John wrote:

Stop doing team challenges! Everytime you have a team challenge you guys cut the wrong guy. Tre was the only one who really put any effort into that challenge. He got almost no help from the team. His team basically just let him fall so they wouldnt go home. And lets talk about how you hippocrets judge. This whole season you guys have been inconsistent with your criteria of who goes home. It looks like who ever does the least amount of work and doesnt help anyone, they're the ones that stay. Look at Sara, she has been consistantly bad (until today). But because she flew under the radar and didnt really do anything, she's made it this far. Thats what is on Top Chef, a bunch of average contestants. Again, you guys dont judge "Top Chefs", it seems like you just randomly send people home. What a crock! You have to know that by losing Tre you just lost a huge chunk of fans and any credibility this show had.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:38 PM

Nancy Willson wrote:

I am unbelievably disappointed in the decision to tell Tre to pack his knives and go!

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:43 PM

Erik Dippold wrote:

Gail, in your blog you write "It would be impossible to base choices simply on the knowledge that someone has done better in the past, even if we know that they are capable of more."

I'm curious how you stand by that statement when considering Howie's debacle earlier in the season. When a contestant who hasn't completed the challenge remains in the competition over others who have, I am forced to question the "judging the food in front of us" mantra. It seems clear that it is indeed not always the food in front of you.

I wasn't there and I didn't eat the food...but it seems clear that several of the other members of Team April were tottering on the brink. Where was CJ? To echo Tom's comment from an earlier season, "He didn't cook anything!" Again, I wasn't there and so ultimately I can only speculate, but what a shame that a clearly dynamite chef like Tre, who stepped up, and led was judged only on that food, when others before were not.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:45 PM

Colin wrote:

Tre was streets in front of all those other chefsm he's been consistently brilliant (not just 'good"). My most eagerly anticipated television event of the week is no more. Might tune in for the finale but beyond that i really couldn't be bothered with it anymore. What a joke!

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:46 PM

beth wrote:

Thanks so much Gail for this explanation. I have never read the blogs before tonight but was very unhappy with Tre's elimination and wanted a better understanding of why he and not someone else on the team was sent home. You really helped to clarify this.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:47 PM

Dolly wrote:

As much as I hated to see Tre go, I have to admit the judges decision was fair. Three dishes went out, which they tasted, and knew were not up to par. The salmon, monkfish and bread pudding. However, I think CJ should have gone home, too, for not stepping up as leader and naming someone else executive chef. By doing so, CJ admitted he was not Top Chef.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:49 PM

Melinda wrote:

Gail, do you think Ilan is a one-trick Spanish pony, or does he have versatility we may not have seen in Season 2?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:02 AM

Misty Peltier wrote:

I just wanted to say, I really miss Gail when she's gone! The show to me just isnt the same when she's not there.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:11 AM

Jess wrote:

Gail...thank you so much for your comments! I thoroughly enjoy how you always update your blog and inform the viewers of others things that are going on behind the scenes of Top Chef and things that are going on with other contestants such as Ilan! Thanks so much for your insight!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:15 AM

Marvel wrote:

Hello Gail,

Glad you will be making a return to the show and it seems your doing well. I was reading your blog and wanted to respond about the Fairness of the show. When I think about Top Chef I think of a Chef that represents the best overall Chef of that season. I do not or try not to think of that Chef as the person who just happened to have the winning recipe that night. However after reading your blog that it is what it comes down to. So it would seem the Chef who takes the least responsibility and stays in the middle of the crowd will have the best chance of winning. CJ is a prime example of that.

Most of the posters/bloggers who watched the show will probably agree that Tre was superior to many of the Chef's that are still on the show. Some may even agree that his one bad night of cooking and willingness to take on the burden of being head chef, when others clearly wouldn't cost him the chance of being Top Chef. So is that really balanced and fair?

Please consider a Cook Off - Of the bottom two chefs or even a point system. A point system could be used to save a great Chef.

With the current system you do not need a whole season to decide who is Top Chef. If your the Top Chef that one night you win it all.

Well I ranted enough..

Take Care,

Best Luck and Wishes..

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:23 AM

Raven Windrider wrote:

Definitely missed your radiant beauty, Gail, but certainly understand why we had to go without. As always, your
blog puts a more human touch to the show for we viewers
who are primarily interested in the food ideas. Count me
as an addicted Top Chef junkie.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:28 AM

maurice wrote:

I am sorry, i have watched Top Chef since the begging and i have always found a way to defend the decisions that the judges have made, i tell myself that we, viewers, have to trust you, judges, more on this show than any other reality competition because on other shows we can see the dress, or newly designed room, or hear the contestant singing, we can not taste the food, and i also know that you all try not to take into account the wars that go on in the kitchen, but this decision, and i am aware that you were not there, i can not seem to justify. Not Tre i am not saying that he didn't mess up, he did, but enough to go home? Especially when there have been other chefs, consistently in the bottom, you send him home for this? Tom says his leading style was "lackadaisical" why, because he was relaxed? And somehow this style is less desirable than Howie's constant inability to successfully work with others, much less lead?! Seriously, i thought that this was supposed to be "Top Chef" not just Top Chef of the moment! I am not sure that at the end of this season i will be comfortable and confident that the best actually won, I mean in season one, even though i thought he was in his own way--and in some of his blogs apparently still is-- snobbish and arrogant, I would still love to go to Harold's restaurant, and i thought he was deserving, same with Illan from season two, sure i wanted either Cliff or Sam to win, but I still felt that Illan was a justifiable choice, but who am i left with in this season? Dale--maybe; Hung--perhaps but the food would be all concept and no heart; Brian? No, I know you all, like any showbiz show, love to trip over yourselves to justify your calls, and insist on fairness, sincerity, and that the right person won, but this time around, this season, you got it flat WRONG.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:58 AM

willaim ohara wrote:

I think that you all just got rid of one of you best chef today .Tray he should have made it easily to the final four. This is a sad sad day for your show and i'm starting to think why i'm watching Top Chef. I also think you should have a way to bring back a chef that you voted off and give them a other chance. Have a the chef that are still in the competition vote who they think is the best chef that has gotten vote off. P.S. This is still a sad sad sad sad roday!!!!!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:00 AM

willaim ohara wrote:

I think that you all just got rid of one of you best chef today .Tray he should have made it easily to the final four. This is a sad sad day for your show and i'm starting to think why i'm watching Top Chef. I also think you should have a way to bring back a chef that you voted off and give them a other chance. Have a the chef that are still in the competition vote who they think is the best chef that has gotten vote off. P.S. This is still a sad sad sad sad roday!!!!!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:05 AM

willaim ohara wrote:

I think that you all just got rid of one of you best chef today .Tray he should have made it easily to the final four. This is a sad sad day for your show and i'm starting to think why i'm watching Top Chef. I also think you should have a way to bring back a chef that you voted off and give them a other chance. Have a the chef that are still in the competition vote who they think is the best chef that has gotten vote off. P.S. This is still a sad sad sad sad roday!!!!!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:12 AM

Andy B. wrote:

Gail, always great to hear from you. I'm happy to hear that Ilan is slowly maturing as a chef, and entertaining his guest.
Too bad you weren't the guest judge tonight, perhaps you would have saved Tre. I know you feel his departure was justified, perhaps you would have felt differently if you were on the judging panel. I understand what you're saying about Tre's failures, but tthere were three other people who performed on his team. Although Brian probable gets a pass after last weeks sweat down. C. J. and Casey performances were equally sub-par in my opinion. In fact Casey's awful chopping skills were downright pitiful for a chef. Combined that with her horribly cooked Monk fish and her elimination can be a far gone conclusion. It seems she gets carried a lot. Dale carried Casey in the Italy trip challenge, and Brian carried Casey in another episode. Now Sarah not only showed leadership skills for the winning team, and whipped Howie into shape. She also showed her chopping skills by badly beating Casey. Casey gave her team no shot at winning the extra money which could have made a difference in their cooking selection. I guess the judges don't want to have one woman left with seven chefs to go. As for C. J. he was lame. He picked his team, and had an air of overconfidence. His dish also was bad. C.J. should of had more of a say in the kitchen choices. It seems he purposely ttook a back seat and even opined on Tre desert as being boring.
The bottom line is tonights elimination of Tre directly effects the remaining portions of Top Chef season. Many of us bloggers figured it might come down to Tre and whomever in the finals. Just like many bloggers thought Tre was one of the best cooks, who also provides a quiet professionalism in his work.
That certainly proves out in the way he handled his dismissal. A dismissal that should have been avoided.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:22 AM

Alex wrote:

I gotta call shenaniganz on this one. As much a fan as i am of Brian, the fact that he coasted through without preparing any dish was incredibly lame. Tre's one good dish alone should have saved him from elimination. As all you judges have repeatedly said it all comes down to the food. CJ's dish wasnt well recieved. Tre's scallop was. It should have been taken into account far more how little the rest of his team contributed to the effort. they might as well not have been there. Lameness, easily one of the most talented chefs on there and Howie?!? outlasts him, after all of the nasty food hes served? I have to agree with Harold. April clearly won Restaurant Wars the first go around. Restaurant Wars 2 was very obviously scripted. How else can you explain Daniel Boulud having eight copies of his book on hand. Lucky coincidence. the prescripted drama of having two nights of restaurant wars very unfairly affected who went home. Howie or Sara should have gone home for their respective dishes. Howie slaughtered that risotto. and not only did he slaughter it, he did so using some very nice ingredients, Black Truffles, Foie Gras. For Shame. That Tre isnt going to be in the top two amongst the rest of the talent gathered is absolutely mindboggling.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:33 AM

