Meet the New 'MasterChef' Judge: Joe Bastianich's Out, Christina Tosi's In

Here’s your first look at MasterChef’s new judge, Christina Tosi. She’s an internationally recognized pastry chef and the co-owner of Momofuku Milk Bar. She’s won a James Beard Award and is a published author, but credentials don’t mean anything, unless you can back it up in the kitchen — which she can.

Of course, if you follow our Twitter, this isn’t the first taste you’ve had of Tosi. We spoke to her at the celebration of Gordon Ramsey’s 500th episode on Fox. She’s the perfect fit for a show dedicated to amateur chefs — emphasizing process, growing, and constant learning.

In person, she’s ebullient and engaging — almost the opposite of departing judge Joe Bastianich (who left to continue the expansion of his own empire, currently at 30 restaurants around the world). Again, it’s exactly what you’d hope for in a teacher and mentor: supportive, but firm.

How will that affect the dynamic of the show? Joe was MasterChef’s Simon Cowell; you could always rely on him for a scathing assessment or cold stare. Will Gordon — or even softie Graham Elliot — have to toughen up to keep things balanced? Of course, her specialty is pastries, which is exacting — almost more science than art. Will we see her drop the hammer when baked goods go awry?

Related: ‘MasterChef Junior’ Winner on Learning, Travel, and 99¢ Ramen

If anything, it looks as if the dynamic between the judges will be even chummier than before. Christina told Grub Street that she enjoyed shooting the show and gets along well with Gordon and Graham. “I’ve really found a great groove in it. Everyone has an amazing sense of humor,” she said, adding that they can give each other grief “comfortably, but respectfully.”

Are you sad to see Joe go? Happy to see Christina? The other way around? If you’ve had cookies from Milk Bar, we’re pretty sure we know where you stand. How do the rest of you think she’ll do?

The sixth season of MasterChef premieres Wednesday, May 20 at 8 p.m. on Fox.