August 22, 2007
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A thrilling episode this week, with a surprising and sad ending. In many ways, the last few episodes have (in their own pain-inducing way) better illustrated the skill set you REALLY need to succeed as a Top Chef than straight, head-to-head cookoffs ever could -- how to do things you might not be particularly good at while under pressure. How to get knocked out of your comfort zone -- without warning -- and still soldier through. How to deal with things going wrong all around you -- without losing your cool. How to step up and above your normal responsibilities -- and manage to pull it off.
As most who've spent any time as professional chefs know all too well, the phrases "It's not my job" and "It's unfair" have no real meaning when you're in charge of a kitchen. You may never have anticipated, back in culinary school, that refrigeration and plumbing maintenance skills (for instance) would be a job requirement. Until the grease trap backs up on a busy Saturday night -- or a vital reach-in cooler freezes up and the service people tell you "First thing tomorrow." Or -- as chef garde manger (salad man), that you will finally get your crack at the saute station -- without warning -- on a busy Saturday night, when the regular guy unexpectedly doesn't show. Hopefully, you rise to the occasion. First rule of Chef's Club is:
Shit Happens.
Comments
Chef Pellegrino wrote:
are you kidding me, i have been watching this show regilously for all three seasons. In this third seson the judges......huh , i believe that the judges have made all the wrong desisions. i mean honstly Tre? why send him home, he is one of the best you have on top chef. Dale, you will never make it in my resturant with that flimboiunt attitude. Howie you make me laugh you are not tough and i have aten at your resturant twice, and let me tell you it is about as good as dennys. Hung your nasty. Very impresive, i wont be susprised to see you win. "Sara" please go home, your cooking techniqes are a joke. Thinking of sara's skills got me thinking.........im done talking and im going to bed i feel nautious.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:21 PM
Jesse wrote:
You said "asshat."
I love you.
And yes, Madonna's brother is very much the quintessential "asshat."
I'm also beginning to think that little Howie is deserving of the badge of asshattery as well.
And Tre, how we shall miss thee! Besides being fantastic in the art of cookery, he showed a great deal of class throughout the show- no drama.
Although the drama is fun.
And i agree- hooray for New Hung!
Love you, Anthony!!!!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:32 PM
Charlotte White wrote:
I was so disappointed. Tre got voted off. He is the most professional of the whole group. There were several others that deserved to get voted off before Tre. He was my favorite from the start.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:33 PM
Ray In New Orleans wrote:
I'm really sad to see Tre go, and if it had been a different set of folks on his team (like, say, Howie and Hung) I would have thought he got set up on purpose.
The thing is, it's all about the food, right? Tom says this all the time. Well, if it's all about the food, Tre did one nice dish and two disasters, while Brian DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. Padme wouldn't have been able to tell him to pack his knives and go because he apparently never unpacked them.
Tre was a contender to win the whole thing, and Brian clearly is not. The real money is laying odds on whether Brian or Howie gets axed next week. My money is on Brian because Howie is a sneaky bastard.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:34 PM
Patrick wrote:
Anthony.....love your blog.
Let's get to the real story --- how friggin' hot is Casey? Screw her chopping skills....she is babe-o-licious!!! Keep up the good work. Maybe Bravo will have you and Rocco on tv together for a cook-off.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:38 PM
ME wrote:
Thanks for another hilarious post -- we love your blog entries! I was sorry to see Tre go too -- I was hoping for a final matchup between him and Hung.
Bravo, can we please post video of Hung carving up those five chickens? That was unbelievably sweet!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:41 PM
Amanda wrote:
Seriously I am laughing my ass off at the description of Mr. Allen being harpooned by the salmon.
As a self professed Hung-hater I was quite surprised to actually not hate him this episode. Could this be the beginning of a tide turning? We'll see!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:42 PM
dib wrote:
Awesome comments, as you have done in the past weeks, your comments cut to the heart of the matter with wit, style and just the right sense of humor.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:42 PM
Dan wrote:
I was dissappointed about Tre's leaving until I read this post. It seems like the logical decision. CJ, though, should be under heightened scrutiny for letting Tre put himself on the block like that. Also, Brian hasn't really cooked anything in almost 3 weeks now (he was the front in both restaurant challenges and the late night drunk food truck).
Reading this blog is almost better than watching the show sometimes. I hope Bravo keeps Bourdain on the job!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:44 PM
p wrote:
I, too, am completely depressed about Tre's departure, but I have no doubt that the way he conducted himself on this show will only help him in his very bright future. Thank you for articulating those very feelings. And awesome comments about Madonna's brother!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:44 PM
rebecca mayer wrote:
Anthony, not sure I agree with much of what your said but more noteably, why did you say nothing about CJ? I'm starting to think he's the scum sucking element at work here - what did he really do to contribute to his team? Why didn't you address this? One-ball sympathy?
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:44 PM
metallent wrote:
Well said! Like you, I'm so sad to see Tre go, and why, oh why did he choose this night to be so inconsistent? I'm sure he'll continue to have a successful career, and I'm sure this experience will help him fulfill his desires. Sara! Holy cow, you could have knocked me over with a feather, where did this come from? She put a beat down on Casey that was unbelievable, and put Howie in his place. BRAVO! My only question is, where was Brian and what was he doing during this elimination challenge? I guess I'll have to watch this episode again, as painful as it might be, because he was nowhere to be found, unless I had a brain relapse. Dale, boyfriend, what were you thinking when you dressed so casually? It was great to see Stephen in all his glory! I hope Bravo posts the information about him on the site. Looking forward to more of your posts Anthony!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:45 PM
Tim wrote:
Wow, great blog. Once again, I agree with all of your views on the contestants. I did figure that Tre would be eliminated when I saw that restaurant "April" was going downhill, just because, like you said, he stuck his neck out the furthest. I absolutely thought that he would've gotten to the final and had a great chance to win. It felt too early for him to go, but go he did.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:46 PM
valerie wrote:
I agree with your blog 100%. I too, was so sad to see Tre leave the show, but seeing the judge's reaction to his decision, I think that it was the only choice they had. I think that the problem was the fact that he might have been overconfident and too comfortable in his position. If I remember correctly, the last time that Tre said that he could make a dish in his sleep was during the BBQ challenge when he was in the bottom. This time around, he said that he could make bread pudding in his sleep, and it turned out to be crummy. He was definitely my favorite chef because of his poise, his attitude, and his plating (since I can't taste the food). I wish him the best of luck in his endeavors.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:47 PM
Jo'el wrote:
So anthony what would you have done differently? I think Trey was pretty inventive with his dishes although i think he did three and the others did one or none. Salmon soaked in beet juice! genius? perhaps...people have different tastes i personally like beets.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:54 PM
njdeb69 wrote:
They sent the wrong baldie packing! Howie so nasty...
I hate CJ for baling on Tre and hope he gets booted next!
Anthony thanks again, for cheering me up, you RULE!!!!!!!!!!!
Now Im off to jump on the Hung-wagon.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:54 PM
lynn schmollinger wrote:
Oh my god!! Finally, someone steps up to the plate about who the hell was that rude man in the first episode of resturant wars.
Madonna's brother??? Who cares.
I am shocked but not really surprised about tonights outcome when you make bread pudding....the strangest choice.
With CJ's lousy dish and Casey's overcooked dish..it looks like Hung's to lose.
All I know, I'm drinking a lot of liquor during and after each episode.
Hell, I managed a McDonald's, the way the judges are going--I'm available.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:56 PM
Jackie wrote:
"Third, shutting down Howie's irresistible urge to drag his team into the crapper."
Ooh yes, right on par with that comment. I saw the episode where Howie preached that he would get his team to "the promised land", puhlease! In all of the team competitions it seems the only place that Howie is taking his team is straight to the fiery depths of Hell.
I am sad to see Tre go, I believed he was going to stick it out right to the end. BUt, the bottom line was that three of the "bad" dishes were Tre's and he was the Exec. CJ picked wisely and was saved else he would have been chopped.
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:57 PM
Jennifer L wrote:
Tony!
I agree completely...Tre's gone and Casey can't mince...if you had asked me last week who was going to take it I would of said Tre hands down... a few questions still linger... Stephan and his Windsor tie what is HE doing now?? I love love love that guy almost as much as I love reading your blogs and watching your show!!
posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:58 PM
Janice wrote:
In Howie's defense on the oysters, he was well aware that he wasn't that fast - and his counterpart was more experienced at shucking. Howie was the team player here. Taking the job none of the others wanted.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:00 AM
Lori Tinney wrote:
Anthony,
Sometimes your blogs are way too acerbic for me: like you think the point is to be as witty/bitchy as possible, not to be informative. I really appreciated your insights about tonight's episode. You gave readers the facts and told us what conclusions the facts lead you to. Thanks! As always, your writing (not opinions) is concise, well-worded and infinitely readable.
I SO agree with your commentary on Madonna's brother. Not a particularly qualifed person for this show. You don't get to be such an asshole when you have no cred.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:00 AM
Corey wrote:
Mr. Bourdain,
Nice blog. Except for one minor exception (your reference to Christopher Ciccone), you didn't sound mean at all this time.