Dawn wrote:

Thank you for the recap of your missed absence, we have been wondering. This is actually my first blog ever, I don't usually become very involved in reality shows and all they entail, with the exception of top chef, and even then, I am not moved to respond in any concrete manner. This weeks show was an exception. I understand the explanation of fair judging and the breakdown included, but am still saddened and disappointed by the elimation of Tre. Not to be insulting or inflammatory, Brian would have been our first assumption for elimination, no offense
Brian, you are likable, we just don't feel you contributed as much. Sorry. My husband and I felt Tre was a very skilled chef and one of our picks for the top three. He is consice and classy in demeanor and cooking, and hope for the best, we would eat at his resturant anytime.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:19 AM

Theresa O'Heron wrote:

Thank you for your thoughtful comments. I watched the show tonight and was astounded that Tre was the chef to leave. Your comments really helped me to understand the process.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:40 AM

Tina wrote:

Why must you persist in trying to get us to accept Ilan? The guy may look like a grown-up when he's talking about food, but his ongoing refusal to accept responsibility for his season 2 behavior is proof that he's still got some maturing to do. Just because you picked him as the season 2 winner doesn't mean we have to accept him. Please just let the guy succeed or fail on his own merits and stop trying to foist him on us. And by the way, since the criticism of his skills is mainly that he's a one-trick pony, perhaps praising his passion for and knowledge of Spanish cuisine is doing him more harm than good.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:43 AM

Timothy wrote:

No, it was a fair but difficult call...

Tre had the skills, mindset and vision to be Top Chef - but a night *so* off as Exec. Chef, harpooned him - you done right - and I'll look to dine with Tre very soon.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:49 AM

holmespoint wrote:

I loved Tre. I think he went down because of his teamates who left him out there. He did 3/4 of the work. Tre, let me know where you are and I will make it a point to dine with you. You are a class act....

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:09 AM

C wrote:

I swore I wasn't going to watch TC anymore after the shenanigans of last season, but here I was again all excited about a new season, faithfully watching each show, glad to see more emphasis on food than drama, and then BAM! Tonight's episode followed by a week without a new show may very well see me lose all interest, just like Top Design did. This isn't a threat to leave in a huff because one of my favorites was eliminated, its an honest assessment that the remaining chefs are all so boring I just don't know that I'll truly want to watch with only "hiders" left. The more you reward those who do nothing, the more boring this show becomes.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:47 AM

Lauren wrote:

I agree w/the other blogger that Most of us who watched the show will probably agree that Tre was superior to many of the Chef's that are still on the show. I think the decision to "chop" Tre' was a bad one and I don't think I will be watching the show to the finale.

Casey's dishes have been horrible, like that bird's nest thing - she should have been chopped several episodes ago and the monk fish looked dry and so unappetizing, Howie is obnoxious and can't really cook anything else but pork, and he would not make a great Top Chef at all, who would want to work for him. Brian did nothing on either restaurant challenge, why didn't he make the dessert so I think he should have been chopped instead of Tre' - he couldn't even keep the front of the house together on the last challenge and Tre' had to tell Casey to help him out. CJ was not a leader, he is just riding the middle and he just left Tre' to take all the heat. Huang is arrogant and he's not consistent at all and all he seems to come up w/is frois gras or some type of asian spin on dishes. Sarah has not done well at all until this last challenge and I don't know how she could make it to the finale after all of her screw ups. Dale is a great chef but not great in running the kitchen at all, he cursed alot and was really rude to the servers.

Restaurant April was clearly the winner and it was a mistake to re-do the challnge and to get rid of Tre', I'm very disappointed. Tre' was a stand up guy, he always stayed cool under pressure, he was the best leader out of the bunch and he is the only one that had the qualities to be a "TOP CHEF". He was always innovative w/his dishes also (like the shrimp wrapped in bacon w/grits). I'm actually going to attempt that dish for a Fall-themed brunch. Tre' really should have gone to the finale. Sorry, but the show has just lost a loyal fan.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:06 AM

vincent wrote:

Hello Gail,
I am rewatching TopChef this evening.Many outraged at Tre's unceremonious departure.He is and was very strong,but no elimination competition is fair.
However,the last two episodes are clearly scripted.The sudden emergence of Madonna's pseudo designer brother,Stephen the Sommelier and of course Joey,Camille-who looks marvelous,Sara and Leeah,reinforces this obvious point.Credibility has been compromised and curtailed a bit here,but it is a television show.I do not care.I watch Hell's Kitchen just to watch Gordon berate obviously casted underqualified chefs-it is very entertaining.
On to the competition,I query, If the judging comes down to food,than why didn't April win it last week? So what if Brian was flustered.Rather his visual perspiration than scented candles and mediocre food.Scented candles?How egregious.Service is hired,hence the damn sommelier!
But,team April,the second time around,lacked intensity and a sense of urgency.The lack of communication stemmed from everyone over trusting and respecting of one another.Nobody wanted to critique one another.Quatre's sense of urgency manifested in a drive for excellence.A less skilled athlete can beat someone more skilled on a given day with an emotional push-not consistently,of course.
How strange an episode,Tre goes home while the amateur Sara wins.Hell has frozen over.People should also know,the archetype of "deposing the king" is only natural.Tre was the leader.Therefore,he had the most to lose.This happens in sports all the time,the coach gets fired or the quarterback takes the fall for a poor supporting cast.Very difficult to cut the knife and seperate in a group competition.I recall being taught that even tribes had rituals of deposing aging leaders through death,out of their age and not out of their current capacity to lead.
I am glad you mentioned Ilan,coincidentally.He won season 2,but that does not make him the best chef that season,unless it is called Top Spanish Chef.His performance in the Top Chef All Star competition was pathetic.The best chef may not win season 3 out of the group-people,you will be forced to reconcile this within your deeply scared psyches.
I now am hopeful Hung wins.I am shocked I am typing this,as I literally wanted to physically harm him at times,but I do not think anyone left from April is capable of assuming this TC Title.At least Hung has the training and expertise.Everyone left should be nervous,I can not imagine making the finals and needing whomever is now left as their supporting teamates! Casey,Brian nor CJ have demonstrated strength consistently.Brian did well once for cheering on a bunch of drunkards.Whoopie.CJ made a nice hamburger and frozen food with Tre,and Casey?Nothing memorable.
Tre has been strong,but far from infallible.His character has made him a real favorite.I recall he failed miserably in the BBQ competition,unacceptable for a native Texan and self heralded king of BBQ.
I do not understand why viewers are reacting so angrily-it is a TV show.Tre will do just fine for himself,he already has,in front of countless viewers.

By the way Gail,you look tremendous.I live in L.A. and am in my mid thirties and would relish meeting a natural beauty like yourself.Class,sense of humour and urbane,yet not pretentious.
Best- V

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:13 AM

rachel wrote:

Tre was definately my choice for top chef..i totally agree with the comment that if this is they way the show is judged we dont need a whole season of top chef! at the finale if your game is a little up, then you are top chef..im wondering about the judging abilities for top chef..because SAM should have won last season!! and now TRE has been sent home! ME AND MY BROTHER ARE OUTRAGED!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:23 AM

Michael wrote:

Gail,

In my opinion, the judges blew it (big time) when the eliminated Tre. I am extremely disappointed and surprised. How on earth has Howie survived elimination so many times? If someone had been eliminated from the first episode of the Resturant Wars (last week) things might have been Team April would likely have been spared. Why don't the show indicate the individual voting of the judges? I understand that judging is subjective and judges have their own standards of likes (and dislikes). The judges should also factor in a "degree of difficulty" in their evaluation. I believe that it would be a neat twist to have the input of the competing chefs factoring in the decision of who should be eliminated. Surprisingly, Tom Colicchio was weak in his knowledge of Mediterranean foods in comparison with Rocco Dispirito. I hope that Top Chef improves the judging so that the best talent truly wins.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:48 AM

diane wrote:

although i agree Tre was possibly the most talented chef overall, i agree with ms simmons. when you go to a resturant you expect good food. that is the reality, as the customer you don't care, nor should you be required to, about the problems etc. you want to "get what you are paying for"
and the success of any business depends on the "man at the top"-he takes all the responsibility, all the hits-that is why he gets the big bucks. tre tonight in his role failed ( a role which he surly wanted and desired- i think he would have been ticked if he was not the head chef)

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:51 AM

Julia wrote:

Last night showed why Top Chef is such a great show. I thought before the show that April was going to win hands down...unfortunately they made mistakes...

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:51 AM

Julie wrote:

So apparently the key to winning Top Chef is to skate by on all the group challenges, never stepping up and putting yourself on the line. Show no desire to lead, no gumption, no drive, and you're a Top Chef contender for sure!

That's ridiculous.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:17 AM

Erik wrote:

Gail, the show is way better with you on the judge's panel...if i have to listen to Gail or another one of those pompous ass, feminine males one more time, i'm going to scream. Plus, I like when you and Tom get into it. Especially memorable was your quarrel over Sarah and Howie a few weeks back. I'd have to agree with Tom on that one. I'll take Howie's bulldoggedness over Sara M. passive aggressiveness any day. Sarah is by far the most annoying and insufferable contestant this year. As for Tre, I like the decision from the standpoint that for once the show was utterly unpredictable. That said, the wrong Chef went home. It should have been Brian. I mean, he's the only chef who added nothing to any of the dishes. If Tre can be sent home for the overall lack of success of Team April, why can't Brian be sent home for the same reason, especially since he figuratively brought nothing to the table.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:44 AM

James wrote:

I was really disappointed to see Tre go, but not surprised. I think Gail, Tom and Anthony Bourdain's explanations are spot-on, and really shed some much-needed light on the process. I think the general idea is that the show is supposed to mimic the restaurant world. Unlike many professions where the people at the top actually have the least amount of accountability, the opposite is true. I think that if Sara's team had lost, even through no fault of her own, she probably would have gotten eliminated as well. I suppose that's the risk you take being executive chef. Conversely, if Tre's team had won, I think Tre would have won the challenge overall.

