Carla wrote:

Hey Tony,

You are the best, I always get chuckle. Unfortunately I have been unable to read your blog past the first page because it just won't come up. I'm glad it was CJ to go because I really think he has been just getting by. I do like him though, he is funny and I really like his humor and wit.His comments are a lot like something you would say. I'm happy for casey's win but I don't think she win the whole thing. Brian and Sara are sure to be the next to pack their knives.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:42 PM

Kevin wrote:

It's time for Brian to go away. He seldom chooses to cook anything - instead going for the "raw bar" or the front of the house whenever he gets the chance. When he does cook he is rarely successful, save for the spam! Enough of the seafood dude - he cooked a steak this week and it was an overcooked hunk of meat - he should be as done as that steak- please.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:52 PM

Brooke K. wrote:

I wouldn't go so far as to say you were a snake in the grass. Hey, if its bad food its bad food. Even though we all love and adore C.J. we cannot ignore the beast of competition. It is getting down to the wire. Many of these people we have grown so fond of are going to have only one prevail. I would say the compitetion is fierce. There are so many of those dishes I would love to be there and try. As for right now I will settle for my animal crackers by the light of my computer monitor. So sad. I do love you Mr. Bourdain and your brutal honesty. Feel free to whip me up something fantastic anytime.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:54 PM

Sharon wrote:

Oh, Tony... yeah, you really were a mean bastard. But I loved every second of it.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:56 PM

Cindi wrote:

Anthony
You were frightfully truthful. I hope that CJ's dish was not as nasty looking in true living color, as it was on my big screen tv.
I don't think I would have served that garbage to my wild Shunks. Yuck.
Please tell me that you could have dished (ditched )Sara and Brian as well, but who would you have left?
I am sorry to say Hung and Casey are the best of the Chefs left, but Tre' was a much better Chef than any of the contestants still in the running.
What a dissappointing Top Chef Season.
I wish that DO OVERS were allowed.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 11:59 PM

Jessica wrote:

As always, a thoughtful and creative critique! I recall at times having good (decent) food in business class (only international flights) and so very much appreciate this challenge. Although I do admit that I would avoid fish on planes - something says it's a gamble. And veal medallions would have been intriguing - but you know what they say about broccoli, cabbage, etc on planes. Still, a very fun challenge!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Ralphy wrote:

I cannot believe they have you sitting in judgment of anyone else's cooking. I've eaten at your restaurant, Les Halles, a couple of times and I must say I've never had worse steak in all of my life. I'd rather eat cat food. You, my friend, are a total hack.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Chris B wrote:

Hey, Tony, you seem to know a thing or two about international cuisine (unless No Reservations is secretly taped on a back lot i n Burbank). So what do you think about Top Chef including some folks from outside the lower 48?

Part of me is really annoyed that we don't see a heck of a lot of Asian or Latin American cuisine on Top Chef. We get little bits of it here and there, but it's always a " - inspired" dish. In this season, we also have Asian-American and Indian-American chefs, but again, it's not the same as having some of the top talent from Hong Kong and Bangalore competing with everyone else.

So what do you say? I bet you've already received an offer from Bravo to be a judge next season. Could you throw your influence around and maybe get the roster opened to the international crowd? It worked well for the NBA, MLB and NHL - we'll skip the NFL for now - and I bet it'd be a great change for Top Chef.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:05 AM

Bob R, wrote:

I think by now it's become abundantly clear that the top three remaining chefs are Hung, Casey, and Dale. I get the impression that Hung appears more talented than he actually is so it would be particularly interesting to taste his food. He seems to be among the more volatile chefs in terms of his abilities - sometimes exceptionally good and sometimes just plain bad. I'm glad to see Casey doing so well. Despite her record of wins and despite a number of judges commenting on her excellent palate, she continues to be slammed for being attractive. What - attractiveness and talent cannot coexist? Dale has been my dark-horse candidate from the beginning. Although he's not won often, he's been near the top on many competitions. I think one would always be wholly satisfied eating at any restaurant at which he was chef. This has been a far more satisfying season than last and I've appreciated the judges even more than previously. But seriously, was the broccolini really so bad as to be the very worst dish ever served on Top Chef? Regardless, a very interesting blog by Mr. Bourdain, as usual.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:10 AM

mary wrote:

chef b, at least when you are mean, you are funny and offer constructive criticism. i like that in a judge - not like that putz last week who was just mean - and so well known i can't even think of his name...all i can remember are his cheap shots and cheesy pseudo-goatee.

the judges got it right this week - cj finally gets the boot! after being pretty mean to brian in part 1 of the restaurant wars, although trying to pass off his remarks as humor...he gets his come uppance! he should have been sent home instead of tre for passing off all the tough jobs to his teammates - tre you be executive chef, brian you take front of the house, casey - you decorate and i will.....uhhhhhh...sous chef - yeah you guys make all of the decisions and put your necks on the chopping block and i'll chop onions and boil water. what a wimp!!! i'm not sure he has even one ball!!! (oh he brought that on himself)
i'm looking forward to casey losing next week so she can be all perky and pretty and say 'jeeeeeeesussssssssssss ka-rissssssssssssssst! at something that ruffles her feathers (cue hung - ruffle those feathers!)

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:10 AM

Adam P. wrote:

I believe that this episode was one of the more dissapointing ones of the season. I didn't feel the climactic portion of the show like I have felt in previous episodes.

CJ didn't get his slice of NY pizza. I think that he should have still been given the opportunity to give it a shot!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:14 AM

PaulBKM wrote:

Well, as I boldly predicted in last week's blog, my favorite kitchen godess Casey would prove her worth yet again. While the doubting Thomas', the n'er do wells, the malcontents whose idea of haute cuisine consists of a Denny's menu, with all their snide, demeaning comments at this gorgeous breath of fresh air who graces this competition should now be forced to reconsider their worthless comments and be forcefed the broccolini and cous cous.

Casey is the Official Kitchen Queen. She will be the winner.

As for Hung, I'm still cracking up over his Smurf village statement last week. Brilliant, utterly brilliant! He should accept his position as runner up with grace. (Like that would ever happen!)

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:15 AM

Kelly wrote:

As soon as the episode was over, I couldn't wait to read Bourdain's blog. It did not disappoint. I laughed (out loud), I cried, but more importantly I agreed with nearly every word. I just can't get with the 'Hung's not so bad' vibe. I think he's creepy and arrogant. I keep hearing his snide comments to judges that tell him his food sucks.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:15 AM

bindra wrote:

Dear Mister Boudain's:

I think you are always right on your judging and comments...... I did not take it to heart, the way the contestans were treated tonight, it is just a way to express accoding to your expertise.

I am a Hung's fan, and I like his creativity and sharpness, thought sometimes he has giving me the impression that he complies with others even to his own detriment... I hope he shows more leading skills amongst his fellow competitors. I also think he is a very smart and fast learner. Hopefully we'll see him win.

Mr. Bourdain it is a big pleasure to see your program, I love your style and talent.

I hope to see you on tv for a long time.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:17 AM

M wrote:

I LOVE Anthony's blogs, always funny, always insightful, always interesting. It was unfortunate CJ had to go. He was one of my favorites! I still can't believe that Tre got eliminated. He was one of the best chefs there. I thought the top 2 would be him and Hung, who I know a lot of people don't like, but he is really talented. Again, it sux to see CJ go. Well, there's my 2 cents!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:19 AM

Josh wrote:

Great episode, Anthony you were awesome as always. I'm writing this just to plead with you and those in the know to release Top Chef and No Reservations on DVD. Please!!!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:19 AM

Matt wrote:

Ok, seriously Anthony... I haven't even finished reading your blog yet, but I'm wondering if you have some background in law, or have just offended so many people that you've become very knowledgeable of certain judical standards. The broccolini would be "so prejudicial that it would outweigh any probative value?" That's one of the most basic evidentiary rules around. You would make a good lawyer, especially considering your sharp tongue. Love seeing you on the show. You're a great writer, can't wait to see what you come up with next week (and in the rest of this blog).

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:20 AM

Marsha wrote:

Once again, kudos Chef! Your summary of the show has now become my reason to watch the show. Kiss the baby and the wife. I also add my plaintive cry to where is the clone for the rest of us?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:21 AM

njdeb69 wrote:

great episode SOOOO glad CJ is gone

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:26 AM

Nick Lucia wrote:

I am really applauded by the way the three stooges up there treat the contestants. I would like to see you take a challenge... Of course you wouldn't have the guts to do that. The fact that you name call and humiliate people is unbelievable- but then again, anything for show business. You all should be ashamed of yourselves.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:28 AM

Cassandra wrote:

Awesome commentary, as always! I was particularly delighted that you were judging this week as your eloquence and fiery tongue never cease to entertain. I particularly love the chemistry between you and Tom Colicchio. You seem to be one of the few guest judges he truly respects!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:28 AM

Waderlusting wrote:

What's this? A sign of softness in the armor of my idol, Mr. Bourdain? Say it ain't so! That's like Cheech giving up the good stuff....that's Sonny without Cher, or Woody Allen without stammering. It's it's it's...just not the same! Keep on telling it like it is widdle Tony wony! Ahem...pardon the baby talk...have to practice that myself for my upcoming babe.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:29 AM

Austin wrote:

Anthony, when did you sell out and start wearing Brooks Brothers sport coats??

