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When Kristen Kish triumphed in Top Chef Season 10, she never imagined returning to the show in any capacity.
Fast forward to Season 21: the celebrated chef has come back to her roots, this time taking on the role of host alongside esteemed veterans and friends, Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio. “It felt both familiar and new at the same time,” Kish reflects on her experience. “It’s as comfortable and familiar as something so uncomfortable and unfamiliar can be.” This unique blend of emotions highlights the challenges and rewards of returning to a beloved platform.
Since her victory in 2012, Kish has expanded her career significantly beyond just being a winner. “One of my greatest passions is bridging my identity as a Korean American with various companies and individuals who share similar backgrounds,” Kish reveals to E!. So, when the opportunity arose to collaborate on her own line of soju, she eagerly accepted. This collaboration is a testament to her commitment to cultural representation and personal expression.
The outcome of this venture is Kish Apéritif, a vibrant line that showcases four distinct flavors of soju, each of which embodies different chapters of her life and diverse flavor profiles that resonate with her. Kish expresses her excitement for these unique offerings, stating, “They are based on different points of my life and different flavor profiles that I am excited about.”
“As an adoptee, I’m continuously exploring what it means to be Korean to me through the lens of others,” the chef shares. “This is why partnering with a Korean brand and founder was such a deeply meaningful opportunity for me.” This partnership not only reflects her personal journey but also highlights the importance of cultural heritage in her culinary endeavors.
Kish’s ambitions don’t stop here. In April 2025, she is set to release her highly anticipated debut memoir, Accidentally on Purpose, which is available for pre-order now. This memoir promises to offer insights into her life and career, further solidifying her presence in the culinary world.
Amid her various projects, she remains a passionate chef at heart. We had the pleasure of asking the Top Chef host to share her essential kitchen staples, indispensable cooking tools, and must-have items for hosting that she swears by. Her recommendations are sure to inspire both home cooks and aspiring chefs alike.
Discover the essential kitchen items inspired by her expert insights below!