Anyway, the crappiest part of Tre being eliminated is that I don't think there is anyone left who can come close to holding a candle to Hung. Unless he makes some serious mistakes in the coming episodes, I think Hung will completely dominate, and the show won't be quite as interesting to watch.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:54 AM

Michael wrote:

Everyone is complaining that Tre got knocked out. Face it, he deserved it for his effort on this episode. He had the role of executive chef - not only did he let 2 of his 3 bad dishes go out the door, he let the others bad dishes as well. At the end of the day, he had a role to play and he did it poorly. I was sorry to see him go as well, but upsets are what make it exciting.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:32 AM

KT wrote:

I, too, am sad to see Tre leave. He really is so talented. I have to agree with the judges though. He was running that team, and they failed on multiple levels. As pissed as I am to say it, Quatre deserved the win...*sigh*

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:51 AM

Ericka wrote:

Tre's leaving was totally unfair. He was one of the better chef's and now you have less qualified chef's there in his place. How is it that Howie has the opportunity to remain in the competition when his food has been spotty at best? Why is it that an African-American contestant never makes it past 5 or 6 episodes before he or she is booted from the show? I will no longer watch the show. It seems as if the chef's personalities are more important that the talent they possess.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:53 AM

Linda S wrote:

Like many viewers, I often find it difficult to understand the choices made in the dismissal process. If the desired outcome truly is a TOP CHEF - then consistency in purpose, leadership, work ethic, knowledge, culinary skills, and time management should be weighted just as much as the food presented.

I agree Tre's food apparently had an "off" night, but when blowhards like Howie, whose main food ingredient in every dish (aside from lamb) is his personal DNA via sweat, remain despite screw up after screw up?

Leah getting kicked to the curb was bad enough, but now Tre? You do not get to the positions they have attained, in the restaurants in which they cook without already being damn close to the title of a true TOP CHEF.

This episode got it all wrong.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:00 AM

Cindy wrote:

I was totally surprised and dissappointed to see Tre go in last night's episode. After reading the blogs though, I understood why the judges felt he had to go. It was interesting to see Sara rise to the challenge and really push her team to put out the best food they could. Hung and Howie deferred to her, and if their team had put out bad food, she would have been the one to fall.
Tre on the other hand wasn't really a good team leader and as a result, the food suffered. Yes he did prepare three dishes, but maybe he should have delegated some of that effort to the others and concentrated on overseeing the kitchen and every dish that went out.
I love Top Chef, never miss an episode and even watch the re-runs to see the little things that I missed the 1st time.
By the way bloggers, let the whole Howie missing one dish episode go!! That was the 1st episode of the season and as the judges said, what was worse, Clay's overall lack of skill and execution, or Howie's obvious talent, but missing item. They didn't break the rules in deciding that Clay was the one to go. Clay was in way over his head and the obvious choice.
Back to last night, how come they didn't show any comments that Lia and Camille had to say about the meal? It was good to see Stephen though!
I love when Dale said Joey and Sarah were in the dining room and Hung said "Who are Joey and Sarah"!! He really is in his own little world.
I can't wait for next weeks episode.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:04 AM

Randy wrote:

I am an African American male and I love your show, I've been watching since season one. It's the only show I watch consistently and plan my busy schedule around. That being said I was really pulling for Tre, not because he's African American, because I felt Cliff and Mia (from season 2) were not the Top Chef's on that season and I loss respect for Mia when she quit for Elia. I didn't even think Tre was the best Chef on the show, I thought he was the second best next to Hung. But I fiqured in a cook off it was possible that Hung might have a bad day and Tre could sneak by. The reason I was pulling for Tre was because of his maturity and professionalism, he is the type of person that commands respect and if I was working in a kitchen the type of person I would love to be around and learn from. He was devoid all the drama and griping and whining and all about the work. Tre demonstrated everything that Top Chef is supposed to be about. Casey cooked one dish that was not good, when she was cutting that onion I went to the bathroom and returned and she was still cutting the same onion, I thought my Tevo was malfunctioning. Brian didn't cook anything and Tom (who I respect immensely) said his front house performance was weak. C.J.'s dish was too salty and not up to par, he was also quick to throw Tre under the bus stating he felt his pudding was "boring", it was also C.J. who won the quickfire challenge and was team captain that picked Tre to be the head Chef. C.J. talks a good game but hasn't proven himself as a Top Chef. He reminds me of Fred MacMurry in "The Caine Mutiny", quick to make suggestions but takes a step back when they don't work out. I don't watch the show for the drama and people acting out their 15 minutes, I actully enjoy the cooking aspect of the show and the competition. All that said I think you missed this one and made a mistake. Casey, who has been carried and pampered through out the entire season, C.J. or Brian should have clearly gone home. I guess you like the drama. But I would jump over twenty Howies to get to one Tre.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:27 AM

Nik Wms wrote:

U know, Hung and Howie have been on the borderline for weeks and eventhough their team won, how could those judges let Tre go? His team hung him out to dry when he has been one of the best "team player" on the show. I have lost all respect for his team mates who r getting by on a thin thread. I would not want any of them in my kitchen because they do not know or want to take responsibility for their actions! I am so over them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:29 AM

bets wrote:

I can't believe Tre is gone and Howie remains. I understand the rationale, and it makes sense, but a true talent packed his knives last night.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:57 AM

Colin wrote:

Gail, as always, fair and interesting - I attribute part of the credit to the fact that you're Canadian: judges and peacekeepers,right?

Now, about the date for our wedding.... ;)

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:06 AM

Sue wrote:

so I guess doing the least amount of work qualifies you to be Top Chef. what?? Brian didn't cook a single dish. Then again, he knew he couldn't be sent home due solely to service. CJ produced ONE thing, and it was bad at that. I'm sorry but Tre and Hung seems the only one with real potential. Ok Dale too, but only because I love his personality.

I honestly think these contestants sabotaged Tre and hung him out to dry. He was their only real competition. They all get to sit back and do nothing and he gets sent home. How perfect for them! Note to future contestants*** Do as little as possible, as mediocre as possible and hide behind all the real talent, you will get far and probably win. Yay.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:10 AM

gary e. wrote:

Your the one Gail. You make it right when we have a hard time excepting the judges decision, i was sorry to see tre go, come back soon you are always missed

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:21 AM

Deborah R wrote:

Well, Glorious Gail, I owe you an apology--and the nice thing is that you didn't demand one (like another blogger who doesn't warrant further mention). Last week I got a little heated in asking you to stop defending the decision to make the female chefs cook in high heels. Not only did I completely forget the fact that you weren't a judge in that competition, but now Chef Tom has revealed that all the chefs in the roach-coach episode were provided appropriate footwear. Mea maxima culpa!

I do enjoy Ted's appearances, but miss seeing you at the table. (Why not have five judges so we can see you both?) It will be nice to have you back.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:26 AM

Donnell Long wrote:

I am very disappointed that tre was the chef that got sent home. I don't understand how you judge, one week you dont send a chef home because you like his style of cooking and to quite it would be ashame to send howie home because he cooked one dish correct. Tre took on the challenge and got very little help from his cast and none from brian you guys should be ashamed of yourselves because you operate with a double standard and the sad part of it is it only shows when the contestant is black. you really could take some notes from hells kitchen. everyone wanted to see tre in the finals and for you to take one of the strongest chefs out stinks. if you apply a rule be consistent.Public demand for a strong finals is the shows responsibility.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:37 AM

kathryn wrote:

Change the name of ths show obviously this is not about finding the Top Chef! Maybe if Tre was obnoxious like Howie or a coward like CJ he's still be around. There is simply no justification for his elimination he consistently is one of the top performers as opposed to CJ he rode his coat tails to a win and then threw him under the bus. People like Howie and Sara get chance after chance Tre has one bad performance and he's gone. Shame on you Top Chef! Shame on you!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:07 PM

Janet wrote:

I am glad you are going to back on the show. But the producers of the show should remember what the title of the show is Top Chef
Not Team Chef. I know there is alot of debating that goes on when you guys decide who gets sent home and we don't see it. But with this decision I recommend that they have a special airing about what was said by the judges to send Tre home and not Cassey or C.J or Brian? Cassey has overcooked rice and destroyed the monk fish what is up with that.? If it is that bad don't send it out. They did not give any reason that I can remember to send Tre home.
I wonder if they talked about how maybe this was some kind of sabotage to send Tre home so he would be out of the competation.?
C.J had one dish and this is the second time for him to come up with an excuse. Why he wasn't helping. Same with Cassey If I would have know. How could they not known?
I am sorry to see Tre leave and think he was one of the shows best chef's with his attitude.
I guess I will just watch the last 10 minutes of the show to see who you kick off next. If it is hun then the show is over.
Howie might be a really good chef and I know they won the challenge but with the way he sweats on T>V and you don't know where that sweat is dripping into I sure wouldn't want to eat his food. I am very dissappointed in this season maybe season 4 will be better.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:14 PM

Dee wrote:

I don't believe this explanation to get rid of Tre on a reality show. You guys always cut the wrong people and keep inferior chefs like Howie. Howie can cook every now and then but he has nothing else in his personality that screams head chef. How disappointing and I won't be watching anymore this season. Maybe next season you will do the right thing. What a scam.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:17 PM

NANCY S. wrote:

The judges made the right choice. People who get all upset are basing their opinion on who they "like" not what they did in a particular challenge. I always thought Tre might take it all, but he really blew it on this one. He was the right choice.

