Padma Lakshmi and Top Chef's Melissa King Share Joyful Moments and Adoration
Padma Lakshmi radiated joy alongside Top Chef champion Melissa King during the celebration for the release of Lakshmi's latest book.
An Instagram video posted by DelishYES captured Lakshmi, aged 55, savoring dishes at Semma restaurant in New York City during the gathering on Tuesday, November 4.
Following her address to those attending, Lakshmi was observed laughing as King, 42, took a seat on her lap. While Lakshmi covered her face with one hand, King rested a hand on Lakshmi's arm.
Us Weekly contacted representatives for both Lakshmi and King to request a statement.
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A few days subsequently, the duo posted a shared cooking video on Instagram — in which King playfully remarked that Lakshmi's nails “are really quite queer at the moment.” Lakshmi, chuckling, responded in the Sunday, November 9, footage, “Please don't spread gossip.”
The previous month, Lakshmi spoke openly regarding her connection with King. “Melissa is someone whose culinary skills I have consistently admired,” Lakshmi informed People in October. “She's delightful, and we appreciate spending time together. She often accompanies me to events, so observers will spot us on the red carpet.”
Lakshmi elaborated that she maintains close relationships with previous contestants such as Gregory Gourdet, Kwame Onwuachi, and Kristen Kish.
“Thus, there are several of them, yet these individuals appear to be in New York most frequently,” she noted.
Several days afterward, the two sported matching The Addams Family attire — with Lakshmi embodying Morticia Addams and King portraying Gomez Addams. Other friends participated as Wednesday Addams and Lurch.
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“I would perish for her. I would end a life for her. — Gomez Paddams,” King penned, accompanying a video of the ensemble on November 1. In a separate update, King posted a picture alongside Lakshmi with the caption, “Cara Mia!” which translates from Italian as “my dear.”
Several years prior, King emerged victorious in Top Chef season 17 in 2020 — a season presided over by Lakshmi. (King first appeared on season 12 of the culinary competition series. Lakshmi served as host for Top Chef from 2006 to 2023, receiving Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Reality Host in 2009, 2020, 2021, and 2022.)
Recounting her emotions upon Lakshmi announcing her win, King shared with Parade then, “It's incredibly challenging to fully convey! I recall collapsing into tears.”
“Everyone was rushing towards me,” King added. “A multitude of events were unfolding. It provided immense validation at that instant, realizing the culinary concept I intended to showcase had been affirmed.”
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From King’s viewpoint, the adjudicators “perceived the fervor and affection she invested into her work.”
“My thoughts turned to the entirety of the season, and recollections began to rapidly appear before me,” she clarified. “From the very first day, when I observed everyone and contemplated my potential ranking, to ultimately being declared the victor. It encompasses every emotion!”
Subsequent to King securing the victory in 2020, Lakshmi commended her with an appreciative message posted on social media.
“Melissa King, you truly discovered your unique style this season on Top Chef. It has been incredibly gratifying to witness your evolution into a self-assured, precise, and pioneering chef,” Lakshmi posted on Facebook in June 2020. “You demonstrated how Chinese cuisine can be refined and how Chinese tastes can elevate any dish. Your final creations were exquisite. You fill me with immense pride! Excellent work!!”
