kat wrote:

Great to hear you doing so well and you'll be hanging with you buds in Soho.

Great Recap!!

posted at January 18, 2007 12:05 AM

Peper wrote:

Bravo, Dave!

Imagine if Harold and Lee Ann and yourself had held down Tiffany for being ambitious and arrogant in order to create an embarrassing and humiliating experience for her?

What is so funny about that? Where is the "joke" part???

I don't know if Marcel is well-rounded enough to become "Top Chef" but he certainly handles most of the challenges with more class and integrity and respect of others than the rest do.

I'm so surprised that Elia didn't step in. At least, she was heard shouting from a distance that she couldn't "help" Cliff. I didn't see her being present in the same room with the shinanigans, either. But, maybe, in hearing the ruckus, she should have gone to see what the problem was and then we would see what she is really made of, as well.

Marcel's refusal to assist Sam did not seem to be a matter of snobbishness or lack of willingness. It seemed to be a matter of his own need to concentrate on what he was doing in order to compete.

Love your comments.

posted at January 18, 2007 12:07 AM

NC wrote:

WHO CARES?!?!?

Cliff broke the rules, he got sent home, end of story. I thought everbody at Judges table freaked out and made it sound like something immoral happened. If it's about the food, then it's about the food.

They were all blowing off some steam and Cliff went a little overboard, he paid the price. It wasn't an assault. The kid's pride was hurt--and he needs it.

They clearly have rules in place to address stuff like this. It was handled. Calm down and stop being a bunch of moralistic scolds. I thought Padma was over the top at Judges table, but your comments are just dumb.

I love this show, but it's not curing cancer or planting trees...it's not like it's doing anything of eternal importance. The peripheral idiocy...it's over. Let's get to Hawaii.

posted at January 18, 2007 12:58 AM

Greg wrote:

I'll be honest. I really wasn't your biggest fan on the first season. But as I've been reading your blog each and every episode we seem to agree on almost everything.

It was realy a shame this episode, it was sickening. You chose the exact word I used: Assault. And worse, it was premeditated, perhaps going back weeks. Compared to last season they sacrificed talent for drama. I personally think if they merged casts, the chefs from TC1 would be the only ones left in the final 5.

Again, it's a real shame. I'm hoping TC3 will feature chefs more like yourself and your competitors. Chefs who are more about the food than the drama. Good luck to you Dave, hope all has been well since TC1.

posted at January 18, 2007 01:24 AM

Al P. wrote:

Hi Dave,
Too much drama even for you Dave. I can't believe the way they behaved. What a bunch of crazies. Just think Marcel is the normal one. In season 1 you were the most dramatic with your crying and moaning, and complaining about Tiffiny. It was almost like she was the man and you the lady. You are her bitch, bitch. She took the high road and you took the girly road. You are indeed a drama Queen. Top drama Queen chef anyone. How come your blog is not with the others Dave. I heard your the ex. chef in Soho. Good Luck Dave. Don't cry now.

posted at January 18, 2007 01:29 AM

Mark wrote:

Dave, I understand your frustration with this week's episode. I guess the best thing anyone can say about Cliff's behavior is that he didn't really lose control and he knew he wasn't going to hurt Marcel, so that's why he thought it was just a joke. But you're absolutely right: it was completely unacceptable, and there's no need to say anything else about it.

But back to the food. You love being a chef, obviously, and I'm sure a lot of viewers like me watch Top Chef--and read your blog and the others--because we want to know about the food. If you can bring yourself to watch the show, please tell us more about the food. Tell us what you think about the dishes, why they worked or why they didn't work. Tell us what you would have done if you had been in their place. You're in the unique position of being a former contestant, so I would appreciate your insight. If the contestants can't elevate the show, maybe you and the viewers can by focusing on the food. Thanks so much!

posted at January 18, 2007 01:33 AM

Robert wrote:

While I do think that it was right for Cliff to be thrown off the show, there are two points I want to make...

1)I understand that verbal and physical assault are two completely different things... but in my opinion the 'attack' on Marcel is nowhere near as bad as the constant verbal abuse of Tiffany last season.

