Scott wrote:

These people are making me even miss Ken.

posted at November 22, 2006 11:41 PM

damien tyler wrote:

Hey..I have a BIG problem with Frank throwing all his weight around and being an a**. I was sorry to see Carlos go. He was a nice guy, but I guess judges have got to do what they got to do. This whole season is nasty. Maybe, its just me, but, I don't think Marcel is as bad as all that. I would have gotten into Frank's face when he started chewing out Marcel. This whole episode 6 just made me in a bad mood tonite. Damien Tyler

posted at November 22, 2006 11:54 PM

Meredith wrote:

Happy Thanksgiving, Dave! It is always a pleasure to read your blog :)

posted at November 22, 2006 11:59 PM

Christine B. wrote:

I'll reiterate what I just said in my response to Tom's blog entry---this season's chefs are totally in it for themselves & not interested in working with anyone else. Very few of them seem to take the challenges very seriously---there is much mediocrity (not that I'm much of a judge, the only thing I can make is a pretty decent pizza...) I, too, will be curious about who survives to the end & if anyone will start to push the boundaries. Is it my imagination or do the quickfires generate more adventurous dishes than the eliminations???

posted at November 23, 2006 12:00 AM

Sharon wrote:

I'm the odd person out here, but I really think Marcel is sweet. And he honestly loves food. And the way he thought Betty and he had made up -- I think he is trying more than her to be a good person. I'm glad he is appreciated by the judges. I'm also glad Elia supports him and that she won today. I really think Betty is strategically being dramatic to stay in the game. I really want to see her go. Other faves - Ilan! Cliff and Sam - obviously strong chefs, but the editing has made their characters sort of bland so far -- hope to see more of who they are. Also love Mikey -- he is sweet.

posted at November 23, 2006 12:30 AM

cornelia wrote:

This season's chefs are not as interesting or fun as you guys! The really unfortunate thing is that my two favorites... elia and sam, didn't really impress me this episode. Sam especially. i was setting him up to be Harold, talented, nice to other people... but he embarassed himself in the Frank/Marcel thing. Elia, i love, and i understand that things get tough! so i shouldn't harsh on her. You and Harold and Lee Ann are much missed this season. I'm SO GLAD you guys are blogging!

posted at November 23, 2006 01:21 AM

Sammybarb wrote:

Dave, Dave, Dave!! So glad to see you have a blog on here!! Feels like first sesason home week!!
Hope you, Leann, and Harold are regular bloggers! Can't wait to read what you all have to say! I am going back to see if I missed any!!
Have a great Thanksgiving, Fella, You deserve it!! (Seems your favorite B word showed it's little head on tonight's episode!! ;o) Things are heating up in the kitchen, as they say!!)

posted at November 23, 2006 02:26 AM

Ron wrote:

Dave, the chef for this season who is closest to you (IMO) is Mia. Like you, she is strong on flavors, less so on presentation. Like you, she seems to do much better with the elimination challenges than with the quickfire challenges. And like you, her specialty is comfort food. Physically and personality-wise, the two of you are quite different, but there is some commonality as chefs.

posted at November 23, 2006 02:27 AM

Lisa wrote:

Faves:
Marcel - believe it or not! The guy could definitely use a lesson in humility, but he seems like a very creative, think-outside-the-box type of person which I admire.
Mia - she has been fake with people in the past, but I think she's a warm-hearted person. Her food also sounds very comforting.
Cliff - so far, no drama from him which is refreshing.
Sam - too vain & full of himself, but like Marcel, very creative.
Elia - spicy, opinionated, but genuine.
Foes:
Betty - keeps starting fights with Marcel. Let it go already. And stop blaming other people for your screwups.
Frank - he just scares me.

posted at November 23, 2006 03:29 AM

corprip wrote:

My faves:

Cliff to win.

Marcel for his Lion-o adorability.

Ilan is cute, but he's one of the Heathers, so he can screw himself

My foes:

Betty's personality SUCKS.

Frank is a LOSER.

posted at November 23, 2006 03:40 AM

Patricia wrote:

Happy Thanksgiving Dave!
I wasn't able to watch last evening,however, saw the re-run this morning - minus the Quick Fire.
I have said all along the following will be in the finals:
Ilan, Cliff, and Sam

There is way too much drama going on this season - it is not about the food with them. It is all about back-stabbing and mismatched personalities (some of whom have none).

I think Season 2 has missed the mark somehow. It was such a joy to watch you Harold and LeeAnn working as a team and not against one another.

It's a shame.

posted at November 23, 2006 10:29 AM

Rosemarie Poindexter wrote:

Miss you this season Dave!!! I think the challenges this season are great but would love to see: Chefs prepare a meal or a dish with no time restraints...have all day to shop or cook as they choose. See what they can do without worrying about the clock...I think it would interesting. The final 3 will be Cliff, Ilan and Sam...to the rest...bye bye bye.

posted at November 23, 2006 02:57 PM

Roxanne wrote:

