Eight chefs begin a grueling test to win chef and restaurateur Geoffrey Zakarian's support in opening their own restaurant. First, Geoffrey gets to know each chef through their food, asking them to make one bite that best represents their restaurant concept. One competitor is sent home based on their bite. Then Geoffrey tests the chefs' cooking ability by asking them to make a roast chicken and side dish in the style of their restaurant. The challenge is harder than it seems, and the chef who is bested by a basic chicken is eliminated.