You Asked: What Exactly Is an Underground Chef?

By: Sarah De Heer
Underground Chef Russell Jackson
Fans saw Russell make an incredible comeback this past Sunday night on Star with his bacon-bourbon marmalade burger. But when it comes to Russell's point of view, viewers are still stuck on this one question: What exactly is an underground chef?

Let's start here: Subculture dining is a version of an underground supper club. Simply put, it's an exclusive dining experience, almost like a dinner party where the guests have an intimate experience with the chef. It's a time for the chef to try new dishes, think outside the box and create something different from the usual dining experience. Just because you hear "underground chef" or "underground supper club," doesn't necessarily mean the meal takes place in the basement of a space or "underground."

Underground (n): a secret operation.
Underground Chef

How does one find out about these dinners? Usually through social media, otherwise it's word of mouth. These dinners can take place at a home, a restaurant that has lent its space after hours or other public spaces.

Moreover, an underground restaurant has an underground chef (aka Russell).

Do you have a question? Tell us in the comments below or visit Twitter and use hashtag #FoodNetworkStar.

Next Up

#LookWhoIsBack: Matthew Sets His Sights on Star Salvation

Watch the first round of Star Salvation to see how the first four eliminated rivals fared in their journey to redemption.

Aarti's After Party: 3 Secrets to Good Presenting

Aarti Sequeira won Food Network Star season 6 and expanded her popular blog into a cooking show, Aarti Party. As a Star veteran watching from her couch at home, Aarti shares her insider’s take on what went down each week.

Food Network Chefs Reveal Their Culinary Mentors

Bobby, Giada and more Food Network favorites reveal who they consider to be their mentors from their early days in the industry.

"Food Network Star Finalists, I Support You in Pursuing Your Dreams:" A Letter from a Former Winner and Guest Judge

Food Network Star, Season 5 winner Melissa reflects on her journey to Stardom and shares inspiration with this year's cast of hopefuls.

Last-Minute Wisdom: 15 Chefs Share Insider Advice with the Finalists

Hear the expert tips and industry know-how Food Network chefs have for this year's Food Network Star contestants.

9 Questions with Harrison Bader, New Food Network Star Finalist

We caught up with Harrison about his style in the kitchen and out.

Exclusive: Chatting with the Runners-Up of Food Network Star

Hear from Damiano and Jernard as they reflect on the Food Network Star competition.