I think Otto was initially supposed to be the next Dave, and he really shouldn't have been kicked off the show, because once he threw the free case of liche into the van, Marissa had the responsibility right there to make things right. Also, I strongly wonder who else knew about the liche on the way home ....Marissa really got ugly about it when she messed up her dish, and was going to be eliminated herself... for a pastry chef, she only made one pastry that was a winner at the firechef elimination, and that was when she was supposed to make an entree! Otto would be fun and dramatic were he still on the show! And personally, I think Marissa took Josie down with her. The chefs really need to use their voices when working on teams, and not defer to the Bettys of the lot , or else they will go home , remember last season? That's a lesson they should have learned if they watched back then! Also I enjoyed watching the chefs freak out for the quickfire challenge, thus far I think they have had it much easier with a lot more time than the first season pros, perhaps because they really aren't of the same caliber, (with the exception of Cliff and Elia), and the "watered down" stereotype chefs are really going to start falling by the wayside now if the challenges step up the pace and turn on the heat!

posted at November 23, 2006 03:23 PM

Cheryl wrote:

Hey Dave I loved you last season really wish you would post your panna cotta and amaretto drink recipes on your site. Well my favorite are Cliff and Ilan. I thought Sam would be one of my choices for the finals but after last night instigating Frank to attack Marcel he is just too imature and full of himself for me. P.S. he ain't even that fine and he looks not to be too hygenic. I also liked Betty but now I realize that she needs to be on some type of meds and she has turned me off as well. As for the rest of the contestants I am just trying to decide in which order they will get the cut.

posted at November 23, 2006 04:10 PM

Katy D wrote:

Dave, this season is such a dud compared to yours.
There is not one person in this group worth "rooting' for. The one we love to hate is Betty. She needs to go. Her comment about being
a comfort food person and her rudeness with the
others shows that she is not up to the standards of a TOP CHEF. She is just an unpleasant person.
Frank is rediculous, well they are all pretty pathetic except Cliff and Sam.
Love your blogs, keep up the good work!!!!!

posted at November 23, 2006 05:05 PM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

Hi, Dave!

I'm so pleased to see you blogging! You were my pick for the winner last year, so I was hoping you'd be around.

My big problem with this episode was Frank threatening Marcel. They should have sent him home for that. He can't cook anyway, and that kind of behavior is over the line.

I don't know what Betty has against Marcel. He's a little irritating, sure, but she goes off on him for no reason. I was pretty disappointed in the dishes they cooked for Thanks Giving. I wish we'd seen what Ilan, Sam and Cliff would have done. The best cooks didn't get to cook.

Tell us what you're up to, Dave! Are you cooking anywhere?

posted at November 23, 2006 06:25 PM

Ann Huntington wrote:

Dear Dave: I really miss you and last year's competitors. The food was exciting to view and how I did want a taste of your final dessert that what's her name, took credit for. See, that, I can't even remember her name. Tiffany? Muffy? What? Hope all is going well for you. I hope that I get a chance to dine where you are dishing the dishes.

posted at November 23, 2006 07:50 PM

Harry wrote:

Having just begun watching this faithfully I would like to say that in some oriental markets aorund the country it is customary to give a free gift when one spends a certain amount of money. his is for various reasons like customs, competition, etc.
For example you may spend $100 and recieve a case of napa cabbage, or spend $50 for a pair of work gloves. Was this the case or just as it actually happened?

posted at November 23, 2006 07:52 PM

Roxane wrote:

Hi Dave!
I must admit- so far I preferred the first season with my two faves- you and Harold. Third was Lee Ann. I really miss you guys! Hey- I like nice people who also happen to be really talented chefs, okay? In Season Two, I can't stand Betty or Marisa. Never quite believed Betty's smile (real niceness doesn't have to try that hard). Frank is less threatening than simply stupid. I'd just stay out of that bear's way. Too many "nut-balls" (my grandmother's term) still left on this show. My faves are Ilan, Cliff, and yes, Mike. While Sam is talented he seems to use the camera as a mirror. Is it just me, but the talent seems to be lacking as compared to the first season. Nobody really seems to be listening and or executing efficiently. Mike- of all peopleIt would be really entertaining to have a face-off between my two least favorite people- Tiffani (Season 1) and Marisa (Season 2). Oh, I know Tiffani would win hands-down, but I think that Marisa is a far better whiner because that's all she has... I have yet to see anyone rise to the level of a Top Chef in Season 2. Thanks for staying in touch with us, Dave!

posted at November 23, 2006 09:20 PM

Sheryll wrote:

You all started with 12, so we've had three additional weeks to get rid of "the weakest link". Most of the general public have forgotten what disasters Ken, Candance, Cynthia, and some of the others were...now add three more weeks of getting rid of chefs below these. Enough said.

I don't think that this is nearly as cohesive a group as you were last year. Frankly, they're missing a leader or two that everyone will listen to. The strongest chefs - Cliff, Sam, and Ilan - are clearly not leaders. I suspect that this can be a downfall for all of them if/when they try to open their own restaurants.

