dan wrote:

they hit Marcel with a bottle? wow, is this getting a ridiculously bad rap for a bunch of minor annoyances. if he was the same size of Sam i swear none of these people would be screwing with him in the same manner. what a bunch of catty babies.

still, i wish Sam was in the final.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:15 PM

Jose wrote:

One thing I know : I wont watch the finnale. I think Sam was robbed and I am sick even think Marcel has chance to win.

I am out.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:17 PM

Ross Riley wrote:

Harold-
I'm curious as to what you think about someone like Marcel moving onto the final competition, given that you faced a similarly polarizing personality in Tiffani last season. I think that everyone agrees that she was a great cook, but I remember that part of the criticism given to her was that the show is called "Top Chef" and not just "Top Cook", and that's what really makes a chef stand out. Above all, not only can the person cook great food, but he/she has the ability to lead as well. The "Top Chef" is someeone who earns the respect of everyone that works with them. That was certainly a quality that you showed all during last season, and certainly something that made you stand out as "Top Chef".

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:24 PM

mary propper wrote:

The problem with this season is that Marcel inspired no other chef. Last season, you deserved to win based on your food and your ability to inspire other chefs. I completely lost interest in the show after tonights decision. It's never JUST ABOUT THE FOOD. The measure of true success is the mark that you leave on others.
I truly believe, as others believe, that the decision was based on potential legal issues.

I don't plan to watch the finale, nor any episode next season.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:38 PM

Dina wrote:

Some hick hit Marcel in the head with a bottle? Oh my God! Everything I read about this guy makes me hope more and more that he wins.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:45 PM

Pam T wrote:

Harold.. I have appreciated your comments all season. You are right. It is a competition and the best person should win. It is all about the food and what the chefs do with it. I hated to see Sam go and would have loved to see he and Ilan compete as they respect and seemed to like each other. I think it would have been more about the food. I hope that there isn't an overwhelming twist of the Ilan/Marcel dislike for each other and more so the food.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:47 PM

Sharon wrote:

i can't stand that Marcel is in the final, but i'm still going to watch. i'm not a cook or a foodie, i prefer chain restaurants (!), but i love the show. i didn't have a real favorite this time. i don't like Marcel, but it's a shame that someone attacked him. I hope you're OK, Marcel. :)

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:51 PM

Denise wrote:

I totally agree with Ross. If you are not a good leader and respected, how can you be a "Top Chef"? Harold, you were awesome in TC1 and you deserved to win!!

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:51 PM

Laura wrote:

Hi Harold,
I can't wait to eat at your restaurant when I'm next in New York this coming Autumn. I did have a question for you though. With New York banning transfats, will that affect your food and how you prepare it (or also delay the opening of your restaurant?)
Thanks and all of your food looks simply amazing! I can't wait to taste it.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:51 PM

april wrote:

The real question is.............who would you have picked? I picked you from the first week last season.....and Sam from the first week this season. May be I just like sexy guys that know how to cook..........what do you think?

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:51 PM

Tim wrote:

Talk about a role reversal. I liked Ilan at the beginning the most and couldn't stand Marcel. Actually I liked almost everyone at the beginning except Marcel and now, after all their true colors came shining through, even Elia's, he is the only one I like. I loved Elia's maturity, even when chocolate faced, bald, right to the head shaving episode. Her loyalty to Marcel was so un-american. In other words, admirable, refreshing, a lesson to the rest of us Americans. Re-freshing. But in the end, she joined the pack and was the final turn-coat. MAN!! if only they could've just shut up about Marcel. It was so hard to watch the entire episode for the last 3 shows because of this immature bitching about him. It became obvious they felt threatened. Apparently he can talk the talk and walk the walk. I still don't believe in conceit or cockyness, or attitude and he bugs me that way but he'll mature eventually. Hopefullly. For now, I am in HIS corner. They should all pay attention to Chef Alan Wongs' charateristics. Thats the Hawaiian way, the right way to behave as a person of quality. A professional Chef. WHAT A DISSAPOINTMENT this season was overall compared to last years. Where has the professionalism gone? Ilan? a wimp. Sam=no guts. Don't trust him. Cliff= the new Marcel of episode 1, too cocky without cause. Pissed off I watched the whole season really. Stayed for the judges and guest judges. Not sure I'll tune in next year. Congrats Marcel, food looked great tonight. Good luck. And I hope you press charges against the girl who hit you with that bottle. No-one deserves that. Not even Ilan.
P.S.
HAROLD! Great job from you man. I hope you write blogs next year as I always enjoy them! You are always spot on!
TKM - cia 93'

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:53 PM

Laura Reineke wrote:

As I commented in Tom's blog, I really find it hard to believe Ilan and Marcel were picked for any reason other than the drama and tension between them. A showdown between Marcel and Ilan is probably far more dramatic than one between any other pairing of contestants, and I'm convinced Sam was robbed of a title he richly deserved in favor of better ratings. I'm insulted to a degree and I really have no interest in watching the finale- sad, as I've been really into the show this season.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:56 PM

dejm1 wrote:

Yeah, Ila's behavior left a bad taste in my mouth - I was rooting for her up till now because she kept out of that stuff all along. But now I'm glad she's gone. BTW, Harold, I made Ila's "proud" roast chicken dish last week and it was delicious! Go Marcel...!

