Karin Madarieta wrote:

This has to be the most ridiculous elimination yet. Sam has been the most talented and consistent performer from the beginning, yet he is eliminated. It is obvious that the producers wanted to stir up interest by pitting Marcel against Ilan because of their rivalry. Sam is the Top Chef and I know that all who watch the show consistently would agree.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:29 PM

Karen Twinem wrote:

This season has really caused me to miss you, Dave, and your colleagues from last season. None of these Season 2 folks deserve to win, and I have no interest in a finale between Marcel the Jerk and Ilan the Immature. Being a Top Chef is about more than the food. I can't believe that Tom et al don't get that. It's about leadership in the kitchen. And you can't be a leader when you are a total jerk whom everyone hates (Marcel) or a self-imposed drunken bald, bitchy line chef (Ilan). Why bother with casting for Season 3? Who plans to watch?

posted at January 24, 2007 11:36 PM

Kyle G wrote:

A complete and total waste of my time. I loved Top Chef until now, I am done with the show. Sam has been consistantly great throughout the show- quick fires, wins. And he goes? No way. This isn't about being a Top Chef, because the #1 contender got the boot. This show is crap, and although it makes Bravo lots of money, it doesn't give us the 'Top Chef'. Hey everyone, want good drama, watch Nip/Tuck! Sam- good luck man because no matter who you would have gone to the finale with, you probably would have one and you deserved to be there. You were cheated big time, sorry about that. I guess your talents throughout the show are relatively meaningless. I feel very bad for you.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:36 PM

Mare Hare wrote:

I have been a devoted fan of Top Chef since it began, last season and this season. However, I have lost heart and respect for the show as of tonight, January 24th. To elimibnate Sam smacks of egocentric judge personality. The very suggestion that because Sam did not emoploy heat
contradicts on of the very challenges set forth by the judges creteria in prior competitions. You have lost the spirit of the contest to eliminate Sam. He and Marcel would have been a challenge worthy of watching. The two remaining pairing is a waste of time and an insult to loyal fans. Let them eat cake!

posted at January 24, 2007 11:36 PM

alex wrote:

I have to say after being devoted watcher's of Top Chef for two seasons now, I am thoroughly disappointed in the choices you have made for this seasons finale. Sam's dishes have consistently ranked in the top 1,2,3 on every single quickfire and elimination. Marcel's weird stuff might make for some weird flash in the pan trendy "avante garde" whatever, but that's not what real people eat. Not only that but should'nt the term "Top Chef" also relate to how one runs a kitchen, deals with co-workers, stress and the ability to be self-less and help one another out. If that has no bearing then why do you have them working together to produce meals. Sam has swallowed his dislike of Marcel and helped him plate on a few occaisions when Marcel would'nt have been able to come through in time because he is absolutely one of the most caustic, selfish, arrogant people to ever grace your show. It seems that you have become slave to the ratings, everybody likes the gutter stuff and that's what Marcel has brought to your show. Go back and add up where Marcel has ranked dish by dish and put it next to Sam's ranking, then toss in Sam's leadership,professionalism, and integrity. How in the world did you miss the mark so badly if not for the ratings ? Shame on Top Chef.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:40 PM

Sue wrote:

Dave really was our favorite from last year. I loved his style of cooking and his no bull\shit attitude. I really don't understand why Sam had to go, he clearly has the leadership skills and the ability to cook very well. Didn't cook anything? Are you kidding me? Alot of the food there is..Hello, raw. There would be not heat applied there. Talk about disappointing.

posted at January 24, 2007 11:41 PM

Jim Messina wrote:

Dave, How are you? I have not heard anything about you since the last season. I hope all is well. I miss you on TOP CHEF. Your group ( other than the crabby girl who made it to the finals and LOST against Harold.) were a class act. Dave would you have eliminated Sam? Well Dave I wish you the very best and if you ever find yourself in San Jose e-mail me and my wife and I would love to have you over for dinner. I cook of course. Jimmy

posted at January 24, 2007 11:57 PM

Frank wrote:

Hey again Dave,

Yeah, it was a boring blog you posted, but you're moving so what the heck. I'm just looking forward to next season, this one bit. Everyone can be immature at times, but when you're on a show and doing what you do, professionalism counts. Unless you make toys. But I really hope they get some people who aren't psychos. That would be a good start. Why are you moving to NYC?

posted at January 25, 2007 12:25 AM

Pat wrote:

I was so dissapointed that Sam was sent home. Out of all of the Chefs he was the most consistant. If he was sent home for not standing over a hot stove then I think that was very unfair. Which ever method he chooses to create his dishes does not make him any less of a chef.
I was sad to Elia go too. I can, atleast, understand that decision.
I was also happy that Ilan will go on. I feel he, like Sam, had done very well.
Marcel goes on.....

posted at January 25, 2007 12:40 AM

mia Case wrote:

awww...we'll miss you in Cali, Dave. you were my favorite in season 1, by the way. i thought your home-style uppercrust cooking was so awesome. (i still drool over the thought of your truffle mac n' cheese!)

posted at January 25, 2007 03:44 AM

LISN wrote:

Uh, Dave,
Do you not watch the show with your eyes? Marcel made the poi (pineapple poi), not ILAN. (It was a favorite with the judges - go figure). Please pay better attention next time.
'Glad you are so happy about your future - Enjoy the Big Apple. That seems of more interest to you than the current show.

posted at January 25, 2007 09:31 AM

Lori wrote:

Dave
Hope your move to NYC is boring & lacks excitement. Last time furniture went without me it took 2 mo. to "find" it. Have always enjoyed reading your comments on this season and like to know how things are going for you.
I can't cook like all the contestants do but I enjoy watching everyone and try to learn from each of the shows. Even tried finding some of the stuff here in Kansas but then we're just basically meat, potatoes, vegetables. Kind of sucks since the other half refuses to eat any type of fish, chicken, and will only eat pasta as long as there is NO sauce of any kind (hot or cold) on it.
Hope your move is uneventful and all works out well for you. Keep letting us know what is going on when you have time.

