What is Melissa King's background?

Melissa King is a queer Asian-American chef who was born in Whittier, California to parents who immigrated from Hong Kong. She has blended her California and Asian culinary influences to great success.

How did Melissa King's Top Chef journey unfold?

Melissa King first appeared on Top Chef in season 12, where she placed fourth. She returned six years later for an All-Stars season and went on to win the championship in season 17, taking home a $250,000 grand prize.

What has Melissa King accomplished since winning Top Chef?

Since her Top Chef victory in 2020, Melissa King has started her own culinary company, launched a successful sauce line called King Sauce, and published a cookbook showcasing her unique California Chinese recipes. She has also used her platform to advocate for Asian-American and LGBTQ+ communities.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Queer Asian-American Chef Melissa King Rises to Fame After Top Chef Victory

Queer Asian-American Chef Melissa King Rises to Fame After Top Chef Victory

10 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Won Top Chef season 17 in 2020, earning $250,000 grand prize
Started own sauce line and published cookbook after show
Advocates for Asian-American and LGBTQ+ communities

Queer Asian-American Chef Melissa King Rises to Fame After Top Chef Victory

Melissa King, a talented chef who identifies as an Asian-American and queer woman, has experienced remarkable success since winning season 17 of Top Chef in 2020. After placing fourth in her initial appearance on the show in season 12, King returned six years later and secured the championship, taking home the $250,000 grand prize and an additional $10,000 as the Fan Favorite, which she donated to various charities.

In the two years since her Top Chef victory, King has leveraged her newfound platform to pursue her culinary passions. She has started her own company focused on culinary partnerships and experiences, including a popular line of sauces called King Sauce. Additionally, King has authored a cookbook titled "Cook Like a King: Recipes From my California Chinese Kitchen," showcasing her unique blend of California and Asian flavors.