2)
a)In reference to this blog and last weeks blog. As far as drama goes, I think season one was WAY WAY WAY more drama filled than season two. Marcel isn't the Stephen that the producers tried to make him out to be, and his fights with Betty were nowhere near the level of you vs Tiffany (none of this season's contestants have t-shirts with quotes on em Dave!)

b)Personally I think that if there's anyone to be upset with, it would definitely be the network/producers. It seems like after Project Runway's drama filled season (keith getting thrown off, four finalists, cheating scandal,) Top Chef had a lot to live up to (especially after having such a powerful first season.)

c)Going into the last elimination with 5 contestants, it was almost too obvious that there were going to be 4 finalists this time. In fact, there was no reason for there to be 5 contestants this episode unless the producers had been planning it from the start. Cliff being kicked off was the perfect way for the producers to save face.

d)I believe that physically assaulting another contestant is expicitly breaking the rules... but I find it hard to believe that the contestants were just able to walk up to some low level crew member and get him to give them a camera to borrow for a night. Those things are expensive as hell and giving one up to a bunch of drunks is a crazy liability. Did it say anything about using the network's equipment on the release you had to sign, Dave?

e)Finally, ok none of the other chefs did anything when Cliff pinned Marcel... however I don't believe for a second that there weren't crewmembers in that room when it was going on... and none of them stepped in. That seems like the kinda thing that a producer might try and stop... unless of course it's beneficial to them.

Ok that is all... hope Bravo doesn't get too upset about my network tv conspiracy theories on their own website...

PS I was rooting for you last season!

-Rob

posted at January 18, 2007 01:47 AM

connie wrote:

To Cliff, Cliff, was this a part of a script? Did anyone tell you to do this so they could just send you home Brother? How could you be so dumb as to let someone coach you into doing something as stupid as this just to get you off the show? You didn't have to do that to get sent home, They weren't going to let you win anyway, didn't you know that? Look at what you are.

posted at January 18, 2007 02:10 AM

Charles wrote:

David,
I will go farther...Cliff, Sam, Ilan and Elia deserve to go to jail nothing more or less! What Cliff, Sam, Ilan and Elia did was the topper to weeks of the production company knowly allowing Marcel to be abused and mistreated. What they did was a criminal offence and if the Los Angeles DA does not do anything about it, then the production has bought the office. I am very disappointed in this show and the production company! Should "The hair Rapist 3" abuse Marcel in the final it will just confirm that the production company is running a scam contest.

posted at January 18, 2007 02:37 AM

Jessica G. wrote:

Hi Dave,

I just posted a blog about tonight's episode on Harold's blog. Yeah, I'm speechless too, and a bit grossed out by what occurred. I still think Season 1 is better by far, against this season's chefs. I wrote to Harold how, although you had beef with Tiffany when it came down to it, you were there for her in the Finale and acted above all the issues and really rose above all of that, and helped her out by doing the dessert dish.

These chefs are acting like kids, oh you don't help me, then I won't help you. Then they hug and smile like everything is okay? I really don't get it. I just feel bad for Marcel now, he doesn't deserve what was happened to him. That was just humiliating and uncalled for, and I'm glad Cliff is gone.

I really miss Season 1 chefs! I say season 3 should be part new people and bring back some season 1 people - you, Harold, Stephen, Lee Anne. I'd watch that. But now I only want Marcel to win to show up the "haters" but there seems to be no real person to root for anymore. It's very disheartening.

posted at January 18, 2007 03:23 AM

Annika V. H. wrote:

Dave, I am at a loss for words. Never in my personal or professional life have I seen such an outrageous display as demonstrated by Cliff on tonight's episode. I am thoroughly disgusted at the behavior of these so-called "Top Chefs"--compared to the first season, these competitors are an absolute mockery. A top chef is more than a good cook--they should be an example of professionalism and integrity. But just look at this season! People forfeiting, lying, stealing, and even assaulting one another. What is this, Jerry Springer? When I reflect on some of the wonderful dishes that you and the other competitors created on TC1, I am truly saddened by the obvious dip in quality in most of these contestants. I would be hard-pressed to recommend any of them for the title of Top Chef.

Keep up the good work Dave--and keep your fingers crossed for Season 3. The way things are going now, we'll need it.