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:58 PM

AH wrote:

That was ridiculous. That was the biggest cop out ever. So are we to believe that Marcel is just going to win now so he won't file suit? Pathetic. I echo the complaint that suddenly personality, leadership ability, and teammwork is being thrown out of the window. We've heard countless times that front of the room counts, working with others counts, inspiring others counts ... this is part of why Harold won in season one. My other complaint is that the past doesn't count for enough. Sam and Ilan were the best all season based on results (which were "all about the food"). That counts for nothing? That is just stupid. I loved season one, I love Tom and Padma (fantastic host) and Gail and most of the judges and chefs. I had sworn off reality TV but this brought me back. But now I just don't know. This seemed pretty stupid. That said, I imagine Sam will have the most successful career of the group. People like him and he seems to have the skills. Case closed.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:59 PM

Adam wrote:

Sam was robbed. I spent 10 years cooking in New York City and I would have kicked Marcel's foamy ass straight out of the kitchen. It's not just about the food--you work in hot, cramped, stressful environments where brotherhood gets you through the night. Sam has a leadership ability and the goods to back it up.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:01 AM

nancy wrote:

I really feel as though Sam was cut for the need to make more interesting TV. Even Marcel looked shocked ! They thought you played it safe last year and yet you won.The judges also took Tiffany's behavior into account but not Marcel's this year ??? Some judging consistancy would be nice. Ilan and Ellia have done the same kind of cooking the whole competion. So has Marcel.

I am an unhappy viewer.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:02 AM

Teri wrote:

Hi Harold, I've been away from your blogs. Has your restaurant opened up? My husband and I will be in NYC in early May and we'd love to come to your restaurant.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:02 AM

timshell rivers wrote:

hey harold
Its good to see ya around. I was very sad that Sam was eliminated, he reminded me of you in a way. Both of you were very calm and usually kind with everyone, and great cooks.
I do understand why Marcel isnt liked, he is weaselly(is that a word?). He just reminds me of the kid in school that was just so not about people and self absorbed. It may be a competion but lack of people skills still are evident. Good luck Harold, and did you ever open your own place?

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:03 AM

Nicole Darling wrote:

I agree with everything you said, Harold. I rooted for you from day one last season and I've been rooting for Marcel this season. I'm greatly disappointed Sam was sent packing, he seemed to be the best chef. Just can't understand all of the whining about Marcel, I didn't see what all the fuss was about. Seems that the other contestants were either jealous or just big babies. I DO plan on watching the finale, Go Marcel!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:04 AM

Gerry wrote:

I just watched part 1 of the finale. It should ahve been Sam...not Marcel . This guy is more of a food stylist , than a chef . If he pulled some of the antics that he pulls on the show in my kitchen , he'd be sent packing . Quickly .

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:09 AM

Isabel wrote:

I too am very disappointed and sad to see Sam eliminated from the competition. I really thought that it was his to win it. Also, I think that the decision on which 2 chefs go to the finals should be based not only on the Hawaii elimination challenge but on overall/season-long performance. IMHO, considering more than one challenge paints a more complete picture of the Top Chef.
Nevertheless, I'm still excited to watch next week's finale.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:11 AM

whitedaisy wrote:

I am weary of the drama of this season. I am disappointed in the lack of character in the bulk of the contestants. (I can't see you or Dave get the idea in your brain that you needed to seek vengeance against Tiffani and do something like hold her down and cut off her hair.) How did this group get so off track?
It IS "JUST ABOUT THE FOOD". I have, honestly, not understood all of the animosity towards Marcel.
But it doesn't matter.
If the judges who are tasting the food believe that he is one of the top two, then that works for me. None of us bloggers have tasted any of it so how can we second guess the tasting?

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:13 AM

Kathy Lemire wrote:

I believe that your comments were spot on....I don't think that Sam deserved to leave since he seemed to be the front runner from the very beginning....I think if the show would encorporate some of the atmosphere of the show "Helll's Kitchen" and show how the chef would handle an actual service in a restaurant situation, it could show all the talent's a TOP CHEF needs....This show is lacking that element....
I also liked the fact that you were the judge on the 1st show of TOP CHEF 2...I would like to see you more!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:14 AM

Amy RJ wrote:

Dear Harold,
I agree with the other comments. Sam was robbed. Any Padma got so upset when she had to tell Sam to pack his knives. It seems that she did not agree with sending him home. Marcel did not inspire any other chefs nor did he earn any respect. Last season Tiffany was sent home for the same reason and yet this season Marcel is going to the Finale. And Ilan he may have some good dishes, but all of it is Saffron infused...it is almost as bad as Marcel's foams. Also, Ilan seems to be too immature, he is the person who edged Elia into accussing Marcel of cheating...she wouldn't have said anything if Illan hadn't instigated it. I don't know what the judges were thinking on their decision, but this seasons Finale, I don't care who wins. And Harold, neither chef deserves to share the same title as you... you ROCK!
Amy

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:19 AM

Rob wrote:

Hi Harold. I have watched every episode both seasons. I am 62 years old. I always watch cooking shows on Public TV and Bravo. Coments: Cliff was wrong, wrong, wrong. Mike was my favoriate funny guy. Marcel is the one that I think should win. I read the newspaper account of his injury.I wondered Your Remark: "You know…don’t hit people. Even if you’ve seen them on TV" was that self motivated? LOL. Reference last year I thought you would be the winner. I am glad you are "still involved". Haven't heard anything about your restruant, have you opened it yet? God Bless and good luck

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:22 AM

Mike Daly wrote:

Hey Harold,

Really like you view on the show - kind have the same sentiments as I do. I think Elia was a crybaby and if she wasn't the last remaining women, may have been kicked out earlier. If someone didn't like her food, she had no problem questioning judges and saying her stuff was better. Her cattyness at the end of the show was somewhat symbolic of her whole time in the show.

I'm also glad you've called Elan the one trick pony, which he's seems to be. Ironically, he's been making fun of Marcel's foams all the time, yet he's been just as guilty with Spanish cuisane - come to think of it, hasn't he had saffron in almost everything?

I think we need an entire show to actually see why people hate Marcel as they do. I read Sam's interview and he tried to explain his run in with Marcel at the supply store. However, I would like to know more because unless the producers have edited the show to make him look like an OK guy and constantly show him being attacked by everyone for no reason.

Seriously Harold - don't you think that Ilan will crawl in the corner and cry if he loses to Marcel. I don't like Ilan, he certainly doesn't seem like a person you could trust - weasily. I think they should of sent you to Hawaii to crown the winner - sort of like how Miss America passes on the title - LOL - hey dude, it would of been a free trip to Hawaii (they probably would of short changed you and sent you coach).