posted at January 25, 2007 10:23 AM

Sueh402 wrote:

I have felt from the beginning that Marcel was a plant and he shouldn't have been there. Alot nof friends that I know feel the same way. As for performing in the kitchen we think that Marcel should have been kicked out a long time ago. And if that is the way you're going to let people behave then it not worth watching!!!!!!!!!

posted at January 25, 2007 11:05 AM

Eileen wrote:

Dave, I am really surprised at you. I thought you had more insight into things. How does the guy with the most wins, the most leadership, the nicest, and the audience favorite not end up in the finale? and every single judge and blog sings the exact same song about how this happened. It really smacks of getting rid of the one real competitor to clear the way for Macel to be in the finale. He served raw chicken the episode before and could have given people salmonella poisoning and he deserves to be in the finale and Sam does not. It looks fixed to alot of people and the show has lost a huge fan base.

posted at January 25, 2007 12:59 PM

dave martin wrote:

Eileen...i am not saying i am happy with sam being eliminated ...not happy with the 2 finalists at all., just to clarify...and lisn..ps i watched the show and i know that marcel made the pineapple poi but ilan also prepared a poi...marcel's was via chem lab vs the traditional method...don't bag on the blogger...please...thx,dave

posted at January 25, 2007 02:44 PM

steve tickel wrote:

I couldn't help but notice a comment from Jim Messina. Is this the same Jim Messina that played with Kenny Loggins in the 70's? If it is, I am a big Loggins and Messina fan!

Dave, always enjoy your comments, right on as usual. I am glad Marcel made it to the finals. He started out with his smart remarks, but really did not deserve what happened last week.

I am a little disappointed by the immaturity of the chefs this year. It just seems to me that the final 4 chefs from last year could of wiped the floor with any of these. Harold, Lee Ann, yourself and crabby lady (forget her name) all had Top Chef talent. I hope Top Chef 3 chooses a better group.

posted at January 25, 2007 03:37 PM

Jack Sprat wrote:

Hmmmmm, does the "No. 1 contender" get to screw up in a challenge and stay? NO! In the restaurant world, you are only known by your last dish. Do I care if the table before me got fabulous food? NO! If Sam was truly the most talented, he would have won the challenge. He didn't, so BYE-BYE.

posted at January 25, 2007 04:09 PM

Chris B. wrote:

Hi Dave!
Just putting in my 2 cents to comment that I think Marcel is being sly as a fox--he's playing all the other contestants against him by distracting them. He's being annoying and disturbing their concentration, thereby giving him a little edge. I'm predicting the same will happen next week, since Ilan is already being an outspoken critic of Marcel! If you noticed, the beginning of the show had Marcel working hard as master cook at the restaurant he works for in Vegas & apparently getting along quite well with his co-workers. And the 2 chefs he lives with seem to get along with him just fine as well, so TC2 appears to be a psychology show, not a cooking show! Hope TC3 gets back to the cooking... Good luck with the move Dave; and hope things work out for you in NYC. Chris

posted at January 25, 2007 04:52 PM

Clif L-R wrote:

Good luck moving, Dave; it's my very least favorite thing to have to do! I can't help but feel this entire season of TC has been "scripted"; nothing seems real or spontaneous, and after working 10 years in a kitchen, I wonder if some of these folks were even chefs. I think on the final episode (a la Dallas, circa 1985), they'll open with Harold (from Season 1) in bed having a nightmare, and as he wakes up, tells you or Tiffany that he just dreamed that the producers took 15 random people off the "T" in Boston and put them into production. All they did every week was fight with each other and create really horrible dishes, some of them inedible. Eventually they all went crazy and shaved their heads, and this is where he wakes up and tells us the past season we just watched was really just his nightmare.

posted at January 25, 2007 06:18 PM

cookie wrote:

I've already commented about the show on a few of the other blogs and don't need to repeat (but I will add that I agree with you about Ilan... and I am more than fed up with the gang-up-on-Marcel mentality). Hey, I didn't realize you were blogging here until just now... I was the person who spoke with you in the Indian restaurant yesterday. Best wishes on your new venture.

posted at January 25, 2007 07:51 PM

michele wrote:

Well it is so nice to hear from you ,I hope things are going well.I am also upset that Sam was not picked . I really think after last nights show Marcel will win only because the judges are feeling sorry for that nasty back stabbing mean Marcel, he is such a baby.He is like the devil like the horns on his head yes I said it but look at his hair.But to you hugs and kisses . Michele

posted at January 25, 2007 09:19 PM

michele wrote:

Well it is so nice to hear from you ,I hope things are going well.I am also upset that Sam was not picked . I really think after last nights show Marcel will win only because the judges are feeling sorry for that nasty back stabbing mean Marcel, he is such a baby.He is like the devil like the horns on his head yes I said it but look at his hair.But to you hugs and kisses . Michele

posted at January 25, 2007 09:29 PM

Richard wrote:

Ilan didn't make any poi.

posted at January 25, 2007 10:29 PM

Kenny wrote:

Hi Dave,
I agree, probably the best show yet. It is finally about the food and not the drama. I can't say I agree with the judges decision, however, I am not there and would not want to second guess decisions. They looked like they were really stuggling to make a decision. I wasn't overly excited about the last ditch drama at the judges table, but again, I am not there. Looking forward to the final next week as well as season 3. Hope all is well with you and thanks for the blog.

posted at January 25, 2007 10:47 PM

Theresa wrote:

Dave, have much success in NYC. Last seasons group was way better than this group. I dont even care who wins, I think the judges blew it.

posted at January 25, 2007 11:31 PM

Ghostly wrote:

Hi Dave,

So people who have a crush on Sam complains. All you hear is the way Marcel was in the kitchen. He might of mouth off, a well deserving mouthing off I have to add in MHO. It isn't like Marcell actualy attack another human being physicaly. Oh wait, physical abuse is ok, not verbal? Then what about the verbal abuse he received from Betty and the rest of them, especially when they got right into his face. Karma comes back at you. Can't take the heat, then get out of the Kitchen. They aren't babies.

