October 8, 2007
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I gather that Hung won.
Of course, you saw the Olympian struggle, the final, mountain-top face-off before I did. Security was so sphincter-tight in Bravo-land that even a man of known virtue and impeccable reputation such as myself was not allowed an advance peek at the previously taped combat. And where I am, I couldn't catch the live bits. I'm writing this, days later, from my favorite pub in London, The Festering Ferret, where, in between pints -- and bites of meat pie, I finally laid eyes on this historic clash of the titans -- via bootleg download.
Hung won. Not a big surprise for me -- but for many viewers, apparently, a kick in the stomach. I think the right contestant won. And as importantly, I think that Hung's well deserved victory is a nice, stiff middle finger to all those boneheads who've been predicting that "The producers are setting it up so Casey will win," as well as the poor, deluded souls who feel they can somehow taste food through the television screen and who've been hanging on to a few heavily edited comments about "flavor" as "evidence" that Casey was the "better" competitor. What we saw in the finale did not support that hypothesis.
Comments
nursetimber wrote:
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finally my Anthony is back with his blog. It was well worth the wait. Great job Anthony!!!!!!!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE your honesty. You rock!!!!!!!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:13 AM
KatD wrote:
ITA 100% about Hung. His joy, confidence and skills in any cooking situation he was faced with were beautiful to enjoy.
Despite Bravo "polls" and editing efforts, he has many, many supporters who think he seems like a great guy--as well as a great chef.
(His burners helped Casey and Dale, too, since they had the pro stoves--and much more room to work).
I'm just sorry that TC felt it necessary to have the finale at 11,000 feet--and even brought oxygen tanks. Casey's disorientation really did seem related to that--not that she would have, or deserved to win--but she deserved to be allowed to cook at her very best.
Next season, I hope that, at SOME point, TC will just LET THE CHEFTESTANTS COOK--under ideal conditions and with every ingredient and tool they need to do their very best! What could possibly be wrong with that?????
And, congrats, Hung! You were great and SO deserving! Can't wait for your restaurant!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:22 AM
Sheryl Nelson wrote:
I think you are spot on. And quite frankly, I don't see the problem with Hung. I didn't find him overly confident or obnoxious. And unless there was a whole lot we weren't seeing, he wasn't spending an excessive amount of time running his mouth. He believed in his abilities, he was right, and that drives some people crazy. I was glad to see him win.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:25 AM
Nelson wrote:
Coincidentally, I'm currently listening to an audiobook of Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential", read by the man himself. I'm just struck by how much he likes and often uses the metaphor: "balls the size of casaba melons". Perhaps, it's an apt description of him as well. I certainly think it describes his blog and other fascinating, funny, and crudely entertaining writings.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:27 AM
Amy wrote:
Ah Anthony! I've been waiting like an eager little school girl for your take on this finale. And I do agree with you, even though I was rooting for Dale. As a working sous chef myself, Dale is the one I would want to work for. Casey was way to type A, yeah I'm sure she keeps an analy clean and organized kitchen, but where was all that "soul" when she needed it? Non-Existant. Hung is absolutly the best chef on the show, I will give him that, and his attitude actually makes him all the better. The best Chefs are A**holes. It just blows to work with them unless you're an a**hole, too.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:28 AM
Laura wrote:
We don't want to be this desperate... but we are. I, and others like me, have been checking this site everyday, waiting, waiting.
Your blogs were icing on the (boring) chocolate cake - I would have eaten every bite and taken anyone's who didn't want theirs. ("You gonna finish that?")
Congratulations to Hung. He deserved it. He EARNED it. I am not sure anyone had as much FUN as Hung did this year. His enthusiasm was a kick to watch, he was more helpful when appropriate with TEAMmates than people seem to have seen, and most importantly, the judges found his cooking remarkable.
Now exactly where is this Ferret place and what time should I be there?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:31 AM
Cee wrote:
Hey Chef B
Thank you for the insightful blogs in your"" Tell it like you feel"'
'"It is what it is"' style. I have enjoyed them so much. Im sorry
the season has ended. I'can't wait for next year. I hope that
you will be on more next year. Until season 4 take care Chef B
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:34 AM
cath wrote:
Yay! Nice to see your blog is up! :-) How sad that we have to wait until next season for your sage and profane er...profound commentary. Thanks for great entertainment this season, Tony.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Sharon wrote:
Anthony Bourdain, you have really made the culinary world come alive for me. I've read all of your books, and have since tuned in every week to Top Chef where I was continually exposed to amazing chefs. I'm now making my way through all of Michael Ruhlman's books, and made figs wrapped in bacon from Eric Ripert's "Return to Cooking" as a late night snack last night. I can't get enough. I'm also saving my pennies for a trip to Masa. So thank you, Anthony Bourdain: your passion was contagious. Your blogs will be missed as will your guest judging. I'm counting down to the next Top Chef, and for Season 4 of No Reservations.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Church of ShiskaBob wrote:
There you have it, the truth brought down from Mt. Olympus or Sinai or whatever: Bourdain says Hung deserved to win! (No sarcasm intended.) Incidentally, so did Rocco and Tom. Not only are all three chefs highly respected, but they have actually tasted the food in question. Imagine that. That's good enough for me.
So to all the crybabies, suburban three-star Michelin chefs, and refined palates whose culinary experiences include Outback Steakhouse and summer cooking classes at the local community college, the debate is over. Deal with it.
As for me, I eagerly await the opening of Hung's first restaurant.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:34 AM
sally wrote:
When I heard hung make reference to your blog I thought HUH? I better check that out. I love reading your writing, Love listening to you talk and have enjoyed this blog immensely. If you ever decide to create your own blog I hope to find it. thanks
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:36 AM
Cinnamon wrote:
Mr. Bourdain- THANK YOU! You said it well... Hopefully this will shut up any Hung detractors who think Top Chef actually means "Top Girl Next Door With A Heart of Gold" or "Top Gay Dude With a Quick Wit." As for Hung, no one deserves it more!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:40 AM
Andrew wrote:
Thanks, Tony, as always for your candid and brutally honest assessment of the action.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:44 AM
louise wrote:
I also thought Hung should win and I could not understand why everyone disliked him so. This was a competition, he was not in it to win friends. I am so happy he won. He really deserved it. By the way, I am still trying to figure out how Dale mad it to the finals.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:46 AM
gk91 wrote:
Hope to see you back next year Tony, and congrats to Hung!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:51 AM
Kevin wrote:
Anthony,
Love your to-the-point, hit-on-the-nail, backed with facts insights: no one can argue there! Great blog !
P.S. I have also enjoyed your TV show so keep it up (Hung said in his Q/A that he envies your job :-)
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:51 AM
Anne wrote:
Well, I guess I have to stop whining about you (and some others) sitting on your backsides and not writing anything just because of the live episode. Enjoyed as usual your comments and the fact that you bothered to write even though you were over there in London.
I was also glad that Hung won. When the 3 finalists were chosen I wouldnt have been disappointed in any of the 3 winning, but after seeing the finale ,definitely thought the right choice was made.
I may have to get a copy of your audio of Kitchen Confidential; I'm sure it will be entertaining and informative.
Hope to see you on TC 4.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:53 AM
Jeff wrote:
Hey Bourdain,
Damn right I'll argue.
First off, you completely skimp over the fact that Casey was suffering from altitude sickness. Throw someone onto a mountaintop at 11,000 feet and tell them to make the best meal of their life. You've got a sense of humor - you've got to find that laughable.
Sure, Hung did it. Good for him. He planned ahead. But Dale did it too, and for a guy who hasn't cooked for a year and a half, not shabby. He could kick Monkeyboy's ass once he gets into rythm.
Let's look at things from a business perspective, shall we? Because the greatest food served in an empty restaurant means nothing. And that's what Monkeyboy will have because of his attitude.
This show was meant to appeal to the general audience - people who will eat the cheftestants' food (like Harold's at Perilla). If it was meant for serious cooks it should be broadcast on the campus of the CIA and not on Bravo.
The fact is, Hung is more than just a loudmouth. In his quest to steamroll over his competitors, he established a worse reputation than Rocco, post-The Restaurant. At least Rocco never spoke ill of anyone else.
Sure, he will have people with a morbid curiosity to taste his food. But a restaurant hemorrhages money in the first 10 years. You know that, Anthony. 6 months after his opening, Hung will be staring out to an empty dining room. All because, despite his talent and skill, he acted like an ass instead of a saint. He was good enough to win without being the villain. Too bad, what a sucker.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:01 AM
eat4fun wrote:
Mr. Bourdain,
I really enjoy your blog for it's unrestrained candor and pleasant writing style. Tom C's blog gives us the behind-the-scenes info, but he's part of the program which implies he has to hold back on the criticism. You are not constrained to that extent.
Keep up the great work!
I'm looking forward to reading your blog next season.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:05 AM
Felicia wrote:
Anthony,
Shame on you for making us wait six days for your comments, but your comments were well worth the wait (smile). As usual your are Dead On and Dead Right. Hung deserves to win, he was clearly the best chef. Dale has won also, good job Dale on your come back to culinary world. Your blogs are the best can't wait till next season. Anthony have you ever went to Germany for" No Reservation"? Hope you will go soon, hey you already in London, hop across the channel, Lufthansa anyone?....
