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Justin Tootla Biography – Justin Tootla Wiki
Justin Tootla, an American chef making waves on Top Chef 2026, has a culinary journey rooted deeply in his childhood experiences just outside of Detroit. His introduction to the rich flavors of Indian cuisine came from watching his father and aunts cook, an influence that ignited his passion for the culinary arts.
Initially pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, Justin spent several years as an outdoor instructor, exploring various parts of the country and the world. However, his enduring love for cooking led him to the Culinary Institute of America in New York, where he met his life partner, Jennifer Lee Jackson.
After graduating, Justin honed his skills at the prestigious three-star Michelin restaurant Le Bernardin during a six-month externship. His culinary career then spanned a decade, with experiences at esteemed establishments such as Restaurant Kelly Liken in Colorado, under the guidance of “Top Chef” finalist Kelly Liken, and Eva in Los Angeles. Eventually, Justin returned to the Midwest, assuming his first Executive Chef role at Thank You Chinese and Lost Lake.
In 2017, together with Jennifer, Justin launched Voyager, a seafood-centric eatery that quickly earned acclaim from Food & Wine, Esquire, Eater, and Thrillist as one of the Best New Restaurants. Three years later, they opened Bunny Bunny, a restaurant that beautifully merged Justin’s Indian heritage with Jen’s Southern roots, achieving similar acclaim despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The culinary duo’s talents were recognized in 2021 when they were named among the Detroit Free Press/Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Food Fighters. After concluding their recent endeavor focusing on farm-to-table dining, Justin and Jennifer are now traveling and consulting, with aspirations of reviving Bunny Bunny in the future.
Justin Tootla Age
Justin Tootla was born in 1982 in Detroit, Michigan, United States. He is 44 years old.
Justin Tootla Partner
Justin Tootla and his partner, Georgia native Jennifer Jackson, live in Detroit, MI. The couple met and fell in love in culinary school. Jennifer is also a chef and fellow cheftestant on Top Chef Season 23.
Top Chef Justin Tootla
Justin Tootla is competing on season 23 of Bravo’s Top Chef. Host Kristen Kish, head judge Tom Colicchio and perennial judge Gail Simmons venture south to the Carolinas! Season 23 is centered in the emerging and eclectic culinary hub of Charlotte, N.C., with several episodes in Greenville, S.C.
In the series, 15 rising star chefs compete in the ultimate culinary showdown for a chance to win the $250,000 grand prize, along with some other major perks, including a feature in Food & Wine magazine, an appearance at the annual Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, a chance to headline their own exclusive dinner at the historic James Beard House in New York, and the opportunity to present at The James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago, IL.
Along the way, the chefs will also have the chance to win immunity, advantages in the competition, or cash prizes with more than $150,000 in total up for grabs.
Ethnicity
Justin is of Indian heritage.