Where Are They Now?: Stalking SF's "Top Chefs"

by Chelsea Lin - Citysearch Editor - 82 Reviews - 92 Lists

Updated: October 17, 2008

Brazen, ironically untasteful product placement aside--Diet Dr. Pepper Challenge? Really?--most of the cheftestants of Top Chef world-class cooks, and several of the show's alumni reside in SF kitchens; find them here for your celeb-stalking pleasure.

Chef-hunting

  1. 1 3.5 Star Rating: Average Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
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    398 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

    The last season introduced viewers to Jamie Lauren, Absinthe's onion-loving executive chef. And while she didn't win, she sure is drawing the crowds to Absinthe.

  2. 2 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Zar at Fly Trap
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    606 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94107 (map)

    Season two's Marisa Churchill is on board at historic remake Zare at Fly Trap as the executive pastry chef--so it's her we have to thank for the Mediterranean-influenced sweets like goat cheesecake with figs or Greek yogurt and honey.

  3. 3 3 Star Rating: Average CIRCA
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    2001 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123 (map)

    "The Pirate Chef" Erik Hopfinger returned to his position as executive chef at Circa after his season four appearance--try the lobster and truffle mac 'n' cheese, but you may want to stay away from the corn dogs.

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended Zazu
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    3535 Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (map)

    Wine country staple Zazu's husband-and-wife owners John Stewart and Duskie Estes are currently getting a little help from good friend and on-call chef/consultant Zoi Antonitsas, another of season four's Bay Area representatives.

  5. 5 4 Star Rating: Recommended Scala's Bistro
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    432 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

    Jennifer Biesty, the SF cheftestant who made it furthest in season four's heated battle, just took the reigns at Scala's in early October and has unveiled a made-over menu that features more pastas, pizzas and entrees, as well as a "crudo of the day."