Top 8 Contestants Share Insights from Their Culinary Journeys in Culinary Class Wars

In anticipation of the grand finale, the cast and production team of Culinary Class Wars convened for a press conference, sharing their experiences from the show. Reports from Hankyung reveal that on October 6, producers Kim Hak-min and Kim Eun-ji hosted this event at a hotel in Mapo, Seoul.

Present at the conference were the top 8 finalists, including Napoli Matfia, the Triple Star, Cooking Maniac, Auntie Omakase #1 from the Black Spoon team, as well as Choi Hyun-Seok, Jung Ji-sung, Jang Ho-jun, and Edward Lee.

This enthralling cooking competition showcased the skills of 100 chefs, mirroring the format of Physical: 100. Contestants were split into two teams: the Black Spoon (80 non-celebrity chefs) and the White Spoon (20 celebrity chefs), as they competed for a coveted prize of 300 million KRW. Esteemed chefs Paik Jung-won and Anh Sung-jae served as judges throughout the series.

Reflections on the Culinary Journey: Insights from the Top 8 Finalists

As the finale of Culinary Class Wars nears, finalist Choi Hyun-Seok, known for his role in Please Take Care of My Refrigerator and recognized as a leading chef in South Korea, offered his reflections. He commented:

“People around me cautioned against it, but I felt inspired and decided to take the leap. Although the local restaurant scene is facing challenges, I see a resurgence, creating an encouraging environment for chefs. I’m continuously innovating, and this experience reaffirmed that I’m on the right track.” – Choi Hyun-seok

Scott Kang Seung-won, nicknamed The Triple Star, expressed his profound gratitude for the support he receives from diners at Mosu, where he serves as Anh Sung-jae’s sous chef, stating:

“I sincerely appreciate all the visitors and their reservations. My heart is filled with gratitude.”

Meanwhile, Jung Ji-sung, celebrated as the queen of Chinese cuisine, shared her sentiment regarding her participation in Culinary Class Wars.

“As a head chef, I aimed to set an example for my staff through hard work. I enjoyed exploring and preparing new dishes beyond my usual offerings at the restaurant. I appreciate all the attention this opportunity has brought me,” Jung Ji-sung expressed.

On another note, Yoon Nam-no, famously recognized as Cooking Maniac and recently highlighted by BTS’ j-hope on social media, recounted his mother’s emotional reaction to his participation.

“My mother was in tears when she saw me on-screen. I feel I accomplished something meaningful without a price tag. It was a profound moment for me. I was pleasantly surprised that the judges recognized my efforts!” Cooking Maniac stated.

Lee Mi-ryeong, affectionately known as Auntie Omakase #1 and the owner of the popular Andongjip Son Kalguksi, discussed the challenges facing traditional cuisine and how Culinary Class Wars has brought new recognition.

“The traditional market has struggled, yet since featuring in this program, I’ve noticed an influx of younger patrons. This recognition is gratifying and fulfilling; I take pride in aiding the traditional market,” Auntie Omakase #1 shared.

Kwon Seong-joon, also known as Napoli Matfia, who has a deep-rooted passion for Italian cooking, reflected on the challenges of competing in a high-stakes environment alongside other skilled chefs.

“I had reservations about facing such talented contestants. However, I’m thrilled to have advanced to the finals. The next semi-final, titled ‘Infinite Cooking Hell,’ which will air in episodes 11 and 12, appears quite daunting, so I feel fortunate not to have faced it,” Napoli Matfia expressed.

Edward Lee, an accomplished Korean-American chef, shared his profound connection to Korean cuisine:

“Having been raised on a variety of culinary influences, I’ve always held the flavors of Korea close to my heart. Korean cooking is my essence, and I consider Korea my true home.”

Jang Ho-jun reflected on his journey as a White Spoon chef and expressed interest in returning to the competition should a second season of Culinary Class Wars materialize.

“If a season 2 happens, I’d love to join as a Black Spoon chef. I had my doubts before participating, but upon arrival, I found more seasoned chefs than I expected, which turned out to be a valuable opportunity for self-reflection,” Jang Ho-jun mentioned.

The final episodes, 11 and 12, of Culinary Class Wars are set to premiere on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, via Netflix. Viewers can anticipate an exciting showdown among the top 8 contestants as they strive to impress the judges with culinary creations that could lead them to the grand title and a cash prize of 300 million KRW.

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