef Season 4 promises to be an exhilarating culinary journey filled with passion, creativity, and fierce competition.
