The beloved cooking competition show Top Chef returned to M6 on March 26, 2025, at 9:10 PM, kicking off its 16th season with high expectations and fresh talent. Among the 14 contestants are two chefs from Lyon, Steven Thiebaut-Pellegrino and Quentin Mauro, who are eager to showcase their culinary skills and possibly earn a coveted Michelin star.
Steven Thiebaut-Pellegrino, 32, is the head chef at the inventive restaurant Leptine in Lyon's 1st arrondissement. Known for his modern and unconventional cooking style, he has earned the nickname "L'Ours" due to his tenacious nature. His culinary journey has been marked by challenges, including a disciplined upbringing as the son of a military father. Despite these hurdles, Steven's resilience shines through, and he hopes that winning Top Chef will symbolize his triumph over adversity and showcase his talent to the world.
Quentin Mauro, a 24-year-old sous-chef, also represents Lyon in this season. Having previously worked as a sous-chef at the one-star restaurant Prairial, Quentin recently joined the Parisian restaurant Bonhommie. His culinary journey began a decade ago, inspired by his grandmother, Mado, who introduced him to the joys of cooking. Quentin's passion for food deepened after the tragic loss of his mother to cancer when he was just 14. "If she laughed and smiled on a hospital bed, how can I not smile all day?" he reflected, emphasizing how her strength fuels his determination to succeed.
As the competition kicked off, Quentin impressed the judges with his revisited chicken and potatoes dish during the first challenge. Although the presentation received mixed reviews, the taste wowed the chefs, leading to a fierce competition between Glenn Viel and Stéphanie Le Quellec to recruit him into their brigades. Ultimately, Quentin chose to join Glenn Viel's gray brigade, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.
In the second challenge, Quentin faced Michelin Guide inspectors, a new feature this season, which added an extra layer of pressure. With a budget of just 16 euros, he created a dish titled "Le 10h / 12h," showcasing his creativity and skill. The inspectors praised the dish for its presentation and complex flavors, declaring it worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant. Gwendal Poullennec, the director of the Michelin Guide, presented Quentin with the "Coup de coeur" award, an emotional moment for the young chef, who expressed gratitude for the recognition.
Quentin's journey is not just about culinary excellence; it also carries deep personal significance. He aims to honor his late mother through his cooking, and the possibility of winning a Michelin star represents a dream he has long pursued. His connection to his roots and the lessons learned from his grandmother inform his cooking style, which blends traditional Savoyard flavors with modern techniques.
Meanwhile, Steven's story reflects a different but equally compelling narrative. With a background in various esteemed kitchens, he brings a wealth of experience to the competition. His culinary philosophy emphasizes bold flavors and innovative presentations, and he hopes to leverage this platform to elevate his restaurant and potentially earn a Michelin star.
Both chefs embody the spirit of resilience and creativity that defines this season of Top Chef. As they navigate the challenges of the competition, viewers can expect a showcase of culinary artistry, emotional backstories, and fierce rivalries. The stakes are high, with the winner not only gaining the title but also the opportunity to open a restaurant and secure a temporary Michelin star.
As the season progresses, audiences will witness the growth of these chefs and their journeys towards culinary greatness. With personal stories intertwined with their culinary creations, Quentin Mauro and Steven Thiebaut-Pellegrino are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers and judges alike. The competition promises to be a thrilling ride, filled with passion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the culinary arts.
In the world of Top Chef, every dish tells a story, and this season is no exception. As the chefs battle it out for the top spot, they not only compete for culinary supremacy but also for the chance to inspire others through their journeys. With each episode, viewers will be treated to a blend of emotion, skill, and the undeniable power of food to connect and heal.
