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In the latest episode of tvN's You Quiz on the Block on October 16, 2024, Culinary Class Wars season one champion Napoli Matfia appeared alongside the other finalist, Edward Lee. Both gained immense popularity after they displayed their creativity in the hit cooking show.
Napoli Matfia also shared how he spent his 300 million won ($225,000) prize money, which he received from the show. When asked by host Yoo Jae-suk about his plans for the winnings, he revealed that he had immediately invested the entire sum into securing a rental property near his restaurant. He stated,
“I’m the type who likes to avoid becoming lazy, so I didn’t want the money to be visible. I immediately invested the entire 300 million won into securing a nearby rental property next to my restaurant."
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Napoli further explained that by doing so, he avoided spending the money recklessly and instead focused on making his commute easier, allowing him to remain dedicated to his culinary work.
"It helps me focus on my work since it makes my commute easier. I thought if the money was visible, it would be a distraction.”
Napoli reflected on his win, expressing surprise at his victory. Matfia admitted that he often thinks about how he won but later confidently added that he believes he could win again if he competed in another season.
Despite the challenges of the competition, he fondly recalled the intense moments and rivalries with other talented chefs.
More from Culinary Class Chef stars Napoli Matfia and Edward Lee's appearance on You Quiz on the Block
The Culinary Class Wars finale, which aired on Netflix on October 8, 2024, captivated viewers worldwide with its format, dividing 100 chefs into two teams: the White Spoon chefs, representing experienced professionals, and the Black Spoon chefs, who were rising talents.
The competition featured dramatic eliminations and creative challenges that enthralled food lovers.
During the interview, Napoli also shared that his restaurant's popularity skyrocketed following his win, with over 20,000 people on the waiting list for reservations. He stated,
“There’s a reservation app, and there are about 20,000 people on the waiting list. I’m incredibly grateful, but there’s also some pressure. We always take reservations in small amounts to ensure the quality of the experience."
Although Napoli expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a high-quality customer experience rather than focusing solely on profits.
Napoli's fellow competitor, Chef Edward Lee, also appeared on the show. Lee humorously discussed his desire to open a restaurant in Korea after experiencing the popularity of Korean cooking shows. The host playfully teased Lee about his recognition in the U.S., leading to lighthearted banter about his plans. Lee said,
“Of course, I’d love to have a restaurant in Korea. It feels like a missed opportunity after being on TV here. There aren’t many customers in the U.S.”
With Netflix officially renewing Culinary Class Wars for a second season, excitement is building for even more intense culinary showdowns. Season two, set to air next year, promises to raise the stakes and deliver even greater thrills for viewers.