As for "Madonna's asshat brother", I don't think many people would disagree that he's an asshat. But I think it's only fair to give him some credit for his talent. In spite of what we all assume to be Dale's unspoken reservations, Mr. Ciccone apparently succeeded in improving the decor of both restaurants. You might know the old biblical saying, "By their fruits ye shall know them," so asshat or not, he still deserves some respect as a designer.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:01 AM
Josie wrote:
Hey Anthony! Great blog. I, too, hate that Tre was the one to go but as the exec chef for April, he's the one with the bullseeye on his back. Have you and he had the opportunity to get "savage drunk" yet? :-)
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:02 AM
Christina wrote:
Sock It To Em' Tony! You said everything I was thinking. Not my Tre'! Not Tre', there must be a mistake. I'm gonna have to watch it again just to see if something was wrong with my TV. But in retrospect, the dishes he served.....were his worst. I don't know what happened, he is capable of so much more. I hope to enjoy a meal of his soon at his own restaurant, preferably in New York. I think he was the most talented out of all the chefs without any doubt. Loved the show, the chefs, the judges, but I'll still be rooting for Tre' overall!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:02 AM
drab wrote:
Tony,
I felt wounded by Tre's exit, but agree that he was the right choice off of the losing team. There was a decided lack of the tension that seems to be a prerequisite for having a competitive edge. If you're going to be the boss, be the boss. Frankly, Tre didn't have his team ready to play. Additionally, they seemed to me to be too worried about what the other team was doing rather than focused on what they were doing. They shouldn't have cared what the other team was doing, but focused on what they were doing.
Sara on the other hand lead her team, holding them to a standard of excellence regardless of any hurt feelings (read Howie). I didn't expect that from her. Kudo's to them, they deserved to win.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:02 AM
Shelley wrote:
I was sorry to see Tre go, too, but you're right, Tony. His food tonight didn't reflect his potential. And I also agree that Sara ruled her kitchen well.
I can't believe you haven't commented on CJ's "one ball" condition. ;]
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:04 AM
Ana wrote:
Right on Bourdain! I too was heartbroken. I too thought they made the decision that had to be made. Perhaps now I will join you on the team Hung side of the fence. I secretly long for a Top Chef that is not a skinny white man -- no offense -- I am married to a skinny white man. Keep up the good work -- I actually look forward to your blog more than I do the episode itself.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:05 AM
Raven Windrider wrote:
As always, a true pleasure to read your blog Chef.
Inciteful, well-thought out, enough detail, and a
good laugh (Mickey Rourke's dog-groomer?!!! BWAH, ha, ha!!!!!)
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:06 AM
mamanita wrote:
Anthony you a so droll... you crack me up. I am shocked and saddened over Tre's departure and will take a while to forgive the producers (not the "judges") for that boneheaded decision. I must admit that I am a little miffed at your characterization of Dallas cuisine. You know we can really" cook up some good vittles down here",(said with Texas twange) if you get my drift. Keep blogging you are refreshingly honest, even though I don't agree with you sometimes.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:08 AM
gminorthreat wrote:
The producers should craft a challenge that requires the contestants to do something out in the real world. Like put everyone on the line at some nice busy place in NY -- here is your prep list, don't fuck up. Might be difficult to keep such a challenge hermetically sealed and consistently judged, but perhaps it would be a nice respite from product placements. The winner could drive their RAV-4 through a plate glass window and grab as much Botox and Bertolli as they could in 5 minutes, and then off to the Sur La Table intravenous lemon drop spa treatment, with the 18% gratuity provided by Capital One. What is in your wallet?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:10 AM
Belinda wrote:
Casey, Casey, it was painful to watch. I teach cooking and trust me after two weeks my students could have cut an onion faster.
No one even mentioned to her that she lost the quick fire for her team.
I was crushed to see Tre go, but I know he will be just fine. Any one knows where he is working.
Tony, can we give some of the "sponsors" a rest. Cold Stone Creamry, some burger place I never heard of, if they do Red Lobster or Olive Garden I'll scream.
Love your blog and tell Howie to get a do-rag.
Belinda
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:10 AM
Lee wrote:
Thank you, Chef Anthony for ultimately concurring with
the judge's decision to send Tre packing(stunnng upset)
and distilling e x a c t l y what went wrong with his FOOD.
I am disillusioned at this point with virtually everyone's
overall perfomance as I thought Tre was clearly The One.
I'm exhausted...
Thank you for your hilarious commentary...
oh yes, I simply love you and your style.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Lee wrote:
Thank you, Chef Anthony for ultimately concurring with
the judge's decision to send Tre packing(stunnng upset)
and distilling e x a c t l y what went wrong with his FOOD.
I am disillusioned at this point with virtually everyone's
overall perfomance as I thought Tre was clearly The One.
I'm exhausted...
Thank you for your hilarious commentary...
oh yes, I simply love you and your style.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Lee wrote:
Thank you, Chef Anthony for ultimately concurring with
the judge's decision to send Tre packing(stunnng upset)
and distilling e x a c t l y what went wrong with his FOOD.
I am disillusioned at this point with virtually everyone's
overall perfomance as I thought Tre was clearly The One.
I'm exhausted...
Thank you for your hilarious commentary...
oh yes, I simply love you and your style.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Lee wrote:
Thank you, Chef Anthony for ultimately concurring with
the judge's decision to send Tre packing(stunnng upset)
and distilling e x a c t l y what went wrong with his FOOD.
I am disillusioned at this point with virtually everyone's
overall perfomance as I thought Tre was clearly The One.
I'm exhausted...
Thank you for your hilarious commentary...
oh yes, I simply love you and your style.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
adriana wrote:
as always chef bourdain, you are right on the money, always bitingly honest, and funny...omg casey, so frustrating with those onions! i thought tre would be there at the end, but he took his "knifing" like a pro.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Tim Andersen wrote:
I was sorry to see Tre go. I think we can all agree on two things. Howie's going down for obvious reasons. And Casey's going down for her crappy knife skills. I thought she was going to lose this week because of her terrible performance in the Quick Fire Challenge.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Tiffany wrote:
I agree with everything in this blog. It definitely seems like Tre was willing to except his mistakes like a man and take the fall for his team. I seriously doubt that Howie would of stepped up to the plate like that, which is why Tre should still be there, but I suppose Howie makes better TV so that is why him (and his sweaty head) are still there. I think Tre will make out ok though, so he definitely has nothing to worry about.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:13 AM
Tatai wrote:
I am a dedicated top chef viewer and i feel that today the show lost my vote. I would like to see if i could get some answers as to why Trey was cut this week. I fail to understand how a chef who has been so consistent week after week and is responsible for executing some exceptional meals was cut. I feel it was unfair and he should have been given another chance. If you read this Trey you had my vote this week and i know a lot of people who were very impressed by your cooking skills. Stay strong, keep working hard because you have a very bright future in front of you. Cheers.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:15 AM
Alysabeth in Austin wrote:
You made me feel better. Anthony Bourdain,the Comforter.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:16 AM
Carrie wrote:
Tony, I love you.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:26 AM
Dolly wrote:
Chef Anthony, great blog. I kept waiting for you to say something about CJ'. He chooses someone else as leader. Last episode, he prepared the artichoked about as fast as Casey chopped onions. Then he puts on that dear-in-the-head lights performance at the judges table. My stock in CJ went from a buy/hold to a sell after this week's episode. I was unimpressed.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:28 AM
Andy B. wrote:
No, No, No, No, No............ Tre did not get eliminated. Anthony, please tell me it ain't so. I understand what your saying Mr. Bourdain, about Tre being the most ready to be a big time chef. The most calm of these T.C.3 contestants, and the most professional. One more thing though.. Tre is one of the best chefs, and as many bloggers think, should be in the top two when the finals come around. Yes he did take on a lot this week. Wasn't the one who picked the team, the one who thought his team had it in the bag . Mr. over confident C.J. The one who opined that Tre's dessert was bland. C. J. should have been eliminated not Tre. C.J. made the picks, cooked badly, and did nothing else but throw Tre under the bus. Even Casey could have gone, her peeling skills were slower tthan my grandmothers, and she's dead. Her monk fish was a disaster. Casey seems to get carried every week. Dale carried her in the Italy trip episode. Brian in another. Casey never stands out. Sarah even stepped up this week big time. She demanded Howie recook the very rare Lamb. Not only winning it for the team, but possible saving Howie's ass.
Tre packing his knives is the most surprising elimination ever in the history of Top Chef. Especially in the eight week. Can't be. There are seven chefs left and Tre isn't one of them. What a pity.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:30 AM
SP wrote:
Although I know why Tre was sent home, my heart was still broken- until I read your latest installment. If you think Tre's future is bright, then it really is. I'll miss that classy gentle giant.
