Ten "Food Network Star" hopefuls are greeted by Giada De Laurentiis and Bobby Flay to kick off the competition; each finalist must create a portable version of their signature dish.
The remaining finalists create food podcasts about colorful snacks and film field reports from Los Angeles' hottest food hall, The Proud Bird. Richard Blais and Food Network Star alum Damaris Phillips serve as guest judges.
The finalists think they're cooking solo at an exclusive private event for foodies and tastemakers, but en route to their destination, Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis reveal a twist. Tyler Florence is a guest judge.
The final four have to handle the rigors of live TV by producing their own livestream demos with on-camera talent Anne Burrell. Then they host their own "in the kitchen" shows with guest Ree Drummond.
The tables are turned, and the finalists get help from People Magazine's Jess Cagle as they judge Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis on the dishes that made them famous.