1.) He served the same meal that the judges hated the week before;
2.) He claimed he could make bread pudding in his sleep, but he made a really bad bread pudding;
3.) He was not a leader. The executive chef must be a leader. (I do agree that the judging is not always consistent in this area, but hell, it's tv.)

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:41 PM

Christopher Spencer wrote:

Gail,
I await your return! I have to say though, as a gay man happily married in the State of Massachusetts (it's been legalized here) the one thing I'm a little weary of on Top Chef are these overly fussy gay men. Madonna's brother being the latest edition. I think they perpetuate a negative stereotype that while I ackowledge exists, doesn't have to shoved in people's faces. All my best to you and rest of the cast.
Christopher

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:25 PM

Jesse wrote:

I don't see why people make such a big deal and go on these pointless rants about somebody going home. It's not like it will make them come back. Everyone is saying that Tre was amazing throughout the entire competition and that everyone else was just going under the radar. That's total crap. Tre was good in the very beginning, and for one or two episodes after that.Throughout most of the competition you didn't really see all that much of him and it was other people who shined. He had a really crappy performance on this episode, and so he went home. There is nothing unfair about it. The way I see it, none of the people on his team should have been in the bottom except him. Casey made a fish dish that wasn't good, but Tre's dish was worse. Tre made another dish that was much better, but Casey made that wierd soup that was plenty good itself. So there's one person who did the same or better than Tre. Somebody said that the other members of the team didn't do much work, but they did better at the few things they did do than Tre did at leading his team, cooking good food, etc...

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:32 PM

Alice wrote:

I've watched Top Chef for the last time--and that's a fact--not a threat. You have consistently ended up with a group who've done nothing spectacular. It should be renamed Mediocre Chef! I think all of the judges shoud be embarrassed over the choice of Elan last year, and I predict it will be even worse this year. I'm also insulted that you would have us believe that the network has no input into the choices. After all, drama and chaos apparently sells better than quality.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:28 PM

rbovaboy wrote:

It was tough seeing Tre leave, and it will be tough seeing several more go too. But as you state, Gail, the top chef has to be consistent in each challenge. Some skate by but you really have to be "on" all the time to make it to the top. Tre had three dishes that didn't work well for him, and that's too bad. Couple that with being the executive chef, he was doomed.

I really respect the decisions made and am glad that this show doesn't employ judges who make nasty or degrading comments. It's always constructive criticism and the evaluations are almost always "spot-on."

Cheers!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:35 PM

Marsha wrote:

My biggest disappointment is that Tre was a tremendous example for young black males that you can do more than wash dishses in a kitchen. I am finally tired of this formula. I quit watching the design show last year becuase of all the bickering and back biting. It seems to take center stage and the talent gets lost. If you aren't back biting and nasty, you don't make good TV. Tre was so classy throughout the competition. He never uttered a word against his fellow competitors and in the end was willing to step up and take the hit for his team which totally let him down. I will have to find something else to do with my Wednesday nights.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:49 PM

ko wrote:

It seemed as if the challenge should have beeen Tre (or ex chef) vs. Sara (or ex chef), if they were both ultimately responsible for the food and hence the win or loss. I agree: when will the team challenges end? Tre was the team. Sara even stated that Huang was right behind her asking "What can I do chef?" Apparently nothing. It was hers to win or lose.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:08 PM

Johnathan wrote:

Hi Gail,

I for one, while disappointed in Tre's departure, agree with the judge's decision. Tre had two disappointing dishes today, and unfortunately he had to go. And I was one who was hoping he would take the prize.

By keeping past performances out of the current challenge's decision, you keep the show fresh, exciting, and unpredictable. Some may think team challenges are unfair but I have to disagree. True chefs aren't cooking by themselves all the time. They are often given less than stellar conditions in which to perform. They must rise to the occassion, no matter what their circumstances.

One comment on the editing of the show: Next season, the editors should take better care not to give a show's ending away. I was able to predict both Joey's and Micah's demise by their interviews throughout that particular show....both had looked like they had been crying in their early interviews which raised a flag. I really think this needs to be fixed.

Nice to hear you will be back in a couple of weeks...we missed you at Judge's Table.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:33 PM

jamie danson wrote:

You were missed again last night....To many male judges these days. Liked your blog and insight anyways. Unlike most other people on this board I thought last mights challenge was great....Fair decision!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:51 PM

Belinda wrote:

I am sooo upset over Tre being dismissed. I don't believe it is fair to put someone in a team challenge situation and then dismiss one person from the team. Also, to the fact that the judging is fair. On Season 1, Tiffany clearly lost the challenge where it was down to the final tree, yet she was sent on to the final two. She didn't win any rounds and Dave missed one dish, but the round still went to Harold. So it was Dave - 1 ; Howard - 2 and Tiffany-0, so how in the world with the final two be Tiffany and Howard if it wasn't based on past performance. I will not be watching this show anymore because the judging is unfair and furthermore, this is the first time you have had a good African-American candidate, who was not arrogant or lacked experience or qualifications and you get rid of him on a team project, which is very disappointing to say the least.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:04 PM

matt wrote:

Although I sympathize with the majority of fans in their sadness at seeing Tre go, I have to say I think the attitude most are displaying is *absurd*. It's a cooking competition. Contestants are judged on their actual performance, not on their abilities (and certainly not on their likeability). Anyone who watched the last two episodes with even a modicum of impartiality could see that the decision to send Tre home was fair. He stuck his neck out there. He didn't have to prepare so many dishes and let the others slide under the radar. He was well aware of the risk he was taking by playing this role.

So anyways, everyone, stop being crybabies. The best thing about Top Chef is that it really is a cooking competetion, not a popularity contest. The person you like best won't always win, and that's as it should be.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:04 PM

Chantel wrote:

Interesting comments. I agree with the sentiments of just about everyone else: Tre should not have been eliminated. What I don't understand is how everyone says that the exec chef is held accountable and that's why Tre's leaving is justified, when obviously, just last week, the two that they called in for elimination were both from the front of the house. If the Exec Chef is ultimately responsible for everything then why weren't Sara and Tre called in last weekend as opposed to Brian and Dale? Regardless, anyone have details on where Tre works? I think most of his fans wouldn't mind paying him a visit. Happy to see you back soon Gail.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:10 PM

Deborah R wrote:

Gail:

Well, Glorious Gail, I owe you an apology--and the nice thing is that you didn't demand one (like another blogger who doesn't warrant further mention). Last week I got a little heated in asking you to stop defending the decision to make the female chefs cook in high heels. Not only did I completely forget the fact that you weren't a judge in that competition, but now Chef Tom has revealed that all the chefs in the roach-coach episode were provided appropriate footwear. Mea maxima culpa!

I do enjoy Ted's appearances, but miss seeing you at the table. (Why not have five judges so we can see you both?) It will be nice to have you back.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:19 PM

burnedtoacrisp wrote:

It was painful to watch the one who did the most get kicked off. I don't think the judges were aware during the taping of show the positive influence Tre had on the other cheftestants. He clearly was someone to look up to. The chefs who got to work with him seemed to emulate his attitude. He would be an excellent teaching chef. I agree with many of the previous posters. It is a poor decision to punish the hard working risk takers. You allow the mediocre to stay for far too long by punishing the leaders.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:27 PM

Tiffani wrote:

With Tre's elimination and the supposed "basis" for it, a fan of this show has been lost....truly sad.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:44 PM

Kevin H. wrote:

I, like many of the other viewers, was highly dissappointed to see Tre leave the show. In my opinion he was, by far, the strongest chef this season. But there are some things being said that I am having a hard time accepting. I understand that to be a top chef you have to be consistant. But to say that past perfomance isn't a factor at the judges table is a load of crap. Listening to some of the judges comments at the judges table says to me that sometimes past performance IS a factor. Case and point...in an earlier episode while the judges were discussing their elimination decision after informing the bottom 4 chefs of their failures, Chef Tom made a comment about Howie saying "I'm having a hard time keeping him around". Even though Howie didn't get eliminated, that tells me that he is taking Howie's past perfomance into consideration (incomplete dish and his inability to work well with others). His dish that episode was not bad enough to justify making that comment (obviously, because he wasnt eliminated). Also comments have been made about how disappointed the judges were with a certain chef's performance in a particular challenge based on previous dishes that they have prepared. Again, past perfomance being brought to the table. Don't get me wrong, I think past performance should be a factor. Every restaurant in the world would be out of business if we as diners didnt take the chef's past perfomance and reputation into consideration when making our dining choices. I personally have had bad experiences at a restaurant and continued to go back based on a past, positive experience at that restaurant. I say that to say this... I think Tre's past perfomance SHOULD have been a factor in the decision and he should not have been eliminated. Let's face it, he had more elimination challenge wins than his entire team combined (actually, I do believe he had more elimination wins than any other contestant at the time he was eliminated). His team obviously felt that he was a better chef than any of them (based on his past performance) since he was "elected" to be the executive chef for the team. And if this competition is truely about the food, then why didnt CJ get eliminated? The ONE dish he put out wasn't successful. Although Tre had some unsuccessful dishes as well, he still put out MORE successful dishes than his team members. Even the guest judge stated that the team failed as a whole because the "support staff" didnt support their executive chef. And what about Brian, why is he still around after all of this? To quote Chef Tom from the episode when Sam was eliminated in Hawaii, "It's a cooking competition...he didn't cook anything". I just don't think that its fair to eliminate a talented chef because he got stuck with a lousy team. Oh yeah...can someone tell me why Casey is still around? She is definately one that the "consistancy" rule should be applied to. The only thing consistant about her performance is that it consistantly sucks!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:51 PM

Tiffani wrote:

With Tre's elimination and the supposed "basis" for it, a fan of this show has been lost....truly sad.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:53 PM

Edwin wrote:

Ms Simmons,

I really liked Tre's manner throughout the show; he also seemed to be consistently excellent.

