Season 1

01 The Entrance Exam Episode 117th September 2025 Upon arriving at the CIA, the chefs are split into teams and must create a menu inspired by culinary icons Anthony Bourdain, Julia Child and Paul Bocuse. 02 Global Food Test Episode 217th September 2025 To demonstrate their mastery of global cuisine, the chefs must craft family-style dishes specific to Asia, the Americas and the Mediterranean. 03 Core Creativity Episode 317th September 2025 They can dole out flavors, but can they take feedback? The chefs devise savory dishes using apples, and the judges introduce a game-changing twist. 04 Grading The Brigade Episode 417th September 2025 The chefs navigate curveball after curveball during the dinner service of nightmares as they run an elevated gastropub as a brigade for the first time. 05 Fast Casual Exam Episode 517th September 2025 In a two-part challenge, the chefs create fast casual dining menus — but only two winning concepts will launch and go head-to-head in the CIA cafeteria. 06 Baking the Grade Episode 617th September 2025 The heat is on as the chefs race to bake 36 portions of a treat using a culinary byproduct in just five hours. Christina Tosi joins as a guest judge. 07 Souffle Showdown Episode 717th September 2025 In the semifinals, the chefs must make a fine dining entrée and flex or fake their soufflé skills for guest judges Daniel Boulud and Kwame Onwuachi. 08 Graduation Day Episode 824th September 2025 For their last exam, the chefs must make a themed four-course meal for 70 VIP diners, including legendary chef Thomas Keller and CIA president Tim Ryan.