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:09 AM
sorsha_totu@yahoo.com wrote:
Chef:
I wholeheartedly agree! Hung's technical skills were always unmatched, and I was so happy for him - and his family - that he won. I think that Hung originally aimed for a "character" that would get him places - but he really showed his true self in challenges like the Aisle Trial, where he made that crazy/fun Smurf-inspired village and was giggling like a child. As far as his team efforts go, he was a fantastic sous chef for Sara during the Restaurant Wars. One of my favorite bits was when Sara said something to the effect of Dale liking something crispy, and Hung responded with, 'how do YOU want them?', reminding her that SHE was the executive chef, and these were her decisions to make. As far as the complaints that he wasn't a team player during solo competitions went, I never saw him deny anyone help if they asked (well, except when Dale asked for tips on how to cook the fish/potato dish in the Quick Fire. I couldn't believe he asked that. To me, since deconstructing the recipe was the whole point of the exercise, Hung giving that info away would be helping the others cheat). While Hung was never SHOWN to volunteer to help (editing people, editing!), I wouldn't be bothered by it if he didn't. It was a competition. As far as Hung's personality goes, I've never found him to be particularly abrasive, but then, I TIVO a little travel/cuisine show that goes all over the world with a sometimes acerbic host, so perhaps I'm calloused (and when you go to Egypt, Tony, please take me. I LOVE Cairo. And I would have been a better buddy for Iceland, too. You got robbed - you missed TONS. Please. Iceland is all about food and art). Hung truly deserves the title and the opportunities he's going to get. And, as he said in the finale, all the finalists are in a better place than they were 6 months prior. It is up to them to make the most of it.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:09 AM
Diego is Pinoy wrote:
Congratulations to the finalists, especially to HUNG!! *THAT* was a great season!! I enjoyed every episode of it and my wife and I are looking forward for the next one. Is it coming out yet?!
Your blogs will be missed, Anthony!! Really love your take on things. More power to you and everything you do.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:15 AM
FanFare wrote:
Dear Chef Bourdain,
Well said! You have had the pleasure to eat Hung's food in 2 rounds and seemed very pleased. You also liked Casey's and Dale's (in the 2nd time you ate his food). In round one, Dale was on the chopping block.
I had the impression that Hung researched the effects of altitude cooking and made adjustments. That was key to winning TC. He seemed pleased with each step of finale pt.2. Unlike Casey and Dale who seemed worried (or confused); Hung was confident.
I felt that on any particular day, any one of the 3 finalists could have won it. However, Hung remained focused and true to himself. As Harold won due to overall consistency, so did Hung. Don't fret Hung Haters, Dale and Casey will do very well from their exposure through this competition as well...
AB - Thanks again for your rollicking, insightful comments. (We all waited with baited breath to hear from you.) Cheers!!!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:30 AM
Amy wrote:
Great blog, Anthony.
Casey's altitude sickness is a lame excuse, she wasn't the only one working at 11,000ft. You could tell from the get go that she had trouble thinking on her feet for that challenge.
If I recalled correctly, everyone talked smack about everyone else, especially Dale. Hung mostly talked about himself.
Congrats, Hung!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:30 AM
PROUD TO BE HUNG'S FELLOW wrote:
Jeff,
Eat and Drink every single words of Tony!!!!Didnt you say that Tony needs to type faster for you to hear his opinion? HA, now you got it!!The winner is HUNG, aceept it, my poor man!
SO PROUD, SO PROUD OF HUNG!!!!!! Want it or not, they will have another show of Hung on TV somedays!!
Now, let's come back to your "dear, pretty, glowing Casey"....Don't blame on the altitude for her, Jeff. Why didnt Hung or Dale blame on it too, you think? huh?
Here, let me repost what Tony said about Hung's winning for you to READ:
"In the end the best chef won on the merits. In recent episodes, Sirio Maccione, Andre Soltner, Michelle Bernstein, Todd English, Rocco DiSpirito, and Tom Colicchio ALL clearly recognized a superior craftsman in Hung -- and rewarded him with well deserved wins. THAT is the bottom line. You want to argue with that kind of consensus? Go right ahead."
hahahaha, i just wanted to laught right into your face for being so arrogant. And PUH-PLEASE, i am sure Hung and his restaurant doesn't want to have such a customer like you to eat what they serve, because, simply, you don't understand any sh*** about cooking...THEY don't want you anyway.hahahaha
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:37 AM
Tara wrote:
Right on Bourdain! I've been waiting to read your blog. You've said exactly what I've been thinking .... I'm so tire of viewers who claim to be able to taste food through the telelvision ... or that they know everything there is to know about Hung, simply from clever Top Chef editing. I'm so proud of Hung, and it's a joy to see him compete. He really loves what he's doing and embraces all the challenges. I read between the lines and I knew he wasn't a bad guy that Top Chef was trying to make him out to be. This makes up for Marcel losing last year.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:39 AM
ag wrote:
I too admit it. I've been checking the site like a girl waiting for a call on Friday night. Both my fiance and I have been HUGE fans of your blog. We loooove your comments and insights into the food. and YAY for Hung. I really thought Top Chef was going to bow down to the "general wave" of hate towards Hung for, God forbid, "Confident!"= "Arrogant" I really loved his story and think he totally deserved the win. Of course, that's not to say that I dislike the other two though. I'm sure that Casey is an excellent chef and will do very well for herself now that she's become America's next sweetheart. I also LOVED Dale and I think he had some of the funniest comments of the entire Top Chef series. I'm confident that he will do wonderful things. but like you, I'm really happy that Hung took the win.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:40 AM
Dana wrote:
Love the blog Anthony--
Btw, I wouldn't put too much faith in the America hates Hung and loves Casey polls. They only represent the minute population of Top Chef watchers that pay $1 to text Bravo their opinions
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:43 AM
cgee wrote:
Hi Anthony,
I can't decide what's worst..the end of the TC Season 3 or the end of reading your blogs. Marry me!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:50 AM
MELLow wrote:
AB, I've enjoyed reading your blog. You make me LOL!
Hung, congrats! Your first restaurant must be in NYC!!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:52 AM
Lisa Laskowich wrote:
Dear Mr. Bourdain:
Why just blog about Top Chef? I wish you would write a blog on Project Runway too! I don't care if that's not necessarily you're area of expertise - I love hearing your opinions. I love your honesty, and I love your sense of humor. I guess I just hate the fact that I'll have to wait for a brand new season of TC in order to read your blog again. I'll just have to content myself with No Reservations - but it's not enough!!! Damn you, Bourdain! Now I have to buy all your books!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:52 AM
joy vansleet wrote:
I have mixed feelings about the outcome. Last season it was made into a personality contest and Marcel lost to a spanish line cook. This season was not a personality/beauty contest and self-absorbent Hung won... deservingly so for he his talents were embellished with analytical forethought and technical skill. I was truly impressed with Dale, who waivered in the background for too many episodes as he regained his bearings... if the show had run la few more episodes he may have pulled ahead. However, I loved Dale's comentaries throughout the season and am glad that Bravo added that 'color'... he is the comic relief that was much needed and would work well on another show.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:53 AM
Kay wrote:
LOVE your blogs.
I agree 100%! Hung deserved to win. He may not have been my favorite, but his perfomance in the finals was fun to watch. I was sorry to see Casey choke a little. I don't think altitude sickness is a good excuse.
I also agree about Dale being inconsistent. He could be so good sometimes, and other times flop.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:54 AM
Steve N wrote:
To the Guy who Love Casey...
You keep wimpering about the fact that Casey got robbed and that altitude sickness made her cooked bad.
You make up all these excuses for her....always seeing the *good* Casey and never the *bad* Casey*. Such blind devotion begs the question *why, are you singing so fondly of Casey*.
In your dementia; do you really think that she gives a *monkey's a*** that you are so in *love* with her?
Get a clue and *RECOGNIZE* that she would not even let you smell her fart.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:54 AM
AndrewF wrote:
Tony...great comments as always. I read Kitchen Confidential a few years back and have been a fan every since.
I totally agree on Hung. I think people who rooted against him got to caught up in his personality. So he's a jerk...he admitted it himself in the first episode. That doesn't make you a bad chef...in fact it may make you a better one. I know people who have met Todd English and they all say he's an arrogant jerk. But he's a great cook so he keeps opening restaurants. People don't go to restaurants to make nice with the chef, they go for excellent food. And from day one, consistently, Hung made great food. So congrats to Hung...and Tony, can you find something else to blog about until the next season of Top Chef?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:59 AM
craig wrote:
It does amaze me how many strong opinions about Hung and his food are offered with no basis. It is said that cooking/food is one art form that stimulates all the senses. As viewers of Top Chef, we get to see (in 2 dimensions) what the food looks like. We never get to truly hear it searing in the pan, smell it cooking, feel it in our mouths, or taste it. The one sense that we are using is only used at two thirds of its capability. But we hear what the producers think we should hear from judges and participants. But we have strong opinions that are not founded in reality.
I saw the competitions, all of them. I saw the finale. I believe the judges. I have had arrogant doctors, confusing mechanics, and troubling technicians in so many areas of my life. The ones that delivered the goods overcame the “personality quirks” that may have turned me off if I were selecting them as Life Partners, but the quirks did not mean a thing when I was satisfied with the results.
Thank you, Tony, for reminding us of the fact that the judges tasted the food. We did not. All the rest is good TV. If it were not good TV, I would not care who Eric Ripert is, or understand the beauty of a simple béchamel sauce. I love to eat.. so I watch “Porn for Gormands”. Whether it is the Food Network or the Travel Channel or Bravo elevating my awareness of what I CAN eat, I thank them. As for the chef giving me some personality with my food - that would be Tony. Thanks for bringing your history and education to us. When presented with Snark and Rock N Roll, even vegetables are palatable. Thanks again, Tony. It is only food. And it, too, shall pass.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:14 PM
Evan wrote:
Umm... to all the doubters of Hung, I will say this: I go to restaurants for the food, and I've never met the chef, and I doubt I will meet the chef, and I'm okay with that. How many members of "the general audience" have met the chefs of the restaurants that they go to? If you're really concerned about the "goodness" of the ownership then go to McDonald's. Ray and Joan Kroc are some of the best people that ever lived. Really.