However, the comments about his food for the second day in the toy restaurant were hardly complimentary. Apparently two of his dishes were failures, one in execution, and the other in concept. I'm sorry to see Tre go; were I ever to be so foolish as to start a restaurant, I would still pick Tre as the executive chef.

That said, the Restaurant Wars Redux showed that Équipe Quatre , ex The Garage Team, improved spectacularly, and April didn't. Indeed, from what I saw, it seemed that the April team viewed themselves as the "winners" from the previous episode, and did not fix any of their problems.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:25 PM

peggy wrote:

You say the you judge by only that night. What about previous judging when Howie was horrible and still remains. You have lost me as a fan. I wonder if you will ever retain you credibility after last nights horrendous decision. The judges looked like fools. sorry but you did. I suggest no more group challenges because you seem to always send home the wrong person. good bye hope season 4 is better

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:40 PM

Margo Channing wrote:

Fasten you seatbelts.

All the talk of no longer watching to show because last night's judgment was some cynical ploy at worst, or an idiotic loss of judgment at best, and not the only decision they could make, has to be a momentary lapse simply because Tre was obviously a brilliant chef and other than overconfidence, not arrogant with his fellow contestants, a nice change for someone of his talent.

It was obvious why Tre had to go. Messed up 2 dishes, one so bad as to be described the the most awful, dreadful thing Ted Allen ever put in his mouth, that was food.

Cook well or get out of the Top Chef kitchen.

Viewers? This is how it works. Gail says it wonderfully, it is the only way to have a semblance of consistency where all parties, contestants and viewers no what the game is.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:41 PM

jay patel wrote:

Was Tre eliminated because he is African American? Or was Casey not eliminated because the boy/girl ratio on the show is getting really imbalanced?

I vote Tre's elimination the worst decision of this season , and it has definitely broken my trust in the credibility of the show.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:19 PM

Lynn wrote:

absolutely unbelievable that they would axe tre off....just goes to show you how this show has become controlled by the network, the judges have little if any say in the decisions made on the show!!! ridiculous that any of these chefs (none of whome really even come close to the talent of the first two seasons) are even taken seriously....this show has really taken a turn for the worst,,what a shame. Even Tom has become a complete wuss.... and whats with Rocco Dispirito???? wont he just go away??!! what a marketing ploy...shameful!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:40 PM

Flora wrote:

Gail, How about doing Top Chef in Montreal???????

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:10 PM

Elaine Baker wrote:

Gail's rationale sounds logical until you examine it carefully. No reviewer would review a restaurant based on a single visit and I personally, while I might send back a bad dish, would not boycott a restaurant that was recommended based on one bad eating experience. (I might based on a bad service experience because that's not an accident, it's a style.) I would be much more apt to avoid a mediocre restaurant than one that was interesting but bad.

It seems that the current system rewards the cautious and the average. If you can't figure a way to provide some kind of cumulative points for wins, you run the risk of being suspected of valuing theater over food. My husband refuses to watch this show with me any more because he is convinced that the producers make the decisions (not the judges) based on keeping the "hot," Both the cute babes and the hot-headed who provide drama seem to escape time over time while the hard-working but mellow and, dare I say it?, boring are let go.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:15 PM

MCandyG wrote:

Ok, We will all miss Tre, no doubt about it. However we all heard him talk about how it took him 5 years to get to where he is in his real job. Maybe if he had displayed a little of that in this challenge and showed some true leadership he wouldn't be on the other side of the TC door. I'm thinking that working his way up in real life he made sure that in the preparing, tasting, and presentation of his dishes and those in his kitchen things just didn't slide. If he truly wanted to win "Top Chef" he wouldn't have done so either. So now we get to sit back and see how long before Howie the sweatmeister or Hung the human tornado can last. The free passes of quick fires are gone. True talent actually has to surface if it is there.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:16 PM

Kristin wrote:

Gail, I think your comments are bang on. When you go to a restaurant, you really don't care what big name is in the kitchen or if they are having a bad day or not. I liked Tre, but he had a bad day and that's what happens.

For me, case in point is Daniel Boulud. My husband and I have been to Cafe Boulud in both New York & Palm Beach and both times, we were severely underwhelmed. In New York, no one at our table was particularly thrilled with our food (we were there with my dad who is a big fan of "Daniel"). We were not impressed, but thought we would give Chef Boulud another shot in Palm Beach. On a Saturday night, we arrived to find that they had decided to do a "lighter fare" menu--which was a glorified pub menu--in their main dining room! Here we were, ready for this great exciting, culinary experience, and my husband ends up having a burger from the very limited menu(not, by the way, anything near the celebrated burgers at his other restaurants). My sister ended up with a in edible vegetarian plate and the whole night was a disaster.

So all of this to say, yes, I am sorry to see Tre go, but if a great chef is not on top of his game when you happen to visit his restaurant(s), chances are, you are right--you are not going back.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:32 PM

Betz wrote:

Gail, You and and your team of psuedo chef''s need to bring Tre back. You and everyone else know that he had talent eons ahead of everyone else in that kitchen. If you want to redeem yourself in anyway, insist to those other pansy judges that Tre be allowed to return and carry on.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:04 PM

Kevin wrote:

The decision was fair. Tre let undesirable dishes go out. Not only that, but how many times did we hear about a specialty of his that he could do in his sleep? Did he ever come through? No. Barbeque comes to mind. Bread pudding comes to mind. It's one thing to not be able to do it, but it's another to swear up and down that you can do it well yet come off with something that's essentially passable.

Tre will be missed, definitely. He was good. I personally think 2 men should have been gone last week. Tre, unfortunately, was a casualty of his own devices.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:11 PM

bjwells wrote:

WHAT!!! I can't believe this. Tre goes home?????? I have been a fan of Top Chef from the beginning. It seems that someone on Top Chef doesn't really care if they have a TOP CHEF or not. There is no reasonable explination why Tre would go home. He is better, as all of you know, than most of the persons left. He had a bad day. So what!!!! He has shown more class and skill over the last episodes than all those left. Not to say that I don't like the rest of the crew. They are fine and I'm sure good cooks but how do you justify this. Your explanations are not consistent. HOWIE has consistently been in the bottom, especially on team challenges. You always acknowledge that in these competions that he along with whomever he seems to get into with are the reasons for the failures. You have allowed someone who is a bully, even though I'm not trying to attack him, to stay on the show and sent someone who is extremely talented, considerate of others, and a team player to go home!! We all know that this

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:12 PM

Chateau wrote:

I am so upset to see Tre leave. Like the rest of the fans I think the judging is not right. Tre put himself out there and the rest hid like ducks. Thats not right or fair.
It has escaped the judges that Casey has been less than mediocre the last three challenges. She should of been a woman and volunteered herself.
Sending Tre home early is a clear waste of talent and the rest of Top Chef will have nothing but boring recipes and drama. We don't just watch this show for the drama that Howie elicits (he should of went home five episodes). We watch it for the creativity which is what got it an Emmy nod. Now what?
Does Top Chef really like to let down their fans? Last year with Sam...now this year with Tre. I've had enough...it seems these show just might be rigged. A total let down.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:48 PM

Rosalynn wrote:

I've never felt the need to respond to any show; however, last night's decision to eliminate Tre' has me at a loss...I understand that Restaurant Quatre won the Restaurant Wars challenge; therefore, leaving Howie and the others excempt from elimination. However, the judges choice of Tre indicates to me that there was no one else on the Restaurant April Team who qualified for elimination. How WRONG. Tre took a leap of faith and decided to be Head Chef when no one else on the team would step up. True, he made two bad dishes out of three, but Casey was 0 for 1. Come on.....Talk about lack of leadership or integrity from the other two "chefs" in the kitchen. I'm not sure how devoted I am to the show anymore. I'm not sure that I'll tune in to any other episodes; however, I'll probably TIVO the finale just to find out the winner...

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:58 PM

simi wrote:

I cant beleive howie wasn't sent home!!!
what do u think gail???
after week to week worst performance maybe except one and blowing up on anyone doesn't he deserve to be out instead of tre
Tre rocks!!! he has been consistent forever and he wasnt good today and u guys blow him off...
Think about it...on a restaurant
Howie is the chef and he serves a good meal once a week and the rest of the week his meals are terrible...would u go there????
I mean how cud u guys save howie....he is just a pain to luk at...tre cud have actually won this thing...u can forgive howie 2 times and send sarah home or joey but u cant forgive tre who has done fabulously and screwed up one time...this decision will lose many viewers because I dun wanna see howie there instead of Tre...
Good luck!!!! the show needs it after Tre's departure

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:48 PM

Deanna wrote:

Gail,

As a former avid Top Chef viewer I am very disapointed with last nights outcome. And yes, former viewer because last night proved to me the judges are not the least bit interested in finding a truly versatile Top Chef. I agree with most of the posts here tonight - eliminating Tre for one bad night is insane.

