Episodes
Shift 1: Strategy
April 27, 2026
The chefs begin their first shift and try to impress judge Jet Tila.
Shift 2: Speed
May 3, 2026
Michael Symon and Esther Choi give the remaining chefs three challenges that test their ability to think and cook fast, including a team relay race and a 15-minute fast-food dish. Expert judge Judy Joo sends two chefs home.
Shift 3: Resourcefulness
May 10, 2026
The chefs make a black-tie entrée in 90 minutes with only five ingredients.
Shift 4: Adaptability
May 17, 2026
Co-hosts Michael Symon and Esther Choi challenge the remaining chefs with constant twists and turns, and adaptability is the key to survival as they make their best noodle dish for judge Marcus Samuelsson.
Shift 5: Teamwork
May 24, 2026
The chefs must temporarily put individual ambition aside to battle in two teams of four to impress judges Brooke Williamson and Ayesha Nurdjaja, who send two chefs home.
Shift 6: Risk-Taking
May 24, 2026
Co-hosts Michael Symon and Esther Choi challenge the chefs to take risks and earn as many points possible when they prepare food for judge Marcel Vigneron.
Shift 7: Precision
May 24, 2026
Co-hosts Michael Symon and Esther Choi challenge the chefs to take risks and earn as many points possible when they prepare food for judge Marcel Vigneron. Then, the chefs have a very limited time to execute two exacting dishes, and judge Andrew Zimmern decides which chefs advance to the final shift.
Shift 8: Elevation Part 1
May 31, 2026
Michael Symon and Esther Choi present the final five chefs with an epic obstacle course. Legendary judges Alex Guarnaschelli, Jet Tila, and Jean-Georges Vongerichten decide which two chefs will be clocking out.
Shift 8: Elevation Part 2
May 31, 2026
Michael Symon and Esther Choi challenge the final three chefs to elevate the humble weeknight family meal and cook a Michelin-worthy dish to earn the title of Last Chef Standing and win $100,000.
