Top Chef: Destination Canada, what a fun ride you have been.
Over a span of thirteen weeks, thirteen contestants, including Sam Olayinka and Ying Gao who were given another chance in Last Chance Kitchen, have been eliminated. We’re now just a few days from the end of Season 22, and only three chefs remain in the competition.
A shift to Destination Canada has offered a refreshing break from the predictable outcomes of previous seasons. Despite its imperfections, the series has kept us hooked with unexpected eliminations, intriguing tasks, and tantalizing dishes throughout. What truly sets this season apart is its endearing cast. Although we’ve said our tearful goodbyes to some favorites, we’re fortunate to cheer on three exceptional chefs as they vie for the top spot.
Straightaway, it’s time to introduce the finalists of “Top Chef: Destination Canada”. Here are some compelling reasons to cheer them on as they battle it out in this week’s grand finale on Thursday.
Bailey Sullivan
- Occupation: Chef Di Cucina Monteverde
- Residence: Chicago, Illinois
- Quickfire Wins: 0
- Main Challenge Wins: 1
- Last Chance Kitchen Wins: 3
Why you should root for her: There’s never been a more rootable underdog.
Amidst this entertaining season, it’s Bailey who has made me laugh the most (even though all three finalists have shown they can be quite funny). At first glance, Bailey seemed like a character with little screen time, as she was eliminated in the second episode. I assumed that would be the end of her journey, but I was surprised when she managed to return after securing three victories in Last Chance Kitchen.
After coming back, Bailey truly showcased her vibrant personality and culinary skills. Upon her return, she won a pair challenge with fellow finalist Tristen Epps-Long and had two more impressive placements in subsequent challenges. Although she’s faced some lower rankings at times, her creative ideas and commitment to meeting the challenge requirements have kept her one step ahead of her rivals who didn’t make it. Yes, she’s the underdog for the finale, but she’s a contender that we can’t help but cheer on.
Shuai Wang
- Occupation: Chef/Owner at Jackrabbit Filly & King BBQ
- Residence: North Charleston, South Carolina
- Quickfire Wins: 2
- Main Challenge Wins: 3
Why you should root for him: He’s our “Most Improved” of the season.
Shuai’s character is contagious and full of humor. He can find something amusing in almost any situation, whether he’s performing well or struggling in a competition. Despite being eliminated earlier on, I’d say Shuai has had one of the toughest journeys in the game. While Bailey faced challenges in LCK, Shuai went through a challenging middle phase that kept his game precariously balanced. From episodes 4 to 8, he was at the bottom of three challenges, which would have been impossible for most chefs to endure.
I’m thrilled to share that Shuai not only managed to stay in the game, but he truly excelled. The turning point for me was when he started cooking with more passion – that’s when the victories started pouring in. From episode 9 onwards, Shuai claimed three main challenge wins, tying Massimo Piedimonte who placed fifth, for the second highest number of wins this season. Although his winning streak wasn’t the most foreseeable outcome, I must say it was a decision I could appreciate. Watching him grow and shine throughout the season has been an inspiring journey.
Tristen Epps-Long
- Occupation: Houston, Texas
- Residence: Chef/Owner at Epps & Flows Culinary
- Quickfire Wins: 2
- Main Challenge Wins: 4
Why you should root for him: He’s the top dog in Top Chef.
Tristen stands out as unique, both in terms of his skills as a chef and his character. His fervor for culinary artistry has been evident throughout the season, resulting in four main challenge victories, more than any other contestant this season. What sets him apart is his deep interest in history, specifically the historical context of the African Diaspora, which influences the way he crafts his dishes and the narratives surrounding them. The judges are captivated by him, as are the fans.
Regardless of finishing at the bottom just once throughout the season, Tristen faced more hardships than anyone else during Restaurant Wars, an event where his father suffered a stroke and subsequently passed away the eve before service. However, as the executive chef of the triumphant restaurant, Tristen was crowned the overall victor in a heartrending moment that left both the judges and onlookers in tears during the landmark episode.
In my humble opinion as a movie critic, Tristen has managed to transform adversity into triumph, yet it’s not his struggles that have endeared him to us. Instead, it’s his unwavering dedication to serving as a role model for young, African-American aspiring chefs that truly resonates. Moreover, his profound interest in enlightening fellow chefs, judges, and viewers about the rich heritage of Black cuisine is commendable. With an impressive track record under his apron, Tristen stands not only as one of the top contenders for this season but potentially among the greatest chefs the show has ever seen. However, let’s not forget that he faces stiff competition from Shuai and Bailey, who are formidable adversaries in their own right.
In the final episode of “Top Chef: Destination Canada,” to be aired on Bravo on Thursday, June 12 at 9/8c, we’ll discover who takes home the championship and the accompanying $250,000 reward!
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2025-06-12 21:44