Who is the head judge on the reality cooking competition 'Top Chef'?

Tom Colicchio is the head judge on the reality cooking competition 'Top Chef.' He has served in that role since the series began on Bravo in 2006, overseeing the judging of chefs competing in culinary challenges.

Colicchio is a chef and restaurateur who co-founded New York City's Gramercy Tavern and later founded the Crafted Hospitality restaurant group. His professional authority comes from a career in restaurant kitchens, food businesses, and culinary leadership, rather than from being the show's host.

Viewers commonly confuse the head judge with the presenter. Katie Lee hosted the first season, Padma Lakshmi hosted seasons two through 20, and Kristen Kish began hosting in season 21. Gail Simmons has also been a major recurring judge, but Colicchio remains the consistent head judge and a central decision-maker across the series.