CHICAGO — While Houston’s Tristen Epps may have walked away with the Top Chef Season 22 crown, it was Chicago’s culinary community that delivered the show’s most unforgettable flavors, personalities, and emotional moments — proving the city remains a national leader in food innovation.
Chicago’s Bailey Sullivan, executive chef at Monteverde in the West Loop, emerged as the last local finalist standing, drawing praise for bold dishes that fused unexpected ingredients with personal storytelling. Meanwhile, Zubair Mohajir, founder of Lilac Tiger, returned to the spotlight as Epps’ sous chef after being eliminated earlier in the season.
Bailey Sullivan’s Fearless Fusion Wins Praise
Throughout the finale, Sullivan impressed judges with her fearless pairings, such as:
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Charred octopus with creamy mozzarella, which Top Chef judge Gail Simmons said “shouldn’t work — but does”
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A bold Alpini anolini pasta dish with porcini broth, robiola, and pecans
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A standout dessert featuring pizzelle cookies, espresso, mascarpone cream, and stracciatella gelato — described by Tom Colicchio as a “pumpkin spice tiramisu that worked”
Despite a stumble in the second course — a redfish dish honoring her mentor Sarah Grueneberg — Sullivan rebounded by trusting what she called “the weird stuff in her head.”
“Learning to trust my creative instincts is what got me here,” she told judges.
Zubair Mohajir Returns, Supporting Epps in the Final Push
Mohajir, known for his modern South Asian flavors at Coach House and Mirra, was eliminated in episode four — but returned as sous chef for Tristen Epps in the finale.
His comeback reflected the spirit of camaraderie among the finalists. The three final contestants — Sullivan, Epps, and Shuai Wang of South Carolina — shared heartfelt moments before learning the results in a picturesque Milan piazza, exchanging hugs and kind words instead of rivalries.
Chicago’s Broader Presence in Season 22
In addition to Sullivan and Mohajir, two other Chicago-based chefs competed this season:
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César Murillo of North Pond
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Genie Kwon and Tim Flores of Kasama, who appeared as special guests at the finale’s final meal
This made Chicago the most-represented city in the competition, reinforcing its role as a culinary powerhouse.
What’s Your Favorite Chicago Restaurant?
Did you cheer for Bailey Sullivan in the Top Chef finale? Do you think Chicago chefs are redefining American cuisine? Tell us about your go-to local dining spot or chef we should feature next! Drop a comment now at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — and let your taste be heard.
