Visit Tucson has announced that Tucson, AZ was picked as the host city for the 19th season finale of the popular culinary competition series Bravo’s “Top Chef.”
The Emmy and James Beard Award-Winning series “Top Chef” features diverse and talented chefs from across the country vying for the coveted title, all while showcasing their unique skillsets, variety of cuisines and gamut of flavors. Produced by Emmy Award-winning production company Magical Elves, the series is hosted by Padma Lakshmi, with head judge Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons at the judges’ table.
"When searching for a finale location, we often look for opportunities to showcase a city which is both a visually stunning destination and a culinary hidden gem,” said Magical Elves producer Diana Schmedeman. “Tucson was all that and more with its majestic mountains, lush deserts and fantastic resorts, all creating an epic environment for a spectacular season finale. Having been introduced to influential culinary figures and local growers who help shape Tucson’s scene, we knew we had found everything needed to help inspire our finalists for a memorable season finale.”
“Tucson food history is the fusion of cultures found only here in Southern Arizona, and one of several reasons we were designated as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the country,” said Visit Tucson CEO Felipe Garcia, in a statement. “We are honored Top Chef chose Tucson as the destination for the Season 19 finale and we’re excited to share our rich culinary story with millions of viewers across the country.”
A few of the local attractions featured in the two finale episodes include El Charro Café, Tucson Mountain Park, Pima County Historic Courthouse, JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, and Tanque Verde Ranch.
Visit Tucson is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Tucson, Pima County, and Town of Oro Valley and partners with more than 500 business members throughout the community.
For more information: www.visittucson.org
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