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:24 AM

Michael wrote:

Harold, I honestly have a bad taste in my mouth after watching this episode. Perhaps I'm a traditionalist, but given a choice between the two, I would rather have sampled Sam's uncooked dish than Marcel's chemically induced Xanthan Gum concoction (which, having been to Hawaii many times and am planning to eventually relocate, ISN'T Poi. Any Hawaiian will tell you that.)

Padma, in my opinion, was correct when she stated that food doesn't have to be heated to be cooked. If it weren't true, would be be able to call someone a sushi chef? What about dishes and foods such as ceviche, proscuitto, braciole?

I trust, respect, and value every opinion of each judge on the show. However, Mr. Colicchio came across as "reaching" for some sort of criticism to me, as well as other viewers who saw the episode with me. I hope I don't come across as "reaching" when I skip Mr. Colicchio's restaurant in my tour of the Top Chef's restaurants in the New York City area.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:25 AM

Georgina wrote:

I'm disappointed in the final 2. I can't respect Marcel or Ilan. They may both be talented, but what do they possess that sets them apart from Sam or Elia? What do they truly have that makes them a Top Chef? This final looks to be pretty lame. Drama won out over food, I guess.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:30 AM

Sandra Posey wrote:

I am happy that Marcel is in the finals, especially since he seemed to be the butt of everyone else's anger, jokes, and derision. He may be act a little superior, but was generally polite, and didn't retaliate when the other chefs picked on him. Elia, especially, acted as his friend throughout the season, then called him a "piece of crap" when she lost in the finals. Marcel has not been two-faced, his food was innovative, and while he may not have been an inspired leader, he was not a bully like Sam, Elan, Betty, and others. They should be ashamed of themselves.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:36 AM

Ted wrote:

On the subject of recipes: Harold, I made your mussel and smoked paprika soup from last season and thought it was really tasty, very rich with the cream, white wine and shallots. Although I've had a hard time finding ramps, so I've substituted grilled leek. Have not yet tried this season's dishes, though I did eat at Casa Mono one night when Ilan was cooking. And I was impressed; a version of the clam dish he made in Santa Barbara is on the menu and it's PFG.

Thanks for posting this season, and best of luck with Perilla, can't wait to try it!

And best wishes for Marcel's recovery.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:38 AM

Brie wrote:

Harold, you're awesome. Way to tell it like it is. I thought Alan Wong looked like such a nice guy and really knowledgeable. He inspired me to look up some Hawaiian recipes and maybe try some out later, which I think is one of the marks of a good top chef. I'd never want to try anything Yakura made. If he endorsed something, I'd run the other way.

I've never made any of the recipes on the bravo website, but I've heard that people who have tried have been unsuccessful. Like last week, supposedly Ilan's recipe had weird proportions and Lee Anne cooked it completely differently on her show.

Best of luck to you and your restaurant.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:40 AM

pj wrote:

Loved the previous seasons...but this is it...I'm out of here....The only one on the whole series that knew how to communicate and give his all was ALAN WONG....Tom is useless and should move on...Padma whose pot is she scrubbing....bye

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:42 AM

Heidi Koselke wrote:

I have loved reading your blog entries. You seem to have the most honest and open-minded opinions of the group. Keep up the good work!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:43 AM

Tim Kau wrote:

Sam should be Top Chef.

Throughout the season Sam demonstrated the calmness and no BS know-how that reminded me of you. He consistently won many challenges throughout the season. You set the bar high in Season 1...I'm afraid that Marcel and Ilan just don't measure up to the same stature that you demonstrated. Sam would've followed as Top Chef 2 with the level class and character that you established.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:44 AM

Do wrote:

I truly have appreciated your insight this year.

I am amazed at the lack of talent and immaturity of this years contestants. I am especially concerned about the final two.

I have to agree with other posters - the show is not Top Culinary Feast, it is Top Chef. The lack of maturity in the final two does not portray to me a Top Chef. Neither deserves this title.

A chef must be talented, creative, innovative -- but a chef must also be responsible, a team leader. I believe Top Chef has missed the mark this year.

I hope that Season 3 has a higher caliber of contestants and no need for someone to say "Hands Up". Those two words sum up Season 2! A disgrace.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:45 AM

Fr. Ken wrote:

Harold, it is never just about the food is it?

Cooking shows are hugely popular because... people love to cook. Most people can cook extremely delicious dishes on a regular basis, and watching and learning from others is always helpful. Interestingly enough, many cooking shows don't really have to rely on the drama that Top Chef has been building into the program.

Julia Child's editors could have found many moments to put in snippets of her backstage antics, outakes and such. Any of the food shows on the food network could easily do the same.

But it's not just about the food; it's about the drama. And it has grown tiresome to hear that 'it is just about food', when in fact it is about almost everything else.

I've tried some of the recipes, and they've come out great. The easiest was Ilan's smoked bacon/corn dish from the Friday's menu tryout. Good side dish.

Peace.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:45 AM

Tim wrote:

I think they should both just bury the hatchet with a saffron-infused foam.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:46 AM

Steve R wrote:

I am very disapointed with tonights decision. I think Top Chef is about being a leader as well as a great chef. I don't think Marcel or Illan has the maturity level to handle it. Sam was the man and to dismiss him because he didn't "cook" the food...come on Tom. THis seasons group were very immature and it showed.