This crew wasn't as mature & respectful as yours was. Even with Tiff, you all were still mature enough to handle everything.

posted at January 25, 2007 11:44 PM

CJ wrote:

Marcel is an idiot! His cooking lacks any sort of spirit at all. He treats his co-workers like crap in the kitchen. I don't care what the judges say it's not just about cooking. It's about creating a team AND cooking. If your a jackass you won't keep anyone in the kitchen with you anyway. That boys needs bitched slapped (or laid) for sure!

posted at January 25, 2007 11:46 PM

YOLANDA VAZQUEZ wrote:

I could not believe that this kind of crap was happening? I was in shock outoff the 15 contestant have Sam eliminated.Come on you guys choose the annoying,selfish,arrogant and selfcentered Marcel togo to the final please what kind of circus are you running here. How do you expect to have devoted viewers keep watching this kind of noneses.

posted at January 26, 2007 12:01 AM

Nancy wrote:

Does anyone recall the episode where Marcel got "man handled" by Cliff who by the way was being encouraged by Ilan, Sam and Elia? You want to talk about integrity and professionalism well lets take this into consideration as well!! I hope that Marcel wins b/c it is about the food and not about the petty crap that has been going on all season! Most of the stuff that people were crying about wasn't even relevant they just use Marcel as an escape goat! GO MARCEL!!

posted at January 26, 2007 12:16 AM

Erica wrote:

Hello Dave

I realize every chef is judged on the dish they present on the current competition-but I still don't agree with Sam being sent home.

Did Marcel cook anything? When did mixing chemicals into food become impressive? Isn't the goal to create something delicious, using NATURAL flavors? I just don't get it.

Ilan did take a risk-and I personally think he's got the makings of a great chef--but he has been a bit of a one note with the Spanish food (not to say his food doesn't look good--I would have LOVED to have tried his paella topped with crab he did in the the challenge with Mikey).

Is Marcel talented? Absolutely. Is he a top chef? Not in attitude. I don't feel Ilan looks down at people the way Marcel does.

As shown in season 1-it's NOT all about the food. Look at Tiffany-she cooked beautifully--but what a bitch! I'd never knowingly go to a restaurant she owned or worked in!

posted at January 26, 2007 06:58 AM

Katy D wrote:

The whole season has been a HUGE disappointment, there really has been no one who we want to see win they are all mediocre at best. People only go for Sam 'cause he is kinda hot. Not one of them can compare with the season 1 Winner Harold. Season 3 better have some good chefs and stop the drama crap.

posted at January 26, 2007 08:21 AM

Michelle wrote:

Marcel has been scape goated. This is a game, a compietition. What evidence do any of you have other then the mob mentality of the other contestants that Marcel is evil????? He plays the game and he plays it well. If you go back and watch the eposides there were many times Marcel offered to help people. Every group "mob" finds a scape goat this mob used Marcel. Last year to a lesser degree it was Tiffiny.

posted at January 26, 2007 10:39 AM

eMILY wrote:

I agree whole heartedly with many of the preceding comments...selling out for a trite mello-dramatic finale which clearly no one really cares to see...Sams consistent performance and leadership skills...'lack of heat' contradicting previous challenges. If I remember correctly, one of the primary reasons that last years winner was chosen was due to his ability to lead and gain trust and loyalty among his peers....

posted at January 26, 2007 10:48 AM

Lisa wrote:

I couldn't have been HAPPIER to see Elia go home and frankly, I really liked Sam until he got in Marcel's face and told him that nobody liked him or wanted to be around him. But I would have preferred to see Ilan go, no doubt, he's just too arrogant and I really don't know why.
It was pick on Marcel from the beginning and for what? What kind of people are these? This isn't junior high school but Sam, Elia and Ilan all chosen to lower themselves to a level I found very unattractive. I realize this is a cooking show, not a personality contest but I guess I just feel that personal character and maturity must be a component to be a successful Top Chef or top anything for that matter. The choice to bring up petty, inconsequential things at the judges table that had occured in the kitchen really exemplefied their lack of character and I think the jusdges were disappointed as well. When Elia began to explaim Elia explain their "concern" it was all over the judges faces that this was absurd.
Nobody likes a bunch of whiny people trying to make excuses for their inadequacies. For crying out loud grow up! They had their chance just like Marcel but they lost and I couldn't have been happier. Now go gettem' Marcel! Kick Ilan's booty!!!

posted at January 26, 2007 12:56 PM

Karen Derby wrote:

Dave,
WHAT GOOD NEWS for us New Yorkers that you are moving here! I know a lot of people (including me) who look forward to tasting your food.
Thank you for choosing US!

posted at January 26, 2007 01:10 PM

H.A.L. wrote:

Sorry, Dave -

Dull blog - Your comments are: "dumb as bread"!

posted at January 26, 2007 03:28 PM

M. "Sushi" Caree wrote:

1st, Chris B., excellent point re Marcel possibly trying to get into everyone's head. If true, then give him some props for playing to win (without breaking any rules or laws).

2nd, if this were a cumulative competition, then just about all the whiners would be right about Sam. But it's not, it's a week-to-week competition.

3rd, the only genuine dispute was between Sam and Ilan. So the focus of the discussions should be why Sam's DISHES deserved to win over Ilan's DISHES. Were the judges wrong in picking Sam's and Ilan's dishes on previous shows?

