Who is Charly Pierre? 'Top Chef' Season 21 star aims to continue family's deep-rooted 'Haitian' cooking legacy
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN: Charly Pierre, a two-time James Beard nominee, has harbored a passion for cooking since his early years. Inspired to carry forward the legacy of Haitian cuisine, Pierre draws his culinary roots from his upbringing in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Growing up in a household that embraced a rich tapestry of cultures and flavors, Charly developed a diverse palate and will showcase this in the new season of 'Top Chef.'
Culinary heritage ran deep in Charly Pierre's family. His father, a seasoned chef with a background at the Marriott Hotel Group, and his mother expertly crafted traditional Haitian dishes, each holding profound cultural and familial significance.
This background not only shaped Charly's appreciation for a variety of tastes but also fueled his determination to continue and celebrate the culinary traditions of Haiti.
View this post on Instagram
Charly entered the restaurant industry at the young age of 15, all the while working in fine-dining establishments to fund his dream of opening his own restaurant.
Subsequently, in 2015, Charly took a significant step by relocating to New Orleans. His expertise encompasses a diverse range of dining establishments, ranging from fine-dining establishments like L’Espalier to prominent venues in and around Boston.
Drawing from his Haitian heritage, Charly brings a unique and flavorful twist to his creations. The fusion of traditional Haitian dishes with inventive elements showcases his ability to blend cultural influences seamlessly.
Charly Pierre co-owns Fritai Stall
Fritai, situated at the St Roch Market, is a culinary stall renowned for its exceptional Haitian-inspired cuisine infused with a distinctive New Orleans twist.
What sets the stall apart is its unparalleled fusion of cultural influences, seamlessly blending the rich flavors of Charly Pierre's Haitian heritage with inventive elements that pay homage to the local ingredients, people, and flavors of New Orleans.
Fritai distinguishes itself by its unwavering commitment to crafting a unique culinary experience. Notably, the stall has garnered recognition for its philanthropic endeavors, actively organizing fundraisers dedicated to supporting Haiti.
Additionally, Fritai has received various accolades, including recognition in Zagat's 30 under 30 and Eater National Young Guns. Chef Charly's appearances on television shows, including a triumphant win on Food Network's Chopped, further contribute to Fritai's distinction in the culinary landscape.
When is 'Top Chef' Season 21 releasing?
Season 21 of 'Top Chef' will premiere on Bravo on Wednesday, March 20 from 9 to 10.15 pm. The episodes will be accessible the next day on Peacock. Following the premiere of 'Top Chef' Season 21, BravoTV.com will launch a brand-new digital aftershow, 'The Dish with Kish'.
Bravo's digital companion series 'Top Chef: Last Chance Kitchen' will also return for Season 13 on Wednesday, March 27. Season 21 of 'Top Chef' is set to make history by introducing a new twist.
For the first time ever, contestants will have the opportunity to win a cash prize at every Quickfire Challenge; this innovation promises to make the upcoming season particularly memorable.