If what you say is true, and each night of judging is based only on the dish for that evening, how can you really say anyone is the Top Chef of the season? The way you justify the judging tells me you really consider this show the Bravo version of Iron Chef. Because the weekly judging does not consider cumulative achievements, what's the point of having a 15 week show with the same people? Change up the people each week and call it Top Chef Tonight!

Furthermore, if the judging is based solely on the food, why have a re-do of the restaurant wars? Restaurant April was the clear winner - from a food perspective - the first time around.

I will miss Tre and wish him well; his poise, talent and class are heads and shoulders above any chefs left on the show.

Disappointed in CA.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:55 PM

Cathy wrote:

I like William O'Hara's idea of having a show where you bring back a chef or 2 that were previously eliminated. If ever there was a chef that deserves it is is Tre. They've done this type of thing on Project Runway. I realize that since the show was taped in April, you can't exactly bring Tre back now. But it really is a good idea for the future of the show.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:58 PM

brian wrote:

gail you are super hot....

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:36 PM

Bobby Lane wrote:

Tre,pack your knives,are you kidding me?? What a crock!!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:49 PM

Dolly wrote:

Judges use exaggerated word choices. Fatal mistake? No one died.

Mr. Allen's reaction to the salmon was theatrical. Much bigger than any of the other diners. Worse thing I ate in years? Disgusting?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:50 PM

Alona wrote:

Hey Gail! Miss ya on the show but at least we get this blog!

I really liked this episode, actually. I thought that Tre would have stayed in the competition a lot longer... I guess the "tradition" of the chef that won the first elimination challenge going on to win the whole thing is broken. Tre is definitely a talented chef, but I guess he made a few mistakes this week.

And Ilan growing up? I'll believe that when I see it!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:09 AM

Bob wrote:

Much as I hated to see Tre go - early on I had him picked as one of the two finalists - it seemed to me that this was a very reasonable choice looking at this particular contest as a whole. I'm enjoying this season so much more than Season 2. Although I think we're never going to see a top 4 with the same flair, creativity, and professionalism as on Season 1, the overall quality of the chefs seems to be higher this year. Personally, I'm pleased that there is no overwhelming favorite and that who might be the likely winner seems to change from episode to episode. This was the first episode in which Sara really seemed to belong among the group. I also give her credit for recognizing the contributions of the other members of her team - which really appeared to be genuine. I have to say that I am more impressed by Dale with each passing week. I'm surprised that so few people noted how much better both Hung and Howie (of all people) worked as team members this week - and last. It appears they have really taken the criticism they have received to heart. I'm also surprised that few have noted in regard to Tre that he said he could do bread pudding "in his sleep" and then before the judges said he had minimal experience with it. At this point, I think there are four or five chefs who could make it to the top. How great is that?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:16 AM

saphia wrote:

Based on the "rules" of the show that have been quoted before, this is a cooking show. I cannot understand how the judges could send home a man who demonstrated many qualities of a top chef, rather than a man who didn't cook anything at all. How can you let those without initiative remain rather than keeping a man who clearly took a leadership role and was carrying his entire team? I've thought perhaps, in past seasons, that race somehow contributed to some of these decisions. After seeing this episode, sadly, I'm convinced it is true.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:23 AM

BigBadTLR wrote:

While I agree totally that the challenges are stand alone events, and regardless of your past performance, you can get cut for one bad night. I have no issues at all with that and think that's the only way to make the show interesting.

And I also agree with most viewers that sending Tre home was the wrong decision. Not because I thought he was any better than the other chefs in skill and raw talent- but simply that he wasn't the worst of the night.

Firsly- it's Top Chef, not Top Host, so why are two chefs not cooking a darn thing? It just misses the point of the competition.

And yes, as the exec chef, Tre sabotaged himself by not delegating the cooking to the other chefs. He set himself up to be sent packing by making the majority of the meal. That is poor leadership.
But the other chefs food was equally bad, and they didn't even have 1 out of 3 good dishes to claim. The one good dish Tre put out was one more than any of his team mates could accomplish.

I first thought CJ was being humble by not claiming exec chef for himself, but now it just seems like he was trying to play 'the grey man' and skate by letting everyone else take a stronger, and more precarious, role. Wish the failure of his dish to wow the judges, he made a stronger candidate for being cut than Tre.

Overall I think these two episodes were a sham. I'm willing to say the judging is fair and not scripted. But the show is planned months before taping and you know darn well that there was going to be a two part restaraunt wars episodes. The judges and producers knew full well no one was getting cut the first episode, and that alone makes the judging suspect. You're not going to seriously tell us the entire schedule for TC shooting was changed on the fly.
The 'soft opening' was planned and that means the judges were irrelevant, no one was going home because it wasn't in the script.

I'll give TC another chance. I usually LOATHE reality competition shows because they are anything but 'real'. I loved season one, suffered through season two, and have all but lost interest in season three.

Not just because I disagree with the judging. But because the 'scripted for entertainment not reality' has become painfully obvious. TC is becoming as fake as the mountain of other so called reality shows. I sincerly doubt I'll bother with TC season four.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:57 AM

John Lee wrote:

I believe that past performances still have to be taken into consideration in the elimination process. I predicted Tre to be one of the finalist based on his previous record and the number of challenges he has won. I am disappointed that he was eliminated. The judges certainly have a difficult to decision to make every week. Viewers are at a disadvantage because we don't actually get a chance to taste the food.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:09 AM

Deanna wrote:

Though I have come to terms with Tre's departure (wow that sounds way too serious lol), I have to admit I'm very put off by paragraph two on page two. Granted that in any competition or work space or whatever, what matters is the product. Especially when it comes to cooking. If my meal today sucks, I don't care that two weeks ago it was the best thing I tasted. The only thing is the past speaks a lot about the present and the future. Why choose a chef who put out a great dish tonight when all his previous work was mediocre over the chef that has a complete disaster of a dish but his previous work was phenominal? It seems a bit harsh to allow one slip up to undermine years (or challenges) of hard work that resulted in amazing products while praising a single fluke, miracle amongst a series of very unfortuneate mistakes. That seems not only unfair, but it will also lead to naming someone to Top Chef who does not really deserve it.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:38 AM

Nilo wrote:

Gail,

I have got to tell you, you're starting to lose credibiity with me when you attempt to persuade us that, "Ilan has grown up".

Really? When did this tremendous growth take place? Because, during the "Watch What Happens" special which aired a few weeks back, he was his old, unlovely self. His raging insecurity was readily apparent when he slammed SAM for being insecure and, thus, somehow blackmailing/bribing all the women to flock around him. Yeah... a fine young man, that.

"But Nilo, that show was aired in April" or whatever. OK, then let's look at his most recent blog entry - you know, the one from back on July 13. Only about 6 weeks ago. The one where, rather than discussing the current season, he chose to go on the offensive with the viewers, yet again, and tell us once again that it was bad editing that painted him so unflatteringly the prior season. 'Cause bad editing is somehow able to create out of nothing a planned assault on another cheftestant.

Had he *once* manned up and said, "I was wrong, I was an ass. I've really learned from this and I hope I'm able to behave like a civil human from this point on - regardless of the provocative behavior of others", I'd be all for giving him another chance and *possibly* giving you the benefit of the doubt when you testify to his growing up and into a member of the human race.

But he's not done that. Through it all, he's behaved like a jackel who lashes out when he feels others are getting more/better attention than he is. I mean, SAM?!? How on earth did Sam deserve to be called by ILAN insecure? The reality is, Ilan continues to be rewarding for his appallingly bad behavior - including having his MOTHER come to his defense. Which, most likely, is why he feels he can get away with behaving like a jackel instead of like a human being. I *get* running to Mommy when you're upset. I'm 40, and Istill do it. But my mom would have put me in my place and made me own up to my part in Marcel-gate - rather than wading into the public eye to say that I was wonderful and, again, bad editing was the culprit. OH, and Marcel too, of course.

I am no Marcel lover. I'm sure living and working with him was not a walk in the park. But Harold, in about 5 minutes, showed how a true leader can handle him. That reunion cookoff that started out Season 3 showed Marcel behaving like Marcel back in the hotel suite. And Harold, without losing his cool, slammed him back into place. "Knock it off, act like a professional". And Marcel turned into a kitten.

So to quote Judge Judy (and I never thought I'd ever SAY this, much less write it down), "Don't pee on my leg and tell me it's raining".

For numerous, NUMEROUS reasons, you guys picked the wrong guy. You picked someone who is rabidly insecure, pathologically incapable of seeing/accepting any personal responsibility, quick to distort reality, and, honestly, a one-trick-pony chef.

Sure, given enough money, I bet he can open himself up a fine Casa Mono II. He can continue stealing the dishes from other, superior chefs.

But you can't convince me he's miraculously turned into someone I'd be proud to have in my life.