4th, for those of you who think this should be about the food, why complain; unless you were pulling for personalities, not the food.

posted at January 26, 2007 04:13 PM

lana wrote:

I am disgusted with this season's contestants. All of them are horrible. They treat Marcel like shit and I don't know why. He does his job. I think last year's contestants were so much better. Even Tiffany wasn't as bad as the people this season. Get over it----Marcel is a good cook - what is the problem? You picked a horrible group of egotistical people and I really can't stand watching the show anymore. If you dont' pick human (and I say that in a good way) - I will never watch the show again. I think you went into the gutter (except for Marcel) to pick this season's contestants. Sam was not that great - nobody was. I could see that in the first episode. The people this season are horrible, hateful and bad cooks. Get the show back on track and get people on the show like the first season. Shame on you for picking low lifes like you did. In fact, Mike was the most likable. This is not going to get you ratings - it is going to get you cancelled!!!!

posted at January 26, 2007 06:20 PM

Ann wrote:

Dave--I really miss you on the show this season! You were so genuine and weren't afraid to show your passion for food. This season, many of the chefs seem to be very mean-spirited. I think it should be about the food. Marcel is annoying at times but is also very passionalte about food. Good luck to him.

posted at January 26, 2007 07:48 PM

Nicole wrote:

I think that Marcel and Ilan both did a great job on flavors but remember we are watching a television show and they strive on drama. I mean come on, Ilan and Marcel have been the heated moment for the last three or four seasons, who wouldn't want to see them go at it for the top Chef???? Sam is great he has won many quick fires and if doesn't get recognition for that then something is wrong with the restaurant industry, and Elia she will go a long way, she definatly had a way better attitude that Miss Tiffany last season,(I couldn't get over her saying that nasty remark to Harold when the rest of the crew said they wanted him to win).
This is going to be an exciting episode and I can't wait to see what the outcome will be.

posted at January 26, 2007 08:02 PM

debbi woods wrote:

What started off as a great cooking competition show has become just a TV DINNER; does the job, but no flavor. Although Marcel was not my 1st choice, he didn't deserve to be the target for those who couldn't handle being annoyed. Grow up. (what happens when someone sends food back to the kitchens where they work, do they spit in the food?) If the show is only about the food, and not their character, then what about the lychees? Leaves me confused. Just not as good as last season. No Daves or Harolds this year(integrity).
If it's about ratings, bring back Tiffany and let her and Marcel cook, tied together at the ankle. Forget the food, should make for some fun tv. Sam should be in the finale.

posted at January 26, 2007 09:20 PM

jean wrote:

Marcel deserves to be in the running for top chef. Sam and Elia are great chefs but there was room for only 2 in the end. The judges picked the 2 chefs that they felt did what was asked of them. It looked like a hard decision. I personally hope Marcel wins. I was just sorry to see Betty brought back for the last episode. They should have left her behind.

posted at January 26, 2007 11:35 PM

robert somma wrote:

dave- you are like mike in this season in top chif both care about what food should be plan but should what people like and i think both you guys care about life but in differnt why

posted at January 27, 2007 12:59 AM

Carrie wrote:

Greetings Dave!

When Bravo repeats the entire seasons episodes every Wednesday I try my best to re-watch every single episode. One thing I noticed: Marcel and Betty were 2 of the best manipulaters in the group. Betty did it with a smile. Marcel, I believe, doesn't realize the comments he makes to others is coming off as rude and condescending. I hope he watches himself and sees this. Of course a person with an enormous ego will not see anything negative in himself. He was very good at instigating things and then when confronted he had the look of "what did I do?" = master manipulation. He's good. But he has been caught on camera. Also, what others have said about being a team in the kitchen, they are absolutely right. You can be the best employee but if you don't get along with anyone you're easily booted out the door. Any added stress can take away from something meant to be wonderful.

I hope your move goes smoothly and I wish you well in your new home.

posted at January 27, 2007 01:27 AM

Karen S wrote:

Dave, You were great on season one and I enjoy reading your take on season two. Top Chef is still one of my favorite shows, even though I frequently disagree with the judges' choices. I wish the judges would stop sending mixed messages. On one episode they say that being top chef is about more than the food; it's also about being a leader and working well with other people. On the next episode, they say it's all about the food and they don't care how the contestants act in the kitchen. Make up your minds already! I know why top chef is called a reality show: it's not about real logic, but it's real entertainment!

posted at January 27, 2007 04:35 AM

wilhard wrote:

Bummer, you are moving to NYC. I was hoping you would do something here in Long Beach. I would have loved to dine where the kitchen featured your food. The SoCal scene is not going to be on a par with NYC if our top talent keeps moving there.

I am so disappointed in this season. Last year there were four chefs worthy of winning. Only Sam from this season could have stayed in the fray against your quartet. I am not sure how the comments by a world renowned authority on Hawaiian cuisine declaring Sam's dishes the best is so easily swept under the carpet.

posted at January 27, 2007 04:42 AM

Jill wrote:

Since the judges all seem to feel the food was equal then the tie breaker should go to most wins and least lowest two finishes. Also one of the judges seemed totally smitten with Marcel. A top chef "prepares food, not just cooks it. Obviously these judges do not under stand that. For me, I will not be watching any more Top Chef. The choices have been made before the cooking begins.

posted at January 27, 2007 05:46 PM

kahty wrote:

Dear Dave you were my favorite of last year top chef. how exciting on your move to new york. I agree with all the comments Sam is the top chef this season. I can't beleif Tom made him pack those knives. and marcel, you are a ture a-hole. I'm very dissappointed in the outcome.

posted at January 27, 2007 08:09 PM

Julia Hamilton wrote:

