Kristen Kish: Celebrity Chef

    Quick Facts:

    • Highlights:
      • Kristen Kish was born in South Korea and adopted into a family in Kentwood, MI.  S
      • he showed an affinity for cooking at a young age.  
      • Her mother suggested she go to culinary school and since attending Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago, Kish has never looked back.
      • Kristen Kish is the host of Top Chef and competed on Season 10 of the show where she won the coveted title, becoming the second female chef to win the prestigious competition. 
      • Kish is a sought-after speaker and host known for discussing cooking, creativity, entrepreneurship, and issues facing the AAPI community. 
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Austin, TX
    • **Fee range: $35,001 - $50,000

    Talent Services

    Kristen Kish was born in South Korea and adopted into a family in Kentwood, MI. At a young age she showed an affinity for cooking and, prompted by her mother, attended Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago.

    After culinary school, Kristen spent the next ten years in Boston honing her skills in several high-profile restaurants, ultimately becoming the Chef de Cuisine at a Relais & Chateaux property.

    From 2012 – 2013, Kristen competed on Bravo’s Top Chef season 10 where she ultimately won the coveted title.  From there, she went on to co-host 36 Hours, a Travel Channel show that partnered with The New York Times to bring the hit newspaper column of the same name to television.

    Kristen Kish

    In October 2017, Kristen released her first cookbook, Kristen Kish Cooking: Recipes and Techniques and in 2018 she partnered with LINE Hotels to launch her first restaurant, Arlo Grey in Austin, TX.

    The restaurant reflects Kristen’s playful yet refined cuisine, pulling inspiration from her classical training as well as nostalgic dishes that highlight her upbringing and love of travel.

    In 2023, Kristen became the new host of Bravo’s Top Chef for its 21st season. A true full-circle moment, rejoining the Top Chef family on air a full 10 years later.

    Kristen is the co-star of Fast Foodies (truTV/Food Network), a co-host of Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend (Netflix), and the host and producer of Restaurants at the End of the World (National Geographic/Disney+).

    View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

    Videos

    Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

    Speaker Contact Form

    Enquiry Form

    No reviews available for this post.

    Was this profile helpful?

    Talent FAQ's

    Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

    Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

    The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

    Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

    Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

    • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
    • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
    • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
    • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
    • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
    • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
    • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

    Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

    You may be interested in...

    • (41)
    • (10)
    Stafford Masie 2025 1

    Stafford Masie talks around Digital Innovation and Disruption, and are applicable to any audience because technology is a transversal matter, irrespective of industry or theme. Stafford has been in the ICT industry for more than 25 years. His career foundations started in mid 90’s working for Telkom, Dimension Data and then Novell as a software engineer. […]

    • Travels from: Miami, FL
    • Digital Speakers
    • (51)
    Gregory Stock

    Dr. Gregory Stock stands at the forefront of biotechnology and bioethics, offering profound insights into the evolving landscape of life sciences. As a biotech entrepreneur, best-selling author, and esteemed public communicator, he delves into the intricate interplay between advanced technologies and their societal implications. His compelling narratives challenge audiences to contemplate the future of human […]

    • Travels from: Boise, ID
    • Healthcare Speakers
    • (24)
    • (3)
    Jim O’Neill

    Jim O Neill is a distinguished economist and former Commercial Secretary to the UK Treasury, recognized globally for his significant contributions to economic research and policy. Serving in the UK Treasury from 2015 to 2016, O’Neill played a pivotal role in shaping economic strategy during a critical period for the UK. His deep understanding of […]

    • Travels from: London, UK
    • Finance Speakers
    • (12)
    Dara Torres-1

    Dara Torres is arguably the fastest female swimmer in America. She entered her first international swimming competition at age 14 and competed in her first Olympics a few years later in 1984. At the Beijing Games in 2008, Torres became the oldest swimmer to compete in the Olympics. When she took three silver medals — […]

    • Travels from: Miami, FL
    • Swimming Legends
    • (41)
    Phillip Koontz

    Phillip Koontz, a former Navy SEAL with over six years of service, stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and adaptability. Through the crucible of SEAL training, Koontz honed his skills and acquired invaluable life lessons that he now imparts to others, helping them navigate the challenges of their personal, professional, and family lives. Phillip […]

    • Travels from: Colorado Springs, CO
    • Military Speakers
    • (10)
    Darryl Strawberry

    Darryl Strawberry is more than a baseball legend; he embodies resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of faith. Revered for his formidable presence on the baseball diamond and his inspirational journey of personal redemption, Strawberry has transcended sports to become a beacon of hope and motivation for audiences worldwide. His impact extends beyond the game, […]

    • Travels from: St. Louis, MO
    • Religious Speakers
    • (43)
    Bobby Flay

    Bobby Flay, a celebrated culinary figure, restaurateur, and television personality, has been a cornerstone of the food industry for over three decades. Known for his charismatic presence and profound culinary skill, Flay has transformed American cuisine, creating dynamic dishes that celebrate flavors from around the world while remaining rooted in his signature Southwestern style. Bobby […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Chefs Speakers
    • (21)
    • Featured
    Alisha De Lorenzo - Image 01 (February 17, 2026)

    Over 15 years ago, working in public education, Alisha De Lorenzo was charged with helping her failing school district improve culture and performance. A challenge that would pave the way for her to guide industries, organizations and individuals to solve seemingly intractable problems through a deceptively simple approach – Positive Deviance, which stands on one […]

    • Travels from: Various Cities
    • Culture Speakers
    Disclaimer
    The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

    These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

    Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

    All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

    Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

    Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
    Your subscription has been successful.

    Newsletter

    Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

    We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

    Our Mission:

    We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

    © All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

    AI Assistant
    Speakers Inc Logo 2024
    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.