With “Project Runway” now on Lifetime, “Top Chef” is king of the Bravo empire, and it continues to expand its influence. Here’s a look.
Cookbooks and tools
In the book world, “Top Chef: The Cookbook” became a New York Times best seller, and a follow-up, “Top Chef: The Quickfire Cookbook,” will be released in October. Meanwhile, “Top Chef” branded knives, bouquets from Teleflora and a line of luxury wines also are on the way, as is a subscription-based online cooking class taught by past contestants.
Spinoffs
A second edition of “Top Chef Masters” is being discussed, as is another spinoff, “Top Chef Juniors,” which still is in development at the network.
After the show
The show’s alumni have capitalized on their newfound fame. “Top Chef’s” inaugural winner, Harold Dieterle, opened his own place, Perilla, two years ago in New York City. There’s still a wait to get in. (Later this year, viewers will be able to catch up with other past contestants in a special, “Top Chef: Where Are They Now?”)