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:29 AM

shirley wrote:

What was the reasoning behind Tre getting booted off the show....CJ I thought should have been given that honor...

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:29 AM

Melinda K wrote:

Mr. Bourdain, your appearacnes on the show & your blogs have become some of the biggest highllights of the show - hope you can be on more often next season. You always make me smile or laugh.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:31 AM

thatothrgirl wrote:

Okay, I don't get it. Dale gets rewarded for not having all of his dishes by being in the top 3 and Dave in Season 1 gets sent home for not having all of his dishes? Yes, I know Dale's was a difference in quatity, but Dave was complimented over and over for the two dishes he *did* prepare, as opposed to Tiffany who completed the three but one was terrible. Granted, she got to stay and get beat down by Harold, but the fact remains, I think, that the same thing happened to both chefs, with entirely different results.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:33 AM

njdeb69 wrote:

I am thinking that "BROCOLINI" can now be used as a
adjective for Anything that is HIDEOUS.
Her new outfit was way to "brocolini " to wear to the wedding!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:33 AM

Sheila wrote:

Oh my god, Anthony, my sides are hurting from all the laughing I'm doing while reading your blog. I think I might actually pick up one of your books :-). Great job with judging and while CJ was one of the chefs I was rooting for, I understand why he had to go this time. Now please let Brian be next. Keep up the awesome blogging...I look forward to them every week!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:35 AM

VTDuffman wrote:

Chef Bourdian,

I was atwiitter last week when I saw you would be guest judging this week, as your contributions to this show are peerless. Thank you for (again) gracing us with your presence on the small screen and for your ever enlightening blogs.

Casey, despite the derisions that are soon to follow, triumphs for the second time in a row during elimination. People discount her efforts because of her looks, but her food is proving the doubters wrong more each week. She will be a force to be reckoned with down to the very end in this contest, and anyone who dismisses her because of her visage are only doing themselves a disservice,

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:37 AM

Alex B wrote:

Mr. B, your blog again is insightful and terrific to read. You've got a colorful TV presence that always isn't easy to hear, but you've got a great way with your words there and on your blog. Thanks for highlighting Hung and Casey, and over at my online mag, we love this show, and we think you're a great guest judge who keeps us entertained (Are We Not Entertained By Top Chef? yep, we are)! Hope to see another episode with you in it, possibly in the finals in Aspen!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:39 AM

Jeff wrote:

Tony, your comments might have been harsh, but lack the bitter smarm that laces Colichio's and past guest judges (Schwartz, Strong, Zakarian). I daresay you have earned a lifetime pass on cruel commentary because you do it honestly and not for shock factor. Hung was a huge disappointment again. I'm not seeing what you're seeing. So far, Casey has won 2 elims in 2 weeks, and Hung has yet to win 1. I can finally see why you spoke highly of her in the past. She's really beginning to shine, and I'd welcome her as Top Chef this season. Hung might be talented, but generally, you want to like the contest winners, and his likeability factor is at zilch.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:44 AM

Andy B. wrote:

Hey Mr. Bourdain, did you really think C.J.'s dish was worst than Sarah's, therefore deserved to be eliminated over Sarah?. I thought it could have gone either way. Do you think the judges wanted to keep Sarah over C.J. as a way to balance out the gender difference?. I wonder if Dale did not leave out one person(serving 17 instead of 18) if he would have won 1st place instead of Casey. I also want to know, if you think Hung's dish was better tthen Casey's, thus denying Hung his 1st elimination win in a long ttime. I have a feeling that the judges favored Casey simply because they don't like Hung. I really do not have a big problem with Casey winning, just that it would have been nice to see Hung win one for a change. Very clutch for Casey to win two elimination challenges in a row. Especially at this stage in the competition. Impressive, considering her struggles(onion chopping) just a few weeks ago.
Mr. Bourdain, your comment on C.J.'s brocolini being something found at Bob Marley's house is just too funny. Maybe you should have smoke it instead........I got another one: Brian wasn't clueless he faced the judges wrath, Brian was full of Malarkey!!!! get it
oh well, sorry for that.
P.S. Boy Mr. Bourdain, 9 pages.......Wow, almost getting as long winded as your pal Rocco! Just kidding, enjoyed seeing you in action on Top Chef - you are tops in my book.
see ya, Andy

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:52 AM

Java Junkie wrote:

Doll head??? Bob Marley's closet??? Too funny!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:53 AM

Kim wrote:

Just wanted to thank you for your vivid food descriptions--it makes the judges' decisions much more clear to us at home. The show's editing made it quite clear from the beginning of the episode who would be going home, but it's nice to get a sensible explanation of the reasons.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:55 AM

Mike wrote:

I agree that it is poetic justice that they ran out of food before everyone was served.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:58 AM

Liza wrote:

Hmm... vicious bastard? You're a little harsh - maybe even borderline cruel - but I don't get a malicious or mean-spirited vibe from you (I'm sure plenty will disagree with me). You're invested and honest - in your judging and blogs - and I appreciate that. I would have preferred to see Brian go rather than CJ - but then I also would have preferred that Tre was still competing with this lot. Tre seemed to be the most consistently above average. Hung's attitude bothers me - I don't agree that you have to be completely ruthless or self-absorbed in a competition. He doesn't merely disregard the other contenders; he is discourteous, occasionally to the point of endangering them. He has talent, but I will be disappointed if he wins.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:02 AM

workerdummy wrote:

"At this point, it's impossible to tell which Hung will show up on any given day: the Crunchberry Kid, Elroy Jetson, or the mature classicist."

I think once he's in the finals and the constraints of the silly challenges and infomercial foods are removed, he'll do what he has trained to do and win it. Of the ones who are left, he strikes me as being the only real "chef" (chef to me being one who makes "small, odd tasting, not enough to satisfy plate ornaments that I'd have to mortgage my house to pay for).

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:06 AM

Sri wrote:

As always, Mr. Bourdain, your comments are spot on!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:10 AM

trish wrote:

To be perfectly honest you could have sent any of them home tonight and I wouldn't have given a damn. The whole lot of them are sickening.

CJ knew he had a problem with that broccoli and he served it anyway. Now I see why he left Tre out to hang. It allowed him to remain a little longer.

Hung is just crazy. You cannot run around a kitchen dropping and breaking things and failing to clean them up. It's ridiculous and it's dangerous not only to the others but himself as well.

Like Bourdain, I cannot for the life of me understand why Brian just doesn't get it. He clearly needs to develop his palate judging by some the the remarks the judges make about his food. Brian obviously cannot see or taste the problem.

I'm beginning to suspect what has been said all along. Maybe Casey has already been pegged to win.
At the moment I really don't care who takes the title Top Chef. None of them are really worthy of it.

I was getting behind Hung, but I cannot continue to watch his sloppiness in the kitchen. For goodness sake, clean up behind yourself.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:11 AM

Emerson wrote:

Hi Tony,

First off, i'd like to say that you're the best when it comes to no holds barrred, shooting from the hips, kill 'em all and let God sort em out commentary. You are the man!!!

Now that's out of the way. I'd like to say that the decision of giving the axe to CJ was the right choice. He shouldn't have served the broccolini, it was hideous! I loved the way you decribed it as "something found in Bob Marley's place after it was cleaned out". That simply left me in stitches = )

It is apparent though that Casey is slowly but surely revealing her aces in the competition, and that I believe it will eventually boil down to her and Hung being in the final "cook-off".

Awesome blog as usual! Keep on rockin' Mr. Bourdain!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:14 AM

Ron wrote:

Having been a Tony Bourdain fan long before your appearances on Top Chef, I wish to commend you for your work on this show. Your assessment of each of the contestants has proven to be dead on. Anyone who has read Kitchen Confidential also knows that you have been fairly restrained in your comments. I wonder what the Vegas line on Brian is now?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:14 AM

K.C. wrote:

I enjoyed the show. One thing I like about you is you seem to be fair, when a dish is good but might not be perfect you can still praise it. Some of the guest judges on there sometimes seem to be pretentious so-and-so's and overly critical who wouldn't be happy with anything unless it met their near impossible standards. Also, when you appear on the show it livens it up, I would like to see you be on more episodes or even better a permanent judge. The show is more fun with you on it. Anyway, I'm not a foodie by any stretch, the fanciest fare I eat is at the local Applebees, but I find the show entertaining, educational and interesting. The show has an uplifting tone to it, and doesn't seem as mean spirited as other reality shows. Keep up the good work!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:14 AM

Kat wrote:

Good to read more food-specific critiques and suggestions for how they -could- have been successful with slight tweaking. When I read your ranking of the contestants, I hear Tom's voice, too (not a bad thing, though).

Same re: Tre, though. You both will hopefully stop trying to explain to us diehards how CJ stayed and Tre was dismissed. We know you believe it, but....still not convinced.

Good to know Brian's time is coming soon as well. I'm sure they're all nice guys ("they are all honorable men") but Brian as final four would be a mockery of the show that even Tom C. couldn't stand to justify.