I am glad you could see Ilan as he really is! He behaves as if Marcel shouldn't be able to compete just as he, Ilan, is in a competition. Sam, I saw it on television, and I aslo heard it come out of his mouth, that Elia should say that Marcel cheated. The three schemers were actually lying on the poor man. Sam acts for the camera as if he is a person that doesn't sometime care what Marcel does or say, yet he wanted to lie on the chef Marcel, at the "Finale" at that! Those two have so much hatred towards the man that it is unbelieviable! Elia couldn't compete with those three in no form or fashion. Everyone was rutting for Sam to win, yet he didn't attempt to cook anything other than, as a home cook would say, "MARINATE" the fish and add some cut up fruit and diced veggies, "CIVICHE" again. Give credit where credit is owed, viewer, Ilan, cooked something, yet I feel he is a true hater of Marcel, and Marcel used the Hawaiin specialties wisely.

posted at January 27, 2007 09:56 PM

Jim wrote:

Having watch both seasons of Top Chef it disappoints me to see someone advance to the finals that really does not deserve to be there. Yes this show is called Top Chef, but being a Top Chef entails more than just preparing food. It is also about respect in the kitchen and Marcel does not have this at all. His food was ok and he did not have the range that Sam had in his dishes. The last episode asked them to create traditional Hawaiian dishes with their own twist. They did not say cook the dishes they said prepare,which is what Sam did. Chef Tom swayed the judges decision on Sam's dishes by saying he did not cook anything. Personally I think Marcel should have been eliminated long ago.

posted at January 27, 2007 11:29 PM

TerryK wrote:

I don't see why everyone is jumping on Marcel, it seemed like it started with Betty not liking him and she was friends with eveeryone so they just chose their side and everyone is jumping Marcel's sh**. I don't think he is the Top Chef, that was definately Sam and I could not believe they actually eliminated him. I also believe the judges and producers may have done this for shock value and ratings. The Top Chef was and is Sam. Elia was GREAT, so laid back but then she even ganged up on Marcel. I think he is cocky sure, maybe they hated him because of things we did not see as an audience? They did alienate him. I liked him a hell of a lot more than that B***H Red Head chic from last year! lol I truly believe the finale should have been Sam VS Elia

posted at January 28, 2007 12:06 AM

Perry wrote:

I was also disappointed with Sam being sent home from Hawaii! I really believe he was the top chef. I lost alot of respect for the judges at how they came to a decision. People at the tables at the birthday party were asking Sam for seconds in Hawaii,and the judge was very pleased with his dish.
It is disappointing that Tom would say Sam didnt cook anything when it was plain the Hawaiian dishes had alot of RAW FOOD.The rule was never that they had to cook, it was make your own Hawaiian dish.
A comment was made by one of the female judges (was it Padma?) that Sam won most of the Quick Fire and Ilan won most of the Elimination rounds-
I dont think this is right-I believe most of the wins were Sam and Cliff !! But now I will go back over all the weekly shows to see how many wins there were for Sam, and how many for Ilan.
Ilan won one or two of the Elimination rounds. Ilan even wanted Sam to be in charge of the team and Sam talked to Betty and Marcel and told them they would have to forget the fighting so they could all work together. Ilan also didnt do well in the front of the LALALINA Italian Restaurant. Sam was only in the losing bracket once with his eggs.
Sam was in charge of his group and won the knives
and he was great in the leadership role.
I dont think Ilan was ever the leader of a team for any of the elimination rounds.
Marcel lost the challenge when he was in a leadership role. It is clear that the writers, etc, wanted an increase in their ratings and with the Marcel and Elan fight, it would give them alot of people watching. But they really lost their INTEGRITY. The Hawaiian judge said he liked SAM best and changed his mind after Tom said Sam didnt cook anything.
To me, the decision should have entailed who was the most professional and had leadership skills as well as cooking skills.
And Tom saying that it didnt matter what happened in the kitchen really shocked me as well as Elia- taking pots off the stove and turning down the oven on another chef makes Marcel someone who is not a team player. Who would want to work with him if he did that?
To me, Elia and Sam would have been a more interesting last show, or even Ilan and Sam.

posted at January 28, 2007 12:11 AM

beth wrote:

Season 1 was so much better than Season 2. The chefs are immature and not nearly as creative as in Season 1. Hopefully the show will get its act together for Season 3.
DAVE YOU WERE MY FAVORITE from last season.
GOOD LUCK TO YOU IN NEW YORK

posted at January 28, 2007 01:26 AM

ismael wrote:

i can't believe this season, the most talented people were send home. i would love to see Elia and Sam on the finale but well i guess the rating that's coming from Ilan and Marcel for the hated rivarly between this two it's more important than the competition itself to bad that you didn't cast people like the first season just Elia,Sam and Ilan were worth waching the progam excelent job guys by the way Marcel you may try to be a good cook but you suck as a person.

posted at January 28, 2007 03:36 AM

Marie wrote:

I am really bummed out over this seasons Top Chef. I believed that it would of came down to Sam and Cliff. But, I was wrong! That has happened before. I really have no interest in watching the finale. I assume that I will, only to see what Marcel will be doing next. I think he is crude and he not in general a great person. Does keeping him and Ilan there make for ratings. The judges and producers know they hate each other. I believe that this is the reason these two are in the finale. Sam should of not gone. He has been the best since the beginning of the show.
By the way Dave my family really miss you. We wish the best for you.. We all said if we were rich and had a chef. We would have you as our Top Chef.

posted at January 28, 2007 11:53 AM

Mei-Ling Annie Ah Loo wrote:

Personally I think Sam did a awsome job with he's dishes. Unlike chef Tom's comment about Sam about the way that Sam prepared "Poke". If you know a thing or two about Hawaii and the food that comes from here, you would also know that "Poke" is eaten "RAW". That dish is what makes "Hawaii" so unique along with our vast beauty and hospitality. So I feel that Sam got a BS deal out of this competition.

posted at January 28, 2007 04:37 PM

m. haycook wrote:

I think that the producers should be disgusted with themselves for intentionally pitting the audience against Marcel to create more drama.