And "asshat" captures C.C. perfectly. Please, go away and don't come back.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:31 AM
Robin wrote:
My first reaction...Nooooooo not Tre!! But after reading Tony and Tom's blogs I must say that although a tough choice it was fair for him to "pack his knives". He is a class act and I wish him well in everything he does going forward. What was the title of "Top Chef" going to do for him anyway? Tre is amazing with or without a silly title. Chin up Tre...move forward knowing you will excel at what ever you do in the food world. Not only as a chef but as the fine person you are. To you Tre...all the best!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:33 AM
gourmet wannabe wrote:
Nice of Anthony Bourdain to defend Tom. However, I can't watch the show anymore. What happened tonight to Tre is a travesty. All those wanting to try out for Top Chef 4 take note. The way to stay in the game is to not take on responsibility and to not support a team member during a team competition. I'm disappointed in Tom. The decision tonight was so gravely inappropriate the show is no longer worth watching. I will always continue to watch No Reservations, however. Bourdain rocks in that show.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:36 AM
michael wrote:
As always, Mr. Bourdain, you are hilarious (usually in being so out there, but on this show, on point!). :D
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:39 AM
polly wrote:
I am too so happy to see hung steps up his game, i know he has the skills but for the past couple weeks i get scare that he might get voted off..
mr bourdain, you r the only one that stuck by hung...!!:D
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:40 AM
e johnson wrote:
You are so right on. I'm still in shock that a girl that can't dice onions is still there....is that not a basic, even if you have only owned a butter knife all your life? now I really need a shot of honey turkey.courtesy of jack. Oh , and i'm a girl too.......go figure lookout men!!!!!!!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:43 AM
Kathy A. wrote:
So, Mr. Anthony tell me why would Brian not be one to be seriously consider for elimination. I mostly like what you have to say but it seems like Brian just sat on his behind and got away with not cooking a single dish and had boring service. I thought we were watching a Cooking competition, Brian didn't cook. I just hated to see Tre go for working harder than that slacker, high, strung child, Brian.
Also, I think you are more deserving of the top Judges position. I think it is time for you to move over to Bravo (keep the travel show but I like your thoughts better than Tom's). Just a thought.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:46 AM
hannah wrote:
i was was in denial when Tre got kicked off, even more than when Sam didnt make it to the finals in season 2. since the first episode i was positive he would be in it until the end. i guess the judge truly proved that they judge on a nightly basis and not on overall potential. are they trying to make up for giving Sara the boot instead of Howie? or kicking out Lia when Hung's delusional, cocky, kinda embarrassing attitude should have gotten him kicked out long ago? if he makes one more sour-puss face when he receives criticism in a quickfire, im gonna put a foot through my tv. it must be easy for him to look happy and composed when he's hearing exactly what he wants to.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:46 AM
meleny wrote:
The best blog on the net! Spot on review and tremendous wry humor. Almost as entertaining as watching your show!
Ok, Tre leaving. Absolutely adored him but there always seemed to be something he was holding back. Yes, I can't stand Hung, there I've said it! Moving on.....he may be an inventive chef but there must be some type B in there somewhere. Maybe he could open a three seat restaurant and do everything himself? Where is the thin line between creative and crazy?
If Sara was a surprise. Casey was Freddie Kruger unleashed! Wit those knives it would have taken her hours to slash her chef's Z!
Ah, Howie. Did I hear soft "baas" coming from your plate?!
Dale was a delight! He really rose to the occasion and handled difficult situations with grace.
I wish the show was on multiple times a week!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:49 AM
helen wrote:
mr bourdain, it's amazing to me that your writing mirrors your food --hitting the spot with honesty and a touch of inimitable flair. as unfair as it seems that tre is no longer with top chef, it keeps the show honest, no? and it's good t.v. yeah, (casey), yeah (hung), yeah (sarah), yeah (howie), yeah (dale) and yeeaaah (boulud). your blog keeps the enjoyment of Top Chef coming...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:53 AM
Starrlight wrote:
The knife scene made me wonder for a moment if I was stoned and watching a Pink Floyd video. She was beyond slooooow!
An excellent review. Judges, please, for the love of god, send Howie home. I know you think he is good tv, but he is putting me off my feed bag with his food.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:01 AM
Kerry wrote:
Anthony Bourdain, what a fun blog!! I love the reference to Ina Garten...too funny. I too will miss Tre. I liked him, and was kind of hoping for someone truly professional (NOT Ilan or Marcel or Tiffany...ahem) in the final this time, so now, who to champion? I'm pulling for Dale...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:07 AM
stephanie wrote:
Hilarious. Honest to God I am laughing out loud. It was the balm for my aching heart I desperately needed after Tre's departure. I had Tre as the #1 winner in our pool. Thanks for giving him his due in your blog, while still being your usual hysterical self...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:07 AM
traci thompson-cage wrote:
Love all you guys, but, I think the best went home tonight. I appreciate that Tre took responsibility and left graciously. CJ, you got lucky!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:10 AM
Rachel wrote:
asshat, that's beautiful! Happy to be reading you again chef.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:13 AM
Brenda Fitzpatrick wrote:
I thought you were talking about my job - a stay-at-home mother of 3 boys. Or should that description and "first rule" be for most of life in general? Love listening to you Anthony, your a breath of fresh reality on TV these days!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:14 AM
megan wrote:
Based on the previews, I was pretty sure Tre was going to go. If Hung gets into the finals I give him a 90% chance of winning because he will have a lot of known recipes to work with. I can see him not getting to the finals if 1) he gets a challenge out of his comfort zone because he hasn't done very well on these so far or 2) he goes down as a pair.
I love the quickfire challenges because it shows a chef's creativity. The later challenge shows their skills and repertoire. If it stays within fine dining from now on, Hung is the best bet -although I do not think he is the most creative or has the best palate or is the best leader - but he probably has the best skills.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:14 AM
gary.e wrote:
Tony: very good insight on the show tonite, if Casey could have done her quick fire on the egg white instead of onions they would have won that battle.. sorry for Tre, he was a good chef hated to see him go.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:17 AM
S wrote:
love your blog. in this episode i loved team quatre. they were quite endearing. i have to admit. i think my eyes were a bit watery as i felt the joy of their quickfire and elimination win. i love how they let differences aside, cheered each other on and gave eac hother credit. the blog world has been quite hard on howie, so i'm always a fan of him getting some love from his peers. hung, howie, & brian are my favs. tre was one of my favs also, and i'm sad that he left, but he did a kick ass job on the show and will definitely succeed!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:19 AM
Anne wrote:
Bad decision tonight I thought. Tre was overfunctioning but is very talented. CJ, on the other hand, did very little, was the one to choose the team, abdicated responsibility, and I think should have been the one to go.
Thanks for the entertaining and insightful commentary.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:23 AM
zoe wrote:
Ohhhh! Nooooooo! Tre, tre, tre, tre saddddd. I hear you. I agree with you but Tre was one of those guys that I just did not ever, I mean ever wanted to see get chopped. Why not send the salty lobster home or even the over cooked monk fish? Why not?????
I feel like I'm on a swing. I mean, who woudda thunk? Sara? Oh my, she blew me away with her choppin' skills and as a leader. You GO GIRL!
Hung. Wow. He learns fast as he can flay that chicken. He can actually work with others... Hung, is dat u? Where did u bury your evil genius twin bro?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:24 AM
Ken wrote:
Not as much pizazz as previous blogs, but still insightful. I think Tre needed support. There was the sense in his crew he didn't and isn't it convenient to have one guy take all the responsibility. It cost him, but as they say in sport, he's a class act. As Bourdain rightly notes, he didn't whine and he never once acted like a prima donna when he was far more plausible in that role than many others who live for that mantle and fall far below the standards they claim. Bourdain, you rock.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:27 AM
hdwb wrote:
like you i was sad to see Tre go. i was certain he would win the whole thing. but sadly i agree with decision given that the judges have said in the past that the decision is based on the current task and not past performance. it is great to read your comments, they are like a "real time" chapter in Kitchen Confidential. good stuff.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:30 AM
Obi wan liberali wrote:
Interesting comments.
I had written off Sara as a player in this drama and now find myself eating crow. What Tre found out, is that leaders are more dependent upon the success of their subordinates than they are upon their own success. He allowed a poor salmon dish to go out without any peer review and then allowed a poor monkfish dish, as well as a overseasoned lobster-salad dish to go out without the quality review you expect from a competent leader in the kitchen.
C.J. showed in unmistaken ways that he is not a leader and even shrinks from the responsibility that a true leader actually craves. The same could be said for Casie, who shows glimpses of talent, but ultimately is unable to show leadership.
Ultimately, C.J. chose his dream team, and then disappeared hoping that others would carry him into the next round. If I had a choice, I would have eliminated C.J.rather than Tre. To be Top Chef, you must crave leadership, not delegate it. C.J. showed a lack of leadership and an inability to project himself as a Top Chef.
Hats off to Sara, who may be technically deficient to others in the pool, but when the heat was on, she took responsibility, and led her team to the promised land. Thanks for making me a fool Sara. I misjudged you and I stand corrected.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:38 AM
monica d wrote:
I am absolutely HEARTBROKEN right up there with you Chef B about Tre's departure. right at the onset of TC3 I saw Hung and Tre (and then eventually CJ, but I think that opinion's following Howie's aspirations right down the crapper) as my immediate front-runners. I KNOW they reinforced the whole "we have to take ONLY TONIGHT into consideration" bit, but can you honestly say that someone with CJ's lack of speed/experience, Casey's lack of knife skills, Sara's lack of creativity, Howie's lack of tact, or Brian's lack of singular personality (I love most of them + Hung and Dale, so don't get me wrong) could seriously outduel someone like Tre in a real life restaurant/kitchen setting? please.
thanks for making me feel better Tony. I actually depended upon reading your blog to find out who went home because I already knew in my heart as I saw the final deliberations, and I couldn't take it on the screen. just couldn't.
all the best to you, Tre. thanks for classing up this season of TC.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:02 AM
Julie wrote:
I blame Sara. True, she showed leadership and cooking "chops", but...Howie's raw lamb would probably have sent him home and saved Tre.
