Why is 'Top Chef' coming to Kentucky? Here's what we know about the show's 16th season

Earlier this month, Bravo announced that its 16th season of "Top Chef" will be filmed in Kentucky.

We know more than a few readers are dying to learn more about when the crew will be here — and how you can grab a seat at one of the challenges. So we did our best to track down what answers we could find.

Have a question that's not included? Send it to bloosemore@courier-journal.com. I'll plan on updating this list as possible.

FIRST, WHAT IS 'TOP CHEF'?

Not familiar? Here's a quick breakdown: "Top Chef" is a reality cooking competition that first aired in 2006. It invites professional chefs from across the country to compete for a large cash prize, currently coming in at $125,000.

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In each episode, "cheftestants" participate in quickfire and elimination challenges, after which they report to the judges' table where they face Tom Colicchio and Padma Lakshmi — along with recurring judges Graham Elliot and Gail Simmons.

The show tailors its challenges to the communities where it films, and each season's location becomes as primary of a character as the contestants themselves.

Past locations include Chicago, Boston, New Orleans and Charleston, South Carolina.

SO HOW DID KENTUCKY GET PICKED?

Hey, it's a fair question. We know we were shocked when the announcement was made — though we also know that Louisville and Lexington are rapidly increasing their culinary game. In December, restaurant guide Zagat even named Lexington one of 2017's most exciting food cities in America.

"Top Chef" producer Diana A. Schmedeman said her team tries to select locations that vary by size and culture, and they watch for cities and states that are gaining national buzz.

"It was the right timing (for Kentucky)," said Schmedeman, who added that judges Tom Colicchio and Graham Elliot both visited Louisville last year and were impressed with its talent.

The two judges visited Louisville separately, with Colicchio headlining the cooking demonstration stage at Bourbon & Beyond and Elliot showing off his skills at the Courier Journal's Food & Wine Experience.

"They were really excited when they announced we were going there," Schmedeman said of the judges. "They love exploring parts of the country we wouldn't ordinarily think about."

​​​​​​Background: Bring on the bourbon: Bravo's 'Top Chef' is heading to Kentucky

COOL, WHEN WILL THEY BE HERE?

The show's producers are still planning the season's schedule, but contestants and crew members are expected to set up a home in Kentucky for about 10 weeks this spring. The challenges will be filmed in Louisville, Lexington and Lake Cumberland, and the team plans to incorporate local businesses like food purveyors and restaurants.

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CAN I APPLY TO BE ON IT?

Sorry, chefs. The Kentucky season is closed for applicants. At least 15 contestants will be selected for the show, and their names will become public this fall, closer to when the season airs.

In past seasons, chefs Edward Lee of 610 Magnolia, 610 W Magnolia Ave., and Annie Pettry of Decca, 812 E. Market St., have competed on the show. And a representative says we should see more familiar faces in the next season.

If you're interested in trying out for season 17, visit bravotv.com/topchefcasting.

CAN I AT LEAST TRY THE FOOD?

Like we said, everything's still TBD. But if you want to try attending one of the challenges, keep an eye on the show's social media pages: @TopChef on Facebook and @BravoTopChef on Twitter and Instagram. We're told the show may post tips when possible.

HOW CAN I WATCH IT?

Season 16 isn't scheduled to air until December. New episodes typically air on Thursdays at 10 p.m. eastern.

Catch up on past seasons on Hulu, where seasons one through 14 are available with a subscription. Catch the current season on Bravo with a TV provider log-in.

Bailey Loosemore: 502-582-4646; bloosemore@courier-journal.com; Twitter: @bloosemore. Support strong local journalism by subscribing today: www.courier-journal.com/baileyl.

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