To celebrate 10 years of hugely popular food series Chef’s Table, Netflix has announced a special one-off season dedicated to some of the most prolific culinary figures of the industry.
Launching on 28 April, Chef’s Table: Legends will feature a ‘star-studded lineup whose influence has transcended borders (and mediums) and inspired generations of cooks and food lovers alike’.
“They are icons that should need no introduction,” the show’s production team said in a statement.
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“And yet, we found ourselves alternately surprised and enthralled by the vulnerability, the intimacy, and the previously untold stories that they shared with us.”
The series will focus on British chef Jamie Oliver, Spain’s José Andrés, Thomas Keller, and Alice Waters – the latter both veterans of Californian cuisine.
But while the chefs selected for each of the four episodes should speak for themselves, it seems some fans will need some convincing about one of the stars.
It kicks off with Oliver, who rose to fame in the late 1990s with the success of his TV show and first cookbook The Naked Chef, before launching a highly publicised campaign to improve the quality of school meals in the UK.
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While many feel his legacy is hugely important, others have questioned his status as legend.
“How you gonna mention TK and Jamie Oliver in the same sentence?” one fumed on Instagram after the lineup was announced.
Another commented: “Who the hell put Jamie Oliver of all people with the likes of Keller, Waters, and Andres?? That’s insane to me.”
A third agreed: “Including Jamie Oliver on this list feels sacrilegious.”
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A fourth joked how it was ‘3 legends and Jamie Oliver?’, while someone else asked: “How is Jamie Oliver still relevant?”
It sounds like some people are still bitter about those turkey twizzlers...
However, Oliver also received huge support in the comments section, with others arguing that his inclusion was a ‘very well deserved seat at the table’.
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“You all are sleeping on Jamie Oliver,” one fan commented.
“All these chefs are talented for their own unique reasons and have impacted the culinary industry, home cooks and the community, and that INCLUDES Jamie Oliver.
“One of his first shows/cookbooks Jamie at Home is a favorite. The passion and knowledge in which he speaks about food shines.
“Anyone who loves food and cooks the way he does (so organic and letting the ingredients stand out) and shares that passion and knowledge with others definitely deserves a spot on Chefs Table. Isn't that what the message of Chefs Tables is all about anyway?”
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Another echoed: “Jamie Oliver is a legend for making cooking accessible, promoting healthy eating, and revolutionizing school meals.
“His passion and advocacy for fresh food have influenced policies and inspired millions worldwide.”
Hear, hear!
Full Chef's Table: Legends lineup:
Jamie Oliver
Netflix bio: "Jamie Oliver is a visionary British chef who has inspired the world to cook. He rose to fame in the late 1990s with the success of his television series and first cookbook, The Naked Chef. Known for his simplified and delicious approach to cooking, he has redefined the way people think about cooking and healthy eating. A passionate child health campaigner, Oliver has a mission — to improve the quality of school meals, increase food education, and encourage healthier diets for children around the world. He runs a global and integrated B Corp food brand that includes an international portfolio of restaurants, food products, homeware, partnerships, and a flourishing media business."
José Andrés
Netflix bio: "José Andrés, a larger-than-life chef, has captivated the world with his boundless energy, talent, and generosity. A master of Spanish cuisine and innovative tapas, Andrés boasts an impressive array of culinary accolades, including multiple Michelin stars and James Beard Awards. But this exuberant, unstoppable force has conquered more than just restaurant kitchens - he has created a movement that harnesses the power of food to 'feed the few and the many' and, in the process, become an inspiration to all."
Thomas Keller
Netflix bio: "Thomas Keller, America’s celebrated chef with the most Michelin stars, is synonymous with culinary excellence and has left an indelible mark on fine dining. With numerous awards and accolades, Keller has built an illustrious career defined by precision, artistry, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. As the visionary behind renowned establishments like The French Laundry in Yountville, California, he has set new standards in American cuisine and influenced generations of chefs."
Alice Waters
Netflix bio: "Alice Waters, the spirited force behind American farm-to-table cuisine, has carved a unique niche in the culinary world with her iconic restaurant, Chez Panisse. Located in the vibrant city of Berkeley, California, the restaurant sources from the highest quality and most environmentally responsible purveyors for their ingredients. In its early days, Chez Panisse was known for its electrifying, party-filled atmosphere, attracting rock stars, movie directors, and a colorful array of patrons who reveled in the restaurant's innovative approach to dining. Waters’ charismatic personality permeated the establishment, transforming it into a hub of creativity and entertainment where food, art, and culture intersected. Through Chez Panisse, Waters not only reshaped the culinary landscape but also created an enduring legacy that celebrates the joy of dining, the power of community, and the importance of nurturing our connection to the earth."
Topics: Food and Drink, TV And Film, Netflix, Celebrity
Jess Hardiman