Sincerely,

Annika V.H.

posted at January 18, 2007 04:13 AM

Beylee wrote:

Dave, Thank you for being a crystal clear voice of reason on this incident. I would consider filing charges if I were Marcel. This was unspeakable, given the information highway we are all on these days. A monumental disappointment that this ongoing harrassment was not dealt with before it got so out of control.

posted at January 18, 2007 05:09 AM

Carole G. wrote:

Hi Dave,

Boy do I miss you guys from Season 1 of TC! It seems to me this season has been less about talent and integrity and more about playing it safe, covering your backside and finished with a dash of outright bullying that really turns my stomach. I almost don't want any of them to win after the childish and incredibly sinister antics on last night's show. I felt it started as one of the best shows in that they really came up with some solid ideas that they all seemed committed to giving their all. It seemed like they all were finally exhibiting the qualities you'd expect from a true "TOP" Chef! Then the second half of the show made me outraged and sad. Even Elia who seemed to be the only one who didn't lower herself to Marcel-bashing came off looking ridiculous with her drama and shaved head. Sam really comes off as a wimp to me now. I often grew tired of him calling out other people at Judge's table when he didn't do well on a challenge. Overall, he just doesn't seem to have a mouth when it's needed (not your weakness, darling Dave!). Ilan has some serious growing up to do. And Cliff was a ticking time bomb that finally got booted and thank goodness. Do you remember when he said in one of the first challenges that he "would have punched Marcel in the head" when he saw Marcel getting under Betty's skin? Hmmmmm.... Were the signs there from then? I felt like I needed a shower after watching what he did to Marcel with the others watching and laughing. Then these morons go to Judge's table having acted like the characters from the Lord of the Flies, and looking ridiculous in front of one of the best guest judges the show's ever had? Ugh....... I really hope to see TC continue but not if it lowers itself to this base level of behavior. It's ultimately about the food, yes, but if the chef who prepares the meal is not someone who I can respect then I will lose my appetite!

posted at January 18, 2007 09:08 AM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

Hi, Dave-

I can't believe some people are making light of the attack on Marcel. First, he's been verbally abused since day 1. Betty was a complete shrew to him, and then with Sam's urging, Frank threatened to beat him up. Ilan has been insulting him in every way, and Sam was outrageous yelling at him in public the way he did. Then Cliff jumps on the guy while he's asleep and wrestles him around on the floor while Ilan is egging Sam on. That wasn't just an assault, where somebody gets clocked for saying the wrong thing - hair cutting is sadistic and personal.

If I were Marcel, I'd start looking for a good attorney the minute I got off the plane from Hawaii.

And let me add - I'm not a Marcel fan. He can be a jerk, but nobody deserves to be humiliated that way. I was rooting for Elia until all of this happened. It's obvious Sam is the favorite, anyway, though, so it doesn't matter.

I hope they find some professionals for Season 3, though that won't be easy after this mess. I've had all the trash I need to see - let's get back to the food. Your season actually cooked food someone would want to eat. Most of the stuff they've cooked this time is horrible.

posted at January 18, 2007 11:38 AM

Clif Lund-Rollins wrote:

Happy New Year Dave!

Season 2 of TC has been a major disappointment for me, and after last night I don't even care if I see another episode (not to mention that I'd now like to change my first name given my namesake's very unprofessional and unacceptable behavior!). As I write this I realize I've not watched any episode this season more than once and last season I saw every one at least twice and often three times (BRAVO, are you listening?). I know you would have had to sign off on not ever discussing certain aspects of the show, but could you ever give us some insight into how the judging is conducted (just by discussion?, by numbers? points?)

posted at January 18, 2007 02:03 PM

rhonda wrote:

Cliff's behavior - well it's too reprehensible to even discuss. You said it - it was an assault. But let's talk about Elia for a minute. I think there is something psychologically wrong with her. Remember the Thanksgiving challenge, when she smeared chocolate all over her face? And now this with the head shaving? She's crazy.

posted at January 18, 2007 03:34 PM

TC wrote:

You read my mind, Dave!
I'm so over with this season, less focus on food and more on high school bullying. I can't believe these chefs are 'professional'. Some of these chefs need to evaluate themselves before cooking again, I wouldn't want a immature, unprofessional, vile "chef" to serve me.

posted at January 18, 2007 05:14 PM

Mearl wrote:

Amen.

The first season of Top Chef was so enjoyable, and this season had been a little shaky but it was okay, until this. This is not what I was tuning in for. I'm glad to read your statements also condemning this.

Thanks for explaining that mental examinations are done before the show. I don't think the producers could possibly have anticipated such extreme behavior.