Harold hope to hear an update about the resteraunt opening ... looking forward to going.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:50 AM

Hannah wrote:

So as much as I love this show. I have to abstain from the finale. I can't bare to watch the finale when I know that Sam should be there. I believe that Sam should have won it, and I also would have done the same if you had been voted out. That said, I also truly believe, dispite my personal feelings, that Marcel will win over Ilan. I believe that Tom and the other judges are going to say that Ilan is doing the same dishes he has done all competition, which would be true, I also think similarily of Marcel. In any case I believe that in the end Marcel will come out victorious. Also, personal feelings for a personna on television in no way excuses what that person did to Marcel. He doesn't deserve a lot of the flack that he gets, but that's television. Sam you are the season two top chef in my heart. And Harold I love you!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:53 AM

Adam wrote:

I have a great time preparing the dishes for my family after they're put here on the site. Some have been huge hits (Mikey's Envy) and others not so much. Cooking has become a great bonding family time for me and the kids as well as the wife and I. Something I've always loved to do, but being inspired by new takes on old favorites and innovative ideas I wouldn't have thought of on my own have made it good for everyone. Once a week my 10 year old son and 5 year old daughter open up Cafe Dad-n-Adam-n-Aine and prepare a five course meal for the family. Top chef has brought the question of, "Daddy, can we try that?" to the table more times than not.

Drama makes for good TV, but a little focus on technique and some how-to would be a great addition to the show (instead of just on the website). Make it more about the cooking and I know I would get less comments from the kids about behavior that is both beyond juvenile and sometimes difficult to explain.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:54 AM

Elizabeth wrote:

Harold,

Hey I just wanted to say that I thought your comment about fresh herbs was pretty interesting. I'm a mechanic, so I can do some cooking but nothing like what you see on the show. Still, a few years back my dad pointed out that a neighbor of mine had a massive rosemarry bush in his yard. I admit I snuck out at night and stole some. It really blew me away how much better the flavor was (of course I had to learn not to use as much as when I used dried herbs). Now I grow herbs (and some peppers) out on my deck. Nothing beats the flavor you get from fresh herbs and considering how expensive they are at the supermarket it worth the little bit of effort.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:54 AM

Oberin wrote:

Bollocks. Sam and Cliff should be in the final, no question. There really should be more emphasis on consistency. I don't like how Ilan and Elia tried to screw Marcel at the end; yeah he's annoying, but that's totally unprofessional and immature. Because of that, I think they should both have gone home. Say what you will about Marcel and his gelees, he has some uniue ideas and stylish presentation, and I have to give him at least a little respect for putting up with all the attacks and standing tall at the end. But neither he nor Ilan can hold a candle to Sam. He's this year's top chef, and the judges showed a serious lack of judgment here.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:58 AM

sandy wrote:

Harold, what can I say?

I love reading your blogs and I appreciate your candor. What would it take to make you a permanent judge and Lee Ann the permanent hostess?

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:00 AM

Lauren wrote:

Loved Season 1!! You definitely deserved to win last season.... I am just wondering how you feel about using chemicals to alter your food in the Top Chef elimination challenge. I would think that a Top Chef wouldn't need the use of chemicals and would want to use all fresh items. I am really bothered by this decision. Sam was definitely robbed!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:00 AM

Reba wrote:

Hi Harold, really enjoyed the show last season. Even with Tiffini the cream rose to the top. After tonight I am not watching the finale, or further seasons. Marcel stays in??????

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:02 AM

laury wrote:

hey harold.
after this episode, i have no interest in watching the showw..
let's talk about your restaurant,
when is the openning again???

laury from staten island

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:05 AM

allthembeads wrote:

I thought a large part of what seemed to bring it home for Harold over Tiff was that he was well-liked versus her being hated. He inspired his fellow chefs, while Tiff only inspired hatred. I'll be interested in reading Lee Anne's blog, since she was vocal about Tiff when they were in competition.

It's no small point, in my humble opinion, that Elia was the one defending Marcel from the beginning, only to come to the same conclusion about him that everyone else had by the end.

If it's truly only about the food, why not take personalities into consideration when casting the show next season. Don't cast any Marcels. His smugness must have stood out during the interviewing process. Emphasize to potential contestants that it will be about the food and personality quirks need to be controlled, otherwise you will not progress through the competition.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:07 AM

Julie wrote:

Love you, Harold. I'm a fan of Marcel's and am glad that he made the finals with a beautiful dish that was considered a standout by the judges. But this season is really missing someone with a good modicum of balance and sense. I think Sam could have been that guy if he had a more elevated sense of decency and was more bold in general. But he doesn't really offer that, so it's good to be able to turn to your blog for some sense and insight. Thanks! You're a good writer and I liked Alan Wong too. He seemed so gentle and made me want to move to Hawaii.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:07 AM

Kai wrote:

I enjoy your comments, Harold. I think you are correct: It will be fun to watch Ilan and Marcel face off...

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:08 AM

MLA wrote:

I'm sure Marcel can be grating and annoying, but he always put the focus back on the food at the judge's table, not the personalities. When Sam said "If we say something, it should be about cheating" told me right there they were threatened by their 'enemy' and were grasping at straws to save themselves. Shameful.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:12 AM

Hannah wrote:

I hope the final episode is as dramatic and awesome as last season's spectacular finale. I've gained so much respect for Tiffany, after this season's clowns and crybabies. On her worst day, she never stooped to the snivelling and disgraceful undermining that most of this season's chefs were guilty of.

For me, Marcel is the winner, whether or not, he's crowned next week. Like you, he has maintained dignity, without resorting to subterfuge over integrity. It was so utterly absurd when Elia sunk to the bottom of the heap with her ridiculous accusations. With her skanky nappy head, and mean-spiritedness, it is sweet to know she was sent packing, and Marcel got to stay.

It's a good idea to try some of the dishes, and I wish I was there to taste Marcel and Ilan's winning dishes. They looked yummy.

It's reassuring that in the end, the mediocrity of the other chefs didn't escape the notice of the judges. On the first episode, Marcel foresaw the other's jealousy, and his words were prescient and true. It's always like that when mediocre hacks are competing with real talent.