I have worked with Marcel, I went to the CIA with him, and I know that he is a really nice guy and a team player- the opposite of what he is being portrayed as on the show. Not only is he being cast as the "villain/trouble-maker", the producers are encouraging the audience to dislike him. With all of their "cast your votes to see how many of you hate Marcel the most and want to see Marcel go home"- what a crock of B.S. Marcel is a great cook and, even though at times he can be a little eager about his own food, he is a tremendous team player. I feel sorry for him that he is being portrayed this way and picked on by the other envious chefs. People always dislike whoever they are envious of. (Ilan continously made remarks about Marcel and all of his foams, yet when he tried to do ONE, he failed miserably.)

About him "sabotaging" Elia's steamer- it was not even on the heat! And like he said, he voiced that he was going to move it over.

posted at January 28, 2007 06:02 PM

jean bennett wrote:

haycock: you must be a joke yourself; marcel a "team player" who are you trying to kid; do you have money invested in a venture with him and are afraid of losing your shirt? marcel is one cry baby; who is always trying to sabotage the other cooks because he doesn't know how to cook. his so called "food" was 1) not food; and 2) not cooked. so how can anyone say he belongs on the finale. you must be kidding

dave i always admired your talking truth to power but you failed with this blog; you should be willing to admit the best Chef was sent home in favor of pahdma and tom's lover, marcel.

posted at January 28, 2007 06:56 PM

Ann G. wrote:

Sam has consistently been the "Top Chef" in my book. Elia has been my second favorite throughout, always staying true to her style. That these two were eliminated in deference to better drama between Marcel and Ilan means that this show is not about cooking (which we already knew, but would rather not acknowledge).

I'm done and don't care who wins as I won't be watching it anymore.

posted at January 28, 2007 08:38 PM

Todd wrote:

Has anyone else noticed Sam's hanky-wearing? He's had a blue one on the right wrist for most of the show which, if I recall correctly, means that he submissive and is into cops / uniforms. This, to me, made Sam even hotter... until the last episode... when the hanky switched to brown. Please tell me he's not into THAT!!!

posted at January 28, 2007 08:40 PM

chief cook wrote:

A great champion in a sport knows when to pull out the stops in order to win, so although Sam may have been consistant throughout the competition, consistant and conservative wasn't going to win round 12. Even Sam in a video said that he heard a lot of people talking about how great Marcel's food was. So all you all who are slamming the choice of the judges, if all the people at the luau were saying how great Marcel's food is and not talking about the rest, well, the proof is in the pudding.

I didn't really see how Marcel was all that annoying. To me, he seemed totally focused on the prize and serious about winning. One of his videos has some kind of cooking club that he and his friends have for fun. He was hired into his job on the spot after serving a 9 course tasting menu to a famous French chef. Seemed as if everyone else was slamming him for sport, like the kids on the bus find someone to pick on.

As for Elan, I also thot he was arrogant. This guy's only been cooking for three years and doesn't know anything aside from Spanish. His outbursts in the previous episodes were not only unprofessional, but plain old silly.

So, I'm still watching the show and am sure the judges know way more than the viewing public. Would just love to taste all that stuff. Keep up the good work.

posted at January 28, 2007 09:24 PM

R Allen wrote:

Dave, Everyone knows there will be no winner of Top Chef this year. Ilan and Marcel both get the boot when their hookup comes to light. Which explains Ilan's hate for Marcel. Another closet queen with mixed emotions.

posted at January 29, 2007 08:54 AM

JoJo wrote:

Ok, so it is about the food? What about burners being turned off? Pots moved? fridge doors left open? Thats not about the food, thats about being chil

dish or afraid your input is not good enough to complete fairly.Marcel does not play fair, but then did any of them?

posted at January 29, 2007 11:46 AM

janeyek wrote:

Dave..
As you see by many of the comments, you guys in Season 1 left a huge legacy that these Season 2 chefs didn't even come close to achieving. As a past participant, I had been posting on other blogs would a mentor (ala Tim Gunn) help with the cheating, baiting/back biting, and knowing who is really the top chef in the kitchen? You have been there and done that....would it have helped determine who really deserves the honor, money and career boost? For you Elia lovers...get real..would she have fixed her "broken hearts" without Sam's push or would she have walked? Plus all her complaints when she was not chosen as winner maligning noted chefs who are tops in the business. For all you Ilan lovers....why complain about Marcel foams when saffron is Ilan's number 1 condiment and found in practically everything he cooks (which 9 times out of 10 is Spanish). I am rather dismayed that Sam is not in the Final, and I am hoping next year proves a better crop of applicants! Can you put a bug in the producers ear Dave...and good luck on your new life in New York! Let us know when you are open for business!!!!

posted at January 29, 2007 01:52 PM

janeyek wrote:

Dave..
As you see by many of the comments, you guys in Season 1 left a huge legacy that these Season 2 chefs didn't even come close to achieving. As a past participant, (I had been posting this comment on all the other Top Chef blogs) would a mentor (ala Tim Gunn) help with the cheating, baiting/back biting, and knowing who is really the top chef in the kitchen? You have been there and done that....would it have helped determine who really deserves the honor, money and career boost? For you Elia lovers...get real..would she have fixed her "broken hearts" without Sam's push or would she have walked? Plus all her complaints when she was not chosen as winner maligning noted chefs who are tops in the business. For all you Ilan lovers....why complain about Marcel foams when saffron is Ilan's number 1 condiment and found in practically everything he cooks (which 9 times out of 10 is Spanish). I am rather dismayed that Sam is not in the Final, and I am hoping next year proves a better crop of applicants! Can you put a bug in the producers ear Dave...and good luck on your new life in New York! Let us know when you are open for business!!!!

posted at January 29, 2007 01:53 PM

Patrick McCarthy wrote:

