Gail Simmons

Gail Simmons is a Canadian-American food writer and cookbook author who has made her mark in the culinary industry. She was born on May 19, 1976, and grew up in Toronto, Ontario. After completing her studies in anthropology and Spanish at McGill University in Montreal, Gail moved to New York City to pursue her passion for food.

Gail began her culinary career as the special events manager for Food & Wine magazine, where she managed culinary and wine events throughout the United States. During this time, Gail gained invaluable experience in the industry, which led to her role as the assistant to the editor-in-chief of Food & Wine magazine.

In 2004, Gail joined the team at Top Chef, Bravo’s Emmy-winning cooking competition series, where she served as a guest judge during the show’s first season. Her exceptional palate, combined with her in-depth knowledge of the culinary world, made her a popular fixture on the show, and she has been a permanent judge since its inception in 2006.

Aside from her work on Top Chef, Gail is a regular contributor to Food & Wine magazine, where she has written articles on cooking techniques, culinary trends, and interviews with some of the world’s best chefs. In 2012, she released her first cookbook, “Talking With My Mouth Full: My Life as a Professional Eater,” which chronicles her culinary journey and features some of her favorite recipes.

Gail has also made television appearances on numerous shows including “The TODAY Show,” “The Chew,” “The Rachael Ray Show,” and “Good Morning America.” Additionally, she serves as the executive producer of “Top Chef Amateurs,” a spin-off series that premiered in 2021.

With her exceptional palate, vast knowledge of the culinary world, and dynamic personality, Gail Simmons is a respected and beloved figure in the food industry, and her influence on foodie culture shows no signs of slowing down.