He does try to amp up the snark when you're around, though, doesn't he? I think, as with food, he'd be wiser to go for the contrast instead--play Kirk (even Spock) to your McCoy.) Still, good ep from you both--and another always-enjoyable read here.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:16 AM

JC wrote:

Anthony,
In your words, “I will take my beautiful wife out for brunch and somewhere between multiple mimosas, remind her sincerely that I love her.” You need to follow through on this – you look too into Casey in this episode. Face it dude you’re smitten beyond the food, and the aforementioned comment is simply covering your ass. Casey has trended overall mediocre at best. She has two quick fire wins and now, has two elimination wins. Why she’s still in the running and Tre’s been eliminated is mind boggling to me, and the Teflon Brian remains in the running—why!?! If Casey wins this competition overall it will be positively ridiculous. This season is positively ridiculous already, yes I’m being redundant! I agree with previous blog submissions; TC needs to overhall it’s judging process – from subjective to objective and offer accumulative points for quick fire wins and elimination wins. In addition, there should be weighted scores for taking leadership roles versus non leadership, and you should get minus points for being in the bottom of the elimination challenge. Finally, while most of the bloggers, per usually, will hail you as brilliant, spot on and right on, you’re out of step with Hung – re-watch the rebroadcast of the episode, the comments about Hung’s dish were overwhelmingly favorable – despite you’re ho-hung impression.
Bon appetite

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:19 AM

nell wrote:

Quote of the day around here is, "It had the texture of doll head."

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:19 AM

Last Laugh wrote:

While I agree wth most of your assessment, I was wondering, did you watch the show and see what C.J. had to say about himself and you when out of your earshot? I for one am glad this wimpering young man was sent home. I don't beleive he possesses a backbone, and that could be seen on several if not most of the episodes. A Top Chef should have cajones - maybe Casey got his? In any case, the dull, boring, ever lipless Casey won - surprise,surprise (cauliflower? Please!). Oh well, the race for the ordinary and mediocre continues.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:21 AM

Mark Grapengater wrote:

As usual, the show with Bourdain, was more peppered with metaphors than Dale's Filet.

My favorite: "It had the texture of doll's head."

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:30 AM

JC wrote:

If there is another season of TC in the making, I'd like to see the judges blind test the food. I'd like the judges not to know who created what dish, and I truly wonder how this would influence their decision. Think about it -- no judge can know who prepared what dish until after the judges choose the winning and losing dishes. Now that's intrigue!!! In the bravotv blogosphere is anyone with me on this? The judging on TC needs to be elevated from subjective to objective, agree? Finally, whenever TC has had group participation, you've had the audience participate as well -- why not tonight? Why not in this episode? In my estimation, this was a big mistake. I would’ve enjoyed hearing from the Continental professionals, it could’ve (might’ve) influenced the judging. From a viewer’s perspective, it would’ve added another dimension.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:39 AM

susan wrote:

I have never written a blog before but the prospect of being the first to respond to Mr. Bourdain's witty and sarcastic comments has me giddy. I'm addicted to the show -- gotta watch all the episodes multiple times, read all the blogs(Bourdain's make me laugh out loud!), love the recipes...and am rooting for Casey. She's classic yet daring, with a composed demeaner. Love the show! -- susan

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:40 AM

Alan wrote:

Anthony Bourdain: Kicking ass and taking names.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:41 AM

nece wrote:

Anthony you are soo freaking hilarious...I absolutely adore you. I knew that your just a big softy on the inside and that you just put up a tough mean exterior. You just like to make the contestants shit in their pants and make them feel as humiliated and awful as possible, I love it. Your like the Simon of Top Chef...Makes for great TV. I did'nt know you were married, I pegged you as the playboy type, romantic but a player who's romantic. I obviously know nothing about your personal life or your personality off the show, it was just a guess. Lucky wife, your sexy and smart, a tough combination to find in men these days...If you have any sons please let me know, especially if they look like you!!!!!!!!! Take care Bourdain, hope you come back on another episode before its over.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:44 AM

Kathy Johnson wrote:

Hey Judge Anthony B.,
You can eat dog crap from the far corners of the earth, but you can't cut these young chefs a break?!?! Come on! I hope the producers create a show starring you and Chef Tom performing under the same circumstances these young chefs have to undergo...
Shame on you!!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:47 AM

Yinan wrote:

Great blogging as always Bourdain! It's sad to see CJ go, but that broccolini looked quite bad on screen and you have a far braver stomach for daring to eat it.

Btw, I enjoyed "The Nasty Bits" immensely, makes me want to visit Vietnam just for the food.

Oh, and your Les Halles' fries are probably the best I've ever had.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:48 AM

tcthomp wrote:

Having flown on a few planes and choked down a few of their so-called meals, I have to agree with you. It's somewhat heartening to see someone actually attempting to address the issue.

CJ's plate reminded me of some of the food that I had to choke down while I was in the field with the Army. The broccoli looked like something that should have been used to clean a trash can. However, no one should be allowed to abuse lobster like that... and Brian didn't understand that he had done something wrong. At least CJ understood the issues with his dish. Brian should probably left today instead.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:54 AM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

Good post! What do you think the chances are that we'll have 2 women in the finals?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 1:59 AM

Andrew wrote:

First....oh, well done Tony.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:08 AM

Jodi Rogers wrote:

No one can say quite like Anthony Bourdain. Of the six shows I watch, No Reservations and Top Chef, are the two I look forward to the most (Project Runway, included in the six, will be here soon!). This blog was classic Bourdain, and at the expense of the talented contestants, I had a good laugh on each of the nine pages. The descriptions of the food were vivid, and fair criticizm was offered. I'll have to remember to pack a lunch if I fly AA. Enjoyed it!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:11 AM

farley wrote:

I'm done!!! You judges were brutal and cruel. What ever happened to constructive criticism? I don't want to see your faces or hear your voices ever again.. Bye

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:12 AM

Nancy wrote:

Your blog this week is just way too funny!!! I laughed so many times. You're quite a descriptive writer.Something should be said about Tom's beret though-LOL. Casey has been coming through in the end. I thought Brian would be going-he's probably next. Dale has been a late bloomer and coming though lately. Keep up the great blogs. Nice to see some great vocabulary as well.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:16 AM

jennifer wrote:

Best.Blog.Ever

The first thing I do after I watch Top Chef is go to this blog. I love reading Anthony's insights.

I was so glad to see CJ go. B-Bye!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:22 AM

randy lee wrote:

I truly love the way bourdain, is hilarious in the style of his insults. "Insta- boner" funny stuff.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:23 AM

Lacking Taste but Satiated wrote:

I never get enough of Anthony's blog: equal parts incisive critique, astute observation, hilarity and fun pop culture references. His write-ups also say something, unlike a couple of the other blogs (not naming names) which are so lacking in depth, that they appear to have been text messaged on a RAZR cellphone keypad during the taxi ride to the airport--I know the judges are busy, but sometimes I wonder, why did they even bother?

Anyway, keep up the good work Anthony. I think I'll pick up one of your books just for the writing.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:24 AM

Donna wrote:

Hi Mr Bourdain,

i really enjoyed your blog this week, it was very witty and funny. i agreed with majority of the things you said this week...it was very entertaining.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:27 AM

Misty wrote:

Hey Anthony! Loved your blog as usual. So, was tonight's episode a precursor to next season? Will my dreams be realized and you actually get a permanent spot on the show? One can hope...

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:28 AM

terrytoons wrote:

Tony, You may have thought you were being mean, but I laughed out loud at the comment about the lobster having the texture of a doll's head. Hilaaaarious.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:30 AM

Liz Szubert wrote:

I feel a lot better about the entire show now that I have read your blog. At first, I did hate hate HATE the decision to send CJ home. Two of my three favorites are gone! I am so glad that Hung is still about and your honest assessment of him. He has been there to win from the beginning and he will help when he wants to. However, I do worry it will come and bite him in the butt a la Marcel and Tiffani (Season 1, who remembers that?). I hope it doesn't because he is a nice guy in the end....just misguided at times.

I hear there is something nice that will be happening to Tre though. I don't remember where exactly I read it, but can you tell us a bit more if you know anything?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:32 AM

Rose wrote:

The judges are Mean and unreasonable. Imagine asking why the seeds were not strained from the blended drink. THe chef EJ only had a postage stamp for cooking space.

