Kristen Kish is the chef/partner of Arlo Grey in Austin, TX and the host of Bravo’s Emmy award-winning Top Chef. She is also the host and producer of Restaurants at the End of the World on National Geographic/Disney+. In 2023, she was named to TIME100’s Next, AdWeek’s Creative 100, and Marie Claire’s Power lists.
Born in South Korea and adopted into a family in Kentwood, MI, Kristen showed an affinity for cooking at a young age. After culinary school, she honed her skills at several high-profile restaurants in Boston.
Kristen’s TV career began when she competed on and won season 10 of Top Chef. In a full circle moment, she was named host of the beloved series for its 21st season premiering March 2024. Her credits also include co-star of Fast Foodies on truTV/Food Network and co-host of Iron Chef on Netflix.
In 2017, Kristen released her first cookbook, Kristen Kish Cooking: Recipes and Techniques and in 2018 she opened her first restaurant, Arlo Grey at the LINE hotel. The restaurant reflects Kristen’s playful yet refined cuisine, pulling inspiration from her classical training as well as nostalgic dishes that highlights her upbringing and love of travel.