Top Chef’s Gail Simmons Reflects on Judging Evolution After 20 Years

Gail Simmons is celebrating her two-decade tenure as a judge on Top Chef.

“I believe my [judging] approach hasn’t shifted significantly, though we’ve been granted more freedom as judges to express ourselves openly and experience less editing,” Simmons, 49, expressed in an exclusive chat with Us Weekly while discussing her collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb for their COBENFY Connections initiative aimed at reshaping perceptions around schizophrenia.

She added, “Reality TV has evolved in many ways, and specifically, our show, Top Chef, has increasingly centered on the culinary art, the chefs, and the cooking rather than the drama unfolding outside the kitchen.”

According to the Canadian cookbook author, “The real excitement lies in what occurs within the kitchen itself.”

Simmons elaborated, “Our audience craves this, and we want to meet their expectations. This has guided our focus in recent seasons.”

Regarding her evolution as a judge, Simmons noted that she now prioritizes “constructive feedback, ensuring it takes precedence in our discussions.”

“When we converse with chefs at the judges’ table, it’s genuinely to engage in meaningful dialogues about their dishes and provide valuable insight for their improvement,” she detailed.

Top Chef originally premiered in March 2006, and the upcoming 23rd season, set to debut in 2026, will celebrate the show’s 20th milestone.

Simmons shared insights into what fans can anticipate in Top Chef season 23, which she mentioned has recently concluded filming in the Carolinas.

“Interestingly, we have explored South Carolina on previous occasions, particularly the coastal regions, but never the northern, mountainous areas of both Carolinas,” she explained. “I gained valuable insights and experienced the breathtaking scenery, which offers a distinctive culinary perspective, truly a stunning part of our nation.”

As for the contestants this season, Simmons expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The contestants are exceptional, energetic, and ready to tackle the challenges presented to them.”

In July, Bravo confirmed that season 23 would be set in the Carolinas.

“Our Cheftestants will immerse themselves in the spirit of southern hospitality while honoring the rich culinary history of the Carolinas and competing outdoors,” the announcement on Instagram revealed. “Travel and competitions will span across Charlotte, NC, and Greenville, SC! 🧡 🔪.”

Previous seasons have taken place in various locations, including Canada, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and even Paris for Top Chef: World All Stars.

While judges have encountered a mix of exceptional and less impressive dishes throughout the years, Simmons confirmed to Us in an interview earlier this year that they have never been compelled to consume anything horrible.

“In early seasons, particularly 1, 2, and 3, we experienced some unevenness, but this was during a time before we had assembled the talent we enjoy today,” she pointed out.

While Top Chef has always showcased professional chefs, Simmons acknowledged that the show was still in search of its formula during those initial seasons.

“Since then, it has become rare to encounter subpar food. Remember, these contestants are seasoned professionals, not amateurs striving to become chefs… As such, every season—especially this upcoming one—focuses less on eliminating weaker dishes and more on celebrating the consistently superb food presented because of the incredible talent we have now,” she elaborated. “We no longer have to experience offensive dishes because of the undeniable skill present among the chefs today.”