And I certainly wouldn't waste a penny of our dining budget on him.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 8:11 AM

Emily wrote:

I don't buy the argument that a chef can't have a bad night or put out a bad dish and still be Top Chef. If I went to French Laundry and had a bad meal, would that make any difference in the massive requests for reservations there? It's the overall performance of that restaurant that has built it's reputation- and Tre's overall performance should have counted for something. If you were opening a restaurant, who would you want in the kitchen- Tre or Howie?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 9:46 AM

Marney wrote:

What a great blog! I love your positive feedback for Tre and I can always appreciate your straightforwardness. I can hardly wait to see you back on the show.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:17 AM

Beverly Firme wrote:

Gail:

I, too, am sorry to hear that Tre has gone (I'll watch the episode later this weekend in rerun). I had been thinking that if I had the chance for one chef to cook for me from this season, it would definitely be Tre. He is inventive, thoughtful and talented - and my mouth has watered for everything he's made. I think he will do great things and I hope to have a meal cooked by him at some point in my travels. Please consider bringing him on with LeeAnn from Season 1. I think they would make a great team.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:25 AM

Leigh wrote:

I appreciate your consideration in filling us in on what's happening when you're gone. As much as I enjoy Ted's criticism, it isn't the same as when you're there. It's just ... better seasoned!

I look forward to next week's episode!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:33 AM

Fred Lewis wrote:

Your show amazes and disgusts me. I wonder why ,after being in the resteraunt business for 25 years why I watch it. I know! I am always wonering what dumb decision will happen next. I am the veiwer you aim for. You lost what should have been a top 3 contestent. And kept 3 laime McDonalds cooks. CJ selected the team and stands around with his hands on his hips,scratching his one ball as he advertises.(probley not even true)! Casey smiles alot and loves everyone.Women like her need to be A Hostess.What Brian does is any body"s guess. Picks out clothes and sweats all over his seafood. While on the other side You have 4 very talented People who just cannot fit there BIG HEADS in the door untill It is CRUNCH TIME! Now tell me who are the TOP CHEFS?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:03 PM

Tricia wrote:

What an unexpected visit from the Crying, complaining loser of New York. He stinks and sweat all in the food just like Brian and Howie. His Brain is undercooked or maybe burnt!Joey go on Hells Kitchen, I bet you don't last an hour. Do us all a favor stay off TV!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:28 PM

PRM wrote:

Before I get into it, I have to preface my commentby saying taht i think Tre seems like a great guy and a real professional.

However, the judges made the right decision in sending him home. Sure, he had a lot of responsibility,but he took on a lot of responsibility. How is it that Sara, of all people, was able to get the far more irritable group of chefs to work together when Tre was unable to get the "getalong gang" to work as well? She delegated and directed the chefs. Tre didn't. And this show isn't "Top Cook", it's Top Chef. And Tre didn't act chefly on this occasion. Even good skilled people perform poorly and this show judges the chefs on their last performance, not the cumulative of their performances. If it didn't there would be real problems determining judging criteria and there would be a lack of suspense at the end of the season.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:39 PM

Katelyn wrote:

I just wanted to say that I am deeply saddened by Tre's departure. He was by far my favorite chef, and as an aspiring chef, he was a huge part of me watching the show. I will continue to watch the show, but without Tre, Top Chef lost alot of its appeal. Try not to cut anymore great and talented chefs!!!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:49 PM

phillygirl76 wrote:

The judges have been so off this season, and letting Tre go was the worst! It's hard to be interested in a show called Top Chef when there are at best a group of sous chefs left on the program.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 2:13 PM

phillygirl76 wrote:

You were definitely missed at the judges table though!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 2:16 PM

Julie wrote:

Hi Gail. Welcome back! I disagree with the explanations for Tre's being sent home. I think that on team challenges "teamwork" should be an even more relevant criteria for dismissal than "food".

After all, Tre did the lion's share of the work and took significant responsibility for both restaurant challenges. Why? Because no one else wanted to do it. True, it put the bull's eye on his back, but he did it any way. That's teamwork AND leadership. Failed food, but at least he still was showing -those- chef-like qualities.

In other words, what did the others on Tre's team do that justified them STAYING?

Which brings me to C.J. Did he contribute to the food? No. Did he contribute leadership? No. Was his effort for the team greater than Tre's? Definitely not.

So, I disagree with Tom that it was fair to send Tre home for doing so much work just because the result didn't turn out well. Imo, team tasks should be judged most of all on teamwork and leadership.

In which case, Tre would still be there and CJ would be home. Which would be consistent, imo, with genuinely finding a "Top Chef".

posted on August 24, 2007 at 2:48 PM

Dee wrote:

The show this season's elimation process has been inconsistent and I think the finals are already decided. If you were consistent then Dale who I even like would have been gone since he's been the leader. If you did right Howie would have been gone weeks ago but you keep letting him stay and behave in such a manner. If this was the case I could understand Tre's departure. Anyway I'll wait to watch next season and give this show one more chance.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:01 PM

msthang wrote:

Some chefs you just would love to see leave...like bully howie...who is trying to be better after his bully partner was kicked off...you have the...the lazy ones...the slow ones. My gosh how long was msthang gonna cut one onion. Anyway...Tre always proved that you don't have to be seen and heard to be noticed. We noticed him through the eyes and voices of the judges...we learned what not to do when he let us know what he shouldn't have done. some of the others didn't do that. what i'm saying is...tre will go far on his own and i will remove top chef from my directv reminder list. the one who did the least always stay...but it pains me to admit...he let not so tasty food leave the kitchen that didn't have good HELP....yet at the same time...that wasn't the first time the judges tasted bad food. The food was so bad the first time they did it over...so they should have done it again to make both teams even on screw ups...then on the third is a charm...eliminate a chef. bottom line...i'm disappointed and the other chefs don't have enough of anything to make me tune in again. goodbye and good luck.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:09 PM

jennifer searcy wrote:

Gail, I really do respect your opinion, but based on what we saw on Wednesday, it certainly seems reasonable to me that Casey and Brian clearly earned the right to go home. Brian made no improvements in his front-of -the-house service, he also did not contribute any dishes. For Casey, it was yet another opportunity to show the world that she has no skills whatsoever, (remember how she murdered the burger?) singlehandedly losing an entire challenge for her team because she can't dice onions. Now that Tre is gone, do you think she feels as close to him as she did Wednesday?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:41 PM

jackie wrote:

Tre shouldn't have gone home. Although some of the blame lies on him, his teammates bear most of it. They didn't help him out at all, CJ and Casey were only thinking of their own mediocre dishes (which looked awful!), and Brian didn't even cook anything at all! Even though Dale from the Quatre team was front of the house, he was still able to cook a dish and served better than Brian, who seems to have left all the work up to the servers, as there was no footage of him serving guests or doing anything else at all. CJ has done poorly throughout the whole competition (his only time winning was when he was partnered with---surprise----Tre), and the same goes for Casey, whose monkfish is of the same quality as most of the food that she puts out. Tre cooked 4 of the 6 dishes; if it really comes down to the food, at least one of the dishes that he put out was excellent, as opposed to CJ and Casey's one bad dish, and Brian's no-dish. If it does come to leadership, Tre was not shirking on the responsibility of being head chef, as opposed to CJ, who, although he won the challenge and got to choose his dream team, avoided being in the hot seat by assigning the leadership role to Tre. Any of Tre's three teammates wouldn have been better suited to be chopped rather than him.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:51 PM

RCforTC wrote:

Which Tre are you folks watching? He's been up and down so far this season from what I've seen, not consistently good.
However, I was surprised that Tre was sent packing in RW2 because at the end of RW1, I thought that the judges called a "draw" because they did not want to send Tre packing then. Tom C. said during deliberations that as bad as Howie's risotto was, Tre's dish was worse, making Tre's the worst dish of the night. As Tre was on the "winning " team, that would have saved the worse chef of the night from elimination. I felt that the judges just did not want to go there and declared a "do-over". In the end, Tre made not just one bad dish (RW1), but 3! (Salmon appetizer, bread pudding and his already knocked-down beef dish.) And with his team losing RW2, there was no saving Tre this time.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:52 PM

Jessica wrote:

I´m writing from Santiago, Chile. I started watching this season on a trip home in July and got hooked. Because the first season just recently aired down here I have to download the episodes on iTunes. It´s worth it! The blogs are great too, since the iTunes version isn´t subtitled I have to watch it alone and it´s nice to read the comments.
I respect the judges decision. Let´s face it, we have to rely on their comments because we can´t taste the food and we´re not there. Obviously, there´s also a lot of editing that goes on and things we can´t see.
Of course it was sad to see Tre go. I was incredibly disappointed that he was ultimately responsible for the loss of his team. I definitely thought that if he hadn´t been the leader
C.J. or Brian should have been dismissed.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:44 PM

PeachPie wrote:

I just hope you don't go away forever! You're an important part of this and we luv ya!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 6:05 PM

austingal wrote:

Gail, your comments on the judging methodology make more sense than anyone else has been able to do thus far. It makes sense to have a degree of consistency in determining who goes home; going by the food alone is the one consistent way to do it that supposedly establishes a benchmark of fairness. And I agree that being served bad food in a restaurant would rarely result in my paying it a second visit; however, a real restaurant and its chef(s) have lots and lots of time to plan their menu, shop for the choicest ingredients, and test their recipes to perfection. The Top Chef challenges allow for no such conditions, so the flexibility in the elimination should reflect that.

If the competition is to continue to be called Top Chef and not Top Dish or Top Cook of the Day, and in order to ensure that the real talent rises to the top instead of the ones who manage to consistently play it safe and fly under the radar, the criteria must change.

