Where is Iron Chef America Filmed?

Iron Chef America, which premiered in 2005 and ended after 11 seasons on Food Network, brought the original Japanese format to a new audience. The series followed the same basic premise as its predecessor: guest chefs (aka challengers) battle Iron Chefs one-on-one to create a multi-course meal using a secret ingredient in 60 minutes.

The American version also featured some new additions, like a special battle that pitted the top-scoring challengers against all five Iron Chefs in a grueling Avengers-style cookoff. The winner took home a brand-new golden trophy. The regular series was taped in New York City, while the battles (including the aforementioned gastronomic showdown) were shot at Los Angeles Center Studios, formerly known as 450 South Bixel Street.

According to a 2017 Vanity Fair article, the set is equipped with top-of-the-line equipment to ensure that the chefs do not run into technical difficulties during filming. The set also features an oversized Kitchen Stadium, which allows for more angles and space for the chefs to run around.

In terms of running commentary, both Iron Chefs Alton Brown and Kevin Brauch provide on-the-floor commentary throughout the competition. They visit each judge roughly midway through the fight to comment on the ongoing action and discuss the theme ingredient.

Besides the running commentary, both hosts have a knack for adding a bit of flair to the show. The show frequently uses plumes of fog to add drama to the scene, whether when a guest chef first walks on stage or when the chairman unveils the mystery ingredient. The fog is reportedly created by filling the studio with as much as 150 pounds of dry ice.