It's good to know that past contestants on this show also were alarmed by this behavior. Another person missing you (and the rest) from Season 1...

posted at January 18, 2007 05:26 PM

Sue wrote:

Dave--I really thought your behavior last season was extremely unprofessional and childish and that you really have no right to comment on the antics of these current contestants. Had you of shown up drunk to any kind of professional job in real life, you would have been fired. How Tiffany treated you, especially in the last challenge was extremely kind and cordial. She did not deserve the treatment she recieved from you or any of the other contestants. I saw her behavior as being competitive, but also serious about what she thought being a Top Chef was--a professional. Also, it is different for a woman trying to succeed versus a man. I've been there. No one takes you seriously unless you act serious. High acheiving woman do tend to get the way Tiffany got. It was nothing personal against you, though you seem to take it as such. Hopefully, you've done some growing up since last season.

posted at January 18, 2007 07:50 PM

Beth wrote:

I'm glad to hear someone (Rhonda) finally mentioned Elia in all of this. I thought that she was just as guilty as the rest of them in this Marcel episode. For whatever reason, though, nothing seems to stick to her -- whether it's her bad "meatloaf" burgers or her quiet acceptance of the others' behavior toward Marcel, she's always off the hook. I was really turned off toward her after she smeared chocolate all over her face and then spent the entire Thanksgiving episode complaining about how she didn's deserve to be in the losers' group. Then, she outdid herself by throwing another hissy fit with her chocolate-heart dessert. Would a legitimate top chef storm around the kitchen, saying "I quit" and "I give up" when the guests are in the dining room waiting for their desserts?

posted at January 18, 2007 08:13 PM

Dan wrote:

Kicking Cliff of the show was the correct call. Ilan, Sam and Elia should have been reprimanded more for egging the situation on or not doing anything. However, this call for jail and DA investigations is hilarious. Cliff, #1 one on the FBI's most wanted list for putting Marcel in a headlock! LOL. Puhhlease people, the police and DAs office have much bigger and significant things to worry about than a stupid prank such as this. The police would not have made any arrests if called and no DA in his or her right mind would prosecute such a case.

posted at January 18, 2007 08:20 PM

Rikki wrote:

Hi Dave,

I have to say, I am a huge fan of Top Chef. I have watched every episode ever aired. When I was watching the previews for this show, I was so excited to see what had happened. However, when I finally saw it, I was really disapointed. Elia is an idot! Ilan is ridiculous, I was happy to see Cliff go and Sam should seriously be embarrassed for sitting and watching it happen. I feel sick. I think these idiots totally dumbed down the show. Dave, if you can tell the producers of the show to get actual talent (like season #1) for the next season, that would be great.

posted at January 19, 2007 11:55 AM

min wrote:

Wow, I didn't realize Dave was such a fan fave from the first season that he also gets a blog here. NO offense Dave, but you were SO over the top melodramatic over mostly nothing that I never could see if you were a good chef or not. It seems weird to have you comment on technique and taste, etc....I always figured you were about tasty bar food. Who knows? I think it's funny now to see you commenting on the season. When this year started, I instantly thought Betty was last year's Dave. Made food that tasted good, but was a mess every where else. She's kinda (totally) white trash, though. I really thought you had some spunk until you lost it mentally and turned psycho. Anyhow, I thought Cliff and Sam would be the top two, so now I'm a bit thrown off. I'm lovin' Sam, though. Maybe Elia will make a good 2nd place. I think Sam is last year's Harold. I picked both those two out easily as the front runners. Humble, talented, etc. etc.

posted at January 19, 2007 12:56 PM

Proudmomto2 wrote:

Hi Dave. Just wondering, did you and Stephen have sex that night in Las Vegas?

posted at January 19, 2007 01:37 PM

John wrote:

Dave,
If you have a delete button, you should use it. It seems that a few escapees from the Bravo Msg Bd have made it onto your blog for the purpose of making personal attacks. I for one am aware that you were made a victim of Bravo editing with regards to the crying scenes. This was made clear to me in one of Andrea's interviews where she indicated that both you and her were victims of Bravo editing: you the "crying" and she the "BM's". She described how the producers would latch on to one particular scene of interest and play it over and over again.

It's too bad that Judge Colicchio could not carry out his threat(in his blog) to send all four perps home and declare Marcel the Top Chef. Production intervened with only Cliff going home.

posted at January 19, 2007 04:18 PM

Carol wrote:

Hi Dave!
You were my favorite from last season. I really thought you should have been one of the top 2. With that said, it's great to hear you are doing well.