The fact is that while Casey and Dale appealed to a lot of people (I get the latter, not so much the former), Hung's food appealed the most to the people that mattered, and his skill set will translate very well to running a fine restaurant some day. "Soul" does not make a restaurant succeed, a good story does not make a restaurant succeed. Good food, consistency, a whole lot of grunt work, attention to detail, and ability will... for a while anyway. Let's face it, the restaurant biz fails more often than not!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:20 PM
julia wrote:
Love your blog...disagree about Casey. She was in the bottom of almost every elimination contest except for the last two contests. First part of finale her elk was raw. I feel Brian should have been in the finale but what the heck it was still a great season.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:23 PM
donna wrote:
Chef Bourdain-
Your blog was truly worth the waite and may
I say I'm going to be miserable on Thurday morning for a while.
I don't suppose you no anything about fashion? You could
blog for "Project Runway". Just Kidding, anyway thanks for
such an entertaining blog...and I'm only going ask one more
time...please marry me?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:24 PM
Lila wrote:
Mr. Bourdain,
First time writing a blog ever but felt compelled to b/c I have enjoyed your precise and fastidious comments SO... immensely. You're a great writer period. That you can write so entertainingly and intelligently on cooking is nothing short of amazing. Your blog has the most comments and you of course have the most gushing and adoring fans, sigh.... Love all your books and No Reservations. Do we really have to wait another year to hear from you again?
Oh yeah-of course Hung deserved to win-thanks for pointing out the obvious. Keep on traveling and most importantly, keep on writing. Good luck!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:27 PM
B wrote:
I hate to add to the sycophant chorus here - especially as I cringe when I read personal "to-the-author" comments on blogs such as Tony's and Tom's, but I have to say that this post was right on and capitulated what I think is the obvious truth about the finale that I've been explaining to disappointed friends: Casey fell apart (and did NOT show what she was capable of, I'll admit), Dale did what Dale does - produce inconsistent (if sometimes amazing) results, and Hung did what he seemed to do often, particularly late in the season: dominate. Hence, Hung wins. End of story.
P.S. Just in case Tony does read this: thanks for a great blog this season. Hope you were well compensated and will return next season. Love the books (particularly A Cook's Tour) and the shows, even if the latter can be a little campy at times - not your fault, I'm sure, heh. Now that I've sickened and lowered myself, I'll stop.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:30 PM
Joy wrote:
Thank you for providing a great culinary education this season! It is my hope that you will be part of the new season to come.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:33 PM
quori wrote:
AB...thanks for the wrap up. Id have lost my mind without ever hearing your closing thoughts on this one. I have all along been saying from day one that Hung was going to be TC. I am very happy to know I was in good company.
'nuff said.
Now, meet me at Wickenden St. Pub for a pint. later
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:34 PM
Janine wrote:
I've been waiting for DAYS for your blog. Thank you, Chef! You're absolutely right, as usual. (I think I enjoy your blog more than the show!) Cheers...
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:43 PM
Sous Chef Humor wrote:
Thank you, thank you, thank you. As great as season 3 has been, you have been a highlight treat each week. Thanks for all the blogs. We love that you pull no punch and say it like it is.
Enjoy your travel, be safe and we look forward to next season with you. Drop by and chat with us any time.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:45 PM
i.p. pavlova wrote:
Hey Bourdain,
Your blog was the best thing about this whole season. I'm glad Hung won. He wasn't just the best chef out of the bunch, he was the only one who knew how to compete and make entertaining television in the process.
Again, thanks for your timely (and much needed) wit. It made an otherwise disappointing season a little bit more enticing to watch. You should be a regular judge, but I imagine they already know that.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:47 PM
Sue wrote:
I don't understand - where was the controversy or debate regarding Hung's win? You so vehemently defended him when we ALL think Top Chef finally got it right!!! Hung was the clear winner from the start and I would have been mad as hell if he didn't win. We all know Chefs can be asses, don't they have to be to run a kitchen? Who Cares. I can watch Hung cook all day and it would be as therapeutic as watching glow lights for stress relief. GO HUNG!! I will miss this show dearly. Well back to Project Runway, where we actually CAN be critical as we can judge with our own eyes!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 12:49 PM
Karl wrote:
Tony, as always, your blog is the most witty, insightful and entertaining. I agree with every single remark. I would add that Hung was, by far, the best chef from all three seasons!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:02 PM
janine wrote:
Tony, Tony, Tony, you protest too much. From the viewing artist, it looked like this years crop had at least 5 possible Top Chefs. I wouldn't have been mad at any of the 3 of them winning. That said, I called Hung in episode 1 (though I thought he'd be up against Tre in the finals).
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:04 PM
kbrew wrote:
Only complaint is that the final wasn't controversial, or even very entertaining-- kinda like watching Federer dispatch clearly inferior competition (Nothing like the two drunk prep cooks helping bitch from hell in season one; THAT was funny). Dale got there by being second worst every time, and Casey just blew it in the finals. Not much else to say.
As for the comment that Hung won't have a great restaurant, I don't believe that was part of the competition. And really, good restaurants are about Food, Service, Atmosphere and Price. Attitude of Chef, is, I believe, hardly a consideration.
To the producers: Feel free to replace Padma. OK, she's really hot, but really annoying. And Gail? She's a Magazine Editor fer cryin' out loud! The guest judges were far and away more interesting, better informed, etc than the regulars, exc TC, but he's got a faltering empire to attend to....
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:04 PM
Lynn wrote:
So happy to read your blog! So sad to know the next one (PLEASE TELL ME THERE WILL BE A NEXT ONE) won't be until the next season. The way you put the Hung dissenters in their place was perfect. All these people saying "I can't believe Hung won" or "I'm not watching the show again." Blah, blah, blah. I will watch and will (PAY ATTENTION BRAVO) be even more devoted if you keep ANTHONY BOURDAIN! Me and thousands of others. (Maybe think about making him a permanent judge? pretty please with coconut foam on top?)
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:04 PM
Deborah R wrote:
As usual, you've called it like it is (or was). I wasn't rooting for Hung, but his victory seemed so obvious that, silly me, I thought no one would argue with the outcome.
I've never understood the criticism that Hung lacked passion (Are you kidding? Passion is what drives people like Hung to develop flawless technique). Like you, I admired the calculated way he played the "soul" card. And his decision to use the burners blew me away--along with his after-finale confession that he played up the whirling-dervish stuff because it annoyed his competitors. Brilliant. It's cheating to switch an opponent's salt and sugar. It's not cheating to perform in a way that rattles your opponents. This is a competition and Hung was a masterful competitor. Kudos!
Maybe the problem is that the show is called "Top Chef," which leads viewers to think it's about finding the best leader. If it had been called "Project Kitchen," people might not get so caught up in whether someone plays well with others. But even on that score, Hung was unfairly criticized. In team challenges, while Howie spoke of the "war of attrition," Hung talked about doing whatever was necessary to ensure a team win. That's playing well with others.
As for Casey ... it was disappointing to see her choke and hear her blame anyone and everyone but herself. But at least it quiets the dimwits who ignored her previous culinary triumphs and declared that the producers intended to crown her simply because she's pretty. (Some bloggers are so backward it's amazing they can turn on the TV.) And though Dale didn't win the money, in many ways he won the prize--and inspired a lot of us along the way.
Thanks for the insights this season. I agree with Lisa Laskowich--it would be a hoot to read your thoughts on "Project Runway" even if you don't sew.
Enjoy the pub grub!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:11 PM
deanna wrote:
I don't normally comment, but just had to laugh at how you called out the supposedly mean bast**d chefs at the end. Very funny. Love your blogs.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:12 PM
Maureen wrote:
Thanks for your tell it like it is style of explaining who won and why. I loved watching Hung cook in the final episode. So organized, unfrazzled and methodical. I also believe he took into consideration the altitude problem before planning his menu. Another sign of a Top Chef. I will definitely visit the restaurant he works in the next time I am in Vegas. Congrats Hung. Thanks judges for your integrity and for ensuring the credibility of the show.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:32 PM
FrenchFry wrote:
Dear Mr. Bourdain,
Your blog was on point and very funny, per usual. The dimissal of the altitude sickness excuse for Casey is really not apt. Anyone at anytime can suffer from it. Coming from sea leve,l I have skied in Colorado and got it from time to time. My son has not - ever. The effects are awful. The first time, I fell asleep after lunch in a chair and woke up disoriented. The last time I could not catch my breath and needed albuterol (& I don't have asthma). I can't imagine being at HIGH altitude for hours and expected to bang out a magnificent 4 course meal for elite chefs. The fact that Dale and Hung did not get it, does not mean that Casey was NOT affected. From her movements and speech, she clearly had it.
However, the outcome was fair in the end. The correct cook won the title. Since our TV's are not "taste-a-vision", we viewers have no basis to judge on the flavor factor. That was up to the esteemed judges. So, BlogBoy Jeff - get over yourself. Hey, maybe you can ask Dale and/or Casey out since you are so enamored with them both... But, don't be surprised if you get no reply. They will be very busy signing cookbook deals and getting on with the rest of their lives. I suggest you do the same...
Thanks again Tony for a funfilled season of your informed opinions. I'm sure I speak for the majority. Your blogs will be sorely missed. Cheerio!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:38 PM
Ms. Glenda wrote:
Mr. Bourdain,
I began watching Top Chef because of your guest spots and this blog. I admit fully that I cannot, due to illness, eat most of the very good looking dishes that I saw these people create, but just watching the process was great.
I disliked the Hung that was shown to me a great deal. I also dislike my boss a great deal. To be the boss, and be incharge you have to be able to not really care if people like you or not. Hung seems to have that attitude, and anyone that is going to manage anything needs it.