Marcel has been the runt of the group for all to long. He has the most talent and desire to be Top Chef. In my opinion, Sam has been the fire for creating the clique against Marcel and he really looks foolish for it, see ya. Marcel is an artist and I respect his determination and creativity over the rest of the herd mentality cooks. I think Ilan would have been better if he chose to be an individual instead of following Sam and Elia. I would have preferred Marcel vs Sam and have Marcel slap the heck out of him with his final dishes. Go Marcel!

posted at January 29, 2007 05:21 PM

Not Afraid of Science wrote:

I've about had it with all of the comments about Marcel mixing "chemicals" into his food. Geez Louise people! Xanthan gum is nothing more than sugar fermented with certain microorganisms. It is no less food than beer (fermented) or yogurt (microorganisms). I keep seeing comments in all of the blogs from posters who are freaking out over Marcel's use of xanthan gum, acting like it's some sort of plastic or something. Or referring to as a chemical. In fact, it's in lots of stuff you eat, including ice cream, and Marcel was quite clever to use it.

posted at January 29, 2007 11:16 PM

corliss brown wrote:

the chefs from the first shows were better than the ones on top chef 2 .

posted at January 30, 2007 11:14 AM

Sheila Rishel wrote:

Hi Dave, This comment is really for the judges of Top Chef. I can't believe that you all picked Marcel over Sam last week. Out of all of them Marcel, in my opinion was the last chef to have gone to the finals. Tom talks about cooking the food. Marcel didn't cook everything last week, and I;m sure I didn't miss the fact that he had one more foam on his plate. What were all of you thinking? I would love an answer. Also maybe its time that you put someone in as a judge, who isn't so pickly. A layman. Someone simply with taste buds, and not to much knowledge! Call me, I be interested to hear any of your thoughts on this. I faithfull watcher who loves this show, its more than just about the food. People and their passion do play a part in this contest also. Looking forward to the end of this one. Sincerely, Sheila from Hollywood

posted at January 30, 2007 11:20 AM

Rita wrote:

Hi Dave, I really miss last seasons contestants. You guys were the best. This season seems to be everyone ganging up on one guy. Now I don't know Marcel but I have watched the entire season and there isn't any call for this. I hope Marcel wins because none of the rest of them are 'top chef' to me. The only one with any class is Marcel. The rest of them are acitng like spoiled children. Good luck to you in all your endeavors.

posted at January 30, 2007 04:24 PM

doublek wrote:

Dave, just watched TC1 on Bravo, am so impressed with your kitchen skills. Really want some of your mac and cheese man! Welcome to the East Coast.
Re: TC2 comments, I have been following the show, and am so NOT a Marcel fan, thought we would see Sam and Cliff or Ilan in the final, however Marcel's "chemicals" need a little defense. Xantham Gum is a perfectly legit vegetarian low carb thickener; perfect for the purpose used- made his pineapple poi the right texture without diluting the pineapple flavor or making the dish unpleasantly starchy.
That being said, I hope Ilan brings more than saffron to the finale, I want to see him take the title.
I haven't read all the postings, am I the only person who thinks that if you spin Marcel really fast his hair will stand up like one of those troll dolls?

posted at January 30, 2007 04:25 PM

bill hayes wrote:

Hey Dave. Didn't know you were blogging. Good luck with the NYC move. As has been said, this season is not a decent follow up to you and the rest of the folks on TC1. I didn't see anythng this year that came even close to, oh say, black truffle mac and cheese.

posted at January 30, 2007 05:33 PM

linda glewwe wrote:

hey, i love the show! i feel that season 2 was the best! for sure sam and marcel should be in the finale!! if there is a season 3 you should stress no fighting,no imature behavior,swearing, this is a cooking competion! not a bad behaverial camp! if they cannot handle it elimnate them on the spot.i feel sorry for the judges who even have to put up with such an embarressment.

posted at January 30, 2007 06:55 PM

Karen wrote:

Hi, where can I see the reunion show for top chef season one?
thanks

posted at January 30, 2007 08:46 PM

Estle L. Vaughn wrote:

News flash people....A cutting edge Thanksgiving dinner was prepared,Elia made mushroom soup! Cooking on the beach she put an egg on a cornchip.Here is a little history lesson...Mexicans have been serving crap on a DORITO for centuries. Elia does not belong on the show.Many finer chefs left prematurely if she is in the finals.What a joke!

posted at January 30, 2007 09:23 PM

Paula wrote:

Well tommorrow is the final and I won't be watching. This was reality TV that is for sure. It is more for the drama than the food. Marcel can do whatever with his cans full of not real seasonings and Ilan can saffron himself into a coma.. Just to set the record straight, if you watch the video of Sam and so called judge Tom on the after the show session, Sam did cook, he explains that. I found it very interesting that the guest judge absolutely loved Sam's dishes, and then Tom turns to him and says he didn't cook anything. Then the guest judge says I didn't look at it that way. I think the producers are running the show and not the so called judges. It is clear that Marcel will win, what better way to keep him intact then to have him win and not sue the show. TC 2 doesn't even come close to the first season. I loved you Dave. Thought you, Harold and Lee Ann were tops... Alot of class.

posted at January 30, 2007 09:36 PM

Eric wrote:

Sam, Elia & Ilan all turned into a bunch of whiney bitches in the end. At least Marcel doesn't pretend to be something that he's not.

posted at January 30, 2007 10:15 PM

amy wrote:

DAVEDAVEDAVE!!!!!!!!You should have won season one. So WHAT if you didnt make 3 dishes. Anyways, Marcell can cook but chicken poisoning something I would pass on. Looks like TV ratings are TOP on this season. Should have been Ilan @ SAM most definatly.Look at the facts judges. You did in season 1 why change it now. Its not a ratings contest. SHAME ON U CHEF COLLICIO & PADMA. Dave needs to be one of the next judges NO HOLDS BARRED.!!!!!!!!

