Set to be seen as judge of the 14th season of American reality competition show Top Chef, food critic and author Gail Simmons loves the fact that her job takes her across the cities of America. In an interview with mid-day ahead of the shows première on September 24 on AXN, she discusses why the show has stayed relevant for so long.

Over the years that Top Chef has aired, what according to you has been the best part about its evolution?
I think, a lot of things make the show great. For me, the most interesting thing is that we get to travel across the country. Every season is [shot] in a different city, and each city presents its own challenges, cuisines and culture. That allows our chefs, judges and the viewers to experience something new every time we bring out the show. Also, the talent keeps getting better. We work hard to present a group of chefs who are professional so that the competition is harder.