Marcel may be eccentric, but, he is a star, in my book. It's a frightening world when some drunk attacks this little guy, based on the slander of a group of narcissistic thugs. The viewers never got an inkling of why Marcel was hated, other than the others were subhuman, not decent, and obviously there are plenty like them, in society, like the pinhead who decked Marcel. I only hope that bitch is in jail, and I know that karma will kick the other losers in the butt, because all of
America saw them act like morons, bullies, and losers. They all suck except Marcel.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:13 AM

Liza wrote:

Harold, privet ("Hi" in Russian)!
Last season was much better - thanks to you! This season is uncomfortable to watch. This gang of immature meannies is too much! Marcel is an interesting chef, and America needs more people like him in the industry to move from Burger-TexMex-FamilyBuffet to something 21st century! I'd like him to win.
I'm glad that the judges were fair and didn't give in to the popularity contest allure! Tom is cool!
There've been a lot of speculations among the blog readers that this season is not about food but TV ratings. Not at all! If that had been the case, Sam would have won. I'm a liitle sad to see Sam go but we can't taste the contestants' food...
Miss you from the previous season! You were a wonderful contribution to make this show popular!
What do you think about Russian food?:)

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:17 AM

Cynthia wrote:

Good evening Harold.. your great!! No one on this show can surpass the class you showed.. no one! That being said.. i'm thrilled over Marcel.. he's been picked on and bullied unbelievably.. and the people criticizing him the most actually HOLD those traits in their own personality. In Elia's exit interview she actually says.. i guess good things happen to bad people.. and then she referred to Marcel as a piece of crap! Her ego is soooooooo out there.. is she insane this woman?? She has never ONCE taken a constructive piece of criticism without whining or totally rejecting what is being presented.. If she doesn't find a more humble point in herself (and Ilan included) i'm afraid she'll never totally advance in what i perceive a Top Chef is... Can't wait to see next week and i pray Marcel wins!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:27 AM

Karen wrote:

It is very nice of you to be concerned about Marcel getting hit with a bottle by a crazy fan. I also wish him a speedy recovery. You are truly a great top chef. I’m glad Elia was eliminated tonight, she is just plain rude.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:28 AM

Simone wrote:

Sad yes, to see Sam go.

Marcel has the worst case of Napoleon Complex I have seen in a long long time. Too bad he got hit -- but he won't ever have respect -- he is a twit, no matter what chemical cooking he does.

Lost me on this show and that's the bottom line. Sam was the clear Mature, talented winner -- he deserved the $100K -- but someone will pick him up and finance him to have what he needs -- a showplace for his talent. Next trip to the City -- I'm searching HIM where ever he works!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:32 AM

HankTheCat wrote:

I have two word for all of you Marcel haters:

HA HA

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:33 AM

Al P. wrote:

Harold, you are very sensible about the results. Not like the crybabies out here who disagree with the outcome of the finals part 1. Some of them vowing never to watch Top Chef anymore. Good Riddance. It's a fact that the judges felt Marcel and Ilan's dish were the most innovative and tasted the best, end of story. This ttime Sam came up a little short. Elia came up a lot short. The judges are there, and eat the food not us. So I respect their opinion. Most of these comments are against Marcel. Too bad. Pack animals jjust like the other chefs and the person who hit Marcel with the bottle. How much abuse can one person take, physical and mental. Power to Marcel for handling all of it. So what he's annoying. Stick tto the cooking. No one in the competition had outstanding behavior. Everyone exhibited some malice. Now it comes down to mano to mano. What is everyone complaining about. They got drama. Two chefs who hate each other. With everyone rooting for Ilan. The pip squeaking instigator. I know who I want to win. But unlike everyone else. If Marcel loses, It won't brake my heart. I have a life.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:38 AM

Kali wrote:

UNBELIEVABLE!!! Sam gone?!? He is THE TOP CHEF! He was more professional and more consistent than any of those fools. I agree, the last episode is done for. I wouldn't watch these two hacks if you paid me. If Marcel wins you can basically count me out the show ever again because I will know it's a total scam. Overall performance obviously does not count in any of these challenges.

Sam, you are THE BEST! If I get to New York to visit my family, please update us on where you are so we can come and enjoy your master skills in the kitchen!!!

Harold, you ROCK!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:39 AM

Willie wrote:

Wow! I'm amazed at some of the comments I've read on these blogs. Sam watched a smaller man get practically molested by someone three times his size while laying on the sofa, laughing. Sam accused others of cheating in previous episodes, then instigated his "friend" to imake the same accusation in tonight's show, and people are gnashing their teeth and pulling their hair because Sam got booted off? Marcel is an easy target because he's a little different than the rest, but the guy obviously is about the food. It would have been nice to have another Harold on this season's Top Chef, but we don't.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:39 AM

Michael S wrote:

I truly liked the result of this semi-final competition. I have been rooting for Marcel ever since the Betty incident, where she hogged the grill so that Marcel couldn't cook his food, and the incident with Frank and his foul mouth. Every other chef was so down on him that he won my sympathy. Even in this last episode Ilan was urging Elia to squeal on him. They all come off as whiners, whereas Marcel has maintained his integrity.

That being said, I was very disappointed in this whole season of Top Chef. I think the way the editors emphasized the conflicts with Marcel pandered to the plebes. I did not enjoy week after week of Sam and Ilan and Cliff inciting the others to pick on Marcel. I certainly did not enjoy the way the bitch Betty played the victim. I really loved the first season; after this season I doubt if I'll watch the next one.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:39 AM

Jennifer wrote:

In Season One, Gail and Tom defined the tern "Top Chef" as cief in French. A leader. So by definition, the choices made about who stays and who goes, and who is ultimately crowned Top Chef, must include the ability to lead and inspire. Kitchen performance and itmeraction with your peers should be considered when making a final determination after tasting the food. The food should have the most weight, however, the leadership qulaities presented (or not present) should be considered. Had that been the case, SAm would still be in the running, and in my mind, the winner and Top Chef is Sam.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:48 AM

Carol wrote:

I lost all respect for Ilia tonight. She whined and dumped on Marcel once the contestants were together again. She is irrational in her complaints and exhibits childish behavior when she gets stressed out. Marcel seemed tentative coming onto the plane and the others were condenscending towards him. Elan made another Spanish flavored dish. For someone mocking Marcel's foams, Elan should look in the mirror! For all the abuse and negativity thrown Marcel's way, Marcel always responds with "Let's talk about the food." Pretty mature, HUH? Even the promo for the final episode shows Elan childishly dissing Marcel.
May the best cook win.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:48 AM

Brittney wrote:

All right, well I am bummed officially. I MISS SAM! He was a great chef and he was my pick to when this season. It's unfortunate, but why whine about it...it's a competition after all. So with that said...Congrats to Marcel and Ilan, they are both two great chefs and deserve to be up there. The challenge was great. I loved watching them cook. It was probably the most focused i've seen the finalists in a LONG while. I have no idea what it's like to be in their situation, but I can honestly say that they worked their hardest and it paid off, for better or worse. I do have to agree with Harold on Elia's dishes. They didn't seem to come across as eye-catching, or different. It was just typical Elia. Marcel's dishes were inovative, but the Xianthium Gum raises a question for me....Did it help him win??? Anyway, Ilan's dishes, one word..SPANISH!!! I am frankly tired of seeing Spanish food from him...WHAT ELSE DO YOU HAVE TO SERVE US ILAN!!!:-p Sam's dishes were great and in the end I think it was because he didn't "cook" his food and that's why he's out of the competition. This Season has certainly been a ride, but it's been a great one!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:49 AM

Monica wrote:

I look forward to your comments each week. Your blog is an island of a sanity in a sea of crazy. THANK YOU!!!!

PS. I'm hoping Marcel wins.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:10 AM

melissa wrote:

Personally, I can't believe Sam didn't advance to the final two. He showed the most experience and work ethic in the kitchen... not to mention his food looked absolutely delicious

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:15 AM

Laura wrote:

i can't believe you did not choose SAM. That just ruined our finally show. He was the best on our show. you just LOST one viewer because of SAM. WHAT WHERE YOU THINKING!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:26 AM

jason wrote:

i was extremely disappointed to see sam marcel move on (again). i almost feel like his isolation has worked in his favor to both increase the 'drama' value of the show and to make everyone else look less professional. regardless, it's sad that a professional and talented chef life sam is eliminated in favor of someone who appears to have no respect from his peers.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:29 AM

Dr. Bob wrote:

Harold, as you well remember last year the judges said over and over again that a Top Chef had to be a leader. As I recall lack of leadership was a deciding factor in more than one elimination. Why has Tom C changed the rules? I don't think that Marcel could lead lemmings to a cliff and I have my doubts about Ilan as well. Based on his comments as judge this year, I wouldn't even hire Tom C. to cater my party.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:30 AM

shenay wrote:

I think the right person won in season one, Harold was my favorite all along, but tonight i think Sam was robbed, all through out the season, he has been a great leader, a respecful cook in the kitchen and even when Marcel did not want to help out sam last week, sam still helped him out, so that tells you right there what kind of person sam is,,

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:32 AM

marlinz wrote:

VERY disappointed in tonight's outcome. I have been pulling for Sam for much of the season- I think he has talent and could've made a great chef. I also think at this point in the game you need to bear the entire competition in mind- anyone can have a good night (Ilan) or a less than perfect one (Sam) but look at how they both did through all of the other challenges. Marcel gets a bad rap but I acknowledge that he is creative- I just really don't believe he is mature enough to be top chef- maybe a few years from now. Ilan has been a disappointment in his creativiy- like you said, it was all Spanish... branch out a bit, plus I think he lacks maturity as well. At judges table I was hoping for Marcel and Sam, (once I realized Elia would not be making it), and then ultimately for Sam to win the whole thing. My husband and I were very very disappointed when they told Sam to pack his knives. We have little interest in a competition between Ilan and Marcel- can't root for either one really. Last season was sooo much better :(

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:42 AM

Heather wrote:

Your comments were right on, Harold. I'm so glad you won last time around! I thought the chefs were better last time; it was a hard competition. But, you were the best, and I was rooting for you the whole time.

My thoughts on this season were that everyone ganged up on Marcel, and it became really irritating and immature. Elia was two-faced: pretending to be Marcel's friend in the beginning and then scapegoating him in the end like the rest: she was an absolute follower, without any sense of morality or character. Marcel is a good chef, at times arrogant and childish, but if it's the survival of the fittest, he's certainly survived and deserves respect. Accusing Marcel of cheating is ridiculous; it was incorrect, full of spite and immature! I wish Bravo would have handled the issue with Cliff's aggression a bit better -- and had a formal apology for endangering one of the members of the show. Cliff is an arrogant guy, with a big temper problem, (not a good thing for a top chef). Ilan is an immature, whiny and extremely arrogant jerk whose cooking is hit or miss, with little inventiveness.

I adored watching Sam cook. He is a very talented chef, but I was sorry to see that he engaged a bit with the teasing of Marcel, and that he also didn't stop the attack, which would have been honorable. I was really sorry to see him go, however, since he was the most talented chef there and had the best character of them all! Nonetheless, it's been a really entertaining show, and I'm savoring it!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:43 AM

Tim wrote:

1) I live in Vegas, and if I find out who cracked Marcel with a bottle - there'll be a little retribution. And I don't even like Marcel that much, but that's no reason to give the guy 30 stitches.

2) THANK YOU HAROLD. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for pointing out that NOBODY WAS USING HERBS. For pete's sake, they had more fresh herbs at their disposal than I've ever seen in my life! Good god man, Elia might have saved her horrific Ahi dish just by adding SESAME to it. SESAME for pete's sake!