This season the judges are bitcher!!! More unreasonable and the challenges are harder than in the past. What has happened! Ugh. Takes the fun out of watching. You are mean and unreasonable and obviously not bringing out the best from the chefs.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:34 AM

Christy wrote:

Interesting, Anthony... thanks for reminding us about the plastic utensils.. bet that broccolini, even if cooked right, would have been hard to cut too... I liked C.J., but sensed a bit of an underlying mean streak... So I think you all made the right choice. I'm glad you feel Dale is still in the running. It just seems a little "staged" ( I know, reality editing ) that Casey stayed so far under the radar, now to burst forth.... I've heard that THAT is the formula... there is a "chosen one" and then the whole show is edited around making that person "look like", and then actually "become", the winner.... any truth to that?
Yes, you were a little brutal, but not in a demeaning way like the judges last week. Come to think of it- that's why we love you- you tell it like it is, yet you can still make it light-hearted and almost painless for the "victims".. Thanks!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:34 AM

Honeybee wrote:

While I understand why, I am still sad to see C.J. go. He is the most charming of all the chefs from this season and his "Crepe Spice" comment made me laugh. Not giggle, mind you, but actually laugh. Not for the first time he has had that effect on me and likely many others. And, Anthony, your description of the always-curious Hung is right on the money. I hope neither you or Top Chef ever receive a cancellation notice!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:41 AM

Kandyce wrote:

I will miss CJ immensely. That is one classy man. At the beginning of tonights episode, I said I wanted CJ and Casey in the final two. Now I'm pulling for Casey and Dale. I want Casey to win, though, and for two reasons: 1. We need a female Top Chef, and 2. She has more cojones than the rest of the contestants combined. I would eat her food any day. I still want Dale to make my breakfast, though.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:42 AM

JMW wrote:

Continental's first class has served me well (so to speak). In general I don't like these blunt product endorsements in Top Chef, but I'll give Bravo props for good taste in airlines. Also I was flying them a few weeks ago and wondering how they made that damned food -- funny to see it's exactly what I thought.

There's just nothing worse than wilted, nasty green vegetables. They just never reheat well. Continental itself has attempted this feat in the past, and not to good effect (rabe in my case).

I don't think CJ should've been sent home. He executed very badly, but his dish wasn't constructively bad. It reflected generally good taste in food but poor taste in the context. Brian was totally lacking; and he made fish (again) for the Quickfire. That's Brian -- fish and spam, fish and spam ...

I'm just sad noone tried to do a Pork Belly Ceasar on the plane. :)

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:43 AM

Rick wrote:

Seems like at this stage of the game, Casey in the only one with any real consistency.

Also, with CJ now out of the picture, I fear the quip-ratio is going to take a serious hit. Hopefully Dale can pick up some of the slack.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:45 AM

Blake wrote:

Anthony Bourdain!

Good assessment. Funny and witty as usual.

My peave the last few shows has been the judges. Schwartz from the previous episode, was a vicious moron. Who was the missing Soprano brother that held the seat this weak? Continental's VP of Gaming, Hospitality & Sanitation?

One look at him and I was suprised no one did a ziti casserole.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:45 AM

Theresa wrote:

Hello!
As usual your comments were right on the money. Yes, you were a bit on the shall we say "mean side". But, even not being there, I could tell that CJ was #1 on the chopping block. That broccolini looked horrible - no question.

But, I really liked CJ and found him to be a gentleman, enjoyable to watch, with a wry, self-deprecating sense of humor. I'll never forget one of the judges at a quick fire remarking "You're certainly tall" and CJ saying "I'm flattered you noticed". He will be missed.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:46 AM

Kellogg wrote:

What a show! Casey has my vote. Brian? Can he GO next week? Sorry to see CJ go but he really wanted some NY pizza (cannot say that I blame him, though).
Questions: Can a cook become a chef? What does it take? Kind of like the Navy and their definitions of a boat and a ship. I believe a boat can fit on a ship but no ship can fit on a boat. So, when does a yachtie-country-club-Waffle House-fry cook graduate to a chef?
Great expression of feelings Anthony...not shy are you? Me, neither.
OOOh-rah!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:51 AM

Dave wrote:

Another great blog entry, Mr. Bourdain.

I agree that Brian is toast. If he's not the next to be eliminated, I'll be extremely pissed. Out of the five left, he sticks out like a sore thumb.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 2:58 AM

steve wrote:

I'm a bit surprised to not see a pasta dish after the frozen pasta elimination challenge (well, not really -- but given the number of poor to mediocre pasta dishes I've had on planes, I'm surprised).

I'm left wondering how Brian keeps sneaking by. At least CJ appeared to know that he was doomed. But Brian, I have to say had no clue. It seems to me that having a clue that you are toast is at least showing that you are doing some post-game analysis on your food. Without that self-critical eye, I'd think you might be a top cook, but not a top chef. A cook doesn't have an idea that something is screwed up, but a chef should know

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:09 AM

The Forest Chef wrote:

Chef~

First off, thanks for letting me kiss you on the cheek oh, about three years ago in Seattle at the Sur La Table. Your face said it all back then..."What, I have to look at all these idiot wanna-be's sucking up to me just to hawk a few books? Take off those white coats, dammit, and show some spunk". I know, I thought the same thing. So much fun to watch the young ones traipse through their early learning routines. "I'm gonna be a chef". Good luck, SKippy.

Granted, I learned the ropes at Christopher's in Phoenix in the early '90s & later at the hallowed halls of Hyatt Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, so who the hell am I to wonder what the heck these chefs in the late '00s are all about? I'm just so sick of all this gastrofucking around. Does anyone taste their food anymore? Ridiculous. Worry about your foams & pickling & crazy combos later. Get your taste on now!

I just want to say one thing. Where's the beautiful food, people? Fresh herbage? Edible flowers? Perfect sauces? Decent cuts of meat? Balance? Anyone?

That's all for now --- ya'll chose right this time, again, and thank the sweet baby Jane (or maryjane, as Dale would have it) that we didn't have to endure another Howie meltdown. Literally.

Oh, and by the way, Mr. Hung? Get over yourself & clean up your spills, son. Karma has a way of catching up.

Thanks again, Tony. You are simply too damn cool for school.
L&K,
~The Forest Chef

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:09 AM

Diana wrote:

Mr. Bourdain,
As always, I can't wait to finish watching the show just to get online and devour what you have written. Your writing is, well, delicious! What a special treat to see and hear you on the show and then dish online what the food was really like. I cannot describe to you the reaction of my husband and teenage kids when you described something you ate as "having the texture of doll head". What fun! Thank you.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:12 AM

sydney wrote:

i think this is my favorite blog of yours so far. i laughed! i cried! i lost my appetite!

though...i still think brian should have gone home. it's hard for us, the viewers, to watch someone screw up over and over again, but keep getting by because someone else does worse. i liked cj, and though his food may have been awful this week...at least he recognized it. it really bothered me that brian just seemed so clueless.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:12 AM

Mikhail wrote:

Lovely article as always. Casey is showing everyone what's what and I'm stunned by all the hidden knives she's whipping out of her repertoire. Like you said Mr. Bourdain, it's "Top Chef, not Top Cook" and Casey is really showing everyone she's more than just a pretty face who can whip up a meal. Over an the other side of the hardness scale, Brian Talc, is chipping under the pressure of the other, more sturdier contestants. He seems to specialize in seafood, but has he ever prepared it well? Lastly, seeing as Smell-o-Taste-o-become-a-culinary-master-o-Vision hasn't been invented we could only watch and not partake in the disaster that was CJ, not that one would want to. We really thank you for taking that giant cannon ball in the face, for the team! Rather than being seen as a the demon judge clad in black, where's YOUR trophy? Your Purple Heart, your Hey, Thanks for Participating! Here's a dollar coupon off of your next fabric softener purchase?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:13 AM

Kellogg wrote:

What a show!
Casey? Time to shine on and whup them boys, big time. Stay focused and fine tuned. You can do it!
Brian? What is he still doing there? Yuck.
CJ? Gone? You have many opportunities coming your way...grab that brass ring on your way by and go get 'em.
Sara: In California in the 60's, we called the French toast with the hole in it (usually served with an egg in the hole) a "one-eyed Egyptian."
Question:
Can a cook ever become a Chef? What is the distinction between the "yachtie-country-club-Waffle-House-smoothie-bar" fry cook and a chef? Do I have to go to culinary school the rank as a Chef? Or can I just run a 5-star hotel at my Mom's house with her as my only guest - I am teaching her what "plating" is and presentation. Heck, all she wants is the food piping hot and tasty. That's what one aspect of "caregiving" is all about.
Is the difference between cook and chef about the same as the weatherman forecasting "isolated" thunderstorms rather than "scattered" thunderstorms? Is it all "relative" to the other item?
Like in the Navy and their boats and ships. I believe a boat can fit on a ship but a ship cannot ever fit on a boat. So, cook? chef? What size hat does each wear? Oops. I don't think chef hats are worn anymore, are they?
Anywhoo, love this season's show although the quality of chefs is not as high as previous seasons'. These chefs still need lots of mentoring but they are ready to learn and forge ahead.
Hang tough.
Stay focused.
Maintain your integrity and just get it done.
Ooh-rah.
You can doooooo it!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:13 AM

Sarah D. (PDX) wrote:

Mr. Bourdain, I effing love you! I've thoroughly enjoyed your books and tv show...and every appearance you've made on top chef. You always say the things that no one else will. In a way that no one else could. Many thanks for your blogs.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:15 AM

Karen wrote:

A dose of Anthony Bourdain kept the latest episode from being a snoozer. Thank god for Hung though. He's the only person left who's endlessly entertaining. Too bad he didn't win this week. I think he knows when to play it safe but doubt he'll continue to do so.

