Top Chef Season 6 winner Michael Voltaggio is pulling back the culinary curtain and exposing some special behind-the-scenes secrets of the show. 

The video featured in this article showcases Michael’s collaboration with Kristen Kish on a challenge originating from Season 22 of Top Chef, as seen in The Dish With Kish. Michael took on the task of creating a decadent dessert inspired by stunts, incorporating coconut and chocolate mousses, along with strawberries adorned with a striking peanut dome.

While making the dessert, Michael revealed what Top Chef producers made him do when he arrived to compete on the show in 2009. 

“The funniest part of Top Chef is that the first thing they do is take your phone away and take your notebooks away,” Michael told Kristen.

Michael added that because he couldn’t reference his recipes, he “programmed” his brioche recipe into his head ahead of time.

Michael also gave viewers the rundown on the beauty tent, where photographers capture stunning shots of Top Chef contestants’ delicious dishes.

During the video, Michael pointed out the specific area used for capturing the beauty of food shots. He highlighted the presence of a turntable where the dishes are placed for filming. This turntable plays a crucial role in creating the visually appealing shots of chefs’ perfected dishes displayed on the show.

Continuing his exploration behind the scenes, Michael expressed appreciation for the culinary team and even ventured into the control room to interact with a producer. These interactions provided fans with insider insights into the filming processes of both Top Chef and The Dish with Kish.

Kristen Kish reflects on Michael Voltaggio’s incredible Top Chef season

Michael had a unique run on Top Chef — he competed directly against his brother, Bryan Voltaggio. Both of the brothers made it to the finale, with Michael coming out on top and winning $125,000.

Kristen was honored to have Michael on her show, calling him a “legend.”

“It is not often, or ever, that I get to have such Top Chef royalty [on the show],” Kristen gushed in the episode. “You are truly a Top Chef icon.”

Michael returned the compliment by telling Kristen she is the “queen” of the Top Chef kitchen.

Inside Michael Voltaggio’s life after Top Chef

These days, Michael lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Bria Vinaite Voltaggio. The pair welcomed a new addition to their family in June of last year with the birth of their daughter, Echo Monroe.

Michael also has two daughters in their twenties, Olivia and Sophia, with his ex-wife, Kerri Adams. In 2024, Michael told People that he often asks Olivia and Sophia for feedback on his parenting style because he hopes to apply their feedback while raising Echo.

“I consult my daughters, I talk to them about how [my parenting] was for them and how I could have done better so that I can do better now,” Michael told the outlet.

Find out what every Top Chef winner is up to now.