I am so disappointed in this season. Last season was so much better as far as the challenges, the chefs and the dishes. I'm having a hard time liking most of the characters on season 2. I hope Sam wins, of all of them I like him the best. His dishes have been somewhat consistant and except for his outburst last week, he's behavior has been better than all the others.

I liked Cliff at first but he showed some agression that was totally inappropriate. I think Chef Tom handled it right. He broke the rules. As much as I don't like Marcell, he should not have be subject to that type of treatment.

I hope the final episode is better and here's hoping that season 3 will be better.

posted at January 19, 2007 07:03 PM

Peter wrote:

Marcel has class??? Marcel is a great Chef???

Only if Class = picking fights, berating colleague, backstabbing, shamelessly self promoting and being a hyporcrite (if he hadn't fire his fish yet,why couldn't he have helped sam like same helped him???)

And a great chef? Sorry, no way in hell. They Guy makes bad hotel food with foams on it. He's like stephen from season 1, except stephen had better style. marcel is just an inexperienced chef throwing together random items and hoping a dish comes out.

Thats why he has not won a single challenge that involved cooking. His 1 win was that lame raw watermelon "steak" quickfire.

posted at January 19, 2007 08:10 PM

Jane wrote:

Dave,

I enjoyed watching you guys in Season 1. Season 2 has been a constant disappointment because I expected it to at least be somewhat like Season 1. Cliff got what he deserved and I have nothing good to say about the others except Marcel who appears to be the only sane one of them all. I have been reading some of the comments here and am a little confused as to why some of these people feel their nasty jabs at you are necessary. Once again, I really enjoyed you in TC and you seem like such a warm hearted person. I imagine you are just as great in person.

posted at January 19, 2007 10:19 PM

Jeannie O. wrote:

Dave - Don't listen to anyone on here that puts you down - you are great! I would like to see how these people on here would react with little sleep - and putting their lives on hold to try and win this competition. Stephen was obnoxious but at least he knew his sh** when it came to wine. Tiffany was (and probably still is) a bitch but at least she could cook. This season's cast is the pits. There has not been one chef who has made one thing that I want to eat. I hope the producers smarten up for Season 3 and get back to the drama of who made the best dish.

posted at January 20, 2007 08:47 AM

Dan wrote:

Cliff has shown his anger management issues for weeks now. He is a loose cannon and he is particularly hostile to his colleagues. Definitely way past time for him to go. What a jerk.

posted at January 20, 2007 11:29 AM

Suki Tuesday wrote:

For the most part, I think Marcel is a twerp with bad hair, but he did not deserve that treatment. And what was up with waiting until the morning to toss Cliff's butt to the curb. It should have been done right then and there, it wasn't like the network didn't know about it because it was being filmed and it had to have been monitored somehow. I was also disapointed that Sam, Ilan and Elia did nothing to stop any of it. They ought to be ashamed of themselves too, drink or no drink.

I'm still shaking my head in disappointment in them all.

posted at January 20, 2007 08:57 PM

Sara wrote:

What I don't think people understand is there are hours upon hours upon hours of footage taped. Scenes are edited! A lot of tape ends up on the floor! That said, producers tend to - with the film that they have shot - "mold" a character into what better suits their show. I.E. - Better ratings. That's common knowledge and something everyone should know if they're going to watch reality shows. While it seems like everyone is verbally beating Marcel- there is a lot of footage that we're not seeing. Don't you find it odd that everyone feels the same way about Marcel. 14 people! We've seen very little of how Marcel talks to the other contestants, asking them (as if they are children) to please close the doors, etc. I'm sure there is much more laying on the cutting room floor of this behavior!
So to all of you rooting for Marcel or ganging up on Sam, Ilan, and Cliff- wake up! Newsflash: They ARE human. Are you so perfect?

posted at January 20, 2007 10:39 PM

Zelda wrote:

I have been greatly disappointed with this season, and last week's episode sealed it for me. Two chefs quit-one leaves to keep another in the contest. The dishes have often been unimaginative and unappealing. The chefs more often seem interested in showing off and seeing who can be the biggest drama queen.

To paraphrase Anthony Bourdain, what kind of crack house are the producers running? Now, the chefs get drunk, shave their heads, decide to act like morons and assault another chef.

Brilliant.