And I don't know about the rest of you, but I wouldn't want the fat guy sitting next to me during a long flight eating cauliflower.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:18 AM

meg glesener wrote:

you had entirely too much fun writing this. I laughed sooooo hard, have to email to my husband's work tomorrow. nice 'business class' clothing chef tom was wearing, next to you, he looked like a short old lady at what did you say some sizzler buffet-orama. please, keep writing.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:26 AM

JamesB wrote:

Since I don't have cable at the moment, I've just been reading Anthony's blogs. I not feeling like I'm missing anything at all.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:31 AM

Christopher wrote:

"Vicious bastard, snake in the grass, Rottweiler."??? Please! I don't think so, you wish you were that butch. Try the bitchiest queen since Jonathan Adler. Not to mention Ted Allen and Tom Colicchio. Padma is the only one retains any civility and grace. Very sad to see the show go downhill so quickly.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:34 AM

Montana wrote:

Great blog...great guest appearance...and I was blissfully unprepared for the flood of memories of my one youthful, ill-advised ouzo bender. Thanks for the aftertaste!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:37 AM

kai wrote:

Good God Mr. Bourdain, you are so right on and so full of it at the same time. The blogs - (you, Tom and Padma's) are better than the show!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:40 AM

Daisy wrote:

I was glad to see Casey win again! She seems to have a great pallette and a lot of creativity.
I don't quite understand why everyone is harping on Hung though. Is this the producer's way of showing conflict within the group? He does annoy me for sure, but the 'conflict' seems artificial.
I agree with you Mr. B, Brian is hanging by a thread. I believe that the bottom three tonight should have all been eliminated so that we can see Dale, Casey, and Hung battle it out for the top chef. That is who it's going to be in the final three anyway (IMO).

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:42 AM

Jonathan Weidler wrote:

Well, where do I begin for starters I couldn't believe how lucky the Top Chefs were to have Padma wake them up in the morning what a great way to start a day, and then cook her breakfast without going to bed with her, even thou part of their dreams was reality. Seems that some of these chefs can't satisfy Padma early morning desires , except Hung( he's asian and you know what they say about asians). I couldn't believe some of those Top chefs were having problems with cooking the proteins and veggies to the temp, every great cook knows that you par cook everything, and time it so when you preheat your food it isn't overcooked. I glad that C.J was sent home because how do you serve food that wasn't servable, even I could see that the broccolini was overcooked and nasty looking.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 3:51 AM

LAMusing wrote:

So am I safe in assuming you receive no compensation or consideration from American Airlines either?
My goodness, I do enjoy your blog. I watch Top Chef with dinner, then come to you for dessert.

Intersting to me how well Casey has done and yet few veiwers seem to think she has a chance. I wonder if it's because her personality is very serene - even when she's under the gun, she has a certain quiet focus. Actually I enjoy watching her cook, but she may have been getting lost to viewers behind Bulldog Howie and the frenetic Han. Watching him cook makes me tense.
Also I've noticed a singular sexist bias. Bravo even ran a poll "who's more talented - the men or the women?" What kind of question is that? The viewers said "the men" - would that be Brian? CJ? Bulldog? There seems to be an underlying thought that women are "cooks" and men are "chefs".
So after kicking out orphans and cancer survivors, what's next? Aw... we love you Chef!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:10 AM

Katie wrote:

I was the DD for a friend's b'day party tonight. I came home and watched Top Chef on my DVR. I saw my favorite "celebrity chef" (Bourdain) vote out my favorite wannabe Top Chef (CJ). I am depressed. After I watched, I switched over to CNN and saw Larry King interviewing Rachael Ray. I wanted to kill myself. Okay, not really...but my heart hurt for approx. 3 seconds.

(For the record, I'm willing to bet big bucks CJ could out-chef Ray any day of the week. Have you seen the stuff she cooks?!)

Moral of the story: At this point, if Hung does not win, I have no respect for Top Chef.

I'm gonna revisit my No Reservations DVDs tomorrow. It's far more enjoyable...

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:10 AM

Anonymous wrote:

"Behind somewhat in the creativity sweepstakes, he'll need some Ilan-style luck to go all the way (meaning someone else will have to screw up.)"

lol

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:11 AM

Lucio G. wrote:

In the beginning of the season there was a big brouhaha over Howie's failure to include frogs legs to his dish. Now dale comes up short a whole plate. What's up with that! I guess no meal is better than a bad meal. ask Howie?

P.S. Chef Tony the only time you should get an insta-bonner on TopChef is when Padma shows up for breakfast.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:11 AM

cherry canoe wrote:

i love top chef, and have been hooked since the git-go. but,mr. bourdain, it is your re-cap blog that really makes this season crack.

thank you for your eloquent and amusing writing, chef. i sure hope i have the opportunity to one day eat something you have prepared. until then, it is real nice to devour your words.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:27 AM

Rosalind wrote:

J C, you ARE my peer, dang it Tony. "and when you touch down"...
K, the rest of you, figure it out. Anyway, CJ should have been gone like 3 shows ago. Actually, Howie should still be there, and CJ should be gone. JOEY should be there, and CJ should be gone. Nuff Said.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:32 AM

kriselda jarnsaxa wrote:

Ok, so you've had a hand in kicking off two of the more root-for-able contestants, but I think even they have to admit you do it with a style no one else can even come close to matching :)

posted on September 13, 2007 at 4:43 AM

noch wrote:

i get an insta-boner everytime my RSS syndicator shows bourdain updated his top chef blog.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 5:12 AM

Dee wrote:

Is it sick that I find your brutal comments on the episode a turn on?
This episode would have been boring if it weren't for you! Thank you, also, for your wonderful blog...

I'm still turned on. ;p

posted on September 13, 2007 at 5:26 AM

julia wrote:

Your comments tonight were totally off....CJ did stab Trey in the back and he did the same thing during the late night challenge. Chef Tom consistantly puts down Hung...tonight saying his fish will never make it because fish isn't good in an airplane kitchen and building up Casey...

Casey is the Top Chef...it's a decision already made...they are building her up and putting down Hung

posted on September 13, 2007 at 6:15 AM

stina wrote:

Insta-boners?! Size-queens?! Burbing up licorice in a bidet?!? Mr. Bourdain, this might have been your best blog entry ever!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 6:20 AM

Elizabeth H. Avery wrote:

Mr. Bourdain,
Having a son in "special forces" and deployed for the third time, I rarely have the opportunity to laugh. Your blog regarding last nights episode was so funny. Thanks for your honesty and your
fantastic writing ability. Who laughs at 5 a.m. before leaving for work? I love the idea of someone giving the readers the credit for having a brain.
The reality is you made me laugh. I'm not sure anyone could understand what a gift that is for me these days.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 6:23 AM

Unstable Isotope wrote:

I can't wait for Brian to go. He is so arrogant and clueless. As you pointed out - doesn't he realize that we still have to use plastic knives on planes? How would we cut that sirloin? Also, I was really surprised that no one served chicken or a vegetarian meal, which is usually what I have on an overseas flight.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 6:28 AM

Doodad wrote:

Ha, I knew it would be Eight Miles High or Leavin on a Jet Plane.

Last night was a pretty good show. I enjoyed the quickfire except for the suspension of disbelief that they all slept while the fairies sprinkled an entire larder on the apartment. The challenge was interesting as well. I kept thinking to myself, which did not happen with the grocery aisle contest, what would I make. The trick of portion size, and unknown cooking parameters on those galley ovens was devious. I almost thought chicken, with sausage to keep it moist, would have done the trick, but would it be "top drawer?"

The worst in three years? Yikes that must have been BAAAAD!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:01 AM

Ryan Gray wrote:

I can never say anything bad about you. You are the man who will go anywhere and try anything, I can do nothing but give that absolute respect. Anthony, I know I don't deserve to call you that but, I love how you look for flavors that no one else will and step well beyond the box to make yourself happy. I tip my hat to you and I hope in your next travel, all goes well and you discover something to show off in the next top chef

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:03 AM

Cynrn wrote:

Anthony while yes you are a nasty, cranky bastard at least you remain such from beginning to end....the Howard Stern of the food world, but what is up with Tom C and Padma.....permanent PMS ? Is the shooting schedule or new books/diners getting the best of them? I think the word "snide" is the best description for the two.......Bourdain wannabes? Please bring back Ted A and Gail S and give these two a vacation. Oh, by the way can you arrange for Hung to be lost with the luggage? I for one am tired of his portrayal as a chef.....it gives us all a bad name....unless rude, arrogant, sloppy, mental case is what the new millineum chef is meant to be.......old school......

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:14 AM

Relly wrote:

I'm glad to see C.J pack his knives.......Tre was eliminated, so he could no longer piggyback off of him, the way he had the entire competition.I hope to see others step up there game.
( Dell,,,Sara ) Because from what i see Hung will be the last Chef standing. Brian is already fish food.This is ,as we know a "competition" and Casey with all her niceties, will be executed by Hung.... ....Love You ,Bourdain

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:18 AM

Lola wrote:

Glad you are back. Your comments are interesting and incisive as always. Now I understand the Bob Marley allusion!! You were tough on the chefs but they are there to learn and you put your criticisms in such a way that it was easy to understand but where the dishes failed and why they did not meet your expectations. Some of the other judges seem rather inconsistent in their expections--for example, they may complain the cooks are playing it too safe, then slam them for taking chances and deviating.