Also, I think that the women are a grave disappointment. Elia, Mia, and Betty don't have what it takes to get to Hawaii. All have been hit or miss - yes, Betty has won three challenges (including the debacle at Camp Glucose) but she's been in the bottom three on the other challenges. Ditto for Mia, she's spent an equal amount of time in the top three and in the bottom three. Elia appears to have some strong skills, but has had some equally appalling failures. Personalities aside, last season it was obvious from the first show that both Tiffany and Le Ann were quality chefs. The women this year glaringly are not in their league.

posted at November 23, 2006 10:14 PM

Lucy wrote:

Hi Dave, Happy Thanksgiving! Love all of your blogs. I'm trying to figure out TC2 as well.
The one thing missing is quality fare. We see so much documentation of drama and friction with all of the cast, but so little emphasis on the food. In TC1 we saw more of the preparation and presentation of the dishes. The chefs would explain why they selected that combination of ingredients to achieve a certain flavor profile. You always said that you were so passionate about what you did as a chef, that it could make you a little nuts in the kitchen. Well, I have yet to see that depth of commitment, and creativity from any of the cast. I don't doubt there is genuine talent and credibility - Ilan, Elia, Cliff, Marcel,and Sam. But is this season all about showing off their culinary talent to insure a respectable place in the culinary world, or is it more about milking out fifteen minutes of fame?

posted at November 24, 2006 12:16 AM

Jane wrote:

I love Marcel. He's my favorite, not just because Betty and Frank, Mia and Sam hate him, but, because he's adorable, creative, and sympathetic!
I disagree with liking Mia. So what, she's turned her life around, when she is a phony, following Betty's command, and undermining others, like Betty is doing?

Betty is the meanest, most unscrupulous bitch that I've ever seen on a reality show. She out-bitches Tiffany by light years. At least Tiffany was creative, professional, and admitted personal flaws. Betty is utterly narcissistic, and her outbursts of narcisstic rage are scary.

She takes out all her frustrations of Marcel, probably because of her own inadequacies. Her faux cheerfulness has not concealed her inner meanness and venom. The mask has cracked. She is almost intolerable, and 100 times worst that Tiffany.

Frank is disgusting. Not only did he leave his toiletries in a kitchen where others have to live, but, he's a pig in appearance and attitude. How dare he threaten a man, half his age and half his size? Seeing his grotesque hairy beer belly sticking out, while he stomps off to bully Marcel, really enraged me.

Sam and Mia are not much better. You can tell that they would do anything to get Marcel to lose his focus, so he wouldn't be a viable competitor.
It's awesome that Marcel has been able to overcome this adversity to keep his focus, and win the hearts of the viewers.

The classiest cast members are Cliff, and Ilan. I love them! I really love Mikey, even though he's not as sophisticated as some. I think he has heart and soul. He's awesome.

I love Elia. She's beautiful, and quirky.

Mia lost me when she kisses up to Betty, but, doesn't hesitate to throw her under the bus when she is threatened. I don't trust people like her, and i don't care what she's overcome in life. I don't respect her, at all.

Sam is also slightly loathesome after his stunt with Marcel, instigating psycho drunk madman Frank to the point of madness. What a bunch of idiots! I can't wait until all four of these jerks gets the axe.

Ironically, by picking on Marcel, they've portrayed themselves to be petty, insecure, neurotic and mediocre people, hardly Top Chef material.

At this point, I am rooting for Marcel, Mikey, Ilan, Elia, Cliff, and I hope the next to go are Frank, Betty, Mia and Sam.

BTW, I rooted for you last season. You are an awesome chef. You were my favorite, and I'm thrilled to see you blog. Take care!

posted at November 24, 2006 01:39 AM

Joe Laherty wrote:

Great to see yor Blog, Dave.

I totally agree with the previous comments.. this season is just vicious.. but.. I still have to watch!

I also agree with the final three.. Cliff, Ilan, and Sam.

One last thing.. The two chefs that I would love to have make dinner for us (or have dinner with) is you and Harold!

And I second the request to put that dessert recipe from the finals on your web site!

posted at November 24, 2006 08:48 AM

Stephen wrote:

My favorites are Cliff and Elia, loved the way Elia got her answer from Chef Tom, then pulled herself together to make the best dish of the challenge. (Perhaps not cutting edge, but still the best.

posted at November 24, 2006 10:50 AM

Kristine wrote:

Hi Dave:
Good to see you blogging. I just loved you in last season. You, Harrold, and Lee Ann were my favs. The three of you made for good entertainment beside the good cooking. I wish you had your own TV cooking show!

Okay....Wednesday nights meltdown. Geeez Where on earth did they find these people!? What a clash of personalities! HEAVY DRAMA!
Except for the foods of Ilan, Cliff, Sam and sometimes Marcel, I'm only watching to see who punches out who first! I think I see a free for all on the horizon. Yikes!

Just from watching what the show lets us see, I don't get why everyone is so upset with Marcel. Yes, he's eccentric but so what. Ignore him if he bugs ya that much. At least he TRYS to create unusual dishes. I had a hunch about "Batta Bing Betty" by the second episode. Wowzers, talk about sore losers and MOOD SWINGS. I can't stand her. NO I don't think shes "perky", I think she's crazy. Can you say: Narcissim? She comes on as sweet cream, then goes out like a tazmanian devil.

That hateful switcheroo on Carlos at the judges table and the eyes-bugged-out attack on Marcel has yanked that chicks cover. She does have organizational talents but she doesn't really listen to anyone else--control freak. That could hurt everyone's chances if they have to work with her.
THEN, Sam-----what is his trip? Backstabber, instigator. Just on those traits alone I hope he loses. That's an underhanded/devious behavior. Hello? You're suppose to be about COOKING not starting riots.
Frank must be "Neanderthal man of the year". Why would he take the bait like that from Sam? And Whoa, that threat. It was seen on national TV. Marcel could file a complaint! Frank has some pretty violent anger issues. I wouldn't want to work next to him (OR Betty)

The tension among there must be unbearable. Some of the "Challenges" were off the wall too, IMO. Cooking in the loft?? Whatever..
This season is a train wreck. I put my hands over my face but can't resist peeking through my fingers to see what happen's next.
Just my opinions.

posted at November 24, 2006 04:06 PM

Deborah wrote:

Here's something I read about Dave. The image doesn't always equal the reality. You aren't *quite* all that Dave. You're just a reality tv show character. Show some humility.