In my opinion, I'd have sent everyone but Marcel home and brought back the last three chefs eliminated who'd wone challenges and then let those chefs fight it out for the prize.

posted at January 21, 2007 02:37 PM

Pat wrote:

I could not believe what Cliff did (really thought he could have made it to the final), and as much as I dislike Marcel, it was completely over the top.
I find it interesting to watch Marcel work, and I am not talking about his cooking. On the surface he seems so passive, but everything he does and says irritates everone around him and I really believe he know exactly what he is doing.
I am really not impressed with his abilities in the kitchen, but if he can keep everyone angry, throw them off their game, and come out as "poor Marcel", he may win.
I did enjoy TC1 more then TC2 but I want to see Marcel leave and find out who finally gets Top Chef. I think Sam,Ilan and Elia are all good choices but I hope Sam wins. When will season 3 start???

posted at January 21, 2007 03:18 PM

BT wrote:

Comment to "min" re your comments on Betty and Dave:

Dave knew how to cook and be inventive in the kitchen. He created the best dishes in several challenges (including the last one in Las Vegas - remember the beef dish for the acrobats?) Betty knew how to do exactly one thing well, it would seem: make tomato soup and grilled cheese. Period, end of story.

In addition, Dave had class. He got emotional, perhaps overly so, but he didn't turn nasty on people in 2.5 picoseconds like Betty did. Betty decided early on that Marcel was her Enemy #1 and fostered a poison attitude toward Marcel among all the chefs, that finally led to the recent episode's idiocy. As a sign that she had no class, she had to lob a parting shot at Marcel, even as she was being booted off the show, when her last words were that her only regret was that she felt she deserved to outlast Marcel.

Dave outclassed Betty by a long mile.

posted at January 22, 2007 12:28 AM

Coleman wrote:

WOW...no way did I read that these contestants should go to jail. What is the demographic that had been aimed for for TC2? This is insane. I cannot believe that people do not believe that THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU PUT DIFFERENT PEOPLE TOGETHER! That said, those maneuvers were the most ill-timed stunts I have ever witnessed. I have done worse to my friends than they were going ape spank on. Seriously tho, what the hell were they thinking attacking the sniffling ou of place kid with little self esteem. That made everyone who saw the episode sympathizers of the little termagant. I am sick of the drama. I want to see the look on Padma's face when she thoroughly enjoys a dish. My two cents were left at Taco bell cuz the gas station attendant was thirsty.

posted at January 22, 2007 03:00 AM

bonnie johnson wrote:

IF THEREIS A TOP CHEF 3 I HOPE THAT WERE ARE GOING TO SEE ADULTS THAT KNOW HOW TO ACT THEIR AGE AND NOT 3 YEAR OLDS AS THIS SEASON HAS FOR CHEFS? IF TIFFANY EAS A SNAKE.. WHAT IS ELIA?? BACKSTABBING BITCH! SHE INSTIGATES A RAISES HER EYEBROWWHEN SOMEONE IS ASKED TO LEAVE BECAUSE OF HER INSTIGATION. SHE'S NOT A CHEF.NOR A WOMAN OR EVEN A CLASSY BROAD... SHE'S NOTHING.SHE'S JUST TAKING UP SPACE GET RID OF HER AND ILAN!!! WE DON'T KNOW IF WE WILL EVEN WATCH TC3. GOING BACK TO WATCH GORDON RAMSEY'S HELL'S KITCHEN AND THE F WORD SHOW HE HAS ON BBC MAYBE TOM NEEDS TO BE REPLACED WITH SOMEONE THAT HAS BALLS OR THE PRODUCERS HAVE TO MAKE THE SHOW TOUGHER SO THE CONTESTENTS ONLY HAVE TIME TO COOK AND SLEEP. PICK PEOPLE WHO CARE AND WANT THE DREAM. SO DISAPPOINTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted at January 22, 2007 01:53 PM

Brian Baker wrote:

Dave:

First of all, this is the first week I have decided to check out the blogs on the web site and I am so glad to see you here. I thought that you kind of got screwed last season at the Elimination Challenge, but that's a different topic.

I think a big problem this season with Top Chef is that it is missing the fun that we had first season. There are a bunch of chefs that really don't stand out from one another and lack the sense of insanity that stood out the first season - good clean fun and minor bitching.

