Oscar Diaz, a chef from Durham's Little Bull and Aaktun, is competing as one of 15 contestants on season 23 of Bravo's Top Chef. The season focuses on the Carolinas, with episodes filmed in Charlotte and Greenville, South Carolina. At the Charlotte premiere, Diaz shared his excitement about showcasing North Carolina's culinary scene.
Oscar Diaz, known for his work at Little Bull and Aaktun in Durham, has joined the cast of season 23 of Bravo's Top Chef as one of 15 "cheftestants." The season highlights the Carolinas, with production taking place in Charlotte and Greenville, South Carolina.
During the show's premiere event in Charlotte, Diaz spoke with representatives from GVLtoday and 6AM City. He expressed enthusiasm for bringing attention to the region, stating, “I’m excited for everyone to see North Carolina being brought up.” He added, “Having not been from the South, I know sometimes it gets skipped over. We’re just as multicultural and a melting pot as any other part of the country.”
Diaz recommended local spots for those interested in Triangle-area cuisine. He praised Taco Market, particularly its tripe tacos, and highlighted Nanas and Pizzeria Toro in Durham, noting that Pizzeria Toro is set to open a new location in Raleigh at The Common Market.
The season features appearances by local figures, including Cheetie Kumar, chef and co-owner of Ajja, who served as a guest judge in the first episode. The premiere episode became available on Peacock ahead of its March 9 broadcast on Bravo, with the second episode scheduled for March 16.
Diaz benefits from a homefield advantage given the Carolinas theme, and early feedback from the premiere suggests a strong performance in the opening challenge.