"I recently just met Dave. And, since I don't know him personally...When I watched him on the show, I understood he was a bit of a piece of work..and I am naturally the kind of person who pulls for the underdog...But this guy has a bit of an attitude. There was a charity event in LA..for the kidney foundation...and I approached him. He was so arrogant like he was this big T.V. personality and had the nerve to talk down about some of the well known Chefs who were at this event. I was so disappointed at his dispostion...that I walked away from the guy. I'm like, now I know why you didn't make it to the final two...you WERE some bodies " b-word"..even if it wasn't tiffany's. I hope that you don't get a big head like him because you were on a reality tv show....it would be very disappointing. The funny thing was...he talked to me like I was a nobody...and I'm a food critic in LA. I was not impressed."

posted at November 24, 2006 05:37 PM

Richard wrote:

I think that the downfall of this season has been that there is less competition between the chefs. In my mind there were three that were far and away the best competitors for "Top Chef". There were 2 darkhorses. And in all honesty the other competitors maybe decent cooks but in my mind didn't belong. I think that any of the final 6 or even 7 chefs from TC 1 would have wiped the floor with this season's class...
Top 3:
Cliff, Sam, already eliminate Josie (too bad - she would have done well)
Darkhorses:
Ilan, Marcel (mad scientist approach seems to work both for and against him. Hopefully to make the competition more interesting it starts working for him more)
Doesn't belong:
Everyone else

posted at November 24, 2006 06:34 PM

Linda,L. wrote:

Hi Dave, I hope all is well with you. It should have been down to you and Harald in the end; but in a way it was, because it was only your desert that was outstanding in her whole meal! So glad for your well earned success. Well we have a new B this year; while I never saw any good in Tiffany, but at least she didn't do like Betty did. Even Tiffany, as miserable as she is, would not have put sugar in cookies for diabetic children! It was a dangerous act, as well as a disregard for the rules, and she knew them. The olive oil was bad, but insalin is measured for the amount of sugar eaten, this could be ugly, we are talking eyesight and limbs, as well as life, here. A Top Chef would never play with the health of the client. Betty thinks she is above the rules and apparently she is right. If you could be cut for missing one plate, why was she not sent packing for what she did. Now the toothy grin bears her fangs on Marcel, and shows us all what she truly is. I admit I never liked her flirty fakeness, but she is worse than I suspected; worse, she makes Tiffany look like a saint! Marcel has a hit and miss record like Frank and Mike; but keeps his focus,...It is the food, that counts. For some reason the group feels it is ok to dump on Marcel; the same way some people feel it is ok to poke fun at fat people; It is not ok, and it reflects badly on them that do it. I am also proud of how well Marcel has handled it; I still wont eat his Ice cream, but I like his strength and class. I am glad that Marissa is gone; when she screwed Otto over, (who was asking if it was paid for); she should have said something at the store; but no, she had to twist the truth and run her mouth, trashing him, and her team. Marissa should have put as much effort into the desert and team as she did in her attack on Otto; she should have taken the hocky pudding pucks with her instead of Josie. Too bad for Josie, a bit bossy, but ok. Ilan, Cliff and Sam, seam to be consistantly good. I like Ilan, and thanks to him Mike was able to shine and have a taste of the winner circle. I think Cliff would have been a fear partner, too. Yes I am also disappointed in Sam, setting the hound on Marcel. I had liked Frank, but bullies put me off. Frank, what is wrong with him;..Marcel put the brush in the bag, not on the floor. Marcel took better care of Franks stuff than Frank does. What is awful, if he handles the food the way he does his grooming gear, yuk! Frank needs to do what is right. I did not know what to make of Marcel at first, but he has made it into my heart. Mia is a mix both as a person and a cook. Many in this group are more concerned with winning by torpedos rather than the cooking; we are not looking for submarine captains; it is Top Chef. I see Ilan, Cliff and Sam as most likly, (a tight one,like You, Harald and Leeanne would have been). Mike and Marcel, and Elia still have a chance; and realy reaching, Mia, maybe. Bitchy Betty better blow! Foolish Frank fallow.

posted at November 24, 2006 07:38 PM

Samantha wrote:

Hi Dave!

This season is SO much different compared to last season. The food isn't near as interesting, and the personalities are a little more over the top, I think. Tiff was a pain for sure, but she was an excellent chef. I think Betty is a pain AND not a great chef.

I am not fond of Betty. I really like Sam, Cliff, Elia and Marcel. The jury is still out on Mia for me. A few of her comments I have found disturbing, but I think she is adorable.

Ultimately, I think the Top Chef should be able to cook comfort food AND haute cusine. Sam, Cliff and possibly Ilan seem to be the only chefs capable of that so far. Marcel and Elia act like they are a little too good for food for the masses, and Betty and Mia aren't going to do well with the "cutting edge" stuff. Um, I hate to say it, but I am not so sure Mike has either type of food down. I am glad to see him doing some good stuff finally, though.

I don't know about Frank. I guess I don't have a good feel for his cooking abilities as of yet.