Yes, Tre stuck his neck out and had a bad night, but I think even Tom would agree that Tre's far more "Top Chef" material than Howie.
Howie has ability, but he's shown, week after week, that his personality negatively impacts both his cooking and his team.
If following the "Today Only!" rule leads to such a poor result--yet again--then, imho, it's not a good rule...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:03 AM
Cheryl wrote:
Tony -- you rock! This blog is accurate, funny, entertaining - just like everything else you do!
Farewell Tre, we have great hopes for you and your career!
Cheryl - Fresno, CA
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:03 AM
Matt in Miami wrote:
Much better show this week. After being coddled during the soft opening, I felt like they were finally being held to the high standards we should expect again.
I hate to say it, but Tre definitely was the one who needed to go. He should have gone last week. Serving bad food twice in a row was inexcusable.
And the judges held the executive chefs accountable for their restaurants, as they should, and I have to grudgingly admit that Sara stepped up and hit a home run, with a little training from Hung :) ("Who wants it crispy? Does Dale want it crispy or do you want it crispy?") She deserved to win, and has maybe found her niche because she can't cook.
All in all, the April team was cocky and arrogant and it cost them. After getting their butts kicked in the quickfire (I didn't think Howie was all that slow considering Brian works at a raw bar) and Tre losing the first opening for them almost singlehandedly, I expected a lot more from that group. But I think I see the problem, and it wasn't Casey's knife skills.
CJ is a backstabber. A conniver, a deceiver, a saboteur. Initially, I liked him alot. But his comments during the judges table made me see that he probably set Tre up to fail. He didn't help him, didn't offer opinions, didn't do anything to keep Tre from self destructing. It's been clear for weeks that he considered Tre his most serious competition, and he took the opportunity to get him eliminated. Bad on Tre for not asserting his authority and running his kitchen. Bad on CJ for lacking character. But if Tre had managed to channel Gordon Ramsey for just a few minutes (as Sara did) he might still be with us.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:06 AM
mako wrote:
OK!
That's it!
Can I just say OMG!?
I just finished watching the show and am speechless!
SPEECHLESS!!
For Christ sake, Tre????
Tre????
I understand judgment is on the day's performance.
But
TRE????
How come Sara is still there?
How come Casey is still there?
Are performance in the quick fire even matter????
I am SOOOOOOOOOOO confused and not sure how I can take the decision this week.....
TRE????
Come on!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:09 AM
Lorraine Bates wrote:
Man, Anthony, I love you. I can always count on your blog to give the recap in a no-nonsense, non-PC, "call 'em as I see 'em" manner. Much like my own editorialisms in my living room during the broadcast.
Sara was THE man this episode, no question. She put it all out there, took charge and, if they had come in the bottom, I'm sure would have fallen on the sword for the team.
I was sorry to see Tre go, but as soon as I saw Ted's reaction to that salmon, I knew that was it. I could have stopped watching right there and known the outcome. It's too bad - he was in my top three choices to go all the way - but if you're judged on the week, this week was a stinker for Tre. Of course, Casey and CJ might want to think about packing...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:10 AM
David wrote:
I live for these blogs, and Bourdain's delivery gets better by the week. "Ina Garten on Thorazine"? I nearly puked laughing so hard.
When is the next book coming out?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:10 AM
Susanne wrote:
Never, never, never, never stop writing this blog.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:12 AM
Nancy Middleton wrote:
I really hated to see Tre leave. Ok - maybe he didn't perform that well tonight but although he may have hit on one of three dishes - he certainly did more than Brian (which was nothing!).
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:19 AM
anarosa e wrote:
TRE???? I guess I will have to digest that one. Great comments Anthony!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:20 AM
Rosalind wrote:
Once again, we have Bourdain to guide us to the truth. I was SO UPSET when I came to post here, about Tre leaving, but after reading, wow - yeah. My bet is on Hung, Sarah (surprise!) and Howie. The rest are nice and I'd like them as friends. But these are the three that are kicking ass. Honestly, I thought Tre should win, but for all the reasons Anthony recited, he didn't. But guess what? He will probably succeed overall, more than any of the others, because he is smart - way smart - I'd hire him for my restaurant in a second. OK, OK, I don't have one... yet! :-)
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:22 AM
Jen in GB, WI wrote:
Splendid and insightful, as usual. On another note: I watched your Beirut No Reservations again for the second time, and let me tell you---if you don't win an Emmy for that excellent, poignant portrayal of your experience there, well then I'll have to give those pinko commies in California a big fat noogie. And perhaps a wedgie or three.
Smooches and big ole baby bear hugs.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:25 AM
Jeremy wrote:
I don't think I've ever agreed with you more: "Madonna's asshat brother." Everyone criticized the scented candle's (and rightfully so), yet no one seemed to object to a string of quotes running around the walls? I'd like guests at my resto (if I had one) to enjoy the food and each other--not turning 360's in their chairs reading the walls! Perhaps he should have suggested an alligator head with sunglasses and a cowboy hat and some road signs for further distractions.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:26 AM
Catchef wrote:
Ithought that tonight decision was fair although there was not enough penalty in the total failure of Casey's and team-mates perfomances...How many times do you have to slice an onion vertically...do you understand the onion structure... who wants to be her lover... We didn't get to see the chicken fabrication!!! Tonight should have had two eliminations. Although I don't want to be deprived of more Bourdain's brainstorms. When is the next book coming out?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:31 AM
Samantha wrote:
BOOOOOOOOO! i Have resisted posting on any season until now, Tre leaving is by far worse than Sam getting booted on season 2! I look at the cesspool of chefs left and the fire that was once in my belly while anticipating the next show has now been reduced to a limp noodle, "If it is on I MIGHT listen while I do the dishes. Howie....really?? Cj sold out the best chef and that may have been his plan all along but he has been removed from my he is charming list to he is a punk ass biotch list. Tre was the most talented, well rounded chef in this race and now we are left with a bunch of sub par, lucky on one night jokers....sad
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:33 AM
D.C. wrote:
Another great blog Chef!
the crack at Ina Garten.....I nearly pissed myself man.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:36 AM
dallas girl wrote:
I am sooooo sad that Tre is gone! I went to a cooking class that he held about 3 episodes into the season, and let me tell you, everything he did was phenomenal! Not only that, he is a class act 100%, in every way. While he of course couldn't reveal the outcome of Top Chef, I got the impression that he may not have won but that he went very far. I didn't expect to see him go so soon, especially in a challenge where he should have dominated. He is already executive chef at one of the best restaurants in Dallas, and while some of you may turn your noses at the thought of fine cuisine in Texas, Dallas has some of the finest restaurants in the country. (Just the fact that two of this season's chosen contestants, Tre and Casey, come from Dallas is perfect testament to that.)
It is sad to see one of the most talented chefs and best characters exit so soon, and the other contestants' reactions definitely mirror that sentiment. There really wasn't any other choice for the judges, though. While in the first challenge I felt as though CJ's inexperience in a restaurant kitchen may have put too much burden on Tre (and that Howie's bad risotto and poor track record were the greater sin), the second challenge should have been Tre's time to shine. It seems the decision was based more on Tre's menu choices than anything else; maybe, as executive chef of an established restaurant, he's not as consistently good at coming up with his own ideas as he is executing ones that have already proven themselves. But he will undoubtedly learn that as he gains more experience. As Tony said, he already has the maturity, character and skills that most of the other contestants are lacking, and many top restaurants are looking for. Once he gains the inspiration and creativity, he will be unstoppable!
Tre's cooking class was so much fun because his smile and laugh are infectious, he is a true gentleman, his teaching skills are excellent, and his cooking was unbelievably delicious. One of the dishes he made was the truffle corn custard that he made twice in the restaurant challenge. My husband and I looked at each other on the first bite and said, "We HAVE to make this at home!" We followed his recipe to the letter and it is absolutely gorgeous! With our favorite gone, we will now root for Casey, our other Dallas contingent, but honestly I don't think she's strong enough to carry it all the way through. Hopefully Howie will be ousted soon and I would like to see CJ or Brian really bring it on.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:42 AM
Timothy wrote:
Oh, piss off for not addressing cream in risotto - keller does it and you didn't read - mofo....
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:44 AM
Shiloh wrote:
Thank you for blogging, Anthony. I always enjoy your writing.
I found it obvious the judges would send Tre packing. He's the chef de cuisine, after all and , therefore, responsible for the loss. As you put it, he stuck his neck out the furthest. People will, no doubt decry his exit from the show as there are many less talented chefs remaining but tis the nature of this show. Top Chef usually eliminated contestants in a fairly predictable fashion, with a few anomalies along the way. Tonight was just one of those nights. Thanks for your humor. Ina Garten on Thorazine hacking away at onions... great visual.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:45 AM
Jimmy Park wrote:
Nice analysis. I was rooting for a Tre-Hung finale. Now... Hung-Howie? Hung-Brian? Hmmm.... Hung seems to have humbled up real quick. I'm sure some of it's the editing, but I think he's genuinely learning life on the fly. I was laughing when he was carving the chiken.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:45 AM
Tim wrote:
While it's sad to see Tre leave, he would agree that it was his time. We are reaching the point in this competition where the lesser chefs have been culled, and now any mistake can become fatal. Allowing substandard fare to leave his kitchen was that very mistake.
