Phoenix-based chef Devan Cunningham is set to make his return to television on April 23, 2026, when he competes against celebrity chef Bobby Flay and another talented chef, Justin Jacobs, in an exciting episode of Beat Bobby Flay. The episode, which is expected to be full of culinary drama and energy, promises an engaging and competitive showdown in the kitchen. According to the description, Abbott Elementary’s Quinta Brunson and Chef Michael Voltaggio will take on the task of trying to give Bobby Flay a bit of “detention” by mentoring the star chefs Devan Cunningham and Justin Jacobs. This unique pairing of celebrity chefs and rising stars sets the stage for an intriguing culinary battle, one that blends experience with fresh talent.

Cunningham, who is known for his expertise and passion for creating mouthwatering dishes, expressed his excitement about the upcoming airing of the episode. Reflecting on his time on the show, Cunningham shared his thoughts, saying that the experience was “a ton of fun.” As a chef with a dynamic and growing career, Cunningham’s return to television is a highly anticipated moment for both his fans and the culinary world. He is thrilled that the episode is finally set to be released and can’t wait for viewers to witness the intense action in the kitchen. “I’m super excited that it’s here and it’s coming out, and finally, I can let everybody see what happens,” Cunningham remarked, hinting at the competitive nature of the show and what viewers can expect.

This isn’t Cunningham’s first appearance on television. In May 2025, he competed on another popular Food Network show, Chopped, showcasing his culinary prowess in a high-stakes competition. His return to television on Beat Bobby Flay is a significant step in his culinary journey, continuing to build his profile and gain recognition as a talented and versatile chef. His ability to stand alongside culinary giants like Bobby Flay further highlights his skills and ability to thrive in a competitive environment. Cunningham’s presence on the show is a testament to his growing reputation in the food industry.

Aside from his television appearances, Cunningham continues to make a name for himself in the Phoenix food scene. He currently serves bar bites at Highball, a popular venue in the area. In addition to his work at Highball, Cunningham serves as a private chef for The Good Food Table, a unique catering service that focuses on providing high-quality meals to clients. He also participates in several pop-up events around Phoenix, including a weekly seafood dinner inside Sauvage Wine Bar and a fried chicken pop-up concept that has garnered attention for its innovative approach to comfort food. His versatility in the kitchen, from crafting elegant bar bites to curating elevated pop-up dining experiences, showcases his adaptability and creativity.

One of the notable aspects of Cunningham’s culinary career is his deep-rooted connection to family. He previously opened a restaurant called CC’s on Central alongside his mother, Sharon, who continues to run the establishment. This family-driven endeavor is a reflection of Cunningham’s commitment to both his craft and his loved ones. His mother’s ongoing involvement in the restaurant serves as a testament to the strong bond they share and their joint dedication to the restaurant’s success. For Cunningham, food has always been a way to bring people together, and this familial venture highlights his belief in the power of shared meals and the joy they bring.

As Cunningham prepares to face off against Bobby Flay in the upcoming Beat Bobby Flay episode, the anticipation for the showdown is building. The episode, titled “School That Fool,” is scheduled to air on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 6 p.m. Arizona time on the Food Network. Fans of Cunningham and Beat Bobby Flay are eagerly awaiting the results of this intense culinary battle, curious to see how the chefs stack up against one of the biggest names in the culinary world. The episode is bound to be a must-watch for food lovers and anyone who appreciates a good competition, especially one that involves such talented chefs.

Overall, Cunningham’s career continues to soar as he navigates the world of culinary television and pop-up dining experiences. His appearance on Beat Bobby Flay is yet another milestone in his journey, and it is clear that this chef is one to watch in the coming years. Whether he’s cooking for private clients or competing on national television, Cunningham’s passion for food and dedication to his craft remain at the forefront of everything he does. As he prepares to face off against Bobby Flay, one thing is certain: Devan Cunningham is a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world.