I honestly miss your enthusiasm and determination. Your emotions were so visible that when you triumphed it made me want to cheer. I loved Harold and Lee Anne, too. I just don't have those feelings for anyone this season.

Still, ANY Top Chef is better than no Top Chef, so I am enjoying this season!

Take care!

Sam

posted at November 24, 2006 10:27 PM

Diane wrote:

Hi Dave:
First, I wanted to tell you; I grew up in Long Beach, and used to date in Belmont Heights. It's about 32 miles away from me now, but I still visit. Are you still in Long Beach?

My opinion: Before TC 2 did the first show, the coming attraction looked like they were going into the ring as gladiators with their knives to do battle with one another. I almost knew what was coming, and I wasn't sure I was going to allow myself to go there, but I did it anyway. There is way too much drama, not enough good quality cooking or any form of respect and comraderie among these turkeys called chefs. My guess is that the three left over to contend for TC will be Ilan, Cliff, and if he gets his act together soon enough, it might just be Marcel. I just don't see quality work coming from the women this time. My hope is that if there is a TC 3, the producers will look for qualifications that reflect the team player attitude and make sure everyone has been taking their medication.

posted at November 25, 2006 02:44 AM

Clara wrote:

Hello again Dave...You are sorely missed this season!! I always sat on the edge of my seat whenever you would get nervous about time or the ridiculous challenges. Wanted to reach into the t.v. and give you a hug. This season I'm just waiting for two things: Send them out in the desert with a bow and arrow, and then make them create an 'innovative' and Deeelishush dish out of whatever they can kill...(but it has to look good too) and most of all, I'm waiting for Marcel to tell Betty "I'm not your Bitch, Bitch!!" Love you, love your blogs. Thanks. (~..^)

posted at November 25, 2006 07:28 AM

k binder wrote:

Hi Dave

I just want to say that after episode 6 I agree with everything most people have to say. I think that Betty is a big disappointment after the first 3 episodes and should be aufed soon. She apparently can only cook comfort foods but likes to be boss. When I first watched the first episode I didn't much care for Marcel but after watching the next 5 episodes he has grown on me though still not to the point that he will be the next top chef. Elia could be good but I find her whinny especially when things don't go her way but of the women contestants she is number 1. Sam is disappointing ' I thought he was above the stunt he pulled in episode 6. This leaves Cliff and Elan to battle it out as top chef in my book. I hope Cliff wins so far he hasn't done anything to disappoint me.

posted at November 25, 2006 10:16 AM

Kristi wrote:

Wow, what can I say that hasn't already been said? I really liked Betty at first, but good gravy, what happened?? Yes, Marcel is a little egotistical punk, but geez, grow up already.

I'm so disappointed in this season as a whole. I could cook more innovatively than some of these people, which isn't saying much really. :D I think Mia is a two-faced snake. Elia needs to stop being negative all the time.

Seriously, I don't want ANY of them to win! Can we scrap this crew and start fresh with new people, preferably those who can cook AND who have moved on past second grade?

posted at November 25, 2006 02:13 PM

Chris wrote:

I think this season is disapointing . The show should be called Top Chef Drama because its a soap opera. Personally I wanna see mike just come out of his shell and totally wipe the floor with everyone else but who knows we'll have to wait and see. You kick a$$ dave and u should be on there you would be a sure win thats for sure!! Have a great holiday dave!

posted at November 25, 2006 05:40 PM

Shea wrote:

Happy Thanksgiving Dave!

I like Ilan, or Cliff for the win. I think they are the most versatile and creative. I have never heard either of them complain about a challenge being beneath them and I love that. I think it will be Ilan, Cliff, Sam and Marcel who go to Hawaii. I think they are the most versatile and creative. I have never heard either of them complain about a challenge being beneath them and I love that. I think though that Sam will be the season’s golden child. I think he is very good at what he does, however I don’t think he is as versatile as Ilan or Cliff. Same with Frank in that I think he’s good, just not as versatile.

I like Marcel and I really like that he takes the most creative approach and he’s obviously got the spirit to overcome obstacles as he has proven being the brunt of the others cruelty. Sure he’s arrogant and arrogance isn’t always a bad thing. The others must have some *hellified* self-esteem issues to let him bother them to the point of making fools of themselves. It also disturbs me how gullible most viewers are because we as viewers have never witnessed Marcel do anything that measures up to the inappropriateness of Frank, Betty and Marisa and yet so many have been influenced by them. I just don’t get it.

As for the rest of the cast, I like Mia and don’t understand why people choose to allow Marisa of all people to influence their thoughts about her. It’s ridiculous to read where someone regurgitates Marisa’s words and we don’t know the full situation. I like Mia because when I look at the pictures of her and her family, I see a tight bond there and that to me suggests a friend to the end. Mia is not on Top Chef to become Betty’s friend, she’s there to win a contest. We haven’t witnessed her being rude to anyone.

Elia confuses me and I also think she has some gender and/or cultural insecurities and based on that she tends seek out Cliff to throw “under the bus” (embracing the seasons catch phrase). Although I think Michael can cook, he harbors no other attributes of a true chef..lol And I think Betty is out of tricks. In either case she should be embarrassed for her behavior on national television.

posted at November 25, 2006 07:35 PM

Lynda S wrote:

Hello Dave!