However--If Top Chef is not cumulative (i.e., if contestants are judged one competition at a time), your comment that Brian is "leaking blood in the water" is a little disturbing. I like to think the playing field is level and that the judges consistently and fairly use the same criteria all the time for all the contestants.

What you write--and what we've seen this season--suggests that judges do indeed surreptitiously factor in how they feel about past performance issues and how talented the chefs are. That's contrary to the stated rules, where supposedly as long as you live to cook another day ... your chances of making it though the next challenge are as good as anyone else's. So the stated criteria doesn't seem to match the actual criteria.

Also, perhaps you are correct that CJ screwed up technically because he is a "private chef" as opposed to a "real" chef, the kind of person who runs a restaurant kitchen. OTOH, I do recall that (I'll give one example) Hung produced a dried-out Arroz Con Pollo for a large crowd, despite clearly being very knowledgeable about food, and quite experienced with cooking chicken, cooking rice, and cooking for large crowds. Almost every chef this season has made glaring miscalculations and shown astonishing ignorance side-by-side with bravura cooking skills (Sara N. not knowing habanero peppers were really hot? Brian not recognizing Thai eggplant? Hung's chocolate pie disaster? Joey thinking drumsticks were upscale barbeque food? Casey and the coffee mole?) So I'm not sure C.J.'s departure really illustrates that restaurant chefs as a group outrank private chefs.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:20 AM

Shawn spencer wrote:

Wow Casey can acutally cook something!!!! I am shocked, shocked! The competition is still Hung's to lose. As for CJ this is Top Chef and not Top Personality (or in Casey's case not Top Eye Candy) someone had to be eliminated based upon what they put out and Tom called his dish the worst ever served on the history of the show.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:27 AM

cher wrote:

I wish you had time to be a fulltime judge. You make this show. Never miss No Reservations! Your comments are always right one and you always make me laugh! Yes, Jimmy should have seen wardrobe before going on camera and maybe on of Hungs smoothies! Is our finale going yo be Hung sending someone to the ER?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 7:56 AM

Ciann wrote:

Damn you're good!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:09 AM

stephanie wrote:

Ha! Chef Bourdain, as always, you hit that nail on the head. While I completely appreciate Malarkey's personality, he is NOT a CHEF!!

(BTW, "your seat cushion may no longer be used as a flotation device" may be one of the greatest lines EVER!!)

Casey, knife skills nonwithstanding, may just pull this thing out... which may not be the worst thing in the world. She's been the most consistent one of the bunch.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:13 AM

Tony wrote:

Tony,
Since I first read you, I've loved your opinion and writing style. But I have to take issue with this episode. After you rung poor Rocco like a kitchen rag over the "never gonna happen" challenge of the frozen food episode, you then participate in a "never gonna happen, don't really care if they can pull it off" challenge. Seriously, not only did I not get to see what the final chefs could do cooking wise, I got to get reminded that, due to my socio-economic status, I have never had anything more than warm mystery meat on a plane - and that was ten years ago when they still pretended to care about average customers! I was absolutely disappointed with this episode. What a way to go out - screwing up airplane food!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:24 AM

Rich wrote:

Nice assesment of the remaining competitors. I liked CJ a lot but it was clear he was reaching the end of his run. He simply doesn't have the experience (yet) to really go all the way. I got the distinct impression that he was surprised to have gone this far.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:31 AM

Susan Dobbins wrote:

Thank you for your insights, your wit and a few good belly laughs before facing the mundane tasks of the day.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:44 AM

Susan Dobbins wrote:

Thank you for your insights, your wit and a few good belly laughs before facing the mundane tasks of the day.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:45 AM

shaz wrote:

if your food goes down as well as your writing,you my friend are indeed a true renaissance man

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:54 AM

Hyperboliz wrote:

Hello fellow AB bloggers. Do you believe this? How can there be 'no comments so far' at 8am the next day? Bravo blog editors - get with it! As to last nights show - my husband is a pilot for CA. He LOVED this one. I ALWAYS liked Casey's cooking and demeanor in the kitchen and fell that she's got the goods to back up her successes both last night and all along this season. She has talent, is a decent human being and through the divine intervention of genetics (again a huge factor in the equation, as always) - is lovely to behold. Her cooking has been inspired all along. I like my fish on the crispy side and probably would have even liked her monkfish on mascarpone back from the war days. Judges ought to remember that regular people, nongastronomes, enjoy the occasional piece of well-cooked protein. Raw and squiggling is but a flash in the pan (no pun intended my friends) And to those of us in the health care industry who regularly excise and handle neoplastic 'nasty bits' from the usually corpulent , halothane-conked homo-sapiens lying in front of us, underdone flesh on our plate is simply too reminiscent of our day job. Additionally, I maintain that despite who the 'winner' is, they're all going to do well given their exposure on the show. ( a nod of respect for the unfortunate girl from last season who was recently the victim of a hate crime. My thoughts are with her) As for our raison d'etre
here, AB - the increased girth looks good on him. I, for one, prefer the obviously contended look of him as a new papa and husband than to that gristle bod he used to wear. He also smiles more and though the snark-gene is still being expressed (and on TV it's less effective than through his deadly ink sword), his presence made it an entertaining 60 minutes. As a Jersey Shore Girl born and bred, though now far from the hallowed halls of St. Rose in Belmar, I think that the little apple was good for Casey and that in the final analysis it will be she who triumphs (for all the obvious reasons.) I know we ALL observed her helping her fellow chefs on that 777! It comes naturally to her NOT being an All-Clad copper coated prima donna. And speaking of Hung - he MIGHT have emerged the victor were it not for his inability to see that there is a universe spinning beyond his corporeal limits! (though he had played right to Padma's love of ETOH in the 'wake up and cook me breakfast" on the kitchen slapstick. Blithely jete-ing past chards of truffle infused glass on the apartment floor - he maintained his innocence till the end thereby giving him the 'protein-selection point' in the challenge. The producers got out of detention this week for FINALLY emerging from the mind-numbing delerium of the last few challenges of parsimonious sums of $$ being offered to create etherial palate-pleasters. Finally, I think the photo of Padma in ABs blog, head jammed into the in-flight pillow, obviously slumbering, was most illuminating. How long did the taping actually take, I wonder? Did the crew use the heads on the tube for any emesis or other bodily functions? Where were the pilots? Did they take off at all? Were they EVER at altitude? If not - I humbly submit that the 'eight miles high' reference is misplaced and unless anyone actually became a bonafide member of the 'mile-high club' - that better adjectives are out there. Bloggers?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 8:58 AM

John Stavely wrote:

I just knew you were a softee! Love the show and the Blog.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:04 AM

Susan wrote:

Love your blog, Tony!! You've always got me laughing with your witty quips and insight. Speaking of which, did you really compare the consistency of Brian's lobster to that of a doll head on last night's episode? I was laughing so hard I wasn't sure I had heard you correctly. Keep 'em coming!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:04 AM

Krista wrote:

Wow, I have no words to say. Tony, well put. May these some of these contestants give it the best effort and stop dragging their feet. All in all, they are doing what they love to do the most and I applause them.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:06 AM

Robin wrote:

Eloquent as always Tony. One question...Did anyone pick up that Padma looked like she was about to burst into tears when she told CJ he had to go? In all the other seasons, she never seemed as broken up as she did about cutting CJ. Weird.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:14 AM

Zack wrote:

I am really beginning to wonder if Hung is knocking things over on purpose. It is happening far too often for me to not at least wonder about this.

Knocking over the truffle oil bottle on to the floor and breaking it eliminated that item from being used at the quick fire, unless they have another bottle on hand and let us not forget seeing the two squished tomatoes on the floor after Hung closes the refrigerator door, though we don't get to see if Hung was the one that has dropped those tomatoes.

I really hope he is not intentionally breaking items and as a result eliminating them from use and potential rattling his competitors who may have wanted to use those products, plus turning the cooking area into an obstacle course of broken glass and some bare feet.

Then again, Hung maybe, just maybe, a klutz and in too much of a hurry to grab things when time is of the essence, but I do find his denial of knocking over the truffle oil interesting.

I don't think I would want to be in the kitchen with him, especially when I think back to when he was handling his knife in the busy kitchen near Casey several episodes ago. I remember when Tom had addressed that issue of the knife with Hung.

It is clear to me at this point that Hung only cares about himself and I don't think that has changed much from the beginning of this season.

