Netflix is expanding its acclaimed food documentary series Chef’s Table with two new standalone seasons, Chef’s Table: Desserts and Chef’s Table: Icons. Each season will consist of four episodes, and production is already underway around the world.
The new installments will also mark a significant return behind the camera for creator David Gelb. For the first time since the series launched in 2015, Gelb will direct every episode of a full Chef’s Table run. The chefs appearing in the two seasons have not yet been announced.
‘Chef’s Table: Icons’ Will Focus on Chefs Who Built Institutions
According to the season’s description, Chef’s Table: Icons will examine chefs whose influence extends beyond running successful restaurants. The series will focus on culinary figures who have helped shape dining in their communities and eras, turning individual vision into lasting institutions, movements and standards.
The season is also expected to explore the demands of reaching the top of the culinary world and maintaining that position. Its themes include discipline, reinvention and the sustained work involved in building a lasting reputation.
‘Chef’s Table: Desserts’ Will Explore Pastry and Confectionery
Chef’s Table: Desserts will turn its attention to dessert chefs and the creative work behind their dishes. Netflix’s description promises a look at the artistry, precision and imagination involved in sweets and confectionery, featuring perspectives from around the world.
The producers have also said the season will include both returning and new chefs. In particular, Desserts is expected to spotlight pastry and dessert chefs who have never appeared on television before.
David Gelb Will Direct All Eight Episodes
Gelb said the series has always aimed to tell stories about chefs’ personal journeys, rather than focusing solely on the food they prepare. He described the new seasons as an opportunity to explore the dedication, discipline and emotion involved in their work.
He also said the stories inspired him to take the camera himself and direct all eight episodes. Gelb described filming closely with the chefs as a moving experience and said the filmmaking team continues to look for ways to elevate the series.
Gelb is known for his work in documentary filmmaking, including the 2011 film Jiro Dreams of Sushi. His return to directing an entire Chef’s Table run connects the new seasons with the series’ original creative approach.
The First New ‘Chef’s Table’ Seasons Since ‘Legends’
The new seasons will be the first additions to the franchise since Chef’s Table: Legends aired in 2025.
Over the years, Netflix has expanded the format with several themed editions. These include Chef’s Table: France in 2016, Chef’s Table: Pastry in 2018, Chef’s Table: BBQ in 2020, Chef’s Table: Pizza in 2022 and Chef’s Table: Noodles in 2024.
The upcoming Desserts season continues the show’s exploration of specific culinary traditions, while Icons will focus on chefs whose work has had a lasting impact on dining.
Release Date and Featured Chefs Have Not Been Announced
Netflix has not yet revealed the chefs who will appear in either season. The company also has not announced a premiere date.
Both seasons are currently in production, with filming taking place around the world. Each will feature four episodes, bringing the total for the two new installments to eight.
Chef’s Table is produced by Boardwalk Pictures and David Gelb Films. Gelb, Andrew Fried, Brian McGinn and Dane Lillegard serve as executive producers.
For now, viewers will have to wait for Netflix to announce the featured chefs and release plans for Chef’s Table: Desserts and Chef’s Table: Icons.