I guess that there are always going to be complaints about any creative endeavor - I am a writer and get critical comments all the time. But as a viewer of this show, we can't taste the food so we rely on how it looks and the personalities of the chefs to make our decisions. Like I said, no one this season really stands out with personality the way that the first season contestants did - I mean, your line "I'm not your bitch, bitch" was a perfect encapsulation of you and your personality. You aren't mean, you aren't crazy and you just are trying so damn hard to compete on a show where everything seems to be geared to creating stress and drama.

All said, this season has been good but not as good as the first. The Sophomore Slump season of Top Chef - not enough emphasis was put on the game and too much on the behavior of the diva chefs.

Having said that, I will continue to watch. It's a great show, just the contestants aren't all that appealing.

posted at January 22, 2007 10:57 PM

Frank Caffrey wrote:

Hi Dave,

I didn't know you had a blog. Glad you do though, I really thought you were ripped off on season 1. But I guess you know now it's all about ratings and controversy. Plus, you have the only good line from both seasons, and a T-shirt.
In this crazy world of 911, wars, and fear, it's nice to see Top Chef is keeping with the times this season. They should call this season:
Al-Quiada Chef. Marcel:attacked on all fronts. His only problem is that he just doesn't know how to talk to people. He's young and he'll learn. However he does have patience, I don't know if I could have kept my thoughts to myself for 12 episodes. He's been there with them but the only one that hasn't made crude, rude and obnoxious comments. Well, not too much anyway, and not downright nasty ones. He's never threatened anyone, he's been classier than any of them. I didn't like him at first, but the more I watched, the more I saw he was the only one interested in the food more than a popularity contest. I respect him for that. I do like Elia also. What are you gonna do when you're the only woman left? Her hair cutting thing was dumb, but I doubt she thought it would have ended up the way it did. It was Ilan and Sam that instigated it, and they should just be thrown off the show. Betty was a pure hag, and was only kept on the show because Tom liked her. And just how and why did Frank make the cut, he was such an ass! For that matter, how did Marissa make the cut, she looked like a psycho. She was scary! I liked Mia until we finally heard that potty mouth and race crap the night she left. She knew she was gonna be cut that night, and instead of letting them fire her, she quit. Thats all it amounted to.
As a lowly postal worker and consumer, I'd like to say that cooking is fun and relaxing, and who doesn't like to eat food that tastes good? But I honestly don't understand how people take food and wine so seriously. I really don't get it. Who thinks so much of themselves that they feel they deserve to eat at only the best restaurants and only the best quality food will pass their lips? Are people really that self absorbed? I would really like an answer to this from anyone. I want to understand the big deal about all these food shows on any network. I just sometimes want to ask these judges and guest judges and customers, who do you think you are that you deserve the best of everything. It just makes people seem like pompous asses to me. Does anyone know how good Kraft macaroni and cheese and a tuna fish sandwich is for lunch, or would that just make them feel like peasants. Anyway, the show is fun to watch, just wish they have better screeners for Season 3. Have a great Week Dave.

Frank.

posted at January 23, 2007 11:55 AM

Laura Brown wrote:

Hi Ya Dave!!!
I can not believe it has taken me this long to check out BravoTV.com/TopChef.
I recorded all of last season and watch it often.
I'm so happy you have a blog here. There was an episode when you were checking your email and I tried to read your address, but could not.
You got so screwed on that challenge that you only prepared 2 dishes and there were to be 3. GEEZZZZ...Should have been Tiffany. Not one of her three dishes got props from the performers.
I'm wondering if you have made your trip that you won. The trip to Ca'n(Con)Is that right?
Anyway, I just wanted to pop in and tell ya hey from Texas.
I Love Ya Man...and I'll be your BITCH..anytime:)

posted at January 23, 2007 03:42 PM

rebekah wrote:

ARE YOU SERIOUS???

You are calling out other TC contestants for being psycho?? What Cliff did was wrong, but dude, you are the last person to call out someone else's behavior on this show. You were an embarrasment!!!

posted at January 23, 2007 05:14 PM

Ghostly wrote:

Hi Dave,

I enjoyed watching you last year. For those who has said, you were to emotional & shouldn't have posted a commet, please, do not take them to heart. No way can you be put at the same low life level as this group.

Marcel was attack. He was asleep and did not ask for any of this. He was not part of the group. He was attack & yes, as busy as the police are, if he wanted too press charges, they would not talk him out of it. Marcal has shown more maturity then all of them put together.