I was greatly disappointed in Sara's airline food. As for Casey, I don't think she should still be on the show, but I do have to give her credit for putting out a decent product and her willingness to help others.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:15 AM

Elly wrote:

The Bob Marley comment was classic - best ever!!!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:25 AM

Debra wrote:

Personally I hated to see CJ go. But, when I saw the once green, now grey, vegetable being plated, I knew he was doomed.
As viewers, we only get to see about 47 minutes, of hours even days worth of footage. That being said, I think Hung is an arrogant, selfish, weasly little whiner. Nothing is ever his fault is it? He drops food on the floor with absolutely no regard. It's disgusting, wasteful and inconsiderate.
As for Brian. I think he is really lucky that CJ's side dish was so bad. Week after week, we can always be assured that he will be creating, yet another seafood dish. To be a well rounded chef, one must know how to prepare a variety of foods. Especially in the protien world. He is skating by.
While Casey seems to be improving, Sara seems to still be riding on her singular victory.
Dale...oh Dale. To me, he is entirely forgettable. So much so in fact, that as a dedicated fan of the show, I have indeed forgotten his name much of the time. I see no front runner this season. In my humble opinion, none of them have proven deserving.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:27 AM

Beth wrote:

Love reading your comments. Your honest, but witty, comments are a breath of fresh air in a competition that is getting slightly boring.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:31 AM

alexsim wrote:

I have to stop reading this blog at work - my coworkers keep glaring at me while I laugh. Damn you Bourdain!

Great recap of last night's show. Why is Brian still in the competition!? The guy's gotta go next week. Great to see Casey do so well. As one who sits in coach, and usually the middle seat, I'd give my eyeteeth for anything resembling food on a flight. Except for the "Marley" broccoli, I could have eaten most of the meals prepared.

Thanks again for the great post, Mr. B. I have your new book on order - yep, hardback.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:42 AM

Kathy wrote:

As always, I throughly enjoyed reading your comments and I felt your opinions were right on the money.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:48 AM

Pat Stouder wrote:

Thanks at least for not blasting flight attendants and recognizing the hidious limitations involved in preparing and serving "first class" food on an aircraft. It is hard to keep your dignity when you have to place something as hideous as C.J.'s brocolinni in front of someone who has paid thousands of dollars for a ticket.I would like to see catering money spent on the best wines, breads, caviar and cheeses that could be found, pair it with high quality charcuterie and world class chocolates. I don't think anyone would miss the fancy titles and sauce costumes for beef, chicken or fish.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 9:50 AM

Andrea wrote:

CJ was my favorite, and I was very sorry to see him go. However, I'd like to point out that the judges made the right decision. For all the complaining about Tre leaving, that too was the right decision. Best wishes to both Tre and CJ in the future, I'm sure that with their wonderful personalities and great integrity they will each go far. I'd still like to know if CJ is single! He's adorable, and he can be my personal chef any time.

As always, Chef Bourdain, the blog was quite well-written and informative. I appreciate the extra insight to the judging process. Keep up the good work!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:01 AM

PeachPie wrote:

Tony... listen. You are probably the only person on the entire planet who can get away with what you do.

Last night, watching you, I realized that if anything you had said had come out of the mouth of another judge, they'd get blasted for it. I tried to imagine Tom or someone like Mike Yakura talking about cat food. It would have come off completely different.

You have a very, very unique gift. It's called humor.

Your being at panel last night...there was a whole different vibe across the board. Completely different from last week. And the reason was YOU. God, even Tom was obviously trying not to laugh.

Tony, you also get away with a lot because you're NOT a snob. What viewers see with you is something that is NOT seen in any of the other judges. Humility. I've never heard another judge speak of their own follies or shortcomings.

Also, thank you for acknowledging at the judges table about the constraints of the challenge. All we ever hear from anyone else is how "easy" a challenge should be.

You were the ONLY reason I tuned in this week.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:01 AM

George wrote:

"Cat food" and "doll head" references? You may want to pull back on the zingers because they take away from an otherwise good analysis and show for that matter.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:03 AM

Sarah wrote:

This is the best blog in Season 3. I was laughing out loud several times -- at work, no less! I love Anthony Bourdain's writing, and he is definitely in top form here.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:04 AM

meleny wrote:

Ah, how I love Thursdays and your Top Chef blog. Culinary comment rebirth. Hmmm, lets see, about this week. Poor CJ. I could see that red circle- with -the- line- through- it over his broccolini fron 15000 feet. I have to admit that Casey is a complete surprise. The girl may just win it all if she keeps this up. Brian..... this one is on the fast track to as his limited bag of tricks and ability to slip through with "just enough" runs out.
Dale just isn't a top chef. Sara is interesting. She has surprised me with her leadership skillds.But, her cooking isn't consistent and she seems to need more experience with ingredients. Hung.
I think his cooking is sometimes very smart and innovative but also very inconsistent. I am not versed enough to know if executing tried and true or established recipes is smart or merely safe. He cannot take criticism, is a horror in the kitchen and in team challenges. His ego barely fits through the kitchen door (not necessarily a rarity wth top chefs it seems), and I wonder if being a loose cannon is the best choice for a Top Chef even considering possibly superior culinary talents. The show is about cooking but, lets face it, this is a television offering and so the entire package must be considered. There is life beyond filming. You were, once again spot on with your critique. Can't wait until next week. (I may even use paragraphs instead of one long run-on sentence with haphazard periods!) I do have one last comment. Question? Why was Padma so teary at CJ's departure? It couldn't be that she liked the broccolini?!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:09 AM

Phyllis wrote:

I really thought this was it for MALARKY, but I understand why CJ had to go. Once again, AB, your writing keeps me laughing and I llove your insight into the cheftestants cooking abilities. You rock!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:10 AM

potterbrain wrote:

Anthony,
I've read all your books (Kitchen Confidential about 5 times)
and though I've never been one to read blogs, your take on the
Top Chef episodes are highly entertaining. Rock on!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:10 AM

Matt from Miami wrote:

Here I was, all set to bitch about another lame gimmick challenge, when you thoughtfully explained exactly why this whole setup made sense. Thanks for that.

I was sure Brian would be gone this time. The editors have gotten better at not telegraphing their moves so early. When I saw Brian talking about how if you haven't brought your A-game you wouldn't have gotten to this point I nearly burst out laughing. No one in 3 seasons has gotten farther by doing less. I'm sure he will be welcomed back to Red Lobster with open arms when they finally get around to sending him packing, but he will get to live out his life with the knowledge that a cheese chef made him look like a young newlywed bride preparing her first dinner for her husband.

Sara's lack of experience cooking actual food is starting to show. While the front runners are pulling away by serving increasingly sophisticated dishes and executing classics to perfection, she is taking bigger and bigger chances and going for wow factor. That's not going to win the big prize this year. I do think she will make the final four, because Brian won't and the next episode is all about classical French cooking skills and she seems strong technically in that area.

Dale is good, although is arithmetic skills are in question, but I can't see him getting to the final round. Unless he pulls a rabbit out of his hat he's not going to give anybody the best meal they ever had, which is just about what it will take in the final rounds.

CJ was frankly no great loss, and I'm kind of surprised he lasted this long. He is a private chef, and he is obviously accustomed to people being wowed by what he puts on their plates instead of the harsh criticism that comes with putting your food out there where the entire world to take shots at it.

This is all going to come down to Hung and Casey, and right now I just can't pick between them.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:16 AM

ddn wrote:

OMG, I cannot stop giggling and I am just on page 1!! Stop it, my boss is beginning to wonder about the stifled giggles issuing from my cubicle and I can only blame it on my furbie for so long before she figures it out. As usual, your metaphors are apt, amusing, and so very entertaining. Don't you have a single brother? Keep judging and blogging. I love CJ and I'm sad to see him go, but what the heck is Broccolini any way? Did he make that up? Bad choice, those kind of veggies give you gas and I don't want to be next to the obese sweating used turf sales rep on the plane who eats that!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:17 AM

Patrick wrote:

Tony,

Your blog is the best thing on this site. So funny and on point.

Seeing some of the chefs dishes tonight, I would stick to my stale little bag of peanuts and cup of diet coke, thank you very much. I think you were on point with all the meals servied in the episide.

The top three in my opinion are Hung, Casey, and Dale.

Hung, while a great chef needs some personal maturity in order to be Top Chef. I lshake my head everything he laughs like a little school girl. But the dude can cook.

I love the flavors and creativity that Casey brings to the table. And to use your words, she gives me an "instant boner" when I see her on the show. If she stays focused, I see her in the Final Two.

Dale is strong in so many areas. Very creative on most dishes, can work a room and is very charming. Like the debacle with the decor in the Restaurant Wars and now his forgetting the 18th meal, mental toughness might be what brings Dale down.

And what about Chef Tom? Seeing him and his outfit on the episode, I thought he was trying out for Samuel Jackson's role on the sequel to "Snakes on the Plane". Love the cap Tom!

Look forward to more of your work on here.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:18 AM

Kerry wrote:

I don't know why I'm surprised that Tony is married and has a child, but that revelation causes me to think of him a little more 'softly'. I love Tony - I never miss "No Reservations" - I appreciate his dry wit and human observatons. And I mostly agree with his blog (as much as I can as a viewer as opposed to a participant (judge)). I'm really pulling for Casey - of course we have Texas in common, but I really think she has ultimately been the most consistent. And I like her. I would also be refreshing to see a woman on 'top'.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:20 AM

IonChick wrote:

I support your critiques of the contestants. You picked the right man to go...

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:22 AM

Debbie wrote:

Hi Tony,

I don't think you're a mean person. Although you can be scathing when it comes to your description of the food, I can tell that it's just about the food and not about the chef. I've also learned a lot the high end of cuisine by reading your blogs.