I liked the past episode except seeing Carlos go. I found him to be gentlemanly, considerate, articulate, and cute (I know the last feature is not important as a chef, but...) That said, the 4 hour salad (of little imagination) pushed him off the bus. Mike surprised me by really putting himself out there and going the distance - But those beige side dishes were awful choices. In fact the entire T-day meal looked rank and boring as though it was institution food. That is where both Betty and Frank belong! They are complete nut jobs...

None of the cheftestants are of the caliber as season 1, either. They have not worked that well as a team or individually to win. (They seem to believe that it is better to be middle of the road, than in the driver's seat.)

In spite of the above comment, my favorites (of the bunch) are: Cliff, Sam, Ilan (they seem the most composed and calm in the kitchen overall.)
My least admired of the remainder are: Mia (her bean salad was dullsville), Frank & Betty (both are bonkers and cannot cook well i.e. rice, fantasy salad, duck, creme brulee, etc.) The midling pair are: Elia (too whiny, but has a little talent) and Marcel (also whiny but immature) and Mike who is a big, homesick slob and does not seem ready for this competition.

I hope that the rest of the season showcases better results than the mediocrity that has been presented thus far. Thanks for asking...
Have a great holiday season!

posted at November 25, 2006 08:31 PM

Shea wrote:

Happy Thanksgiving Dave!

I like Ilan, or Cliff for the win. I think they are the most versatile and creative. I have never heard either of them complain about a challenge being beneath them and I love that. I think it will be Ilan, Cliff, Sam and Marcel who go to Hawaii. I think though that Sam will be the season’s golden child. I think he is very good at what he does, however I don’t think he is as versatile as Ilan or Cliff. Same with Frank in that I think he’s good, just not as versatile.

I like Marcel and I really like that he takes the most creative approach and he’s obviously got the spirit to overcome obstacles as he has proven being the brunt of the others cruelty. Sure he’s arrogant and arrogance isn’t always a bad thing. The others must have some *hellified* self-esteem issues to let him bother them to the point of making fools of themselves. It also disturbs me how gullible most viewers are because we as viewers have never witnessed Marcel do anything that measures up to the inappropriateness of Frank, Betty and Marisa and yet so many have been influenced by them. I just don’t get it.

As for the rest of the cast, I like Mia and don’t understand why people choose to allow Marisa of all people to influence their thoughts about her. It’s ridiculous to read where someone regurgitates Marisa’s words and we don’t know the full situation. I like Mia because when I look at the pictures of her and her family, I see a tight bond there and that to me suggests a friend to the end. Mia is not on Top Chef to become Betty’s friend, she’s there to win a contest. We haven’t witnessed her being rude to anyone.

Elia confuses me and I also think she has some gender and/or cultural insecurities and based on that she tends seek out Cliff to throw “under the bus” (embracing the seasons catch phrase). Although I think Michael can cook, he harbors no other attributes of a true chef..lol And I think Betty is out of tricks. In either case she should be embarrassed for her behavior on national television.

*this post replaces the first one ;)

posted at November 26, 2006 12:16 AM

Mary Mac wrote:

It's difficlut watching this Season on Top Chef. The last group may have had some quirky characters...but they also had personality, charm, talent and moral standards. This new group is horrible! They seem to 'fit' together, though. As if whoever chose this crowd was of the same twisted mind-set. Last Season I had my ( 77 year old) Mom and my (13 yr. old) son hooked on Top Chef and Project Runway. I won't even let my son watch THIS season of T.C. and frankly, the more episodes that come out, the LESS my Mom and I are interested in seeing it. These people are shallow, self-centered and just plain mean. The contests
(like the pig's feet,kidney, and blood thing) are revolting. The 'guests' at each setting seem more like victims. This is NOT entertainment, people. Maybe BRAVO can redeem itself by having Dave and Lee Ann & Harold guest judge more often. Hopefully some of their integrity will rub off on this (out) cast.

posted at November 26, 2006 08:49 AM

George Schiro wrote:

Hi Dave,
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Are you going to be on any future Top Chef episodes?
Are you still in Manhatten Beach?
What restaurant? We would like to try it for dinner.
Thanks,
George

posted at November 26, 2006 02:26 PM

Beth wrote:

At this point, I'm finding less and less to be interested in with this season's contestants. I've yet to see a dish I'd really want to eat.

By the same point last season, I'd already seen a lot of interesting things I wanted to try either just to eat or to try to a spin on in the kitchen.

At this point, oddly enough, Michael is my favorite, because he seems to be the most honest and straight-up guy and he makes me laugh. I like Elia as well but she let her professionalism take a back seat during this episode and it wasn't pretty. I think they both need more time in the kitchen working under some good chefs before they're ready for the title, Top Chef.

