NBC’s new show America’s Next Great Restaurant, which premiered March 6, encompasses all of my favorite things: food, competition and creativity. And you know it’s going to be delish because the show’s creators are the same ones behind the hit shows Top Chef and Project Runway.
America’s Next Great Restaurant is a competition for up-and-coming chefs to win a chance to open up a restaurant chain in three locations — Los Angeles, Minneapolis and New York City. Each chef proposes his or her own restaurant concept, and the most innovative of the bunch will ultimately win the contest through a series of challenges. We’ll be keeping an eye on the two Asian American contestants who have moved on to the top 10: Sudhir Kandula (The Tiffin Box) and Stephenie Park (Compleat).
Sudhir Kandula. Photo by Mitchell Haaseth:NBC.
Software sales director Kandula’s idea, The Tiffin Box, is a Chipotle-inspired idea that brings fast, casual, balanced meals inspired by the traditional Indian tiffin box used for food delivery.
As for Park, a Chicago attorney, Compleat offers fixed-calorie, portion controlled, fast food meals — full meals including entree, side and small dessert — in busy metropolitan areas.
Stephenie Park. Photo by Mitchell Haaseth/NBC.
The contestants will be under the supervision and mentorship of their investors, Iron Chef Bobby Flay, Chef Curtis Stone, Chipotle CEO Steve Ells, and Chef Lorena Garcia. From restaurant concepts ranging from Saucy Balls to Limbo, the competition is sure to be tight. Can’t wait to try them!
It’s on Sundays at 8 pm on NBC, so catch the second episode tonight! Find out more here:
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