Tony Mantuano

All ye food lovers, it's time to celebrate! "Top Chef Masters," returns for season two and once again the judges' table will be turned, when the world-renowned chefs compete against each other in pursuit of $100,000 to be awarded to the charity of their choice. The first episode brings together six exceptional chefs including Ana Sortun (Oleana), Govind Armstrong (8 oz Burger Bar), Jerry Traunfeld (Poppy), Jimmy Bradley (The Red Cat), Susan Feniger (Street) and Tony Mantuano (Spiaggia). Love is in the air as the Masters are challenged to evoke their sensual side using known aphrodisiac ingredients in the creation of a sumptuous meal to suit couples on a first date.

The kitchen heats up as the top eight chefs advance to the Champions round and face-off for the ultimate title of Top Chef Master. In a quickfire repeat from season 6 of "Top Chef," the Masters are split into two teams for a blindfolded relay race to be judged by restaurant critic Jay Rayner. The atmosphere turns festive during the elimination round as the same teams are challenged to cater a wedding in San Juan Capistrano -- out of mobile kitchens.

The game is on as the Masters are charged with the task of cooking one of the most difficult parts on any animal -- the leg. This quickfire round will be judged by Olympic Gold Medalist swimmer Jason Lezak and food critic Jay Rayner. In the spirit of competition, the elimination challenge brings the chefs to a University of Southern California home football game where they must perfect the art of tailgating for the hungry fans.

Springfield comes alive on "Top Chef Masters" as Hank Azaria, Matt Groening, and Matt Selman - the voices and writers behind the critically acclaimed series, "The Simpsons" - drop by to judge the quickfire challenge based on their character’s appetites. In the elimination round, the seven remaining chef’s must combine exotic, and often unappetizing proteins in an appealing surf-and-turf inspired duo.