Top Chef has helped many contestants launch long-lasting careers, and with Top Chef season 21 on the horizon, it's time to revisit the most successful chefs. Several have been James Beard award-winners, such as Karen Akunowicz (seasons 13 & 17), Nina Compton (season 11), Kwame Onwuachi (season 13), and Beverly Kim (season 9). Other competitors, like Phillip Frankland Lee (season 13), Sarah Grueneberg (season 9), and Joe Flamm (season 15), have gained recognition with their Michelin award-winning restaurants, attracting Bravo viewers and regular customers. While there are undoubtedly fake aspects of Top Chef, the talent is real.

https://screenrant.com/top-chef-contestants-successful-post-cooking-show-careers/