First Impressions (S18E01)

“Top Chef” returns with 15 of the nation’s top culinary talents competing in Portland, Oregon. In the inaugural Quickfire Challenge, the chefs are swiftly divided into teams, tasked with melding their favorite ingredients into a harmonious dish for judges Padma and local chef Gregory Gourdet. The Elimination Challenge pushes the competitors further as they must create a dish featuring one of Portland’s iconic local birds, all while under intense pressure. Their creations will undergo blind tastings by the judges and a panel of beloved “Top Chef” all-stars. Season 17 champion Melissa King joins Padma, Tom, and Gail to determine who will be the first to leave the competition.