CJ, however, would be wise to step up his performance. A Top Chef contestant who did not feel comfortable leading his team in the kitchen, making someone else the executive chef... A Top Chef is a leader; what is he doing here?
Hung's performance was excellent. In spite of the guest judge's snippet about "everyone does this", his tartar was once again well received. It's also good to see his improved behavior; he may yet prove to be ready to compete in the final challenge.
Howie's behavior, however, is unfit for most elementary schoolyards. His unwillingness to recognize his own mistakes and take direction from his executive chef (Sara) continue to mark him as unfit for this competition.
I just watched the teaser for next week's episode, and saw Howie requesting to address the panel. Is he going to cut his own professional throat this time? I can't wait...
May I sharpen your knife for you Howie?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:55 AM
Linda wrote:
"burger place you've never heard of"? Red Robin is my favorite place to go because they have such innovative burgers as well as other things so that everyone in our party is totally satisfied. They also have great non-alcoholic drinks, served so that the kids think they are getting real grown-up drinks.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:59 AM
Mr. Palma wrote:
Yes indeed it was very sad to see Tre go in this weeks episode. I too, thought it would be a showdown between Tre and Hung. Hung is my favorite followed by Tre. It was tough to watch the elimination. I can't wait till i can someday visit Hung's restaurant and Tre's, perhaps Tom's new restaurant in LA.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:03 AM
phlegmfatale wrote:
Who knew it was possible there was someone more annoying in that family than Madonna?
Hate.
Him.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:03 AM
dallas girl wrote:
PS In spite of the fact that I said that Tre was the only logical choice tonight (based on how judging is evidently done), I must reiterate my wishes that the judging were based on overall consistency and success, and not a single dish or a night's competition; Tre had the most elimination challenge wins so far, and Howie has had the most times in the bottom group. You tell me, who has proven themselves worthy and still deserves to be in the competition? Who has shown true qualities of a "top" chef besides just a few great (or not-so-great) dishes? But (sigh) I guess it wouldn't be reality TV if they judged differently and in a way that made more sense to those of us that have it!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:04 AM
Zanne wrote:
I would like the original judges panel back. Gail Simmons where are you! Chef Colicchio I want to hear more from you! Ted Allen? Other than Queer Eye what are his credentials? Enjoy the guests judges but, as guests. Love Top Chef and hope there will be a season four!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:33 AM
Michael wrote:
Great commentary once again Chef Bourdain! I too was dissapointed to see Tre go, I just lost the kitchen pool because of that. On the other hand i agree with the judges that it was his turn. He stuck his neck out and took on a huge responsiblity. Personally i think that was part of CJ's game plan. If it was, it was a smart way to eliminate your toughest competitor. Keep up the great reviews Chef and hurry up and write another book soon.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:41 AM
Ellian wrote:
As hard as it was to see Tre go, I understand and agree with the judges' decision (once my initial ranting subsided). And, as you dissected so cleanly, Tre took the role of most responsibility and ended up spreading himself too thin. Not that i have any experience besides what I see from the show, it seems to me that the executive chef must be able to delegate to his/her team! Everyone on Tre's team seemed extremely comfortable with taking a backseat in the kitchen (or front of house) with their less-than-stellar single courses. What did Brian contribute exactly? Not even a noteworthy compliment by the judges on his attentiveness or charisma, or a friggin' dish! Too bad, Tre was a great ambassador for Top Chef and chef's alike...
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:44 AM
jc wrote:
Anthony, I love you dearly, but leave Ina alone. Isn't there enough evil on Food Network without picking on her? Take your pick of the ones to make fun of (Ray-Ray, Aunt Sandy, Dave Lieberman, Michael Chiarello, Guy Fieri, and that new Latina chick who snaps her fingers) - Ina may not be a restaurant chef but she can actually cook; she ran her own catering company for years and her recipes are spot on. As a home cook I've learned a lot from her which is more than I can say for the aforementioned who make me want to slit my wrists everytime they're on TV....
As far as Tre goes, it's a travesty. I don't care how badly he performed in the restaurant wars, if the judges were smart they'd leave him in because of his character and proven skill. The whole idea of "top chef", imo, is not who performs best "tonight" but who, consistently, has shown the most promise, and Tre was one of the very few of the remaining contestants who does. Over and over again, the judges let the person with the most talent go over someone who performs best "in the moment" - which is I guess what makes this reality TV and not real life.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:45 AM
Mas_Tequila wrote:
Tony,
My man. I do have to disagree with Tre's elimination. I already had at it in Tom's blog, but here it is again why this is so flawed and why you all won't get the BEST chef:
While you all are trained chefs, I am a trained scientist. I've been annoyed with your methods from the beginning in that you choose single challenges over the body of work, this method would never fly in science, but hey this is cooking, so I gave it a chance.
Upon further scrutiny, I have to say this is a flawed strategy and more often than not, you will NOT find the best coming out on top. Two out of three seasons now shows this to be true. One large misstep by an otherwise outstanding chef and leader who puts themselves out there will get you booted vs. many small ones that keep you out of the line of fire is not a reliable gauge of talent.
Part of judging talent should be taking into consideration people making mistakes occasionally, constant mistakes are an obvious sign, but those with a few should be taken within context of the circumstances in which they occur.
The basic methodology is flawed. You will not get the right person using it. I beg you to reconsider your criteria and methods.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:52 AM
FCI Long wrote:
Beside Tre's obvious professionalism and work ethic, lets not forget that he was nominated for 2 James Beard Awards in 2005 and 2006 for best rising star chef keeping incredible company along the way. Meaning outside top chef, the James Beard Foundation has more than once thought he was among the absolute top chefs in the country under age 30. If those credentials along with the balls to shoulder so much responsiblity dont make a top chef, i dont know what does, maybe better execution but usually that comes with repetition and time to edit the dish which is a luxury not granted for tv. Best of luck Tre, hope to run into you in the kitchens somewhere.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:59 AM
Alex B wrote:
Chef Bourdain, reading your blog is always a rockin' sockin' experience. It's nice to read something that breaks down and explains stuff that I wouldn't know as a viewer, but where you are a viewer too and experience stuff that I have. I couldn't believe that Ted Allen reacted as violently as he did to the salmon. Plus, it's great to know you loved watching Hung destroy chickens, thought Casey chugged with the onions, and that Sara's decision-making was on point. Rock on, Chef Bourdain!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:16 AM
Sharon wrote:
My jaw dropped for 10 seconds when Padma told Tre to "pack his knives and go," but in the end, I think it was the right decision on the judges' part. This could have been his chance and time to shine and show us how capable he is of being a great chef in a semi-real environment. Instead, he took the laid-back approach. I didn't think he was cooking to win or pushing his teammates enough so they could win. That's not leadership.
Not only that, the tally of the dishes he put out wasn't a good chef report. 1 good, solid dish out of 4? Putting out a dessert he said he could make in his sleep and not cooking it right? And making the same mistake again with the filet mignon when everyone said they weren't impressed? To me, that's not even trying or remotely creative.
Hung is surely getting so much better. I would love to see him shine in another challenge. He has been a great team player, but I want to see him stepping up to the plate soon.
I'm partial about Sara's win. I thought she has been a horrible cook up to today. She has not won any challenge or QF based solely on her food. I don't even remember what she actually cooked tonight. All I saw was her yelling at her teammates to get things going. On the other hand, I guess that's part of being a good chef, seeing how much failing to be bossy had done to Tre.
Great episode!!! It was the best Quick Fire challenge since the very first season.
And thanks Anthony, I love reading yours and Tom's blogs.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:18 AM
Ang wrote:
Anthony-
I love your books, your show and now your Top Chef blog. Please, please, please keep blogging for this show. It's like the cherry on top of a (non-caulifower) sundae!
Oh yeah--*sob, sob*--So long, Tre. I had you pegged to at least be in the top three. Oh well. At least you can rest assured that 5 years from now, you'll be well accomplished and Howie will be scrubbing toilets in South Beach.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:31 AM
realitybites wrote:
Anthony,
I love this entry. It is my favorite thus far. You have successfully shared your insightful commentary without hitting anyone below the belt. Love the first rule of Chefs Club. Very clever!
I've been rooting for Hung. He has the drive, inspiration, energy, and skills to be Top Chef. And, he has shown over the last few weeks that he can learn from his mistakes. His knife skills are amazing. I once saw you (Tony) chop that fast without even looking at the cutting board. You were talking to a reporter in the galley of Les Halles. Watch video here
Can't wait to see you in Cleveland on next week's episode of No Reservations. You and Ruhlman are a great comedic team. Loved the episode of the two of you in Las Vegas.
PS--Rumor has it that Tony will actually be cooking on camera during the Cleveland episode.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:35 AM
Jennifer wrote:
What an awesome blog. I can almost hear Bourdain's voice as I read it.
It stinks that Tre had to go. I really hate that the show doesn't take the overall performances into consideration. It would've made for a much more interesting season finale to have Tre in it.
My opinion of CJ, who didn't impress me much anyway, went down so much. He was the real "asshat" on tonight's episode. He had the appearance of being a good guy, but he showed his true colors. What a scoundrel.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:47 AM
Aunt Jenny wrote:
WTF was up with Casey's choice of knife? It looked like a bread slicer, and was obviously about as sharp as a truck tire. She'd have been better off chopping those onions with a soup spoon, swear to God.
