Hard Rock Atlantic City Chef in 24-Hour Food Network Battle

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City chef Leslie Daniel is preparing to take part in another Food Network competitive series, one year after winning "Guy's Grocery Games", hosted by Guy Fieri.

In that 2024 Food Network appearance, Leslie Daniel lived up to his Hard Rock nickname "Chef Too Hype" while eliminating three other chef contestants to win $16,000.

Now, Daniel, the executive chef at Hard Rock's Japanese steakhouse Kuro, will be one of two dozen chefs competing in the second season of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing.

Food Network describes the show as an "ambitious and grueling competition series between 24 talented and fearless chefs for 24 challenges over 24 straight hours".

Skill, creativity and stamina are tested while the clock never stops — and only one competitor will survive to become the last chef standing and win $75,000.

The Premise of Last Chef Standing

Shot in real time, hosts Michael Symon and Ester Choi will divide the challenges into eight shifts that reflect the all-consuming intensity of a chef’s daily life.

Each challenge focuses on a different skill, such as speed, resourcefulness, artistry, and adaptability in the kitchen.

The show will follow the chefs as they try to conquer major twists and turns, all while battling fatigue and each other.

In the season premiere, the chefs must endure three challenges testing speed. Those that impress judge Antonia Lofaso survive — and those who do not are forced to clock out.

Last Chef Standing Season 2 premieres at 8 pm on Sunday, April 27, on the Food Network.

The five-week season’s two-hour episodes culminate in the finale on May 25th, where the last chef standing declares victory and wins $75,000.

Leslie Daniel's Role at Hard Rock's Kuro

Daniel is a VIP in the kitchen at Kuro, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino's authentic Japanese restaurant.

Under his leadership, Kuro was recognized by USA Today as the #1 casino restaurant in 2020 and as the top hotel restaurant in the last two years.

Daniel has been an important team member at Kuro since its opening in 2018. He has also participated in ACCC's annual Restaurant Gala and Atlantic City's Wing Wars.