I have no desire to watch the show anymore this season. None of these people are top chefs. Can you imagine sending a plate back to them for what ever reason. They would come out of the kitchen & battle you. One would need police protection with this group to dine in their establishment. It is a shame.

Marcel, most people here have the cattle mentality about you, Betty did start it & the rest were to stupid to see it, followed her like cattle to the slaughter house. Good luck in your future, I can see you out shining them all.

posted at January 23, 2007 11:29 PM

Leigh wrote:

On the plus side, Elia looked absolutely hot with a shaved head.

Just saying.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:17 AM

Christina wrote:

Wow the venom by Al P is unbelieveable. Obviously this guy supports rude *ssholes (like Cliff) so...

PLEASE pay him no mind Dave you're great and your food looks soooo yummy!

I gotta say, if Elia, Sam or Ilan win Top Chef I will also turn it off and throw it away for good. Not because their cooking doesn't deserve it, but because they are not worty of earning it.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:59 AM

Christina wrote:

Sara
I usually have a rivalry with all my competitors and often dislike many of them...duh. However I would never resort to taunts, tirades, middle school put-downs, derogatory remarks, verbal attacks in front of the judges, and physical attacks in private. you schmuck.

posted at January 24, 2007 12:14 PM

Dave wrote:

What Cliff did was wrong but how much of what really happened was cut out and never aired? It seemed to me that this wasn't the brain child of Cliff. Elia started the head shaving thing and everyone was all about getting Marcel. When Cliff acted on it everyone else seemed to step back and do nothing. So Cliff takes the fall and everyone else moves forward. It was stated that nobody stepped up to stop it so shouldn't there be some kind of action taken on all contestants? They all talked about it, they all conspired about it. Guilty by association. Anyone in the room while it went down and did nothing is just as guilty in my opinion. Granted I don't think Cliff would have won but he was definitly the goat on this whole deal. How about for season 3 they add some rules and remove the deamon alcohol from the house. No drinking and then this kind of hehavior has no excuse.

posted at January 24, 2007 02:21 PM

Chrissie wrote:

Sara wrote:

What I don't think people understand is there are hours upon hours upon hours of footage taped. Scenes are edited! A lot of tape ends up on the floor! That said, producers tend to - with the film that they have shot - "mold" a character into what better suits their show. I.E. - Better ratings. That's common knowledge and something everyone should know if they're going to watch reality shows. While it seems like everyone is verbally beating Marcel- there is a lot of footage that we're not seeing. Don't you find it odd that everyone feels the same way about Marcel. 14 people! We've seen very little of how Marcel talks to the other contestants, asking them (as if they are children) to please close the doors, etc. I'm sure there is much more laying on the cutting room floor of this behavior!
So to all of you rooting for Marcel or ganging up on Sam, Ilan, and Cliff- wake up! Newsflash: They ARE human. Are you so perfect?

posted at January 20, 2007 10:39 PM

__________________________________________________

I totally agree Sara! It's hard for anyone with a brain to not realize that there was a lot of instigation on Marcel's part going on there that was deliberately left out.

And, I feel like the same as I did with Project Runway this last season, and that is...that the winner has been pre-determined for promotional purposes rather than merit to create hype and controversy.

Sadly, I see this season of Top Chef heading the way of last season's Project Runway. If so, that will be sad indeed.

I will not be watching Project Runway anymore because of how contrived it has become for commercial purposes (and I am an avid seamstress). I guess we'll see if Bravo has bought into that whole concept in their other shows, such as Top Chef. If so, they've lost me.

posted at January 24, 2007 10:21 PM

Chrissie wrote:

Finale Part-1 is over...and, like I figured.....WHAT A BUNCH OF CRAP...I'M OUTTA HERE..................

posted at January 24, 2007 11:25 PM

sandra concialdi wrote:

i thought the show was more about preparing food and executing it's taste and presentation. I really thought Sam should have stayed.
He definitely had my vote.

posted at January 26, 2007 06:46 PM

Sonia Sweden wrote:

Dave, Swedish television has been sendin Top Chef afterwards and I just saw the last show. Personally I think you, Harold and Lee Anne should have been in final, and you deserved to win all three, but my favourite was YOU!! Warm friendly hugs from a cold Sweden. Good luck in the future!

posted at January 28, 2007 07:33 AM