So glad Sara rose to the occasion, and even gladder she didn't take any shit off Howie. She even managed to slip a little ritalin into Hung's oatmeal and tame his frenetic flailing.
I'm sad to see Tre go. He torpedoed himself with a few bad choices, and it's a shame he got the boot. I can only hope that next week CJ gets his comeuppance for being such a weasel at judges' table, Hung continues to take his medication faithfully, and someone gets fed up and clobbers Howie over the head with a copper saucepan. (P.S. Didn't you love how Joey knew right away which dish was Howie's? "Underdone, underdone...")
posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:01 AM
Karen wrote:
CJ is so tall that you'd think it would be hard to overlook him. But take a good look at someone is has been very good at playing this game. Tre didn't choose to be the executive chef. He was told by CJ that he WAS going to be the executive chef. CJ's choice. CJ has said over and over again that he is a team player; having all that volleyball experience. He also knows who to knock out of competition to insure a win. Take a look and see his ambitions and skills step up in the upcoming episodes. He wants to win and he just took out the strongest competion. He destroyed his team out of strategy; It will probably pay off.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:17 AM
miamibrother wrote:
WTF voting off Tre who cooked more than half the entire meal by himself?! Can't a black man catch a break?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:58 AM
Bonny wrote:
Thank you, once again, for your blog. As I read through the comments, I wondered why people are not remembering the times when Tre was on the bottom for the Quick Fire challenges, and, at least once or twice, for the Elimination Challenges. I love Dale. He may not be the most experienced chef but he is the one I'd love to have as a colleague and drinking (and dancing) buddy.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:02 AM
Morgaine Swann wrote:
Good observations - I feel a little better about Tre leaving now. I'm in shock over Casey's knife skills, or lack thereof, as well. Chef Tom says in his blog that her knife was dull, but surely she had more than one she could have used? Sara really impressed me, though, when she put Howie in his place. I cannot wait to see him go.
The 80s were a long time ago, but back in the day I watched Madonna's documentary a few times and I seem to recall that even she doesn't have much patience for her brother. He was as obnoxious as the "food blogger" - monkey? Billy Idol? If you have nothing clever to say, say nothing.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:12 AM
laini wrote:
any old blogger could evoke the image of a bloody mess after a hardcore quickfire challenge, but blood AND HAIR is what makes you the best writer ever.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:32 AM
asa wrote:
tre, tre, tre (talented and sexy..love the guns baby)...why did they off him?! he did have a very bad night. but howie has had a few more. i am so tired of bravado trumping talent. now, that was an ASSHAT decision! honestly, i think cj pulled a strategy move by putting tre as exec chef. so obvious. now the low remain to battle it out. sara's performance was promising last night. but she's been so unimpressive until tonight she bored me. and that accent is irritating! again, top chef your decisions leave me wondering should i continue watching...last season's offing of sam was enough to send me packing. i will finish out this season, but seriously if this finale is weak like season 2 ....i'm done!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:43 AM
Frank Seay wrote:
Chef Anthony,
Your comments, as usual were spot on. You mentioned almost every contestant in your blog except for Brian. His stock has definitely fallen the last few episodes as far as our group is concerned. At end of each week, me and a group of friends take "stock" of where each constestant is in our minds and we tally our point to make a so-called list with front-runners and so-on til we get to who we think will be on the chopping block next week...well our list from after last two episodes changed drastically.....
Louisville Area Foodie Group Top Chef list
8-15-07 8-22-07
--------- ---------
1. Tre 1. Hung
2. C.J. 2. Dale
3. Casey 3. Casey
4. Hung 4. Sara
5. Howie 5. C.J.
6. Dale 6. Howie
7. Brian 7. Brian
8. Sara
Who woulda thought Tre eliminated before Brian ...before Howie.. wow....cmon now C.J. was a big big disappointment this week and he was the one to go in our groups opinion by a nrrow margin over Brian (21 wanted C.J. to go; 20 had Brian, they were the clear frontrunners with Howie getting 9 next followed
by 5 for Casey, 3 for Tre and 1 for Hung (my brother is a Hung -hater) well now we have Brian on our chopping block for the next episode, he'll prolly
knock a homerun next week..lol
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:52 AM
Misty wrote:
I was as sad as everybody else to see my Texas guy Tre get sent home. If being an executive chef is supposed to be about taking responsibility and stepping up...then why oh why not send home Brian who did absolutely nothing. I cannot understand why the judges think it is preferable to contribute zip, than to mess up. Nobody was watching Tre's back, no team effort at all.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:58 AM
leelee wrote:
I'm tired of the ubiquitous seared scallop. I've been searing scallops for years and it's not that difficult or even remotely unusual. The judges mentioned how tired they are of tuna tartare, but that damned scallop makes more appearances than Padma's cleavage. Ina Garten is not a trained chef and never says that she is. She is about making people happy with food. And...her husband is adorable and I wish I had all her gay friends. And her house. And her money.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:02 AM
Dana wrote:
Hello Mr. Bourdain,
I too greatly enjoy your Blog entries and thank you for them! Ref to last night's show, yes, Tre made mistakes but at least he was working!! What did Brian do last night for his team other than not sweat all over their guests? Why do the judges not consider the fact that Brian has been on a 3-week cooking vacation! When he has cooked, it usually involves seafood of some sort. So, why did he not at least contribute to quality control? He should have tasted his teammates' dishes and offered help/advice. Brian had the luxury of not being involved in the cooking process and should have stepped up for his team. I am just confused that action was critiqued so harshly by the judges and inaction was allowed to pass unnoted.
Thank you!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:09 AM
Dana wrote:
Hello Mr. Bourdain,
I too greatly enjoy your Blog entries and thank you for them! Ref to last night's show, yes, Tre made mistakes but at least he was working!! What did Brian do last night for his team other than not sweat all over their guests? Why do the judges not consider the fact that Brian has been on a 3-week cooking vacation! When he has cooked, it usually involves seafood of some sort. So, why did he not at least contribute to quality control? He should have tasted his teammates' dishes and offered help/advice. Brian had the luxury of not being involved in the cooking process and should have stepped up for his team. I am just confused that action was critiqued so harshly by the judges and inaction was allowed to pass unnoted.
Thank you!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:09 AM
tinacherry wrote:
Of course we are all sorry to see Tre go. But, unfortunately, he did the unforgivable. You can be forgiven many sins in a restaurant but serving an untasty dish is not one of them and he did it not once but twice and the fact that the other team had such better food, made his dishes look even worse.
Also, in reading their bio's, I see that Tre is self-taught and that might be the reason for the limitations that Anthony Bourdain (who by the way is sooo hot, I LOVE that guy!!!) made mention of. He probably just simply ran out of ideas, when had he been trained, he might have developed a bigger repetoire of recipes and been able to save himself. Everyone said they did not like the smoked potatoes so why would you make it AGAIN??? Just a thought. And at least he isn't leaving empty handed. He got the trip to Italy and a VIP pass to all those clubs.
I am truly sorry he's going. If anyone was going to be top chef, I thought it would be him.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:13 AM
Julie wrote:
So Tre has all the makings of a great chef, but is sent home at number eight, and lesser lights are allowed to stay? Maybe what's screwed up is the judging criteria, not Tre's performance. When you're looking for a "top chef," it makes no sense to cut the guy who's willing to put himself out there, and keep the guy who is perfectly happy to fade into the background, making one "okay" salad but contributing nothing else because he's too slow to keep up. Tre was supposed to be judged against all seven other chefs, not just against Sara.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:26 AM
Dede wrote:
Why is everyone so upset to see Tre go? Because he was a really nice guy? Everyone nows nice guys finish last.
As we watched the show, we also watched him fizzle out.
He lost his steam and frankly, I thought he was pretty boring.
I know the judges don't see it until after the show is produced but listening to the other teams plans (while he was pumping up instead of planning with his own team) really revealed his true character.
This is when we kissed Tre goodbye. When he gloated about making bread pudding in his sleep- we wished him farewell.
At the end of every show we 'career counsel' the loser. We decided that Tre would make an excellent police officer. He might glow in a crisp blue uniform with all his muscles protruding, and a shiny badge that says 'Officer Friendly.'
N. Y. will be good for him.
N. Y. will be good for him. If he can't make it as a chef
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:33 AM
rick wrote:
Bourdain on the money again. By the way that's two Clash references and one Traffic reference.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:46 AM
Kara wrote:
You make me so very happy.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:50 AM
Ben wrote:
How Howie manages to hang on is one of life's great mysteries.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:53 AM
Alison wrote:
My keyboard almost became a victim of an Ina Garten/Thorazine spit take -- please come up with some type of warning system so I'll know when I can drink my Diet Coke and read your blog simultaneously without fear of frying my computer components. Thank you Chef Bourdain for your wonderful blog and insight into this great show.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:55 AM
Les wrote:
Hey Tony,
Always glad to see you blogging! Yes I too was dissapointed about Tre's untimely departure, I think he has more skill and professionalism then any of the other chefs. Now Hung seems to have chasnged his attitude, as I have said all along , he needed to get his head out of his butt and out of his own way. I think he has been humbled somewhat and may go all the way and win this, we will see. Howie, well what can we say about Howie that has not already been said, I don;t think he should still be there! He is not a team player and has failed on every team effort. That Lamb was raw! LIke you say Dale showed remarkable self restraint in not telling that fool of a designer to takes his attidue and ideas and put them where the sun don;t shine! Should get very interresting from here on in.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:04 AM
Jean wrote:
OMG, LOL! Bourdain is a riot ("Gobsmacked," "Garten on Thorazine," etc.)! If for only his blog, I will checkout the site regularly (although I also really enjoy Collichio's thoroughness, and Allen's smarminess!). Cheers!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:13 AM
Beth B. wrote:
As always, loved your blog! You're right on target, as usual. It is extremely unfortunate that Tre was sent packing, but given the circumstances - I wasn't surprised. If Sara was the winner on her team for being exec chef, then the losing team would likely fall suit - Tre getting the axe. If anybody on TC ever had the potential to do great and wonderous things, it'll be him.
