The series kicks off with judges Ming Tsai, Todd English and Michael Ruhlman searching the country to find the most culinary committed.

The series kicks off with judges Ming Tsai, Todd English and Michael Ruhlman searching the country to find the most culinary committed. The premiere episode takes viewers to Chicago, New Orleans and Seattle to see who showed up for the chance to become a chef for Todd English in New York. Viewers witness what hopefuls had to do to try out; see videotape submissions from contestants who didn't make it to the auditions; and meet the final 12 contestants hand picked to embark on the coast-to-coast culinary competition.