The eight-part documentary “Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars” provides a real look behind today’s top kitchens. The series debuted on Apple TV+ on October 10 and goes inside the emotional world of fine-dining restaurants vying for recognition from the famous Michelin Guide.
Hosted by Jesse Burgess, co-founder of TopJaw and food and travel expert and executive produced by Chef Gordon Ramsey, the series includes eight episodes across Los Angeles, London, Mexico City, the Nordics and Italy.
“I have been thinking about this series for years,” said Ramsey. “For viewers to really see and understand what goes on in those restaurants, for the chefs, the kitchen team, the front of the house, the families and everyone involved. To see the relentless pursuit of perfection and then the pinnacle, a Michelin star. To have captured all the storytelling and emotion into a series is something I am very proud of.
The show gives access to the Michelin inspection process and tracks restaurants on the cusp of earning their first star, striving to retain one, or aiming for an additional star.
The series spotlights two Los Angeles chefs whose restaurants represent different but equally compelling sides of the Michelin star pursuit.
Chef Dave Beran is the chef-owner of Pasjoli in Santa Monica, a French bistro rooted in classical French techniques and using Southern California’s best seasonal ingredients.
Chef Phillip Frankland Lee is the chef-owner of Pasta Bar in Encino and is known for experimentation and pushing boundaries of Italian cuisine. His work exemplifies reimagining what a fine dining experience is in Los Angeles.
Beran has a classical background and is adapting it to a new regional context and Lee is rethinking what luxury can be; both are aiming for Michelin recognition.
The November 28 episode of Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars will focus on the journey of these two top California chefs. Episodes available on Apple TV+.