Hope the restaurant is going well Harold. If I ever make it to NYC, I'll definitely drop by for a bite.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:45 AM

min wrote:

Harold, do you read your blog responses? I would like you to be a permanent judge. And Sam next season should visit. You both are very concise and I'd like to see/hear more from you.
Not that it matters on your blog, but i'm SICK of Ilan and his saffron overkill. What a big immature baby. I wish it was Sam in the final. And Cliff. Oh well.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:47 AM

D Williams wrote:

Marcel is the best of a pathetic bunch. I would not want to spend time with any of them, but ugliness exhibited by the other three embarasses the human race. I would rather be a tuna than associate with those people.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:49 AM

rekanek wrote:

put the two up that dislike each other is that not good TV or what.being a cook/baker for many years i think Marcel will win as i see it.he keeps a cooler head under pressure his only weakness to stop him is youth and the confidece it brings sometimes at a price.I know hes not the popular contestant but im on his side.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:49 AM

Chrissy wrote:

You were wondering if any of the viewers have tried the recipes on the show. I noticed your recipe for the chicken wings was up some time ago. I decided I wanted to try them and the recipe is no longer on the site. Help!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:52 AM

John wrote:

Well, this episode will be my last Top Chef. The fact that they have blatantly "created" a phony ultra-dramatic finale is so appalling and leaves a terrible taste in my mouth (pun intended). To allow the Mad Foam Scientist to compete in the final episode of Top Chef is so Real World/Road Rules-esque and so stereotypical of reality based television. I expected more from Top Chef. 18 foams, 13 gelées, and a chemically induced poi does not make a Top Chef. Brash, abrasive, immature, and down right unlikeable will not make me watch a show. You can even top it off with a Heat Miser coiffure and I'm still not interested. He was in the bottom three on and off throughout the season and was always saved by boring television producers with MBAs, who already had the Barnum and Bailey style posters printed up for their "perfect" grand finale. I'm not buying it, and I will never watch Top Chef again. It was fun while it lasted.

Sam and Ilan are the final two, period.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:57 AM

Corey wrote:

Harold, I liked your advice to the viewers out there: don't hit people you've seen on TV. I also liked your advice to the contestants who didn't win: stop whining.

In an interview at Chow.com, Elia said that Marcel invited her to watch the show with him, but after seeing the poll at TV.com that asks the viewers to rate their favorite contestant, she was convinced that he was cheating "again" and that he "had obviously hired a hacker" so that every time she got one vote, he got four votes "or something like that". She claims that's why she refused to watch the show with him and stopped returning his calls. I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

Hey, Elia, if you're reading this, check out the forums at TelevisonWithoutPity.com and read the messages that Marcel's fans have left. We've been casting votes for Marcel day in and day out because we like him and we want the rest of you to stay in single digits in that poll. (Don't take that so hard--it's all in good fun.) Marcel did NOT hire us to do it, and we're certainly not being paid. We don't even know him in real life; we're simply fans who have see him on the show. I am PERSONALLY responsible for about 10,000 of Marcel's votes, which is about a quarter as many as you've gotten from everyone else. If you're upset because he has so many votes, blame ME and the rest of his fans. You really owe him a big apology! Why don't you make up with him? I'm sure he will forgive you because it was just a misunderstanding. I respect the fact that you are proud of your faith, so I'll just say...think about it, and do the right thing. The TV.com poll is really just a joke to me, and I don't mean any harm to you by trying raise Marcel's poll numbers. The truth is, I like you, too. I'm just a little disappointed in you. If it makes you feel any better, I'll go cast 1,000 votes for you just to prove my point. Fair enough?

Sorry for crapping on your blog, Harold. But we viewers want to talk to all of the contestants--you and all the rest.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:58 AM

Bob wrote:

To answer your question, I tried a few recipes from Season 1. Unfortunately, I don't have access to some of the ingredients and had to make substitutions. I used your appetizer from the Ted Allen challenge and my peeps enjoyed it. Some of the recipes seemed way too complicated or time consuming for me to pull them off, so I was selective about which ones to try out. Because of the show, I tried jicima and buy it whenever I can find it now. So...yeah...I think people are trying out the food...it makes watching the re-runs more fun.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:12 AM

jane wrote:

Maybe Marcel didn't inspire any chefs, but neither has Ilan. I want Marcel to go all the way, since there needs to be a little payback for last week's episode, but the fact of the matter is that no one this season deserves the title. No one showed the combination of skill, integrity, and leadership that you or Lee Anne did last season. This season is a dud. There are no winners here and the only real loser is the viewer who used to love this show and can no longer stomach it because of what it has become.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:12 AM

craig wrote:

great job.. you notice hair cuts.. how about how strong the drives are of the players? No offense to your comment but you were a solid chef also.. same as Sam.. Final two should be Sam an Marcel.. Unfortunately Marcel has no competor now so he wins.. easy.. I'm highly satisfied with the results.. The best chefs actually do win.. I'm very proud with my selections and seeing the final results before they happen..

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:26 AM

mia. wrote:

there are a lot of sour grapes over this. i was surprised when Sam didn't win, but the judges probably edged Ilan over him because Sam didn't cook anything, thus leaving his dishes a lot more room for error.

i think that viewers get a little blind-sided by their loyalties and the editing of a reality show. marcel is a talented guy. he won with that talent. you can deny how beautifully presented his dishes was, and despite previous criticism from other chefs, the judges said his food was delicious.

i think it's a little "rich" to put personality over the food, ultimately, i'm not going to be able to taste how nice the person was that prepared my dish. i'm just going to taste the bloody food.

lastly, one can't judge how somebody is going to lead a kitchen by 13 episodes of heavily edited video taking place in a cooking competition. it's a ridiculous concept to see a person's true leadership potential when the situation is that skewed.

P.S.- not to kiss butt, but harold i thought you are much hotter than Sam. and i like your personality more. and your food.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:27 AM

Babette wrote:

You think Sam is mature? Don't confuse stoicism for maturity. Goading Frank into threatening Marcel was not mature. Freaking out on Marcel in public, in front of those customers at Charlie's was not classy. Accusing others of using oil and sugar and then trying to distance yourself from the accusations by saying "I'm not that guy" is not brave. Convincing Elia and Ilan to say something about Marcel while keeping your mouth shut, instigating them into digging their own graves while you look like you are above it doesn't fool anybody.

