Contestants typically compete in three audition rounds categorized by their backgrounds: , Social Media Chefs , and Home Chefs . Only five chefs from each category (a total of 15) secure a spot in the draft.
Once drafted, the teams immediately face their first thematic challenges, which test their ability to work under the mentors' direct guidance: Next Level Chef
: Each mentor selects five chefs to build a diverse team of five. Social Media Chefs
: Mentors often look for specific traits; for instance, Ramsay typically targets "disciplined technicians," while Nyesha Arrington seeks "soul and warrior spirit". Draft Challenges & Format Ramsay typically targets "disciplined technicians