And as you indicated - kudos to Sara for running a tight ship!! Not letting Howie "bulldog" her into sending out that raw (YES Howie - RAW) piece of lamb and having him redo/fix it - GOOD JOB SARA!!
I know that what we saw was creatively edited by the production fairies, but it was clear watching the snipits we got that Sara's team was just "with it". They did swallow their pride, kept their yaps shut (mostly) and realized that if they don't work as a team, they'll surely sink. Howie may not have liked redoing the lamb, and had "extra air in his mouth" about having to do it, but he did it.
(And nicely worded and accurate desciptor for Madonna's brother.)
I really liked that the editing fairies included Ted Allen's line about CJ assigning Tre to be head chef. Did he not want to be in the spotlight or did he think Tre was really best suited for the job? When it was set up, I do think CJ was trying to play to strengths of his team - but would have liked to see more from him. Sara commented that Hung was like Speedy Gonzalez asking what could he do next. I would have liked to see CJ and Casey do that, and if they had, it might have been more of a competition - or at least a better competition. It sort of seemed that Tre's team thought they had it made - It is true the comment about "Talent alone does not a Top Chef make". CJ's team was VERY talented...but fell WAY short of the mark. Casey with her dull knives - my husband and I both commented that we could have done better than she was doing. and She even commented "How hard can it be to chop onions?" Well, when your knife is as dull as a piece of cardboard, pretty damn hard!! Was it Brian who wanted to tag in and finish it for her? It was quite painful watching that.
Cutting the chicken - That had Hung written all over it, and he was ALL over it. Welcome to Knife Skills 101.
Anyway - it's amazing what a team can do when they come together for a common goal. I remember my last summer in college taking an intensive spanish course (I had to take 12 hours of a foreign language for my degree and did it in one summer). A few of us had teamed up - our goal was for each of us to make "A's" in the class. One person I wasn't fond of, but it wasn't about whether or not I liked him or he liked me - we had a common goal of getting an A in the class, and that overrode any feelings we had about each other. Others joined our team later in the summer and the same concept applied. We were there to make the grade. And the initial 3 of us in the group made our A's because we put personal feelings aside and maintained focus on the prize - realizing if we all worked together we could get the job done and we did.
Sara's team all pulled together for the common goal - for their team to win. They did. They made it seem like "This is how it's done". I have not been impressed with Sara at all this season until this episode. She really stepped up. Dale stepped up - don't think he should have been "front of the house" in jeans and a polo - but as has been said quite often in the past - it's about the food. It was VERY good to see Hung "coming along" and "playing along". It was great to see Sara taking such authority. It was good to see the 4 of them work together cohesively - I remember many instances from Season 2 where the chefs weren't willing to help each other plate or serve - PETTY!!
Thanks much for your blog! Keep them coming!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:43 AM
Judyisapunk wrote:
Tony,
Another good post. I too am sorry to see Tre go. I felt so sad. It's hard to see a good person go down. I was unusually bothered. I'm not prone to getting caught up in people's lives that are not my actual family or friends. Last night's episode should make big statement to everyone....PROTECT YOUR NECK! Tre put himself on the line and worked like a dog only to receive no true support from his "team." No....wasn't this supposed to be CJ's team? I had a suspicion last week when CJ abdicated being the executive chef in favor of Tre assuming the responsibility that CJ was throwing Tre under the bus. Tre was too naive to see it. I felt a bit queasy as soon as Tre accepted position. Why would he think that any of the cheftestants would ever really have his back? They are in it to win as he was. Maybe I'm just a pessimist but a person has to prove to me that you can be trusted. I'm not good natured enough to trust someone waiting for that person to show that they are untrustworthy. Again, PROTECT YOUR NECK!! In the words of cantankerous Gordon Ramsay, Saboteur!!! CJ the master saboteur & closet under the bus thrower played Tre like a mandolin. If not for Hung, I don't think I'd want to continue watch this season. I hope he takes it all. But, I'll always read your blog. It's so entertaining and at times educational.
Side note - My 10 year has taken cooking classes at Young Chefs and he can beat Casey dicing onions!! Maybe she didn't want to mess up her manicure. PATHETIC!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:48 AM
PT wrote:
I too was disappointed to see Tre voted off. I think he had the most actual skill and the artistry needed to be a Top Chef. I realize that he was the executive chef, but as the judges pointed out, the other people on his team did nothing to really help him out. I think that team decided since they were the better of the two in the first round that they didn't really need to do anything much to win the second. Too bad. I agree with an earlier post that points out that Brian hasn't really done much cooking in the last few episodes and didn't contribute much to either of the restaurant war challenges.
As dysfunctional as the "Quarte" group was, you have to hand it to them for taking the criticisms to heart and stepping up to the plate. Sara was impressive as an Executive Chef using great people skills while maintaining her professionalism.
My question now is this: With Tre gone is there really anyone left that can be considered a Top Chef? The field seems pretty thin to me.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:48 AM
lg wrote:
I love this show, but last seasons two and three show me that this show is really for rating than to actually find the "Top Chef". With Tre gone, I guess Top Chef is also entering the realm of creating an entertainment rather than Top Chef. It's not wrong to go the direction for cat fights and drama to create entertainment... it's just that it's very misleading... at least the title of the show is. It should be "Drama Chef". Tre, you are fantastc, extremely professional and it's so obvious how well you handle yourself in a stressful situation. All your wins show that you are an amazing chef... you are the Top Chef.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:57 AM
Lisa wrote:
Great Blog Chef!
I was sorry to see Tre go, but bottom line when you add the plus/minuses Tre had to be eliminated.
It was great to see Sara take control of her kitchen and rein in Howie who tends to bulldoze over his teammates. I still cannot decide who has the biggest ego Hung or Howie.
I thought the judges focused too much on Dale's outfit and not recognize how he worked the room, managed the wait staff, took charge of the kitchen (as far has timing was concerned) and was able to tell Stephen to "shut-up and pour" without saying, "shut-up and pour".
The restaurants' decor was vastly improved and until you mentioned it I had forgotten that the designer was Madonna's brother; which I do not feel should be held against him. I thought his critques had merit and his design choices made the spaces look like places I would want to dine.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:23 AM
Mary Sue White wrote:
I think Tre was set up. Casey cut the onions slower than I can and I am no chef. C.J. didn't help at all as sou chef. You can say all you want to in excuses, but it was preplanned. I don't care what would be o.k. in New York. I've never been there and probably won't go unless I have too. Many of us who watch this show would not eat any of the things you so prize. I am not going to eat raw fish. Raw tuna turns my stomach. I am not going to eat lamb, especially raw lamb. Most of the things you so highly prize are ineatable. Remember there are many watchers who care more for plain food, well seasoned than those weird things you like so well. Give me Dean Fearing above all of you, even though he loves heat more than I. I feel this sophistaced palate, is a bunch of bunk. It is what many people say to feel important. You have made a bad mistake voting off Tre. I will not watch the show again. Mary Sue
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:23 AM
Kjell Bakke wrote:
Ugh! It was so excruciatingly painful to see Tre go but I had a sinking feeling duing the judges table deliberations that that was where the decision would go. I totally agree with your blog tonight when you said this episode really does highlight the real world of this business -- the top dog makes the decisions, leads the team and takes the fall if the performance does not impress the audience. Although I can agree with your assessment and the basis for the judges ruling, I am absolutely depressed at the outcome. I miss you already, Tre! Once again, however, you have rendered a spot-on analysis Mr. Bourdain. I like your blog more than the show itself.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:24 AM
cara wrote:
Tony,
I am in the amen row concerning your blogs, they're great! I caught the last ten minuets of the broadcast and was stunned that Tre was eliminated, so I stayed up late to watch the entire episode. I must say I agree that Tre did have to go, but I am not impressed by his teammates and how they let him down. That bothered me even more than Tre's departure. As for Sara, I have read a lot of the mean comments written about her, but I personally have seen that spark in her since she was paired with Howie in the pasta episode. In that episode, I really do think she got a bad reputation because she took a back seat to Howie's personality, but she confronted Howie by simply telling him that if he had spoken up instead of holding it all in, they might have improved their product. I knew right then that there was something to her. Granted, she hasn't been the most creative chef regarding her food, but I like her confidence and I like the way she didn't back down from her responsibility in Round 1 or Round 2. She comes across as a fearless woman to me. That can be very threatening to insecure males and it shows in their reactions to her. I don't know if she has to goods to win the competition, but I give her credit for sticking to her guns and learning how the game is played.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Annie wrote:
It was sad to see Tre go, however the way he left just shows that he truly is the "top" chef of the bunch - with grace, humility, and a new perspective. As you say Mr. Bourdain... he will be heard from again, especially if he keeps going on the track he is on. I will support him. Now I want to get down to the knitty gritty - something that has been driving me crazy... Howie is indeed an "asshat" (I walked away last night saying jackass, but asshat works). He has been on the chopping block time and again and still somehow seems to squeak by. I have worked in kitchens for 15 years and I can say... he is no top chef. A top chef has all the aforementioned qualities you mentioned in the blog; therapist, repairman (or woman), medic, etc... not to mention the ability to stay cool under pressure. Howie only appears to have his ego to keep him persevering. He should have been eliminated the prior evening - finishing risotto with cream?! ugh! Its always been a rich dish, it doesn't need to be richer. Why would he insist on doing it his way when there is a reason why it's done the way it is. Just another sign of his pig headedness. I was surprised they got the chance to do it again I feel he should have been eliminated the night before, no, he should have been eliminated long ago for the way he has left his fellow cheftestants out to dry. No "top" chef would ever make it if they don't stand behind their coworkers. I am wondering if they keep him around to add the conflict. Lets let him go!!! Enough of his poor skills and bull headedness. I agree about Casey... what is up with those knife skills?! When I say I've worked in kitchens for 15 years, it has been as a pastry chef... and I can cut an onion much faster. Knife skills are the foundation to cooking, how can you make it this far in your career with such hack work? A clear case of putting the cart before the horse, which I see so much in new restaurants, hotshot young chefs who think they know everything, but lack the real experience to make good food in all situations, under duress and consistently. A chef without knife skills is like an artist who can't draw. A top chef needs to be able to do everything in the kitchen to a) lead by example and b) be able to work each station in case they need to work that station from prep to line to garde manger and yes... even the occasional dessert. Bread pudding is the most idiot proof dessert out there btw, there is no excuse for screwing it up (sorry Tre).