PPPLLLLLEEEZZZZZ show off your little girl!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:44 PM
H. Nguyen wrote:
ag, I must admit to the same obsessive behavior. Since the finale I've been checking Anthony's blog multiple times a day for an update, a new blog headline other than "Finale Blog on the Way!", always to be met with disappointment. I'd finally given up on an update from our Rock n' Roll Chef, resigned to him saying "rubbish, the finale's done, I'm off to some remote jungle to eat live python." I feared he never watched the finale because he no longer owned a TV after having successfully thrown it out the window the night before in some alcohol-cigarettes-keith-richards induced psychosis. He, who we all cherish so much, was on a f*cking bender in God knows where, and we'd never hear back from him again. Thankfully, Bourdain has checked in and is alive and well, and we now have a bit of an idea of how his parents must've worried about him.
We appreciate your words, Bourdain. Your blunt, yet sincere, opinion is always provocative and always manages to stir up discussion among your readers. You never hesitated a moment to convey your thoughts about CJ's broccolini. A gentle soul, like Bernstein, might've gently admonished CJ for it being overcooked and slightly dry. Like salt to a gaping wound, you told him it was like something you'd find in Bob Marley's closet, moisture-less, shriveled weeds better fit in a yellowed plastic bag than on a plate. A brutal assessment, an assh*le thing to say some might accuse, but ultimately fair.
You were able to look beyond the Bravo "villain" edit and see Hung for what he is: a loud, brash, arrogant, talented chef who knows he's good but not good enough so as not to have heroes who make his knees shake in precious childlike awe. Someone who appears to be on a journey somewhere to a destination unknown to everyone else, and vague even to himself. We know little about him except he loves to cook, he loves food, and he'll go to all lengths and do whatever it takes. That's it. Broken down to the core, that's who he is. Very punk. Hung sounds a little like someone here we all know and love (or love to hate, depending on if they've ever had the misfortune of being at the other end of his verbal sword).
Don't ever leave us, Bourdain. Because without you, what would we have to fight about?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:47 PM
MicheleS wrote:
AAAH. I can breathe again. Thanks for the resuscitation Tony.
As usual, your commentary was dead on. And as disappointing as it was to see Casey in full-on melt down, it was more disappointing (and frankly disgusting) to see her making quibbling after dribbling excuse for why she couldn't cook that day.
Bottom line is a top chef should be able to adapt to any situation, locale and/or ingredient. Uh, that's why they are called "Top Chef".
I applaud all of the contestants, and especially the finalist for putting their money where the mouth is and taking the chance to flubber, flounder and flourish on national television. My hats off especially to the finalist. It takes balls (boobs) and talent to get that far. And Hung had the confidence, organization, imagination, competitiveness and flare to see it through to the end.
Marcel who? PULEEZ. Mr. Foamy? He couldn't even be Hung's "prep bitch" with his attitude and ego.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:47 PM
Lynda I wrote:
Hi Anthony,
This was a great season, a great finale and a really fun, concise blog (between pints). Your viewpoint is always clearly stated and flavorful.
I wonder if Dale's lobster tasted like "dollhead". He did admit that he could not cook seafood. I guess he was right...
Casey faltered due to fearfulness. She choked (literally and figuratively)... Both Dale and Casey proved to be worthy contenders, though.
TaDa - the winner, Hung knew it at first blush. Good for him.
Originally, I was not a fan of his (not that he cared in the least). However, over time, I became fascinated with his amazing knife skills and excellent organization and unusually classical technique. He was like a cooking nerd. If Andre Soltner would take him over the rest, that is good enough for me. Bravo, Hung!
So, Anthony... we'll miss ya terribly until next season. Maybe you could write about nothing until that time.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 1:54 PM
gordy wrote:
Chef Bourdain:
Amazing how much of a force you are in this blog section. It's like you are the PERIOD of Padma's "you are top chef" in the finale. This season is already unforgettable with Dale, Casey and Hung's last cook-off. And of course, the chef's blogs only brought more life and excitement to the show. I am a new fan, hope to hear and see more about cooking from you.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:04 PM
Dave wrote:
Mr. Bourdain,
Good post, less witty than your previous entries but no less insightful and definitely more impassioned. I agree (as if my opinion had any sway) with your comments and would like to add a few of my own.
First, Casey was... is, my favorite contestant from season three and the one I had hoped would win. However, I think the finale made it clear that she is not ready to be top chef- yet. As you pointed out, her dishes were flawed conceptually, from the beginning. And though one could say that being sick affects the taste buds, or altitude affects the cooking time, these issues do not address how she conceptualized her menu.
Furthermore, you briefly mentioned that while others were hindered by the freedom to cook their own menu, Hung was not. I think this simple observation is the core issue in the finale. They say variety is good, but too much variety is a quandary- kind of like when you wish there would just be three kinds of toothpaste instead of an entire aisle. Well, Casey has shown that she cooks damn well given particular restraints (be it the budget, ingredients, etc.), but given free reign, she seems to question herself. And given the time restraints on the finale, there didn't seem any left for self doubt (recall the diced onion comedy).
Dale only cooked ONE GOOD DISH.
Hung, easily one of my least favorite contestants on the show. There, I said it. And you know what else, I can't even articulate exactly what it is about him I dislike, except to say, "he just annoys the pi** out of me." I won't be buying him a round anytime soon but he does have my respect. I am happy for his family and there is no question he should have won and I would be less a man to think/say otherwise. Congratulations Hung.
Opinions and a**holes, gotta love it.
-Dave
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:04 PM
christina wrote:
How DARE you make us wait this long, bootleg viewing or no bootleg viewing! I too have been waiting like an eager schoolgirl for your blog and now feel like I can move on with my life having been thoroughly sated by your pearls of wit and wisdom (I feel as though a cigarette may be in order). Hung absolutely deserved this win; after his perfomance throughout, up to and including the finale, awarding Casey or Dale the title would have been a travesty, a mockery of the entire competition. He was focused, self-confident and there to win. This has been - by far - the best TC season to date and I will once again assume my eager schoolgirl demeanor as I chomp at the bit waiting for TC4, keeping fingers and toes crossed that we will once again be presented with excellent chefs and little to no juvenile drama. Keep up the outstanding blogwork and see you next season!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:15 PM
Adrian Monk wrote:
If you see the video provided by Glad family of products http://glad.com/top_chef/ - Hung mentioned that he didn't sleep until 6 in the morning, that's altitude prob for you. It's not only Casey who's affected. Hung just didn't complain about it.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:15 PM
Matt wrote:
Tony,
First, I am glad Hung won - for many of the same reasons you are. His talent and passion was evident, his story inspiring and his personality not-purposefully abusive. Plus, he made a smurf village.
However, just because Casey did not win does not prove that the producers did not want her to win, or set it up for her to do well or make the finals. And why shouldn't the producers do so - they are trying to produce a compelling show. All the finale shows is that Casey finished last by far in the final. Nobody is disputing that Casey isn't talented or deserved to be in the finale - but I think it is purposelly ignorant to think that the producers of Top Chef wouldn't prefer some diversity in the finale, rather than them just wanting three great chefs - even if they are look and cook alike.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:15 PM
My Cat Mikey wrote:
Yo Chef B:
Thanks for sobering up and checking in with your groupies.
Hung is an amazing chef. Hell of a job and most deserving of the top toque.
Dale's story was heartwarming. Hope this will be the start of something big.
Poor Casey. Great posture and cool hair clips.
Anthony Bourdain: You can eat crackers in my bed any day!
Adios, mi capitan.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:23 PM
Jeff wrote:
While I respect Bourdain's opinion (just slightly less so today), he's not the grand master of culinary discourse. Idiots who tell others "the debate is over, Anthony says hung is great, just deal with it" lack intelligence. Go ahead and let someone else think for you. I'm sure it's a lot easier than thinking for yourself.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:30 PM
Dolores wrote:
I would like to say a few words in defense of Hung's dessert.
#1. If dessert is so easy, why has nearly every attempt at dessert this season been a failure? Sara and Casey couldn't even manage the chocolate pudding! Then there was the infamous trio of pineapple disasters. Is it possible that putting together an enjoyable dessert isn't as easy as we think, especially at a very high altitude?
#2. A four course meal SHOULD have dessert. What customer wouldn't want something sweet after all that protein (or maybe a salad?) Which chef was it who said he really appreciated the dessert? People need dessert. People WANT dessert.
I'm not sure why Chef Colicchio is so set against dessert, but for Chrissake, let the people eat cake!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:32 PM
Deb wrote:
Thank goodness, I finally get my AB fix! Can't understand why TC wouldn't provide you with the necessary tapes so that you could get your blog comments to all of us going crazy here waiting to hear your words of wisdom. Completely agree with your take on the finale. Hung won fair and square.
Like others, I will miss getting your take on each TC episode. I hope that next season you'll play an even more active role on the show.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:34 PM
Julia wrote:
I TOLD YOU SO! I TOLD YOU SO!! I TOLD YOU SO!!! Hung is the REAL TOP CHEF!!!
Your comment was spot on! The greatest thing about this season is a true great chef won the top chef. Hung, at this young age, has a great and bright future! Bravo Hung, Bravo Tony!!!!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:36 PM
LauraTheRed wrote:
Although I was rooting for Casey, I do have to admit that the right chef won.
As much as Hung's self-aggrandizing, conceited manner got under my skin (as well as the skin of most of his competitors) , this wasn't a contest in character. If it were, Dale and Casey would have been tied, and CJ would have been the runner-up. But this was a competition for the best chef. Chefs are not known for their sparkling personalities, they're known for their food and leadership.
This, however, did not keep my boyfriend and me from wincing in sympathetic pain at Casey's finale performance. I could liken it to sitting at the side of a boxing ring when your the guy you wagered half your paycheck to goes down for the count. You keep going, "C'mon! Get up! You can do it! Go kick their asses! Get up!"