That pretty much leaves me rooting for Cliff or Ilan. They haven't made anything that stands out for me yet, but from what we've seen, they both have the chops and if they can bring it in the next set of episodes we should have an interesting second half of the season.

posted at November 26, 2006 02:33 PM

Kris wrote:

Hey Dave, Love your blog and loved your energy and passion last season. I still think the judges goofed when scoring the final three challenges in Vegas. If the judges would've kept score for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place on each of the three challenges, you beat Tiff. She had no wins and only one 2nd place by default. Anyway, I'd loved to have seen what you would've thrown down in the finale,(esp.YOUR dessert). Just like you and Harold, it seems SO FAR that Cliff and Ilan are the faves because they're consistently in the TOP and the most popular. Sam lost me this week with his shit-stirring. Some say Betty's a narscissist, but I say she has Borderline Personality Disorder. They tend to be phoney sweet then snap at the drop of a hat. No wonder she has problems with Marcel. He challenges her and doesn't back down when she rants at him. I've known a few. They're scary. Speaking of scary, wonder if Frank's familiar with the law. "Terrorist threats" are illegal these days. Marcel's probably going to get thrown under the bus by someone any week now, except by Elia. I'm staring to feel sorry for him, but he reminds of Tiff when they both said, "It's about the food, not the people" and "I don't care if you're my best friend..." That's the main reason Tiff lost the finale. You'd think he'd have seen her and learned that attitude will NOT win you a Top Chef title. As for Mia's cooking and attitude, it's too down-home and creepily two-faced. I'd like to see Elia in there, but she falls prey to her own victimhood too much and doesn't listen to what the challenges are asking for,(i.e. kidneys with no sauce). As for Mikey, even if he gets his priorites straight,(i.e. spending TC $ on beer instead of cheese for his sloppy tough steak sandwich), sadly he doesn't have the creative skills to pull it off. Harold won by skills and popularity, not skills and leadership, therfore under that criteria, Cliff and Ilan should go to Hawaii. But as you well know Dave, it's TV and there's got to be a third unpopular villian in the mix. Wonder who?? Maladjusted Marcel, Bipolar Betty, or Shit-stirrer Sam. I read Gail's blog that the finale just took place in Hawaii last week or this and read somewhere else that someone meet Betty at her LA restuaRANT a few days ago. I'd guess then than she doesn't make it to Hawaii!! She used to be my fav. I feel liked she played me with that sweetie pie act. Well, she was an actress. I see Marcel there as the dark horse. Thanks Kris

posted at November 26, 2006 09:18 PM

Ilene wrote:

while Betty was the darling at the series' start, she has fallen far, and is now obnoxious, sadly. Marcel isn't as bad as i originally thought, and Frank was out of line to threaten him. Frank should have put his own darned toothbrush away. While Michael can be sweet and funny at times, i'm still wondering how he got in there in the first place. i'm loving this show! Go, Cliff! Go, Sam! Go, Ilan! but BYE BYE BETTY already!!!

posted at November 27, 2006 07:43 AM

Lynn wrote:

First of all, I enjoy your blog! Keep up the great work!

Secondly, this week's Top Chef was so much fun I was tempted to watch it all over again with my TiVo. Personally, I am a great big fan of Tony Bourdain. He brought just the right amount of wit, sarcasm and expertise to the show. I would love to have him made a permanent judge on the show...but then, he already has his own show.

I'm also glad that Carlos' lame attempt this week got the result it deserved. And don't you just love watching the personal dramas play out?

I wonder if this season will get its own tag line.(not your bitch, bitch...)

Keep blogging! ;-)

posted at November 27, 2006 01:11 PM

Rose wrote:

I'm glad everyone is seeing what a shrew Betty really is. I can spot the phonies on the first day. I could not stand her little cheshire cat grinning at the judges table.

Sam lost with me when he got Frank all riled up about Marcel moving his crap. Hello!? He left his toiletries on the kitchen counter! I would've left them in the hallway. That's just nasty.

Elia needs to get her little ego in check. Second guessing Tom & before that I think she mad some snide comment about Suzanne Goin.Just because you work at high class hotel/restaurant doesn't make you a high class chef.

Marcel was a bit annoying at first. Cocky? yes. But now we all see that he's just young,stupid & ambitious. His heart's in the right place I think. And he has a passion for food that will take him far..in a few years.

Carlos was never a contender in my eyes. He was too comfortable being safe. You can't go anywhere in this business by playing it safe unless you work at an old folks home.

Frank should take his Sopranos act somewhere else.
Mikey is way over his head. He shouldn't have even been put on the show.

Mia..two face. She's been on the very bottom and she will think nothing of clawing her way to the top. The problem is that nobody wants to work for a two faced bitch.

So it looks like Cliff & Ilan. Most likely Cliff as he has more experience.

posted at November 27, 2006 01:33 PM

Scott wrote:

By this point of season one ( 8 or 9 chefs to go) I had already boiled down my thinking on the show to a simple "would I go to their restaurant to eat?" I got lucky and the five I had the quickest "yes" to were the final five. Harold, LeAnne and Dave were "yes" with no qualms, Tiffani was "yes, in the right mood" and Stephen was "yes, as long as he wasn't there to overtalk it". Almost everything I saw I would be strongly tempted to order.
This season, not so much. No one stands out on their ability to make food I would travel, even just across town, to order. Mia is close. Cliff is close. Sam and Ilan are getting there. But of the remainders? Nope. Nothing to inspire me, as the diner, to really get up and go eat. Marcel's too goofy with his combinations. Betty too abrasive and unimaginative. Michael I like, but he's Applebee's-level, nothing special. (Although props to Mike, he's easily on the steepest learning curve and accelerating up there. The most growth by far.) Elia? Frank? They show skills, but nothing to build a restaurant around.
I'm sure some will blame editing, but right now they all need to look in the mirror and ask the person there if they're really "in it to win it". Too many "no" s I fear.
-S-

posted at November 27, 2006 02:20 PM

Irma wrote:

Hello Dave,

It appears that many of the cooks think that striving to "be in the middle of the pack" could be a winning strategy. Aiming for "the middle" or mediocrity is a loser's game. So far, the more uncreative contestants have only won a ticket back home.

