An introduction to the 17 new chefs and their skills, demonstrated with challenges that send them into the ethnic districts of New York City. Guest Judge: Jean-Georges Vongerichten

Tom Colicchio takes it home to his very first restaurant tonight as the chefs are asked to serve more than just judges – although the customers' opinions may make them long for the tried-and-true.

Rock band the Foo Fighters celebrate Thanksgiving the Top Chef way – on the road with the band in Syracuse and a holiday feast prepared outdoors to individual tastes. Guest judge James Beard Award-winner Chef Grant Achatz.

Rocco DiSpirito has hung up his dancing shoes just in time to help determine which of the chefs will win the really grand prize of a demonstration on the Today Show, but tonight speed may be the deciding factor in the challenges, and not everyone will measure up.

The contestants cater Gail's event, but there's always a twist, and this time they must create their dishes around the traditional bridal rhyme, "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue."

The chefs cater a holiday cocktail party for Natasha Richardson, and Martha Stewart drops by for the QuickFire challenge.

The remaining contestants face some brutal challenges this week. First up is a sweet QuickFire without a sweetener, then an Elimination that is a mystery for not only the chefs, but the judges as well. Toby Young joins the judging team. Guest Judge: Jean-Christophe Novelli Diet Dr. Pepper QuickFire Challenge: Create a Guilt-Free Dessert using Any Non-Sugar Ingredients Elimination Challenge: Create a Family-Style Meal for a Blind Tasting Round Seven

The chefs take another road trip, this time to Massachusetts and Blue Hill Farm where they must gather their own ingredients, and then serve dinner to the farmers as they explore the flavors of regional produce and sustainable agriculture. Dan Barber, Chef and Co-Owner of Blue Hill Farm and restaurants, guest judges.

Not enough conflict yet? Prepare to be satisfied as one of the most brutal challenges occurs. Two teams will create their vision of a perfect dining experience from start to finish, but personal issues may derail some. Stephen Starr performs guest judging duties.

Seven chefs from seasons one through four return in a cook-off that will rival any football game.

Eric Ripert returns to Top Chef as the six remaining contestants deal with an electric challenge at his restaurant.

The contestants make a final bid for the four finale spots, showing off their skills and their best dishes.

Top Chef moves to New Orleans, and tonight the chefs cook for restaurateur Emeril Lagasse for a chance to be in the final challenges, but an unexpected twist will winnow the herd a little more than is expected.

The final contestants perform their final challenge, cooking the best meal they've ever made.

Andy Cohen returns to host the season five reunion.