James Beard "Rising Star Chef of the Year" semifinalist and "Top Chef: Portland" finalist — and fan-favorite — Chef Shota Nakajima was a breath of fresh air on the show, adding a punch of levity and brightness on a season that sometimes felt a bit heavy with the stress and pressure of the competition.
His sharp, unique dishes, deft culinary skills, imaginative dishes and on-camera charisma made him a formidable competitor and after appearing in every episode of that season. He's since returned to the show repeatedly (and he's obviously on the "All Stars 3" shortlist for many, many fans.)
