Ashleigh Shanti

Before heading back to Charlotte, the chefs make a stop in Asheville, N.C.; there is no Quickfire Challenge as the chefs explore the city with local host and former "Top Chef" alum Ashleigh Shanti, learning about the community's relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Helene while discovering the cuisine of this Appalachian region; for the Elimination Challenge, the chefs host a one-night-only event for 200 community members in recognition of their resilience.

For this week's Quickfire Challenge, the chefs are tasked with creating a savory dish inspired by a sweet treat.

Fifteen of the country's best chefs arrive in Houston, Texas, ready to fight for the title of Top Chef.

Aspiring chefs compete for their shot at culinary stardom.

For their last Quickfire Challenge, the chefs make the trip to El Charro in Tuscon, Ariz., the oldest family-run Mexican restaurant in the country, where chef Carlotta Flores challenges them to create a dish featuring her carne seca.

The chefs are put to the ultimate test; they have to build restaurants from the ground up. 'Top Chef's' signature challenge levels up yet again, requiring the chefs to satisfy their VIP counter and a dining room full of guests.