Parents' Guide to Next Gen Chef

Next Gen Chef TV show poster: two chefs' arms holding knives against one another as the judges stand in the background

Common Sense Media Review

Marty Brown By Marty Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 10+

Culinary school takes center stage as young chefs compete.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 10+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

NEXT GEN CHEF welcomes 21 competitors into the Culinary Institute of America and presents them with a series of challenges that would be similar to assignments in school. Olivia Culpo hosts an array of acclaimed chefs as judges; in the kitchen the contestants are under the watchful eye of Culinary Institute of America instructors. The contestants compete to win $500,000.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Cooking competitions have been trying to replicate the success of Top Chef since its debut in 2006; this show may be the most successful to do it. Next Gen Chef simplifies the format—chefs compete in one challenge each episode, and the focus stays on the chefs' process, background, and food. The show's spotlight on young chefs, many of whom are still finding their voices, and mentors from the Culinary Institute of America, adds some new spice to the mix. All in all, Next Gen Chef is a satisfying meal for Top Chef fans who are still hungry for more in the off season.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the chefs. Who are the competitors on Next Gen Chef? What do they have in common? What are their differences? Which of their stories do you find compelling?

  • What are some working habits of the successful competitors? How can you tell if a dish is good? Who do you think has a chance to win?

  • What happens when things go wrong? How do the chefs deal with adversity? How do the chefs work with one another?

TV Details

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Next Gen Chef TV show poster: two chefs' arms holding knives against one another as the judges stand in the background

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