Your guide to LA's Top Chef restaurants

Despite being in its umpteenth season, Top Chef still remains a Bravo TV favorite. From Quickfire to Elimination Challenges, obscure ingredients to ridiculous cooking conditions, a roster of chefs is whittled down to a winner, who then usually channels his or her stardom into a full-fledged restaurant—not that you have to win to be a successful restaurant owner. The following chefs have founded fantastic Italian and Mexican restaurants, kosher eateries and sandwich spots. They've come in 13th place, 1st and in-between, but they've all found success by opening some of the best restaurants in Los Angeles. Make your reservations now, and prepare to be starstruck.