Episode 13: Game Over

January 31, 2007

After several weeks of drama with a splash of cooking, we come to the grand finale for Season 2 of Top Chef.

Unfortunately, I’m not really vested in either of the two finalists. I think out of all the candidates up on the block this season, the only one that I could see with the full set of skills necessary would have been Sam.

We begin by bringing back some of this season’s favorites to back up the two finalists and Betty, Michael, Sam and Elia end up back in the kitchen to help their respective leaders. The challenge … to cook the best meal in your life … is pretty straightforward, as was the final challenge in Season 1. And that’s as it should be. It’s time to see the chefs cook in a more controlled environment without any crazy constraints.

READ MORE > >

Episode 12: Hawaii Four-O

January 24, 2007

After a rough week last week, we arrive in beautiful Hawaii and everyone seems happy to be here. The vibe feels a lot better this time around, which is good for everyone. Hawaii is a great place and it is a nice place to really relax and unwind, I was actually in Ka’anapali in October when they were filming the finale. The people of the island are very warm and welcoming and they definitely have a passion for food over there. Although there are lots of tourists on the islands at all times, there were lots of “Top Chef” viewers both on the local and vacation front during my visit.

I was apprehensive going into this episode but at the end of the day, I was really very happy… it was truly the best show of the season.

READ MORE > >

Episode 11: Are You Kidding Me?

January 17, 2007

After last week’s restaurant challenge and the disappointment there, I was really hoping things would get on track with the final chefs remaining. Like I said, really hoping. Since I don’t have a lot of positive things to say about this week, I will keep my thoughts direct and to the point.

The Quickfire was fine with the exception of chicken liver and chocolate presented by Ilan. We then move onto a night of drinking and head shaving after the Elimination Challenge. I definitely understand letting go of some stress after wrapping up the first part of the show and I was someone who had a big night of drinking in Vegas with Stephen and the crew after I had been eliminated from the finale. I was bummed and took it out on the alcohol, maybe not the best solution but it was readily available everywhere we went that evening.

READ MORE > >

Episode 10: "6 6 6"...not your bitch, bitch

January 12, 2007

Sorry for the delay on this latest entry but my schedule finally caught up to me.

Word up, Marcel … if you don’t win TC you can try for next season’s “White Rapper” on VH1. Of all the contestants on TC2, you have the most possible career opportunities ahead of you between becoming a Wolverine double for the next X-MEN or place on VH1.

We head into another promotion-filled challenge with Kraft products. As a true hater (in Marcel speak) of Mayo -- it is the one condiment that I cannot stand, I had a sitter when I was like 5 make me a sandwich with mayo and jelly and wow…it made me freak out and we threw it out and I think that was her last time she sat for the family.

PS: No, I was not living in a trailer park at the time

READ MORE > >

Episode 10... Coming Soon

January 10, 2007

Looking for Dave's wise and witty words regarding tonight's tumultuous episode of "Top Chef"? Unfortunately, winter visited Dave and he's been under the weather. But he's watching the show and will get his commentary to us just as soon as he can. We're sure that you faithful readers join us in wishing him a speedy recovery.

Until then, don't miss our other "Top Chef: Season 2" blogs.

Episode 9: Seven on Your Side.

January 04, 2007

Well the holidays are over and it’s back to more drama on TC 2.

Marcel and Ilan start things off by going at it, big time, while Cliff and Michael do some bonding. Ilan really does not like Marcel and wants to take him out, yikes.

Surprise, Ted Allen is back again to judge. Where is Gail? I miss her. Padma is back as well and who is doing her wardrobe? She looks trampy, sorry but gotta speak my peace. I will say I really liked both of the challenges this episode, the quickfire was fun with the dish based around a color.

READ MORE > >