I am a huge fan of cooking shows and by far, Top Chef is my favorite. I’m a pretty good cook and often try some of the recipes from the show. But I’m not as good a cook as those who grace the kitchens on this show. For season nine, Top Chef is following the motto Go Big or Go Home as it heads to Texas, the state that does everything bigger.

In a series first, the production will travel to three cities within the season – Austin, Dallas and San Antonio.  Season nine will also showcase many surprising twists and turns and never-before-seen challenges and events.  Returning to the judges table is host Padma Lakshmi and head judge, chef Tom Colicchio, alongside judge Gail Simmons. New judges this season will be famed chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse and critically acclaimed chef Hugh Acheson.  Top Chef: Texas will air later this fall.