Two Austin Chefs Will Compete in Netflix’s Next Cooking Competition

Courtesy of Amir Hajimaleki

Courtesy of Dennis Van

Two Austin chefs will battle on Netflix’s forthcoming cooking competition show Sugar Rush. Amir Hajimaleki, the executive chef and owner of both District Kitchen and Oasthouse Kitchen, and Dennis Van, the pastry chef at the restaurants, will compete on the eight-episode series, making its debut on the streaming service on Friday, July 13.

Not much is known about Sugar Rush, other than that bakers race against the clock to make cakes and confections. Hajimaleki mentioned that he stepped out of his comfort zone for the show, since pastry is Van’s wheelhouse.

Judging the competitors are Adriano Zumbo (of the Australian television show Zumbo’s Just Desserts) and Candace Nelson (the proprietor of Los Angeles-born cupcake chain Sprinkles), and the host is Hunter March, who had several stints on the Game Show Network. Sugar Rush is produced by production company Magical Elves, which is also behind Top Chef, Nailed It, and other unscripted television series.

This article has been updated to reflect that there are no plans for a watch party.

• Amir Hajimaleki [Instagram]
• Sugar Rush [Official]
• Netflix Bulks Up Food Roster With New Cooking Competition ‘Sugar Rush’ [E]