Oh well
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:39 PM
Diem Pham wrote:
Mr. Boudain, I'm glad that you are extremely vocal about what happened and to give us your expertise on the matter. It's difficult to explain why Hung should win when people overlook the subtle actions that he does perform, which makes him a good person to work with. Thank you for bring that up!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:43 PM
Eveline wrote:
I have to say this is your worse blog ever. You had 6 days to write and all you could come up with was this? Like a bad dish, you were better off not serving it at all Tony.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:43 PM
birdinanest wrote:
Mr. Bourdain:
Your blog was dead-on accurate in your assessment of all of the reasons Hung should be named Top Chef, as well as all of the reasons Casey and Hung fell short of victory. Yes, it is sad that all of us at home do not have taste-o-vision or smell-o-vision. With that being said, most people eat with their eyes long before they put any morsel into their mouths. Therefore, for all of the aspiring chefs out there, remember: FOAM IS GROSS AND MORE FOAM IS EVEN GROCER TO THE NAKED EYE. The only people who would consider eating FOAM are probably epileptic. I don't care how good it tastes. Keep up the awesome blogs. I resepect your opinions.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 2:48 PM
Viva AB!!! wrote:
Hey Chef....
Whether anyone wants to admit it or not, Hung deserved to win. I thought he was an arse as well, but he cooked great food.
Not that it's an excuse for her performance at all, but everyonoe reacts to altitude sickness differently. I know this from experience. I was pulling for Casey from the start but when you can't perform when it counts the most, you just don't deserve it.
I am curious why the name Anthony Bourdain wasn't at the end of the list...
Enjoy you very much, keep up the good work.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:00 PM
Gilana wrote:
Hung did deserve to win. And you know what? I still am not a fan of Hung. And enough with this, "I don't understand all this Hung-bashing" garbage. The editing was supposed to make Hung appear the villain and I drank that Kool-Aid and I'm OK with that! So there! It's altogether possible that in real life me and the Hungster would get along swimmingly, but as a proletariat TV know-nothing, I defend my right to be manipulated by producers. Hurts so good!!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:03 PM
Fionavar wrote:
To you fellow affecionado's of Mister Bourdain,
Jeff Troll is doing what he does every posting, trying to make himself look smart and you look stupid. His only fun in life is being a Troll and to give him any response other than *ignoring* him feeds this Trollish ego. He will go away. Mister Bourdain doesn't need our defending him, he is well aware that we drool from his every word and delight in his ability to deliver insightful and snarky commentary week after week after week. Good bye Jeff Troll.
Now on to why all but one of us showed up to this party. Mister Bourdain, I was about to call out the RCMP and organize huge conspiracy theories for why you had not posted. Call me a worrying mom-type. You poor parents. *wink* Again you have written exactly what we/I needed to read. Purposeful insight as to the "why" we saw what we did in the finale. Thank you, it always seems so much easier after reading your blog.
Casey will have a life full of offers, book deals, celeb spots on TV and make mucho dinero for promoting the Glad Family of Products (I am SO proud that I got that in). People, don't feel badly for her, she got much more than her 15 minutes of fame, oh so much more and she deserves it. She was a great competitor and also from what the edited versions show, a real cheerleader for the group of contestants, which kept this season as unique above the first two, people caring about each other.
Dale as well will have the very same offers. He comes through (most of the time) as sincere and honestly deserving of a break back into the world of cuisine. He was much favored and has a huge fan base now because of his time on these episodes.
Best of luck to both Dale and Casey, I am positive that we have not seen the last of either of you.....*cough cough* (wait and see who will be the new bloggers for next season).
And finally, Master Hung. Well done. You showed everyone. I was NOT a fan in the beginning, but slowly came around as I saw you progress through the shows. May your new life unfold in the way you most imagine it will be and may your road be filled with the food and family you adore. It came through for me and many many others. I don't know where or even IF you will open your own restaurant with the money (after taxes) you will receive, but if you do, may I someday grace your table and feast at your hand. Go well and go happy. BRAVO.
Oh Mister Bourdain. I won't ask you to marry me, I won't offer to spawn your love child and I know you won't be sharing my table, but I do hope you will come back to BRAVO and treat us to your delightful wit, snarkiness and precision accounting of the show. If only TC ran year around, if only. I will be getting your new book next month, continue to check you out on NR and look for your blogs when I can find them. I know you are "still hungry", keep eating the world, one country and one dish at a time.
Smooth sailing to you until then, all best to you wife and daughter. Stay well until we see you sailing back into the port of BRAVOland. Bon Voyage.
Jules in Washington
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:13 PM
Maria wrote:
Tony, my Man, well written in truly Tony style. Good you are safe in London. Heck ya, the best chef won. IMHO, Hung is one of the very best chefs TC has ever produced, in the very same league as Harold. The little man is a class 5 hurricane in the kitchen. Tony, just completed "Kitchen Confidential", you are now guilty of sucking me into the vortex of the culinary underbelly, and I am going to add this to my distinguished library collection. I have hence moved on to “the Cook’s tour” and am touring beautiful Morocco. Caught up with the NR episode on Brazil, the Banana leaf fish transported me to India, and those beautiful clips brought me a waft of that flavorful fish.
When in Seattle next time, I would love to cook indigenous South Indian recipes just for you. If not, Padma will be able to give a low down on Appam, Iddiyapam, Uthappam, Puttu, Shavige, Akki Roti, and Kozhukattai. All made from rice, with the end result in various forms, texture and flavor – one bite and you sure will, greatly appreciate the genius of a people who made these culinary strides in ancient times with just one simple ingredient.
I enjoy your blog, why not continue to be in touch with us, and write anything related to food (If the Bravo team allows you). If you do read the comments, and would like to take questions from us – I have one. I am not sure if you have heard of Toddy/Palm wine - in Goa they make Feni out of it. If not, without much adieu, you need to sink your teeth into it. It is THE mother of all liquors. It is most importantly, used as a cooking ingredient, as it aids in fermentation - a job that dried yeast has since taken up. My question is: is there any liquor that can be substituted for dried yeast, since palm wine is so hard to find in the US. BTW, I am a teetotaler, but would love to chat with you over a pint of beer about food, food, and more food. Cheers Tony!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:23 PM
Elaine Lorenz wrote:
Such interesting comments about high altitude. I grew up in Denver, Colorado, camped in high mountain areas where I cooked on a 2 burner camp stove all 3 meals per day. Try moving to sea altitude such as Los Angeles, California to see what air can do to a person's lungs; temperature of boiling water can do to a cook's best performance. Takes a while in both places. I no longer have to adjust for high altitude in using a recipe. High altitude sickness is all in the "eyes of the beholder". Yes, Hung adapted. Good for him! Hope to see # 4 soon. Can't wait for your next book. Love those pictures of your new baby. She's cute and your interview with Leslie was good. Bye.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:31 PM
jc wrote:
Mr. Bourdain
I won't argue that Hung should not be Top Chef. We all know he had the best technical skills. However, I question the idea that it's still OK for a chef to be an a**hole as long as he serves good food. Before the Food Channel and the Travel Channel and Top Chef, we got to know you "celebrity chefs" through cookbooks and dining experiences, if we were so lucky. We didn't see a lot of video footage. However, with all these shows, people are gaining more insight into who is cooking their food, and I do think that this is becoming a bigger concern to them. For example, Julia Child was so beloved because she seemed like the homemaker next door. On the other hand, after watching a few episodes of "The Restaurant", I would never have gone out of my way to eat at one of Rocco's restaurants. And what about you? Your schtick seems to be one of sarcastic rebel who pokes fun without drawing blood. It's amusing and because of it I have tuned into "No Reservations". Now, if I had thought you were a complete jerk, there is no way I would lay down any amount of cash for your books or your restaurant, and there is no way in hell I would ever watch your show. Hence, you would be losing money because your restaurant would be empty, your books wouldn't be selling, and your show would be canceled. I think Rocco figured this out because his demeanor on Top Chef is 180 degrees opposite to that on "The Restaurant". So, I guess my point is that while Hung has won the contest, and he no doubt is a great chef, I believe he could have been a bit wiser about the character he wanted to portray. A chef's personality may not have mattered in the past, but I do think it matters now. Sure Hung can reinvent himself, but a good businessman would have taken full advantage of this unique opportunity to better showcase himself to his future customers. After all, you did.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:33 PM
Christina wrote:
Oh come on now Anthony - you declared sam the deserved winner last year even though you never ate his food. At least be consistent
Yes Hung won and he probably did deserve it - but he sure did turn hundreds of people off in the process. I know that he lost me as a potential customer. I wonder how many others out there wouldn't eat his high and mighty food.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:34 PM
Jung wrote:
Mr. Bourdain....
The finale was so exciting that I am disappointed that you weren't as equally expressive about the finale as you have been on the other epidsodes all season long. Maybe it had to do with watching the bootleg after already finding out Hung had won, but come on!!! You are a huge part of the Top Chef experience for many of us, you could have played along.
In any case, II hope you did enjoy the finale as much I did.
And thank you for all your efforts for this season. I LOVED reading your blogs.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:36 PM
quieteye wrote:
Forget the Ferret. You should visit the Eagle on Farringdon Road, EC1.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:50 PM
Nancy wrote:
Hi,
Love the blog, but was rooting for Casey to win.
Hey, where's the Festering Ferret? I lived in London for 6 years (miss it terribly) but will be visiting next year and always like to check out pubs.
Cheers!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:50 PM
the big shamu wrote:
Hahahahahahhahahahah! Dancing with delirious joy with Hung's Monkey at a undisclosed location. Thanks for bringing the sharpest knife to the dance.
See ya next season.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:52 PM
Hot Coffee wrote:
Well, Chef Anthony, we didn't get the "Hometown Texas Girl Beats Asian ChefTerminator" storyline but we did get "Disciplined Asian Immigrant Learns that Great Cooking has Heart and Heritage." I'm just sayin, just coz Casey's story didn't get the arc that viewers were clamoring for, we still got an arc and a moral lesson. And I'm fine with that, really. When I want confusing, meaningless, tautologically free experience I simply get off the couch.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:55 PM
mirinblue wrote:
WOW! Thank you Anthony.. I also missed you and am already jonesing for your next word. Tell me it's not a year from now!!