It is further surprising that they do not learn from their fellow cooks in the game. Emily wanted to "play safe"; Josie (& Marisa, for the most part) liked being in the middle; now Carlos expressed that he wanted to be in the middle as well... Do we see a pattern?

posted at November 28, 2006 08:06 AM

A. Cristy Powell wrote:

Dave...so good to see your smiling face online again. I was not going to watch this years show because I was so damn mad they "evicted" you and not Tiff on the next to last comp in Vegas. You were either number one or two in all choices and you spaced out on a dish. Yeah and......? Not wise of course but come on, the 2 you did for that challenge were among the best. Tiff's they did not like at all. You should have won that one and given Harold a run for the money. I've forgiven Bravo (mostly cause Tom's so damn hot) and am watching this season. I don't hate it as much as the other viewers on this blog appear to or I wouldn't be watching it. But of course compared to season one's top chefs, they can't touch you guys. Missed you and Harold and wishing the best for you guys. Keep up the good work sweetie...

posted at November 28, 2006 10:37 AM

june wrote:

Even Ilan was laughing snidely at Marcel's business card, reducing him a bit in my eyes. The only person who has not been laughing at Marcel is Cliff. I disagree with people who say he doesn't show leadership qualities. He is the strong, silent type, who inspires respect by his presence and behavior.

I think Elia's not soaking the kidneys is inexcusable and no one likes to taste the amonia-effect from unsoaked kidneys. She questioned the judge's taste then and questioned Tom's about the ambrosia with the hash. I was completely unimpressed with the flambe quickfire challenge, when she attempted to flambe with red wine, showing inexperience. The alcohol has to be more concentrated than that to produce an effective flambe flame. She may be more talk, less results.

posted at November 28, 2006 11:46 AM

Victoria wrote:

Hi Dave! So far I want to see this competition boil down (no pun intended LOL) to Cliff, Ilan, Sam and Elia. Their work has been the most consistent throughout the episodes and the quality of their dishes has been good overall. Betty does not have the focus for 'going through the gauntlet', as Harold put it in the first episode; Frank does pretty good but that mushroom fantasy totally lost me! Marcel is just a mad scientist - bacon and avocado ice cream??!? There's a place for avant-garde in cooking but that's just insane. I like Mia but I don't think she has the range for this. (I have a lot of respect for her story, too - that was really something great).

Since you've seen the episodes from Season One since the competition, let me ask you this: do you think that the editing, etc., allows you to see what contestants are really like or is it too subjective? And is it me, but does Tom Colicchio seem just a bit unhappy to be there in general? His mood seems very different now . . .

Dave you're the best!
Victoria

posted at November 28, 2006 04:33 PM

MRB wrote:

Disappointing season. There have to be better fast food chefs than this bunch. Betty and Mia need to realize that country BBQs makes a good Paula Deen but not a Top Chef.

posted at November 29, 2006 06:43 PM

laurette wrote:

I love you that you and me, can see through Padma, but being an adult I do give her credit for starting to be more personalble, Fred Flintstone would say "not so DROLL"and starting to say smart things and she does stick up for what is right or what she fells, she sucked at first but .....she is getting better. Elia Rocks, she is the only one the helps others, can make fun/or have fun(choclate in the face) First Person( Kutos to the female) too:
Ask and Challange Tom(Mr. Bla Bla Bla Food Cerd.)
Not ony did she ask him but asked him Why? then when he gave his reason..... oops says;; she with balls said I spit it out(baslyist move I have ever seen in TC or TC2. She stood up to the big dog. While the lame/gutless/backstabling/bus troughers/me me me not matter who I hurt/ losers coward in the sidelines. SHe Ask him why, LISTENED and did not be a big baby like so far this dull season, being an adult, she heard, to his comments processed them(like and adult,only one agian so far)and said well I guess we have different platts. She accepted it like a professional/adult and move on! Kudos. So if you all need to take a look she really did the pro thing. You might not like her but she is a true human ADULT BEING!!!!!

posted at December 1, 2006 10:08 AM

Brian wrote:

Hey Dave, I'm really enjoying the blog, and like the others I miss having a "Dave" in this season's crew.

That said, I'm rooting for Ilan to win it all. It seems like he is always one of the best, but what I appreciate even more is that, for the most part, he has stayed out of the drama (although if the previews are correct this won't last).

I'm also a Marcel fan. He had his moments early on, but seemed to figure things out quickly. Now he remains calm and the efforts of others to demonize him always backfire.

Betty ... had her pegged for a fake from the start. I just never trust someone who works so hard at being "sweet." What really gets me is that of all the chefs in both seasons, she seems to be the one who has the most trouble even getting her stuff to work (eg. the Splenda cookies, her TGiving desert). Then she always has an excuse and usually blames someone else.

I've also not been a Mia fan. I can't remember a challenge where she didn't have some kind of story about how she used to do this all the time back home. Plus, every reality show seems to have someone who feels the need to constantly remind everyone that they are from "the hood." Unfortunately with Mia, when she wasn't doing that she was talking about how she cooks for cowboys, how she's the "breakfast queen," etc. It's a wonder she didn't do better because to listen to her, every single challenge was perfectly suited to something in her background.

posted at December 27, 2006 12:29 AM