I was a guest on 'Top Chef.' These 5 things surprised me about what actually happens on the show.

Jennifer Chang (NBCUniversal )

• I was invited to be a guest on "Top Chef" earlier this year in Wisconsin.
• My invitation didn't provide many details, and I signed a non-disclosure agreement when I arrived.
• The chefs all served their dishes at different times to keep them hot, and the judging felt fair.

As a journalist who's covered food, travel, and entertainment for nearly two decades, I was invited to participate in the production of "Top Chef...