Hey, and hurray for Hung for coming around. Lets get the basics down good before we get crazy (tempura and cauliflower i. cream?) and on the way, you will learn what works and what doesn't and wont waste your time being silly.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:36 AM
zoe wrote:
One more thing to add... The judges say this every episode, but this time, it must have been truly difficult to deliberate. Who do you chop? The executive chef who contributed the most but did not commandeer or the rest who did not bring it... They could have let Tre stay and the others pay for it but what kind of message would they be sending? May be something like, if you do your best we don't chop you? Dunno. It seemed to me April Restaurant did not have a team strategy in the kitchen and Tre (can we please hear more of his side???), didn't either speak out when he needed to or trusted his teammates to a fault.
It seemed when CJ picked his team, it was like Steinbrener picking his Yankee playas, the best that money could buy... But it doesn't make it a team--just a bunch of very talented individuals doing their best. Hm.... does this analogy make sense?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:43 AM
Terri wrote:
Tony, You're funny. Thanks.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:52 AM
kristy wrote:
Anthony, you are going to make it really hard for me to never watch this show again. The producers are so genius in brining you on as a permablogger. Especially after an episode like last night, bc I'm sure viewership will probably go down. Are the crazy? They let go of their money guy with 7 people still to go while they kept on snores like Brian and "controversial" guys like Howie? It is so refreshing to see how prolific you are in blogging right after each episode. I love reading your insights. But the judging this year has been really arbitrary and just plain awful. I mean seriously, what is there left to write about? At least there's still No Reservations.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:01 AM
andrew S wrote:
Just to say...thank you !!!!
i loved reading your blog and I love your show. please continue with the blogging.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:04 AM
Jeff in Austin wrote:
Anthony, I agree with what you said about Tre. Unfortunate, but true.
"That might well fly in Texas...." ?
You're hurting me here. I know, I know. The sterotypes and all — I've dined to Dallas, too. Why not come do a show in Austin? We'll help eliminate a few of those things we all assume about Texans.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:07 AM
mj wrote:
The last comment should really re-read their post. If you own a restaurant I would not want to work for you....sticking up for Dale. You can not even spell correctly...He did a fine job and by the way Anthony-can I travel with you-lol!!! You were right on with your Blog!!!
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:09 AM
Ellen wrote:
Thanks for making my Wednesday nights easier by eliminating the best chef. I won't watch the weenies on his team who stood there looking at their feet while he was taking responsibility. Not a fan or screamers (Howie) or schemers (Hung). That pretty much eliminates most of the chefs. Thanks for the good cooking and integrity, Tre. I don't live near Texas, but I'll be looking for your cookbooks.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:10 AM
Enid wrote:
As with so many others, I am also sad to see Tre leave. When I saw the commerical for Top Chef and Tom said this is based on the challenge. I knew in a blink of an eye that Tre was gone. I had high hopes for him on the show because he seemed to be so professional, sincere, and just an all around nice guy who is a terrific chef with loads of potential. As a black woman, I also loved seeing another person of color doing well. I'm never one who feels that just because someone is black that they should win.
Rather I look at what skills and abilities they possess as well as if they have a professional demeanor and attitude, if they happen to be black/African-American and making it happen; for me it's a bonus. Because truth be told there are not enough talented black chefs on TV or for that matter who are well known.
Even on one of the most watched channels on TV: the Food Network that gives us mediocre so-called chefs like Ina Garten (which Tony I loved you using her as a comparison for Casey's lack of knife skills, I laughed so hard I was crying), Rachael Ray, and so many others. I have yet to see somebody, anybody of color or any other ethnic backgrounds cooking on their network. I think black/african-American children especially need to see examples of potential careers available to them. So that they can one day say, I could do that to.
While Tre's leaving is heartbreaking, I do feel it opens up a wider door to him then winning the Top Chef title ever will in some respects. After all, I think we can all think of many different reality show winners that go off into oblivion or never quite measure up as judges or fans thought they would.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:19 AM
Liz wrote:
LOVE this blog!! You're spot-on every week. It would be great if past performance was considered during judges' table, but that wouldn't be fair to those that have continued to improve. Yes, Sara did well this week... but I find her terribly irritating. I like CJ and Dale, but they don't seem to be final four Top Chef contenders. Will it come down to Hung?
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:24 AM
Leticia wrote:
AB, I love, love, love reading your blogs. They are always entertaining & very informative. I just watched this episode, & felt visceral pain when Tre was eliminated. I thought he surely would be in the finals against Hung. I know he has pretty much been this season's Marcel, but there's no denying that boy can cook! Howie... don't get me started! He talks a good game, but he more often than not comes up short (and always has a "reason" for doing so). It was nice to see Sara do something else besides whine or nag in a team competition.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:27 AM
Laney wrote:
I didn't think it was possible but you, Tony, have actually made me feel better about Tre's departure.
I liken it to when my childhood dog died and my parents told me he was in a much better place. Thank you for that.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:29 AM
Bets wrote:
I looked on the Abacus website. I think I will be visiting as soon as possible! I am sorry to see him go.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:37 AM
Angelique wrote:
Tony, I'm a big fan. I love your brand of humor. On with the comment...
I'm very disappointed that Tre was asked to pack his knives this week. He was, indeed, the best candidate for the title of Top Chef this season. I honestly thought he was a shoo-in from the first episode. I really have no idea who will prevail now. I, like Tony (and I'm sure the rest of Top Chef viewers), was appalled at Casey's knife skills. A 10-year-old with a butter knife would have fared better, I think. Howie and Hung both are more at odds with their egos than with the other contestants, although Hung clearly has more talent. As for the remaining contestants, all I can think is, "Who f-ing cares?". They and their dishes seem to be completely forgettable. So I guess for now I am, against my will, on Team Hung.
P.S. Chef Pellegrino (of a previous comment on this blog), even though I agree with some of your points, please learn to spell before you start slinging insults.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:38 AM
J wrote:
Your blog is amazing; somehow you have managed to add "devastatingly snarky blogger" to your many functions as a chef. I only half agree with you about Hung last night though. Yes, he finally cooked something coherent instead of putting cauliflower foam on ice cream. Yes, he got along with his team. But when Sara M. told him that Sara N and Joey were sitting down at their place, his response of "Sara and Joey who?" literally floored me. I'm not sure whether he's that much of a tool or just had his mind elsewhere, but Tre wouldn't have said that.
And sadly, I agree with you about Tre. Like so many others, I thought he would go the distance, but he should have completely redone April's menu. Maybe at the time he really did just need more inspiration, and I wish him the best as he explores new things in New York. He's definitely the chef whose restaurant I would most want to go to, but on the show, he has proven overconfident. He's relied too heavily on techniques like crusting meat in stuff and pairing wild king salmon with odd things. CJ definitely should have had his back, but ultimately Tre was responsible for some really messed up dishes.
posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:51 AM
Carmen Means wrote:
Anthony - I would have loved to see a mention of Dale's smackdown of Stephen during one his wine-o-logues? I loved that moment. I think Stephen is amazingly talented, but he needs to learn when the sound of his own voice is not what people want to hear. Dale shut him up as diplomatically as one could, and the look on Stephen's face in response was priceless.
Asshat, what a great word. I despised Chris Ciccone from the moment he opened his mouth last week. How a coat tail rider like him gets that arrogant is beyond me.
Love you, Anthony! Like others, I look forwar