One of my personal highlights from the 2026 TV schedule is almost here: Top Chef’s finale, which slots ju-u-ust after “Restaurant Wars.” (Especially this year’s, given how well contestants did in comparison to past failings.) The final three contestants from the Carolinas season are all very impressive, and I wouldn’t hesitate for a single second before diving face-first into dishes prepared by finalists Sherry Cardoso, Laurence Louie, and Rhoda Magbitang. But only one culinary talent can win out.
Ahead of 23rd season’s final episode, titled "The Final Toast," I wanted to lay out my prediction for who I think will be Top Chef’s newest champ, which stands apart from the chef that I actually want to see winning the $250,000 grand prize. Though again, for what it’s worth, I actually do really like each of the last three standing, which definitely isn’t the case every year.