Hung deserved the win. I have never seen so much love for a job and enthusiasm pouring forth from someone in my life. He face and eyes were shining like the sun! And I was impressed with his skills as well. Did I love him? Maybe not so much and maybe I DID love Dale a little, but even so, I am sure that Hung deserved the win.
(Sorcha? was that you?)
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:55 PM
Megan wrote:
Mr Bourdain, my husband recently gave me Kitchen Confidential for my birthday. What a hoot, I am just cracking up that you took such shite about bread. Haha, those shocked people are the same breed who post here that they will never eat in a restaurant again once they have seen people 1. plating with their bare hands 2. seeing cooks sitting on a counter (!!)3. realizing that people sweat in kitchens..... (OK folks here's another one for you, those stupid tents they now make you use catering outside, actually make it 20 degrees hotter inside (and no breeze or any fresh air at all) and make anyone sweat on everything on a hot day, and the flies they are supposed to prevent actually fly into the tent and can't fly out. It's a stupid law.)
My husband is now halfway through the book and he already wants to send it to his lifelong best friend and sous chef (both now retired)who he dragged into many restaurants, who were both best men in eachother's weddings and even though they live in different countries now, still keep in touch monthly.
Thanks for all your writings, and congratulations on such a finale - what you are doing now is so many people's dream. I look forward to reading what you have to say about Top Chef (and everything else) in the future.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:57 PM
J.B wrote:
I'll sing this over and over ...sweetest Hung-over! Have a lot of respect for your candid opinions Chef. But nothing like to be confirmed by other great chefs, that Hung is the clear winner.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 3:58 PM
Lucy wrote:
I liked Hung from the first show. I, for one, was sick and tired of Dale and his "if it doesn't come from the heart, it doesn't taste good" garbage. What's wrong with being good and knowing you're good? I am thrilled Hung won.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:07 PM
Dee wrote:
This is my very first blog. Fun to read all of the comments on the show. Funny how we can all be watching the same show and have such different thoughts. Of course thats true of most thingsbut seems especially true here. Took some time to look through the recipies and was amazed at how simple most of Hungs food was to prepare. Others were much more complicated Caseys especially. Will be back for #4
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:21 PM
Gigi Hoffman wrote:
I am glad for Hung, and all you say is true...but...I STILL WISH THEY WOULD GIVE THEM THE PROPER TIME. BUDGET, AND SETTING TO REALLY WOW US! (all caps was on purpose--I wanted to SOUND like I was SCREAMING. :) ).
Tony nailed it when he said..."Her foie dish was ruined by salty roe, her selection of pork belly was a huge tactical error, considering altitude and time constraints --" There shouldn't have been ANY time constraints for the finale. I was SOOOOO annoyed by this frankly.
On Project Runway and even Top Design (silly show) they give the contestants gobs and gobs of time, budget, prep etc. There is always the last minute "will they do it, gasp?!" suspense near the end, but nothing like the constraints this season's Top Chef finalists had. And the high altitude was sort of ridiculous too. I lived at 10000 feet for a year, and I don't think I slept a night through that entire time--it's hard to live, much less perform, at that altitude (no excuses for Casey...just didn't think it was appropriate for the finale).
I still don't have a full sense of Hungs or Casey's style frankly. I liked the last minute 4th course challenge (which Hung shrewdly, albeit safely, side stepped), but give these folks a chance to really shine with their own creativity and hard work!
Nuff said. My favorite season yet..made possible by less drama and more BOURDAIN! Plus, GReat, Great, guest chefs/judges. Bravo!!! Well done. :)
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:32 PM
beth wrote:
I enjoyed your blog - you tell it the way it is. I agree that Hung is the top chef.
I watched BBC a lot and they had a show where they were looking for a "dream team of chefs" for the Queen's jubilee celebration. The chefs cooked a 3-course meal (I think), including a dessert, and each course was presented to 3 judges for tasting and judging. The dishes were presented to the judges by servers only (no chef). The chefs were not known until the judges had made their final decision on which food they liked best. Maybe TC can have a similar episode to judge who goes to the finale?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:43 PM
Jon Jacobi wrote:
Your comment about heavily edited brings home something that has really started to bug me about Top Chef--artificial drama. The challenges and the editing, not to mention the process are beginning to get in the way for me.
I'd swear at least the former two have become more manipulative over time. From the editing I would've thought that Brian won the penultimate challenge, but it's clear from the blogs that it wasn't even close.
It's a shame, as the concept and the personalities involved are easily compelling enough. But I for one am starting to tire of having my strings pulled because someone somewhere doesn't think that competitive cooking is interesting enough.
Great blogs.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:43 PM
Pat wrote:
This blog is kinda lame. I think Hung should have won, even though I didn't like him at all in the first several shows. Casey lost it, that's a fact. Dale is so goofy and funny, I'd still eat at his restaurant. Can't wait til next season. I have read most of your books and really enjoyed them. Hope you are not hung over, and enjoyed your pints in London.
Talk to you next season, although I too am wishing you would share your comments about other cooking shows, not just Top Chef...30 Minute Meals? or maybe Semi-Homemade? WTF??????????
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:44 PM
Lolita wrote:
Chef Bourdain, I love your blogs so much I had to read Kitchen Confidential, and I loved it! I will definately miss your weekly blogs for TC. I'm surprised you didn't mention anything about your name being brought up by Hung during the finale, when he was in the kitchen with Rocco... would of loved to get your reaction to that...
By the way, You should do a blog for No Reservations!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:47 PM
David wrote:
Hung won on the strength, and deservedly so, that one of his dishes merited three Michelin stars.
He was technically the best chef throughout the show. But it seemed also true that he lacked a level of orinality that only came out in the last two episodes. Let's not forget his whipped salmon on cucumber. And the chocolate cake in the final?
Will someone get Howie a set of freaking headbands!!!Im not eating your sweaty food.
One thing that astounds me in this show is how few of the chefs actually taste their food before sending it out. Jaysus!! Casey...taste the damned pork belly before you bet your career on it. !!
Bourdain rocks. Except for the time he ate the raw fucking seal on the Inuit's kitchen floor.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:56 PM
GetOverIt wrote:
Tony...are are THE man. Thank you for always telling it like it is.
Cheers to you and I'm looking forward to you next year on Top Chef as well as more No Reservations!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 4:57 PM
AB wrote:
Thanks for chiming in with your thoughts Anthony! Hoist a pint for me while you're at it :)
I have a suggestion for the Top Chef producers that would address the outcries from the deluded whiners who thought Casey or Dale should win. They can change the name of the show to "The People's Chef" and go to a format similar to Dancing with the Stars where audience input is factored in during elimination. From the blogs, it would seem that certain people can determine the best dishes and worst chefs from edited video. It works for Dancing with the Stars as well as American Idol so why not Top Chef. Give the ignorant masses like Jeff what they want. Just don't try to advertise it as having anything to do with fair competition or talent.
And kudos to Jeff and people of his ilk. When they can no longer defend their position with logic they go ahead and spit out nonsensical arguments and scream foul play. But in the end, the dumb masses usually get what they want.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 5:37 PM
frances wrote:
Thanks for another entertaining blog entry. I hope the end of Top Chef Season 3 will find you loping back to Ruhlman's blog occasionally.
As for Hung, the best chef won. Great chefs aren't much different than great artists, great writers, great scientists, great leaders—they have a vision, they have confidence in the vision and they'll do what it takes to achieve the vision. Consequently, they tend to have higher a**hole factors. So if Hung decides to open his own restaurant some day, I'll happily eat there. I may feel a twinge of sympathy for the kitchen...but I'll still be happy to enjoy a great chef's menu.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 5:42 PM
Top_chef_watcher_guy wrote:
Yeah what B said......... Thats exactly how I felt when i posted on Colicchio's blog.
You know there should be a fear factor like challenge on top chef. I want to see BUGS! LOTS AND LOTS OF BUGS from around the world to be cooked. beetles from mexico, mill worms, spiders, cricket oh my! They tried all these weird gimmicks but cooking with bugs.
AND I like to see Mr B do the honors of guest judge ;) Since you are well traveled and eaten a few bugs on your own show.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 5:48 PM
Lyn Hooker wrote:
Hey Tony:
Thanks for the return blog. I agree with you! I had Tre and Hung as the top two from the beginning. Was brokenhearted about Tre, and really wanted Dale to avoid shooting himself in the foot. Any thoughts on why viewers get so involved in the process? Can a chef be a nice guy they ask? Jacques Pepin is all one needs to know.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 5:54 PM
Deb wrote:
Thank you for the great blogs. No question that Hung won TOP CHEF fair and square. His talent is amazing!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:07 PM
PeachPie wrote:
Fantastic blog!
Not that you need a mere mortal like me to agree with you, but I do on all points.
Hokey challenges and shameless product placement aside, Bravo served up a fantastic season. And still I'm reading so many comments from unhappy viewers. Are you kidding me? What more could we have asked for with episodes like the one at the French culinary institute? Could we have asked for better guest judges??
HELLO, PEOPLE...THIS ISN'T A PERSONALITY CONTEST.
Good grief. Some of the country's top chefs judged the food. Isn't that good enough? It was for me.
I happen to think a lot of Hung. Unlikeable? I sure didn't see that. He's a smiling, giggling, affable guy from what I saw.
You addressed a heck of a lot in your blog. Appreciate it very much. And glad to know you're out there. Everyone was wondering where you were.
Looking forward to seeing you on NR, love.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:13 PM
Ann wrote:
Tony,
For days, DAYS, I kept checking to see if you posted and today, October 9, my birthday, there you were...and not a moment too soon. Thanks for the present! You shouldn't have.
You've brightened up my Thursdays for so long now that it seems like you've always been a part of my workday life. Please come back next year. You're one of the funniest people I've ever read.
