Willy Wonka wasn’t available, but Food Network is still bringing some well-known talent and flair to the roles of host and judges for “Chocolate Meltdown.” The outdoor setting of a 121-acre theme park suits host Sunny Anderson just fine. After all, Anderson has been filming her segments for the popular Food Network series “The Kitchen” outside in order to be COVID-19 safe, as she told fans in an Instagram post. In a much more recent Instagram post, from August 18, Anderson announced her role as host of “Chocolate Meltdown.”
“We did it all overnight,” Anderson said on Instagram. “No crowds, so much safer.” In a statement sent to Mashed, Anderson said the new show “combines two of my all-time passions, going to amusement parks and creating art with food. I cannot wait to share these amazing chocolate displays with viewers, featuring some of the most talented pastry chefs on the planet.”
Serving as judges on “Chocolate Meltdown” are Ralph Attanasia and Maneet Chauhan. You might remember Chauhan from her win earlier this year on Guy Fieri’s Tournament of Champions II (via Discovery) and her earlier appearances as a competitor on “Iron Chef” and a judge on “Chopped” (via FN Dish). Attanasia works for Buddy Valastro and has appeared on “Cake Boss” and “Buddy vs. Duff,” according to his Instagram page.