They were 16 last year, and Jorick Dorignac emerged as the winner of season 15. As season 16 of Top Chef kicks off on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, there are now 14 contestants competing not only for the prestigious title but also for a coveted Michelin star. As excitement builds for the gastronomic showdown, M6 has unveiled the profiles of the 11 male and three female contestants who will be vying for the win.
Margaux, 34, from Villebois-Lavalette in Charente, is known as “the chef defending her territory.” Raised in Provence, Margaux developed a passion for cooking early on, nurtured by a grandmother who prepared Mediterranean dishes. Currently, she owns L’Auberge du Boisné, established in 2023, where she expresses her love for her region through her dishes. "I pour all my love into my plates, all my best memories," she shared with M6.
Noémie, 36, hailing from Rennes in Ille-et-Vilaine, describes herself as “the adventurous chef.” A former sommelier in luxury establishments, she ventured into cooking and now owns Caravane Palace. Her style blends audacious, street, and fine culinary elements. Unique dishes are her way of telling stories that transcend borders, reflecting her passion for travel and taste.
Philippine, 30, from Paris, presents herself as “the model student.” With a background in pastry making, she heads the restaurant Le Boréal, where she emphasizes sustainable cooking and local suppliers. Aiming to shatter gender norms in the culinary world, Philippine is excited about the chance to realize her childhood dream on Top Chef.
On the male side of the competition, Charles, 32, is also from Paris and co-owns Le Boréal with Philippine. His culinary ambition is fueled by a passion for creativity despite his lack of formal training. Describing his cooking as technical, creative, and limitless, he sees the competition as an opportunity to validate his journey as a self-taught chef.
Charlie, 24, from Cauvicourt in Calvados, embodies the spirit of Normandy. Committed to honoring his roots through his culinary pursuits, he carries the legacy of his grandmother's teachings into his cooking and aims to open his own restaurant in Normandy. The Michelin star is a dream that signifies his connection to his land and heritage.
Claudio, 34, from Saint-Denis, is determined to impress with his classically trained technique. Having worked in prestigious restaurants and won stars for several establishments, he approaches Top Chef as a chance to push his boundaries further.
Esteban, 28, from Ussel in Cantal, originally from Colombia, brings a vibrant personality and culinary flair shaped by international experiences. He currently manages the kitchens at Château du Theil, blending South American influences with French techniques. For him, Top Chef represents a platform to showcase his talent and passion.
Grégoire, 29, known as “the war machine,” has garnered accolades across multiple Michelin-starred venues and aims to elevate his cuisine to higher echelons. With dreams of acquiring three stars and the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France, he sees this competition as a springboard for greater opportunities.
Kilian, 21, the youngest contestant, brings a fresh perspective from Mykonos, where he works as a private chef. His style is engaged and approachable, and he aims to challenge stereotypes in the culinary world while seeking to attain his own Michelin recognition.
Noé, 30, from Conneux in Belgium, brings humor and creativity to the competition, aiming to prove that fun and culinary tradition can coexist. Following an unconventional training route, he’s keen to showcase his innovative concepts in Top Chef.
Quentin, 24, from Lyon, embodies resilience after overcoming personal tragedy. With a precise and refined culinary style, he seeks to honor his mother through his craft while navigating the challenges of competition.
Rémi, 34, from Hossegor, transitioned from high-end restaurants to personal chef engagements in the Landes region, defining his cuisine as Franco-Asian and adventurous. Seeing Top Chef as a vital part of his journey to rediscovery, he hopes to showcase his vibrant dishes.
Sean, 29, of Italo-American descent, currently resides in Copenhagen and strives for artistic expression through cooking. His international background fuels his creativity, aiming to open a restaurant that showcases his innovative and boundary-breaking approach.
Lastly, Steven, 32, from Lyon, embraces an uncompromising culinary vision that is authentic and bold. With plans for modern gastronomy, he views Top Chef as a stage to prove his unique take can make a significant impact.
As the competition unfolds, these talented chefs will face not only the rigorous challenges of the series but also the critiques of esteemed judges including Philippe Etchebest, Hélène Darroze, Paul Pairet, Glenn Viel, and Stéphanie Le Quellec.
Fans can catch all the action when Top Chef premieres this Wednesday, March 26, at 21h10 on M6, promising a season filled with high stakes, innovative cuisine, and personal stories that inspire.