As to Hung, the best chef won, hands down and we heard it here first. How I would have loved it, though, had we had your running commentary on last season's debacle. I wouldn't have hired any of season 2's people to clean my floors. Of course, after your witty commentary, I might have had to what with coffee coming out of my nose and all....
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:13 PM
lash wrote:
wow it's like a bourdain butt-kissing orgy here.....
guess i stand alone in assessing the judge's reaction to dale's food. only tom hated the curry dish / padma liked it. tom tom the producer's pawn. badmouthed sae last season--'he didn't cook anything"--and dale this season--"i took one bite and pushed it away."
hung's first two dishes lacked flavor and acid and he made a stuypid chocoloate cake as a 4th course...
he may have skill but no class keep your head high dale
there's a turn in the road up ahead....
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:43 PM
sheila wrote:
You're back! We've been watching every bloody day wondering, dammit. Anthony I still despise Hung, but who am I to argue with the esteemed Judges we had the pleasure to watch (yourself included of course) this season. Get rid of Padma and Ted Allen and bring on Bourdain, we say! By the way, I see Ruhlman is a judge on The Next Iron Chef, interesting so far. Wish you would blog on that. As for a decent pint, you won't get one in England........hop over to Ireland where you KNOW you will get the best pints in the world. Wishing you well...Sheila.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:49 PM
Jill wrote:
Well, it's about time Mr. Bourdain!
Thank you for the excellent blog, I only wish that you could focus more on the finale itself rather than the Hung defense.
I think it's fine and dandy Hung won. I liked all the chefs and felt they were all worthy. Hung just did the best for that particular competition.
Now, Jeff, dear, your obsession with Casey is a bit alarming.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 6:51 PM
Laura P. wrote:
"AB":
Way to go with that post. You just stooped lower than Jeff's level with your name-calling. Keep it civil, or keep it out.
Casey and Dale did just fine. They overcame severely difficult challenges to prove they are Top Chefs in their own right. Bashing them and their supporters to make Hung look good just makes you look bad.
Monsieur Bourdain:
I don't think I'm the only one sensing a lack of enthusiasm in your post. As good a chef as Hung may be, I don't see him as Top Chef material. He lacks maturity, and he's crass. With Ilan and Hung winning, the show has really taken a steep downturn from the promise of the first season. Harold, Lee Anne, Tiffani, Dave, Steven .. any of those chefs could take Hung and Ilan down without breaking a sweat. What's your view on that?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 7:04 PM
Cindi wrote:
Hi Anthony,
First of all....LOVE YOU....great job on 60 minutes and Travel Channel. You my friend have SOUL!!
You hit the nail on the head. The television of the 21st century isn't loaded with Smell-O-Vision or Taste-O-TV; even if it existed, american audiences still could not compete to the expertise of all the judges this season when it comes to culinary vision and performance. After all, it isn't "Top Cook with Personality" or "The Savvy Sommelier". It is "Top Chef". Period. End of story. To all those conspiracty theorists or sad sacks I say get out there and start using what we all learned from these terrific judges. As for myself, I plan to take some of the advice I've gotten this season and put it to the test this weekend at the "Taste of Atlanta". Thank you for the education Tony, you've inspired this couch pototato to start peeling some for myself and get a bit more adventurous. However, I don't plan to try the culinary techniques of Iceland. Saw the show, don't know how you stomached that Kimchee version of shark.
Thanks for you shows, books and blogs. You've got heart, man.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 7:05 PM
Ridley wrote:
Jeff,
I'm curious about your assertion that Top Chef is for finding the best chef for a "general audience." If that is so, then why did the judges and producers of the show personally approach internationally renowned chef's to nominate promising sous chefs and executive chefs of their acquaintance? (Which they did--you might look up the list of achievements of the executive chefs for whom many of the contestants work.) Do you actually know what type of food was produced by the restaurant Dale ran prior to his taking the helm as executive chef? (Molecular gastronomy. Is that for general consumption?) In fact, if your assertion is correct, why didn't the producers simply use the sous chefs from the closest Applebees, Chiles or Olive Garden? Isn't that much of what the "general audience" of the United State is probably eating? As for Casey, do you think that you are doing her a service to imply that she is incapable of cooking top tier food? Furthermore, if Casey had won, would you even be touting this flimsy idea at all?
As for your argument that the public does not go to restaurants with excellent food if the chef isn't warm and fuzzy to all of those with whom they work, did you read and comprehend the last part of Bourdain's blog, where he said
"Marco Pierre White
Albert Roux
David Bouley
Joel Robuchon...."?
The stories about these chefs and many others make Hung look like a Care Bear, and every single one of these chefs has absolutely no difficulty in finding people to not only eat at their restaurants (and many of them have more than one) but to pay top dollar to do so. All of these chefs have succeeded because of the quality of their skill, taste, creativity and sheer merit as chefs and businesspeople.
Top Chef sought the chef who consistently produced the best food. As Bourdain noted (thank you, Mr. Bourdain), repeatedly, highly-respected members of the culinary community noted that Hung was the individual in this competition whom they thought most highly of. They all know what it takes to not only a make a good cook, but a great chef, and they think that Hung has what it takes.
I'm sorry that the person whom have a soft spot for didn't win, but running about uttering racist epithets doesn't help your argument. Ironically, all of the bad behavior you rail so ardently against from Hung you have far exceeded just within the realm of this blog.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 7:44 PM
Wilmita wrote:
Dear Anthony Bourdain,
ONE STEP BEYOND!! BOO-HOO-hoo-hoo, BWHA-HA-Ha-Ha HA!!
That show scared the daylights out of me when I was a very little kid.
You are quite right as always. This had NOUGHT to do with cold hard technique versus no soul. It was about going "ONE STEP BEYOND", to being Top Chef!!
I am certain Hung scared the daylights out of the last five contestants in the kitchen of Le Cirque AND the kitchen of the FCI, to wit his technique. Dale should not have asked him how he executed Sirio Miccioni's dish. Not a team challenge.
In the finale, Casey was out gunned from the "get-go". Very well, she made a few dishes that were daring, creative and tasteful. That doesn't mean she had shown such consistent prowess throughout the entire season.
Apparently, when push came to shove she neither pushed nor shoved in spite of Michelle Bernstein. At least Howie came through for her and what did people say about Howie?
Dale was inconsistent throughout the competition but I am glad he was able to show his worth in the end. He is good and Casey is good, but not as good as Hung. In the finale his inconsistency poked through.
Still, WHAT about Tré; the ONLY chef Hung to which said he would have wished to lose? No huge protests there. WHY??!
It was if Tré's elimination had not changed the entire tone of the contest, (except for Hung AND other contestants), I truly believe Casey and Dale may not have been at the finale.
I wonder why SO many food experts on these blogs said NOTHING about this.
Viewers seem to have confused Hung with Marcel. Both of them showed hubris, but Hung was classically trained and did not taunt the other contestants repeatedly as Marcel did repeatedly trying to throw them off kilter.
Hung didn't HAVE to. He was better than Marcel in technique and execution. Chef Bourdain, you said before Marcel was still waiting in the "Foam Station", whose train had left five years ago.
This season a Top Chef won. Should anyone doubt this, so says Sirio Miccioni, André Soltner, Todd English, Michelle Bernstein, etc.
SLAM!! Case closed. Punto. Finál. Todo se acabó!
Your blog has been SO much fun because you are a 'wordsmyth' of the highest order and you nailed the finale as you have the other shows.
Until next season I remain,
Red Beans and Ricely Yours,
Wilmita
PS. I have just finished "Typhoid Mary" and wish I could write to you to discuss how much I liked it. Your other books I have read years ago and enjoyed them. However, "Typhoid Mary" is a true historical culinary triumph!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:00 PM
Wren wrote:
Right on, Mr. Bourdain!
Hung won it, Hung deserved to win it, he worked his butt off to do so, and it's funny he was made out to be such a "bad guy". He really is an all-American success story. Unless you are 100% Native American, you or your people, pretty much everyone here, are immigrants to this country. Here's the story of a man who is American by choice who started with nothing and became a celebrity purely through hard work, talent, determination, and heart. How much more uplifting and patriotic can one be? Bravo seemed to pick that up in the last 3 or 4 episodes, but very late in the game. And when they did, it made me feel somewhat used and dirty.
For some reason, that makes me sad.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:04 PM
AB wrote:
Laura P wrote:
Way to go with that post. You just stooped lower than Jeff's level with your name-calling. Keep it civil, or keep it out.
Casey and Dale did just fine. They overcame severely difficult challenges to prove they are Top Chefs in their own right. Bashing them and their supporters to make Hung look good just makes you look bad.
First, I have no problem with Casey and Dale supporters at all. I was rooting for Casey to take it all.
I am referring to bloggers like Jeff who scream foul play or others who are crying that Dale/Casey got robbed and that they will never watch the show again. I used the words deluded, whiners, and dumb in referencing them. Dumb may be a little harsh but I think the other two fit the bill quite well. These people never tasted the food the contestants put out yet they believe they are in a better position to determine the winner than qualified judges who tasted the dishes? Either that, or they are blatantly questioning the integrity of the judges. So please spare me your attempt at claiming the higher moral ground.
The winner of a cooking show should be determined by qualified judges who actually eat the food made by the contestants. I have no problem with people calling Hung an ass. I have a huge problem when you use that as a reason not to give him the title. But like I said, change the name of the show to "The People's Chef" and give the masses what they want.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:08 PM
Aanel wrote:
Tony, Tony, Tony
^^^ Said in perfect Cary Grant
Thank you so much for your incisive blog. You really put things in perspective -- to where there is no doubt, no confusion, over what happened and why, and how it always had to happen that way. And you entertain us and make us laugh as well.
When you gonna have your own private blog somewhere on the web, for us Bourdain fans? After all, you're not busy or anything. :o)
If you do ever have one, let the world know. Have someone post the info on the IMDb Top Chef board, or something.