After reading your defense of CJ concerning his decision to let Tre be the chef, I understand the decision. I also feel that whether or not one agreed with CJ's decision, it was Tre's food that failed, and the food is the primary benchmark by which a restaurant is judged. Although it was painful to see Tre go, I reluctantly agree with that decision.

I personally would have kicked Brian off. Although it sounds like I was fortunate not to have had the experience of CJ's broccolini, broccolini seems a better choice for an upscale dinner than any sort of hash. And I feel a Top Chef learns from his or her mistakes rather than having no idea why his or her meal failed.

I'll be cheering for Casey to win the whole thing for all the women viewers of Top Chef.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:25 AM

Sue wrote:

Yes you were ready to pounce .. haha! But that only makes the show so much more enjoyable!! I hate when the judging table is so freaking serious its like they're deciding who's going to be the next Pope or something. All your comments are dead on, I couldn't have agreed more if I had said it myself. Unlike other bloggers, where I read and go "no No NO!" - ie. Barton G's description of Howie's ultimate sacrificing of himself to save Brian?!! NO! Are you on something Barton?

Anyway, love you and wish you were a permanent judge!! By the way, Continental has the worst landings EVER!! Wouldn't recommend them for the faint of heart.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:27 AM

Dwayne wrote:

Great seeing you on TC again last night!

Best metaphor of the night: "Doll head" to describe tough, rubbery, overcooked lobster.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:30 AM

Shannon wrote:

""If you've ever been on an ouzo bender and woken up the next day with your head in a bidet, burping up licorice? That was pretty much my in-flight meal on Air Sara."""

MOST BRILLIANT TC STATEMENT EVER

xoxxoxoxxoxoxoox Bourdain

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:30 AM

Beth wrote:

Anthony, just finished Kitchen Confidential. Love the book!
Great show last night.

When I saw Brian serve a giant steak on the plate I was appalled! The first thing I thought was how will anyone be able to cut that on a small tray in turbulance? (with in my case wedged between two 200+ individuals).

I would love to see the final competition between Casey and Hung. Casey was obviously sick and tired of Hung's racing around during the Quick Fire competition. Seeing her take him down in the final with a cool head and technique makes for a great finale.

Thanks for a great blog.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:34 AM

Ken wrote:

What's wrong with TGI McFunster's?

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:34 AM

TVKimmy wrote:

While your level of self-awareness at how you could be perceived is commendable.....I have to tell you that if you weren't that vicious bastard I wouldn't insist on reading this blog first thing every Thursday morning! You make my day, every Thursday, without fail. I must insist that you never change and continue to enlighten me about food with the highest degree of snark you can manage. For me, it is absolutely the best of both worlds. Rock on!

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:35 AM

Joe wrote:

Why couldn't we have had Mr. Bourdain as a judge from the begining. I look forward after each episode, to see the honest to heaven's, no holds barred truth in his blog. Like an elbow drop from the top ring rope, he dosen't hold back and just tells it like it is. I applaud that kind of honesty in a world full of political correctness.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:36 AM

theunit32 wrote:

haha-dollywood sizzler. i live in knoxville (not for long) and totally get the airline food-sizzler comment. nice.
i knew cj was done. the second that the george romero broccoli came out, i knew it.
hung, well..hung in there. he's smart. he's not being to overboard, yet staying ahead of others, in some degree. yet has he even won an elimination challenge yet?

casey-easy on the eyes, and from what i'm gathering the tastebuds. she is sneaking her way up the ladder. the tortoise often gets the last laugh when cooking against the hairs.

sara-where is she from? my wife gets up and leaves when she talks because she is so annoying. send her packing. her food is either vanilla or pickles, peanut butter and anchovies. there is no middle ground with her. "my sleeping clothes"
malarkey-n. Slang.
Exaggerated or foolish talk, usually intended to deceive: “snookered by a lot of malarkey”
can he cook anything, please anything that doesn't come out of a water enviroment? even frogs come up for air every now and then. seafood. even red lobster serves steak. i don't think that brian has any idea how to cook anything but fish. sheesh, i'd be happy with popcorn at this point. we get it!! you can cook seafood. but a sirloin and lobster that size??? there would be a rush to the bathroom after a meal like that. actually, i take that back. keep that dish on the airline menu-the terrorists might need a good smacking with something, and the tv tells me that malarkey's steak could do the trick.
dale-you forgot to feed an airline attendent? they got bad service? hehehee. another one that makes me think that picking a winner for top chef isn't going to be easy.
cj, we hardly knew you. oh, the irony of serving stewer...sorry...airline attendents crappy food. oh the irony.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:36 AM

JenSings wrote:

I knows what I sees Mr. B., so don't try your art of persuasion with the Tre/C.J. thingee. I'll refrain from using that hackneyed bus metaphor and simply say this: C.J. decided, Tre preened. C.J. "prepped" and your so-called Executive Chef floundered...twice. If it was truly a smart, humble and wise move, as you suggest, I believe I would have seen a more supportive effort on the part of the sous chef, the "private" chef, the "cancer survivor." I didn't. What I did hear (with my very own ears) was C.J. agreeing whole-heartedly with every criticism of the initial "soft opening." Odd, I thought, how I'm listening to one of the “team” members - the one that did practically nothing except dictate and relegate - acting as cheerleader for judge disapproval. Second time up - C.J. AGAIN steps back, away from the darts, only to add his own two cents about bad bread pudding and the infamous line "He said he could do it." Wow. Disturbing. The cavalier remarks upon Tre's departure were a bad acting job from a guy brimming over with smartassed bon mots: "He took it like a man." Yup. Now bend over and say ahh.

Anyhoo, thanks for explaining why Collichio almost vomited onboard...now, can you explain his hat? The soul patch was bad enough. What the hell was that hat trying to say? "Help! I've been HatCrafted!" "Beretwiched!" "Steaktammed?" I dunno, but it frightened me.

Oh yeah, one last thing. Please refrain from wearing your "Nice Guy" suit out in public anymore, deal? It fits poorly and tugs in all the wrong places. If somebody's going to say something nice, it will be me

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:45 AM

Matt wrote:

Mr. Bourdain,
I completely agree with your assessment of the elimination challenge. I have a question about the show, though, and wonder if you or the other commenters may have an answer. What was with the ridiculous and insulting (to the viewer and to the chefs) quick-fire challenge? I came to your blog hoping to see your or someone else's take on it. Padma "wakes" the contestants up in order to make her breakfast (using the product-placement device du jour) and then gives the winner a copy of her cookbook? OK- Tom plugs his new LA restauant, and I'm sort-of OK with it. They (not you) mention your Travel Channel show, and it ties in to the challenge and seems reasonable. But where do the producers get off letting Padma hawk her innane cookbook? Who the hell is she? What the hell use is her cookbook to a chef in the final half dozen or so of a cooking competition. It's like if Rush Limbaugh wrote a how-to book about bull riding and awarded it as a prize to the winner of a rodeo. WHO CARES? This quickfire was a complete insult to everyone involved with the show and marked a new low in a series which should already be HIGHLY embarrassed about the nature of corporate shilling already going on. Do the producers see the finished product of these episodes? Does Tom? Is no one willing to say, "enough already with the plugs for Toyota"? I know I won't again be headed to any of the "Craft family of restaurants." I'll probably finish out this season of the show, but I'll definately be fast-forwarding through anything Padma has to say (even when she explains the challenge). Thank God for Tivo.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:46 AM

Skeeter wrote:

I have to disagree with the Chef on one major point. In a colonoscopy, you are put under. You have to endure airline food while wide awake. It is a much closer call that Chef Bourdain claims.

Not to digress, but I must note that I am still bitter about Chef Bourdain and his "Rangers" comment on his regular show. I just can't believe that somebody with his intelligence would find himself on the wrong side of the Old Firm.

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:47 AM

FanFare wrote:

Dear Anthony B.,

Thank you for the background scoop. During service, both you and MT. Tom cranked out insulting barbs like a pair of Don Rickles. (Was he always like that or do you bring out the worst in him?) It is nice to hear that you claim to have a softer side (with your family). People would pay big bucks to hear you sing a lullaby or compliment your wife...

The challenge:
It appeared that the 3 less successful cooks could all have been given Greyhound bus tix home. All 3 dishes looked depressingly bad. All 3 cooks gave dilluted excuses. However, poor execution did not mitigate poor ingredient choices. It also appeared that Brian suffered from not cooking in the past few challenges. Maybe he forgot how to cook!

It is surprising that Dale was deemed in the upper 3 group. He forgot to serve one dish! That is unacceptable (except on an airplane.) Well, at least the judging remained consistent here - Dale got a pass even though he did not complete the task (ala Howie)...

Actually, I no longer care who the hell wins. Since many of the cooks continue to churn out failures, it is clear that the winner will be, "The Least Crappiest Chef".

posted on September 13, 2007 at 10:49 AM

susie k wrote:

This is the first time I've ever written a blog and it was Chef Bourdain and his witty, sarcastic comments that made me do it. He makes me laugh out loud on a regular basis. I'm a big fan of his and a huge fan of the show. CJ's a great guy with a good sense of humor himself but it was his time to go. My vote for top four