At just 27 years old, Alexy Algar-Denos has an impressive international background. As the sous-chef at L’Almandin, he enters Top Chef 2026 with a cuisine rooted in Catalan tradition but enriched by experiences from around the world. Quiet, focused, and determined, he embodies a generation shaped by high standards and a commitment to excellence.
Who is Alexy, a contestant on Top Chef 2026?
For this 17th season, Top Chef is emphasizing adaptability and the ability to defend a strong identity. Alexy fully aligns with this approach.
Originally from Perpignan, deeply connected to French Catalonia, he advocates for a sincere and clear local cuisine. His dedication to ingredients and the region forms the basis of his approach. However, beneath this local foundation lies a clear ambition: to learn from the best and build impeccable technique.
From the beginning, he gained experiences in Michelin-starred establishments, believing that rigor and mentorship are the pillars of a solid culinary foundation. He trained under chefs like Gilles Goujon, Frédéric Bacqui, Serge Labrosse, Christophe Comes, and Anne-Sophie Pic.
His cuisine in three words: terroir, precise, committed.
An international career at the highest level
Alexy’s journey is marked by steady progress and high standards.
After significant internships, particularly with Gilles Goujon, he worked with several Michelin-starred chefs in the South of France before joining Anne-Sophie Pic at Beau-Rivage Palace Lausanne, where he served as the chef de partie for meats and sauces from 2021 to 2022.
He then ventured to New Zealand, becoming the head chef de partie at The Chef’s Table at The Blue Duck (2 Hats). Next, he headed to Australia, at Quay Restaurant in Sydney, an award-winning establishment. In 2023, he continued his journey in Hong Kong as a sous-chef at a restaurant.
In early 2025, Frédéric Bacqui called him back to become his sous-chef at L’Almandin in Saint-Cyprien. A return to his roots, but with international experience that now enriches his understanding of the Catalan terroir.
A profile suited for the demands of Top Chef 2026
In a season where contestants face diverse environments, technical versatility is essential. Alexy has already demonstrated his ability to thrive in multicultural and heavily structured kitchens.
His strength lies in precision acquired from triple Michelin-starred establishments and a clear regional identity. He is not aiming for spectacular effects but for the right taste.
Calm and methodical, he could stand out in challenges where technical mastery and the clarity of the dish are crucial.
In Top Chef 2026, where individual excellence is key, his demanding journey and consistency could become decisive assets.
Where to watch Top Chef 2026?
Top Chef 2026 airs every Wednesday at 9:10 pm on M6 and is available for free replay on M6+ or without ads through the M6+MAX subscription.
In a season focused on the chef of the future, Alexy is eager to defend his vision of the terroir.
