Alex Guarnaschelli

Alex Guarnaschelli began her culinary journey as the executive chef at "Butter Midtown" in New York City, where she has been serving an eclectic array of American and green market-inspired dishes since 2003. Her prowess in the kitchen was recognized nationally when she emerged as the winner of the 2012 season of "The Next Iron Chef: Redemption." This victory paved the way for her involvement in "Iron Chef America," where she has made appearances as both a challenger and a judge.

Guarnaschelli's expertise extends beyond the cooking station, as evidenced by her regular appearances on several Food Network shows. She serves as a judge on "Chopped," hosts "Alex's Day Off" and "The Cooking Loft," and formerly co-hosted "The Kitchen." Her commitment to culinary education is further showcased through her role as a mentor on season 20 of "Worst Cooks in America," where she led her team to victory. In January 2022, she added to her impressive television portfolio by premiering her new show, "Alex vs. America."

Off the television screen, Guarnaschelli has also made significant contributions to culinary literature. Her first cookbook, "Old-School Comfort Food: The Way I Learned to Cook," was published in 2013, followed by "The Home Cook" in 2017, "Cook With Me" in 2020, and "Italian American Forever" in 2024. She has also penned a weekly column on People.com, where she shared insights on seasonal ingredients, food trends, and cooking techniques. Her diverse accomplishments, including being named the godmother of the Discovery Princess cruise ship in 2022, underscore her extensive knowledge and passion for the culinary arts.