'Top Chef' heading to Boston for season 12

Cheftestants, brush up on your chowder recipes — season 12 of Top Chef is shipping up to Boston.

Bravo announced today that the reality series will makes its New England debut next season, with host Padma Lakshmi, head judge Tom Colicchio, and judge Gail Simmons returning to oversee the culinary competition.

“Boston has always been at the top of our wish list as a location for Top Chef, not only because of its rich historical significance, but also because of its robust and ever-growing culinary scene,” said Shari Levine, SVP of Current Production for Bravo in a statement. “Top Chef will showcase the many facets of the city which in turn will bring its fresh, unique flavor to season 12.”

Boston-based chefs and celebrities will serve as guest judges throughout the season, which begins production this spring. Top Chef season 12 is set to premiere this fall.