'Top Chef': Where are they now?
A dish at 24 Prince, which is owned by former "Top Chef" contestant Nikki Cascone
By Kara Warner
As the new season of "Top Chef" gets ready to premiere on Wednesday, we talked to former contestants to see what they've been up to since the show's end.
Nikki Cascone, season four, owner/executive chef at 24 Prince
How has being on ‘Top Chef’ impacted you and your career in NYC?
“Top Chef” has given me the platform to do things a little bit faster than I would have on my own. It has put my name out in the public in a big way so that getting my book out there and the clothing line I am working on have a broader audience. My restaurant was impacted by hosting more tourists coming in and specifically seeking out “Top Chefs.”
Do you think more people are interested in cooking now because of the show?
Yes, definitely! I had a mom come over to me almost in tears while on the “Top Chef” tour saying that because of the show she now feeds her family differently. Her teenagers and husband now make dinner gatherings a more important part of the day and are interested in what she’s cooking. Wow. My youngest fan is eight years old and he traveled here with his mom to meet me because he was so upset when I was cut from the show.
What advice do you have for beginners?
Work through school so you are prepared when you graduate. Don’t let fear of the unknown stop you from experimenting ... the more of a library of products you have the more you can create.
How do New York restaurant-goers differ from those in other cities?
I think the country is overall more savvy but I think New Yorkers have higher standards because of the competition and great food easily accessible to them.
Is there anything you cooked on the show that you currently have on the menu?
I do make a Lasagnette special which I prepared in the first episode.
What is the most popular item at 24 Prince?
Mac & Cheese rolls. [I hate them] but customers love them so I cant take them off the menu ever. Also I make a truffle chicken salad with pancetta that draws a lot of regulars.
Hung Huynh, season 3 winner, working on a new restaurant in Manhattan
How has Top Chef affected how people view food and restaurants?
I think “Top Chef” has its impact on the country and parts of the world because it is educating the viewers on better cuisine, and many different ingredients and cooking techniques. I definitely think that people are more interested in dining out and cooking more often because the show has so many different situations where the audience, when paying attention, can learn different elements to cooking.
How has it impacted you and your career?
“Top Chef has tremendously impacted my career.” I have been able to connect with the greatest chefs in the world, and industry leaders.
What is your favorite ingredient?
I answer with fish sauce.
