116. Top Chef Season 23 Episode 3 Recap: "True Colors" with guest Chef Corwin Hemming

What should have been a creative, visually stunning challenge turned into one of the most frustrating episodes of Top Chef Season 23. In this deep-dive recap, Rich Herrera is joined by Chef Corwin Hemming to break down exactly why nearly every chef failed the natural dye elimination challenge, and what they should have done instead.

On paper, the challenge was simple, use naturally colorful ingredients to create vibrant, eye-catching dishes. But in execution, things unraveled fast. Colors turned dull, concepts fell apart, and even strong competitors lost their footing. So what went wrong?

Rich and Corwin go beyond the surface-level critique and get into the real issues, from poor time management and overcomplicated ideas to a lack of adaptability under pressure. Corwin shares firsthand insight from his own time competing, explaining how quickly things can spiral when you don’t respect the clock, and why “less is more” is often the winning strategy in high-pressure Quickfire and elimination rounds.

They also break down the few bright spots, including standout dishes from Anthony, Brandon, and Lawrence, and why their approaches actually worked when others didn’t. Plus, a candid conversation about whether cooking in front of a legend like Emeril Lagasse played a bigger role than anyone wants to admit.

This episode also tackles the emotional side of competition. Nana’s elimination becomes a case study in how talent alone isn’t enough on Top Chef, and why preparation, pacing, and mental resilience are just as critical as flavor.

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Follow Chef Corwin Hemming on Instagram: @chefcorwinhemming

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