posted at January 30, 2007 10:17 PM

Linda Schaefer wrote:

Hi Dave,
Loved you in Season 1! As for Season 2 from what I see it looks like Marcel has been picked on from the beginning. He's been told off and yelled at and practicly beat up and he still acted like he had some class. I think the others have been jealous of him from the start because he always takes a risk and his dishes look beautiful. Everything Ilan does has Saffron in it. What the hell is Saffron anyway!!

posted at January 30, 2007 10:26 PM

Connie Cox wrote:

I hate Marcel, I believe that Sam definately belongs in the finale. Marcel is more like a wierd scientist. Not that there is anything wrong with that but he sucks.

posted at January 30, 2007 11:12 PM

lisa miller wrote:

Dear Dave,
After watching the Top Chef marathons leading up to the finale of TC2, I find the contestants from season one to have much more class, dignity, common sense, and plain old decency. I've enjoyed reading your blogs because you bring a delightful sense of humor. I also enjoy watching the repeats of season 1 to listen to your humorous comments on air. I hope that season 3 might recognize your talents and maybe let you comment on air about the progress of the show. Keep up the good work.

posted at January 30, 2007 11:17 PM

Anthony wrote:

Dave:

Why bother posting? You restated the last episode. We all watched it. There is no insight here. Are you that shallow or is it indifference? Oh, I forgot to mention option number three.......

posted at January 31, 2007 12:23 AM

Ariana wrote:

My only problem with Marcel moving forward is there is NO POSSIBLE WAY for a normal chef to try his "recipe" out. I don't know a single person who would keep xantham gum in their pantry. If he was to open a restaurant in his style, I think it would be a quick flash for the unique style then burn out. I think most of us love trying to create restaurant dishes at home...

posted at January 31, 2007 01:38 AM

Lauren wrote:

I cannot understand why Sam of all people was sent home...Marcal should go home as he has the least appealing of all foods I have seen. I think Gail is the reason, but not sure why she likes his foods.....

posted at January 31, 2007 09:31 AM

Tammi Hurton wrote:

Okay, so I was totally shocked and still am when they sent Sam home. Sam IS Top Chef. He's been consistant through the entire competition and seems to be the most professional and talented of them all. I will NOT watch the final episode since I cannot stand Marcel, I think Betty put it best...he's an annoying gnat! Sam was ROBBED of the title of Top Chef and I'm still bitter about it!

posted at January 31, 2007 09:36 AM

susan wrote:

the reason Marcel is in the final is so he will not sue Bravo over the incident with Cliff. It's a tradeoff, he wins top chef and Bravo doesn't get sued. The decision to keep Marcel in the top two (with the weakest opponet) is certainly not based on his food. He made runny pineapple puke and sabatoged the other cooks in the kitchen, yet he comes up smelling like roses. Just ask yourself why. The fix is in.

posted at January 31, 2007 11:21 AM

Lynn wrote:

You could have picked my jaw off of the floor last week when Marcel beat out Sam. I have been saying since day one that Sam would win. I had not thought about the lawsuit factor, (even though I am from the lawsuit state - Florida! But Susan, you may be right!

I began wanting Cliff to win, but as he showed his true colors (not pun intended!), I grew to dislike him more and more. It did not surprise me that he ruined it for everyone, but going too far with Marcel.

posted at January 31, 2007 12:45 PM

Mark Sundberg wrote:

Hi Dave, Liked watching you on TC 1 and I do agree with the others who commented that we didn't like Marcel getting the nod over Sam. I'm not sure if its all about the ratings and I hope it isn't, this maybe why Tiff was selected over you. I still believe that your foods were better than hers and you should have gone to the finals.

posted at January 31, 2007 01:15 PM

Yesenia wrote:

I have to admit that the show is very interested with all the drama that goes on, but to be real I don't appreciate everyone ganging up on Marcel the way they have done in the last episodes, I really like the guy and he does things more mature then others, and personally he would have to be my Favorite of all, I hope he does get TOP CHEF!!!!

posted at January 31, 2007 04:08 PM

middlechef wrote:

I hear that duck is expected to be served RARE, which is entirely GROSS and how is this ok.....anyhoo - can we move beyond Marcel's slightly undercooked chicken wing? at least it wasn't chicken guts buried in chocolate POO like ILAN....Ewww. Well, we all have our tastes. Cool Dave, that you see Ilan as arrogant. He is. Not only arrogant, but cruel and mean and a turd-stirrer. What a wiener. After whooping up Elia to a frenzy, he really wasn't man or chef enough to say what he felt about Marcel. And even Sam, who I thought would certainly make it to the finals.....Sam, how did you insult Marcel time after time and not have the guts to stand up at the finale. I know how. He knew the judges wouldn't like it. He at least had common sense to include with experience beyond and above Elia and Ilan. Sorry he had to leave; not sure I agree with that. But I am hoping for the true TOP CHEF to make it tonight, Marcel the one I've been following since day 1. Grace under fire. I am stunned by the behavior of adults. It is so much like being teased on the playground. Marcel said it well early on when he commented.....'let's see - who should we hate? Let's hate MARCEL!" as he chuckled in his own amazement. Luckily he is secure enough in his own virtue, talent, craft, gift and real LIFE that this will pass and he will move onward and upward to bigger and better things. I hope he leaves with 100 grand. Hope to see him in Vegas!!!!

posted at January 31, 2007 07:48 PM

su wrote:

I loved season 1 it was about the cooking, season 2 was about mean spirted people. Marcel should have won and who cares about the rest. I feel sam and mikey moved the fish who leaves food on the floor...health code. How sad betty and others got away with being so mean, i hope season 3 and all the rest will be again about the great food not about people who are so hurtful. Marsel has alot of courage to take all he did for his food. Hope he does well in his life.

posted at February 25, 2007 09:36 PM