Culinary Instructor Chris Faison Represents New Jersey with Flair and Skill on Hell’s Kitchen

Rahway, New Jersey, is proudly represented on Hell’s Kitchen Season 24 by Chris Faison, a talented culinary instructor known for his dedication to teaching cooking skills to incarcerated men and women. From the first episodes, Faison has made a noticeable impact with his creativity, technical skill, and ability to remain composed under pressure.

Early Challenge Successes:

In the Signature Dish Challenge, Faison prepared a spice-seared quail accompanied by charred English peas and a corn jus. Chef Gordon Ramsay praised the dish for its strong execution, especially considering Faison’s unconventional background as an instructor rather than a traditional restaurant chef. Although Ramsay noted the quail was slightly overcooked, he awarded the dish a solid four out of five, signaling that Faison had set a high bar early in the competition.

Faison truly distinguished himself during the Creative Scallop Challenge, presenting perfectly seared scallops paired with mushrooms prepared two ways—pickled and braised—and complemented by Chinese eggplant. Ramsay singled out the pickled mushrooms as the standout of the dish, and the overall presentation secured Faison a win in the challenge. This victory earned him the coveted Punishment Pass, a symbol of his culinary precision and creativity.

Dinner Service and Teamwork:

During the initial dinner services, Faison worked diligently without drawing negative attention, offering guidance to teammates such as correcting a risotto dish. His steady performance ensured he remained off the elimination radar, demonstrating both leadership and an ability to thrive under the intense pressure of the Hell’s Kitchen kitchen.

Profile and Culinary Mission:

Chris Faison’s journey to the Hell’s Kitchen kitchen is deeply rooted in service and education. As the lead culinary instructor at a teaching kitchen inside a correctional facility, he empowers students with practical skills to build careers and transform their lives through cooking. He proudly shares that representing New Jersey on the show is a personal honor, stating, “I get to represent New Jersey like I feel like I’m the chosen one.” Faison competes on the Blue Team, blending technical skill with creativity and attention to detail.

Other Notable New Jersey Chefs:

New Jersey has seen several talented chefs on Hell’s Kitchen in recent seasons. Kyle Timpson from Dennis Township won Season 23, securing a $250,000 prize and an executive chef position at Gordon Ramsay’s Foxwoods restaurant. Joe Tartamella, an executive chef for Felina Restaurants, and James Avery, owner of The Black Swan in Asbury Park, also showcased New Jersey’s culinary talent on the show, with Avery serving as Ramsay’s on-camera sous chef for the Blue Team.

Chris Faison’s early-season performance highlights his technical skill, inventive approach, and ability to shine under pressure. As the season progresses, New Jersey viewers will be watching closely to see how their local culinary ambassador continues to navigate challenges, inspire teammates, and compete for the ultimate prize. For more updates on chefs and culinary talent from the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Film & TV.