Two Michigan chefs are stepping into the national spotlight as contestants on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 23. Jennifer Jackson and Justin Tootla, known locally for their acclaimed Detroit restaurant Bunny Bunny and their work at Voyager in Ferndale, are among the competitors vying for the $250,000 prize and a feature in Food & Wine magazine.
From Detroit to the Carolinas
Jackson, 41, and Tootla, 44, met at the Culinary Institute of America and have built their careers in top New York kitchens before returning to Michigan. They ran Voyager’s kitchen in 2018 when it was named one of Food & Wine’s top 10 restaurants of the year. This season of Top Chef takes place in North and South Carolina, a setting that initially intimidated Jackson, who grew up in Georgia. “I haven’t cooked southern food in such a long time,” she admitted. But once filming began, she embraced the challenge of working with regional ingredients and traditions.
Cooking Under Pressure
Both chefs described the intensity of competing on television. “The time is real. The intensity is real. You have no time to think,” said Tootla. Jackson added that the constraints created a level playing field, even among highly accomplished chefs. Unlike most seasons, Season 23 features partnered contestants, including Jackson and Tootla as well as a pair of twin brothers. While the show highlighted their relationship, the chefs emphasized that they were treated as individual competitors. “It goes beyond a gimmick,” said Tootla. “We’ve been cooking together for 10 years, but competing against each other was a new experience.”
Kristen Kish Returns as Host
Michigan native Kristen Kish, who grew up in Kentwood, is back for her third season as host. Both chefs praised her warmth and professionalism. “She took the time to learn everybody’s names. She’s hilarious and has great style,” said Tootla.
Detroit Roots
Though currently based in Leland, Michigan, Jackson and Tootla remain closely tied to Detroit. They recently hosted a pop-up at Shelby bar downtown, drawing longtime supporters and former Voyager regulars. “It was amazing to see everyone again,” Jackson said. The duo hinted at a possible Bunny Bunny revival in Detroit while continuing to explore opportunities in northern Michigan.
What’s Next
The season premiere of Top Chef: Carolinas aired Monday at 9 p.m. on Bravo, with episodes streaming on Peacock, YouTube, and VOD. As Jackson and Tootla navigate the challenges of the competition, Michigan fans will be watching closely to see how far the duo can go.