Best wishes, Happy trails, and clinks to a few pints of Guinness there in London Town.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:14 PM
leezaa wrote:
dear Anthony,
Thanks for your no BS attitude which is why we love you-I watch your show all the time, have read all your books and even went to your book signing! I too agree that who cares if the chef has an ego-seems like a lot do anyway.-as long as the food tastes good. (kind of like a good surgeon, eh?) . Hung was pretty responsive to criticism during the season from what I could see, though his spasticity in the kitchen could have injured someone.
Funny thing, I saw Dale in a Chicago restaurant on Friday the 28th WAITING TABLES! I swore it was him, my friends begged to differ, but I was right (I asked the hostess-she confused me by saying that he's going to open up his own restaurant so I thought he might have won). I didn't know that there was a live finale, and I didn't want to bother him cuz he was working really hard, even though I adore him. Unfortunately we didn't get one of his tables. By the look on his face, I could tell he wasn't jumping for joy and probably didn't win. Unfortunately, there is no blog for him from what I can see, so I hope he reads this.
I don't know if you'd know this but how are Gordon Ramsey's boys? I heard they got a little scorched? Somehow I think you are laughing about this....
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:20 PM
Cherie wrote:
A Stacked Deck; meaning that some people are used to getting rewarded because they're the best among the mediocre; because their 'kind' have been rewarded for making any effort; That's what the finale unmasked.
HUNG did it the old-fashioned way; discipline, intellect, strategizing within ethical boundaries.
Look at what he's won previous to the final challenge: 2 out of 10 elimination challenges; 4 out of 10 quick fires. That even includes the totally fun 'smurf diorama'.
Look at his exhuberance during the winning moments; that is what he kept under discipline all through the season; that kinetic, spontaneous, delight in life; Determination, focus on the goal.
He paid attention and adjusted accordingly! That opportunity is there for every person, every day.
Nothing smarmy, underhanded, or screeching screaming at other TCC.
This validation is what will give him permission to let loose and show his own style; let himself and soul be seen in the food.
Would ANY of the other competitors say that they are grateful to America?
Even Micah had a chip on her shoulder about our country and its cultural preferences.
Thank you Mr. Bourdain; we waited patiently for your thoughts and appreciate your efforts to write to us; why didn't the producers of TC make the information available to you anywhere in the world?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:30 PM
Steven wrote:
Mr. Bourdain, as always, your blog does not disappoint. Thank you. So many people think that they know who Hung is because they watched an (edited) reality television show with him in it. I'm glad to see that someone is providing some sense.
I quote Sara Mair from this season's final episode: "It was a pleasure to work with [Hung.]" Rocco DiSpirito said that he enjoyed working with him. During the team challenges, Hung did not have any problems. In fact, he was barely even mentioned in those episodes. Take, for example, Restaurant Wars: the judges loved his tuna tatare dish, AND his team WON. In the late-night clubbers episode, we barely heard a word about Hung, other than that he made some chicken wings.
Hung may be arrogant, but he works well with others. Brian has said in interviews that Hung was immature, but that he viewed him as sort of a "little brother" who he had to keep in line, and that the next time he sees Hung, he'd "give him a hug."
Many say that Hung can't work with people; it seems to me that these people are sorely mistaken. Sure, maybe he won't make too many friends. But that doesn't mean he won't succeed.
Also, to those who say that he won't get any customers: Hung has said that it will be a few years before he opens the kind of restaurant he wants to (he has said that he plans to use the $$$ to supplement his income while he travels around the world learning more techniques.) By then, I'd imagine that people will have stopped caring about what he said in his interviews this season in Top Chef, if they ever did at all.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 8:44 PM
Dana wrote:
Logical as ever! Yeah, people seriously have no argument against Hung winning. He totally deserved it.
Just would like to say that I don't see a problem with Hung being more of a machine than a passionate cook. I think he is motivated by perfect execution. Great chefs can't all be expected to be coming from the same place. The commonality should be great food.
Congrats to Hung!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 9:08 PM
thea wrote:
Hi tony great blog!
anyway, i know that the judges thought that hung's chocolate cake was pretty ordinary to serve in the finale, but i think that it's a great accomplishment on his part to serve a cake at 11,000 feet, and still taste really good! do you think that the judges ever considered it also?
Congratulations to hung!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 9:39 PM
Theodore Tso wrote:
I think one thing that people keep forgetting is that a lot of the drama and who gets cast as the "arrogant, mean chef" can easily be caused by very careful editing. It was painfully obvious that Top Chef tried to add as much drama as they could by carefully editing in as many negative comments about Hung as they could, and as many positive comments (no matter how trivial) about Dale and Casey that was uttered by the judges in the Season 3 finals.
And very often, you could tell who was going to get axed by who gets extra air time. For example, when CJ stated in "Snacks on a Plane" that he really wanted to get Pizza in Manhattan, that was a pretty good tip off that he was on his way out. Similarly, if a chef makes the mistake of saying anything negative about his competitors egged on by questions by the producers (which of course are never aired), anything positive they say will get edited out so they can get cast into the role of the Villain.
Seriously, if I were ever insane enough to agree to be on a reality show (not that I would, I have enough notoriety in my chosen field as it is), I'd retreat the producers as I would a hostile lawyer or college debator doing a cross-examination, and assume that anything I say may, and probably would, be taken out of context, all for the sake of drama. This is pretty basic media relations training, and perhaps in this day and age of celebrity chefs, knowing how to project a salable image at all times while cameras might be rolling (which during a reality TV show is pretty much every waking moment) is critically important. So if I were ever going to change fields, take three years training at the CIA, and then try out of Top Chef, I'd try very much to control and manipulate the media personality that would be captured on screen, despite the best efforts of the editing wizards of the producers --- and I'd consider that part of the "game".
But as to whether Hung and Tiffany is really are as "heartless" as some of the fans think? I doubt it. The producers needed villains so that viewers, who can't taste the food, can root for their favorite chefs and boo when the villain produces better food than all of his competitors. And so they construct as best they can by highly selective editing.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:21 PM
NANCY S - MA wrote:
I defense of those of us who did not want to see Hung win:
Tom Collicchio adamantly tells us that a "top chef" must be a leader in the kitchen. Hung is not.
He tells us that a Top Chef must inspire others to work with him. Hung does not.
So perhaps our misunderstanding is more a matter of definition. What is a Top Chef? Hung is the most technically proficient. He is amazing in his speed and knife skills. His food is excellent.
But he is not a leader; he does not inspire others.
So give us, the viewers, a break. We judge based on what we see and hear. We are told repeatedly that a top chef is one thing, and Hung is another. The editors show Hung dropping things, breaking things, charging recklessly around the kitchen with a knife in his hand, being a generally irresponsible person.
So some of us don't think he is the top chef... He does not meet the definition we are given.
You can't have it both ways.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:28 PM
phoenix wrote:
The way I see it, Hung would be up for any challenge, including IRON CHEF. He has everything needed at the kitchen stadium: being able to think on his feet, able to work at superhuman speed, superb skills, smart strategist, and most of all, supreme confidence. I'm sure none of the resident Iron Chefs will fazes him. They all pretty much cook the same stuff over and over, but Hung has quite a repetoire from both his Asian and French background draw on, can surely beat any one of them any day. So Chairman of IRON CHEF, look no further if you want a worthy challenger!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:31 PM
mamag wrote:
Why does anyone else even care about another person's opinion of Hung? This goes both ways, folks. I happen to believe that Hung is every bit of the arrogant ass he appears to be on the show as evidenced by the interviews he gave off the show both before and after the finale, but what difference does that make in anyone else's life?
So what if person X thinks he's a jackass and another thinks he's a saint who's just in love with food? Good lord, people.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:43 PM
Margaret E. wrote:
Tony, just a delight to read your blog. I have to say, I do wait eagerly for your pithy comments and spot-on observations. (go ahead, say it, I have no life!) And Hung really is the best of the group - I am really surprised at how poorly prepared some of the cheftestants were. Clearly, good knife skills, in depth knowledge of cooking techniques, and just plain practice practice practice is the key to a good chef. I have the feeling Hung was much more a jerk on camera, as a character, then he would truly be in the kitchen.The way he worked with and related to and respected Rocco in the kitchen shows he sincerely respects people who respect food and real technical skills. So Bravo to Hung, and looking forward to next season, and hopefully more Bourdain!! Tipping a pint to you both!
posted on October 9, 2007 at 10:53 PM
Alex wrote:
Hung's win is a joke. Casey and Dale put up a good fight but if you want a serious competition, put guys like Jason Kallert (executive sous at Le Cirque) in the show. If Hung worked in my kitchen he wouldn't last a day.
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:25 PM
Donna B wrote:
Chef Bourdain you have become an essential element of the TC experience! Chef Coliccio gives us an honest instructive perspective but your evaluations of the heart, soul and in most importantantly the palative truth of the cooking is the final judgement. Why oh why haven't you commented on the lunacy of Padma as a "judge"??? Ok I'll wait for your next book. thanks for your insights, you make the show worth watching! And yes - as i have felt from the beginning, Hung is the Top Chef. Why was there ever an argument?
posted on October 9, 2007 at 11:41 PM
sc0083 wrote:
OMG, chef B,
You are back! Finally! I've been waiting for your comment on the final TC episode for DAYS !
Your comment was as sharp as ever. Totally agreed with what you say about HUNG. I am so glad to the BEST chef win, and Hung is the BEST in this season.
BTW, love your show. And I bought all of your books last week (including all the novels). I hope I can finish reading it on my way back to Hong Kong. Just wish you will do a NR episode in GUANGZHOU, China. GZ is soo famous for food and there is old chinese saying: EAT IN GUANGZHOU ! way better than Shanghai & Beijing.
Anyway, hope to see you again next season. I think I will keep watching TC as long as