Top Chef's Next Quickfire Challenge Has a Fun Surprise — and These Exclusive Photos Are Your Sneak Peek

Gail Simmons has taken a break from Bravo's Top Chef for a very justifiable season: She missed out on most of Season 16 because she was back home in New York City giving birth to her second child, son Kole Jack Abrams, on May 23.

But Gail couldn't completely stay away from the Kentucky season: She joined the crew just three days before she gave birth to say hello to the new group of competitors and issue them a fun Quickfire Challenge, which airs Thursday at 10/9c. (Hit play on the clip above for a preview.)

The challenge happened on a very eventful day indeed, Gail told The Feast. “It was my birthday the day we shot and the day of the royal wedding and three days before I gave birth!" she said. "So my assistant had made me a cake to celebrate it all."

Gail shared with The Feast some personal pictures of herself, the precious cake, and friend/colleague Nilou Motamed, who is a recurring judge on Season 16, to get you excited for a Quickfire Challenge with a twist.

Looks like Gail's assistant knows a thing or two about gorgeous cake presentation. Behold:

Gail is totally glowing, too!

Here's a closer look at the cake in all of its pastel candy-topped, gilded glory:

Looks like she can't wait to try it — and who could blame her?

Here's Gail and Nilou showing off their cooking skills.

Tune in to Top Chef on Thursday at 10/9c to see Gail's guest appearance and learn who nails this very special Quickfire Challenge. 

Photos: Gail Simmons