Top Chef Season 22 Finale: A Culinary Showdown

The highly anticipated finale of Top Chef Season 22, titled Finito, aired on June 12, 2025, bringing an exhilarating conclusion to a season filled with culinary creativity and fierce competition. The stage was set for three talented finalists—Shuai, Bailey, and Tristen—to battle it out for the coveted title. Each chef aimed to showcase their culinary prowess, but only one could emerge victorious. Ultimately, it was Tristen who claimed the title of Top Chef, leaving a lasting impression on both the judges and viewers alike.

The Final Challenge

In the finale, the judges tasked the finalists with preparing their "best" four-course progressive meals. This challenge was not just about cooking; it was an opportunity for each chef to tell a story through their dishes. Each finalist selected a sous chef from the former contestants of Season 22 to assist them in this high-stakes culinary battle.

• Bailey chose Lana.
• Shuai picked Paula.
• Tristen opted for Zubair, believing he was the only one who would truly understand his vision for spices.

Together, they meticulously planned their menus and began prepping for service at the Michelin-starred Restaurante Cracco, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Tristen’s Culinary Journey

As the competition unfolded, Tristen’s dishes stood out for their creativity, flavor, and the personal stories behind them. Here’s a closer look at the four courses he prepared:

1) First Course: Fish with Baccala Mbongo

Tristen faced a tough decision when selecting the fish for his first course. He experimented with both monkfish and cod, ultimately choosing monkfish for its superior texture. The judges praised the dish’s simplicity, with Carlo Cracco, the restaurant’s owner, calling it "very perfect." Tom Colicchio, a prominent judge, noted that while the fish appeared slightly undercooked, it was "right on the border," showcasing Tristen’s skill in balancing flavors and textures.

2) Second Course: Pollo "Doengo" with Injera Shrimp Toast and Shellfish Jus

For the second course, Tristen presented a poached chicken dish infused with niter kibbeh, an Ethiopian fermented spice butter. Accompanied by injera shrimp toast and a shellfish jus, this dish was a celebration of flavors. Guest judge Santiago Lastra remarked, "The one from Tristen is just next level," while Genie Kwon emphasized that the shrimp toast was the star of the plate. Tom commended the dish for its impeccable seasoning, further solidifying Tristen’s reputation as a culinary master.

3) Third Course: Oxtail Milanese Crepinette with Carolina Gold Rice Grits, Curry Butter, and Bone Marrow Gremolata

Drawing inspiration from his West Indian roots, Tristen’s third course featured oxtail Milanese crepinette paired with Carolina gold rice grits. The judges were impressed by the separate grains of rice, which Tristen explained he cooked like pasta to maintain their integrity. The dish resonated deeply with the panelists, with Carlo Cracco left speechless, simply calling it "perfect." This course not only showcased Tristen’s technical skills but also his ability to represent his cultural heritage through food.

4) Fourth Course: Tropical Root Vegetable Cake with Chutney, Charred Plantain Cream, and Cassareep Sorbet

For dessert, Tristen prepared a tropical root vegetable cake reminiscent of a carrot cake and a Trinidadian dessert known as pone. He incorporated various roots, including sunchoke and sweet potato, and garnished the dish with garam masala. Tristen dedicated this dish to his parents, stating, "This one’s a really big honor to my parents." While Carlo praised the dish with a "Hats off," some judges felt the dessert was overly complicated, showcasing the diverse opinions among the panel.

The Moment of Triumph

After a thorough evaluation of all the dishes, the judges crowned Tristen the winner of Top Chef Season 22. In the emotional closing scenes, Tristen reflected on his late father, who had passed away during the competition, adding a poignant layer to his victory. His journey on the show was not just about culinary excellence but also about honoring his family’s legacy.

For fans eager to relive the excitement, all episodes of Top Chef are available for streaming on Peacock, allowing viewers to experience the drama, creativity, and culinary artistry that define this beloved series.