In the case of Restaurant April, there were more bad dishes than just Tre's; Casey and CJ also had poor execution, and Brian, well, he didn't even do one. In that case, it seems to me that the judges have a choice to rely on a certain "tiebreaker" style of criteria that could have gone something like: OK, all these guys performed poorly, but Tre did take on more than half the menu by himself AND had the favorite dish of all of them, AND has had the best track record so far and shows the most promise of being true Top Chef material. Casey and CJ each produced one bad dish, and Brian didn't do anything, so in light of that let's evaluate who shows the most potential to be called Top Chef since they all executed poorly in this team challenge and send home the person with the least potential?

But this entire argument is irrelevant because the judging isn't consistent even with the rule of being "all about the food". Sara N.'s sliders got much better reviews than Howie's so-called cuban sandwich, yet he remained because Tom said he was "better suited for the competition." What is that? And speaking of Howie, he failed to complete a dish in the very first challenge but was allowed to stay instead of Clay because "the half of the dish he did produce showed his potential" - what the f****! It is these types of decisions that completely invalidate any argument to get rid of Tre.

Only when it comes to the final two should the judging be just on the food and nothing else; because at that point, hopefully, the best contestants have made their way through because they consistently showed throughout that they had not only the cooking skills to win challenges, but also demonstrated leadership and teamwork ability and other qualities that are demanded of the profession. This time, like last season, the most qualified chef is gone and the finale will be a battle of the mediocre.

In order to preserve the honor of the title of Top Chef, get together with Chef Colicchio and the producers and figure out a way that the judging can be based on a point system or some measure of cumulative success or failure throughout the competition. Only then will the best chefs end up in the finale instead of the ones who just skated through the whole way, and will the viewers care to "watch what happens."

posted on August 24, 2007 at 6:20 PM

Avis wrote:

I just read your comments.. and really, you judges and produceers of the show can put any spin you want on the reason why you booted Tre.. but here's the real truth.. you just booted your "Top Chef". If you are selecting the winners and losers based on "today's performance".. well dang..just call the show "Today's Top Chef" - then everything will make sense.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 6:36 PM

M.C. Bridges wrote:

Trey had all the qualities of a good chef and more importantly, a good leader.

You let him go when the lady on the same team could not even chop onions correctly?

Trey's record up until now should have had some bearing on the decision.

You need to rethink your judging criteria.

Sign me:
a very, very, disappointed loyal Top Chef fan

posted on August 24, 2007 at 7:04 PM

Leon wrote:

I've noticed something that let me know either Casey or Tre was going home in this episode... in some of the other episodes, they showed things like Casey and Leah saying they were good friends(then Leah went home)...And Joey and Howie saying they were becoming friends(Joey goes home)...Sara and Dale became friends(sara goes home)...Casey and Tre start to depend on eachother(Tre goes home)...The people who put the episodes together must have liked showing how they seperate friends via elimination. On those episodes I was able to narrow it down to 2 people, without even watching the competition, and one of those people always ended up being having to "pack their knives"...Just a thought

posted on August 24, 2007 at 10:18 PM

evelyn wrote:

you have got to be kidding cutting
one best all around contestants is
ludicris and you no it the sweaty
Howie dripping buckets of sweat into every dish he prepares is just
plain gross Hung is one the best but lets his little man complex get
in the way Tre is the best. leaving
no reason to watch the show so
there it is

posted on August 24, 2007 at 10:34 PM

Rebel wrote:

Again, I totally enjoyed the competiton. And I too am really sorry to see Tre go. I thought he was the next Harold. Saw Harold as a winner from the beginning, and saw Tre the same way. But this is not just about food. It is about decision making. Kinda like life. Tre made some really bad decisions. Fatal decisions. I am surprised that there is so much anti-CJ blogging. This is a competition, If CJ can bring Tre down he should. Kudos! It's about the win... Very entertaining,,,and this series is about entertainment. No worries about Tre. He will be just fine! Talent ultimately wins out.
Surprise too that you continue to support Ilan, Thought he was a "one note samba". I don't see anything in your blog to change my mind. At least Marcel was interesting. a bit juvenile, but interesting. Thanks to all the bloggers for their comments!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 10:43 PM

RickG wrote:

The outpouring of comments from the bulk of your blog responses says it all; Tre was well liked and many consider his talents as the best two or three in the group. Our whole family (yes, we are all sucked into this show now!) all felt a degree of sadness in seeing this very personable talented chef leave. My son doesn't want to watch any longer due to the disappointment he had. It's like watching your favorite baseball team go down in the playoffs after a promising start. There is also room for criticism on how this decision was made considering the first soft opening of the two restaurants, the famous "no decision" decision, had the two servers take the most heat. The second helpings show focused on overall food quality instead.

However, this isn't a popularity contest and Tre uncustomarily had more than one strike against him. Up until now, he had a knack for staying out of the bottom tier and occasionally getting the top award. In fact, there was at least one show I thought he should have won the challenge, but it went to another chef. With so many challenges, it is hard to dodge the bullets considering the competitive nature and eclectic qualities of the challenges. I can't say that the judges have chosen wrong in any of the decisions, it just doesn't make it any easier to see a fine man leave the program.

By the way, I'm surprised a few blog responses pointed to Tre's race as a reason for having trouble getting further in the competition. This is surprising considering it is my opinion that the Bravo TV viewership is beyond this neanderthallic thinking and saw Tre as the man he is; an incredibly talented chef who commanded the respect of his peers. Please, readers, lay off the bigotry!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:37 PM

Pamela wrote:

Re: Tre. I think all of you Judges, especially Padama, should "Pack your knives and go home." You just dismissed your best chef. He was the only one on team April that showed any leadership creativity. Yes, Casey is cute, but the girl can not even chop onions! How this woman even became a chef in beyond me. Basic Knife Skills 101 Anyone. I think this entire show is rigged. You should find better judges. Also, I was so tired of Padama. Maybe you should go over to "Top Model" you don't belong on a serious cooking show.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:40 PM

Ester Askew wrote:

Hi Gail: I image you judges are surprised at the reaction you're receiving for eliminating Tre. It's Friday 8/25/07 and I'm still upset over Tre's elimination. I'll tell you why, you have taken the joy I get from watching your show away. There is usually someone who stands out and you root for that person. For me, that person was Tre, he was a star in the making. The thrill and anticipation for season 3 is gone for me. I read this eposide actually occured in April, so the winner has already been crowned. I wondered why Tre got little screen time, now I known why. Therefore these comments will have little if any consequence. I have been a faithful fan since the beginning season 1. Last season you lost me at the end when Sam was eliminated, I didn't care who won and only saw it in re-runs and only once at that. Well, there is an old saying, "all good things must come to an end". I will probably still watch, but not with the same zeal, I once had. There is now something incomplete about the show. If you judges were truly fair Howie, would have been eliminated when he left the frog legs off his plate. There are other inconsistencies I won't mention. Finally, even tho subtle, I don't think Tom cared for Tre or wanted him to remand on the show and be in the running for the grand prize of $100,000.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:52 PM

Amy D wrote:

Sorry, Gail, you can't justify sending Tre home when you have CJ and Casey standing there doing nothing. If anything, they made the fatal mistake of playing it too safe by hiding behind Tre. Oh, and Brian controlled his emotions by running the front and that earned him the right to stay? If I owned a restaurant and had Team April working for me, it would be CJ, Casey and Brian leaving. What a joke. I think TC lost alot of viewer support this week.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:20 AM

Ally wrote:

Gail,
You Rock!
I look forward to you getting back to the show.
I wish the rules of the show were a bit more consistent though.
We know if a contestant puts his hands on another he/she must depart immedietly and the same should hold true if you do not get your food on the plate on time.
Nuff said....

posted on August 25, 2007 at 1:56 PM

Denice wrote:

I love watching Top Chef, but since Tre has been eliminated I'm seriously considering not watching the conclusion of this matter. The Chefs who are left are at best luke-warm, but Tre was a real contender in this competition. He was a professional and he showed real sportsmanship. When he left, he didn't cry like a baby, he didn't blame anyone for their lack of support to him, and he didn't make rude comments about the chefs who are left, but he departed with grace and style--a real southern gentleman. God bless Tre, we love you in Louisiana!!!

posted on August 25, 2007 at 2:13 PM

jc wrote:

I agree with the first blogger's comment - do away with the team competition restaurant wars! The way this played out, next Season's contestants need only draw straws to determine who will fill each role on each team. The service/front of the house people can breathe a sigh of relief. Apparently they don't have to cook anything, so they're off the hook and don't have to worry about being sent home. The Executive Chefs should definitely be worried, because the one from the losing team will be blamed for everything regardless of how much (or how little) contribution he/she gets from their team. It is a pointless competition because only the Exec Chefs are competing - everybody else can just take a backseat and then say nothing when the Exec Chef gets skewered at Judges' Table.

This is supposed to be a cooking competition, right? (Remember when Sam got elilminated because he "didn't cook anything?") Why, then, do we have these ridiculous team challenges where a contestant is put in a position of running the front of the house? That's not what this show is about and, as I've said, it almost immediately gets that person off the firing line. Even if they do a crappy job it's like, well, he doesn't have any front of the house experience so we can't really send him home for that, so....And ultimately Tom always falls back on that it's "all about the food." So what is the point of this team challenge when it is obvious that the outcome will be winning team: Exec Chef wins, losing team: Exec Chef goes home?

Or here's an idea - what about reversing the Quickfire challenge until after the Restaurant Wars - the losing team members have to duke it out to see who goes and who stays. If it is a team competition, then logically the ENTIRE team is responsible for the loss, right? So then let an individual competition determine the elimination. If they'd had an onion chopping contest for the losing team April, Casey would be going home instead of Tre and I guarantee all the judges would be getting a lot more cheers than jeers for the way th