Sam is a jerk. He's needs to grow up. And BTW, Ilan is a punk and Elia's next dessert needs to made with sour grapes. I can't believe Marcel is the big man here, but he has forgiven when I would not and more time's than I would.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:29 AM

wulfbear wrote:

Always like hearing your input, Harold, and it's nice to hear it from someone in the same position of not knowing what's coming next. A lot of people have said that this season has been disappointing in terms of talent. I hope you would agree that for the most part, it's just different people, and the disaapointing part is the drama, not so much the talent. (And some of the challenges were pretty out there, too.)

On a personal note, at the risk of inflating your ego, your restaurant (open yet?), or at least your cooking, is one of my top three "Food to eat before I die", at least at the moment, and that has as much to do with respect for your perspective as much as for the food itself.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:40 AM

AKANE wrote:

Somebody hit Marcel in his head?? Oy…I am getting worry about Marcel's safety now.
Common! People, this is just a TV, and he is a real person, not one character in a drama.Calm down.

This is not a cooking competition or other reality TVs I’ve seen so far. what's going on here???
Many people said that he is arrogant, but never specify how arrogant he is. he might not have what it takes to be a TOP CHEF, but doesn't mean people can trush him so bad. What exactly did he do other than making so many forms? How many people actually tasted the form before criticizing it??

Somehow a group psychology brought this competition to a whole different level, unfortunately, an unprofessional level. I’ve never met people in my life who choose a restaurant because chef is nice. People will pick where they eat because food is great, don’t they?? Simple as that. Last season was so much fun to watch.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 3:46 AM

Josh wrote:

Oddly enough I have attempted a few recipes from the show. For a Christmas party I made Michael's canape from the Thanksgiving episode. It was terriffic and got a good reception.

That story about someone attacking Marcel is just disgraceful. While this is obviously an insolated incident of one person's craziness, I sincerely hope the producers of the show remember this. I know they want drama, but they spent the entire portraying Marcel, a real person, as a villain for their reality-based show. Every interview clip showing the other contestant's disdain for home drove the point home with the viewers that he was the villain. He was someone no one liked, he was a horrible person, he was the devil. As if they had forgotten or just didn't care that when the camera was turned off Marcel would have to step back into his personal life.

Look at the responses to these blogs, it's disgusting and embarrassing as a fan of this show to see how the fans react.

I will be watching the last episode and rooting for Marcel just so a few more of those smug know-it-alls can huff and complain.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 4:01 AM

Don wrote:

Hey Harold

You are the reason I watched this season at all. I caught on to this show in the last few episodes of season 1 (the one where Ms Wong was told to pack her knives) and have been hooked ever since. You are a very solid guy who was not afraid to admit when he needed help or thought he made a mistake. I think Sam was you this season. However after Chef Tom's comments about only the food matters I will not be watching this show ever again. Marcel going to the finale? NO WAY! He is a great cook and an intelligent guy but he is no CHEF! Nevermid a TOP one! Sam was robbed plain and simple. Based solely on the fact that he didn't HEAT anything. How ridiculous is that? It was obvious to me that Chef Tom was impressed with Marcel's skills to kiss up more than his actual demeanor. Their loss! Now I am pulling for Ilan.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 4:03 AM

Francais girard Seay wrote:

Bon soir Harold!
It is me Francois, I think your comments were "spot on" to use the judges vernacular that seemed to permiate tonites episode.
I posted my main comments/criticisms on Chef Toms blog, but wanted to express to you that you by far outclass this disappointing group brought together for season 2. Unfortunately, Marcels been picked on every episode it seems, and although i dont like his personality he does not deserve the treatment he's received. I too wish for his speedy recovery. That aside, I proposed in Toms blog a new judging
system that would take into account the previous episodes
judgements...maybe "weighting" them somewhat so that there would be emerging a top chef that would also be the chef that was most consistent (afterall, that should be one of the top qualities a Top Chef would have) Id appreciate your views on this. Francais girard Seay

posted on January 25, 2007 at 4:09 AM

Kim wrote:

I am so tired of seeing Ilia blamed for starting the gang up on Marcel tonight. It was clear that she had chosen NOT to say anything about Marcel moving her steamer. Ilan threw her under the bus and then left her hanging by not adding that Marcel was messing with his temperatures causing that one dish to burn.

I feel sorry for Sam, while he seems to have a sence of justice he just can't bring himself to call people on the floor in front of the judges. I think he is awed/intimidated by Chef Tom.

Marcel announced on show one that the other chefs were out to get him and then obviously did his best to make it so.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 4:21 AM

Mary wrote:

First off, Harold, I love reading your blog. You bring really great insight as a former contestant and chef. Also, a lot of times, (e.g. the Kraft quickfire) you really articulated everything that I was thinking in my head as I was watching the show.

"You know…don’t hit people. Even if you’ve seen them on TV."

This made me laugh. Not because, you know, you were making a joke, but because it's absolutely absurd that we'd even have to make that statement, right? I mean, hitting someone over the head? A complete stranger whom that person happens to have seen on TV? That's nuts! I'm pretty sure that hitting someone is a no-no. It goes without saying.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 4:51 AM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

Hey, Harold -

I thought it was going to be Sam, too. After tonight, though, I'm convinced it should go to Marcel no matter what he cooks. Ilan has been petty and childish all along, and Marcel stood up to all the abuse that he and the others heaped on him. I hope Marcel takes it so he can tell Ilan to kiss his a**.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 5:44 AM

ehoeveler wrote:

Won't be watching finale, or any other of Bravos' 'reality'
competitions. The treatment of Marcel was deplorable, the
other chefs acted in a totally juvenile manner every week, and
the judges' grandiose behavior and comments throughout the
season turned me off. Collichio was OK, though.
To Marcel: Get a good lawyer!
EH

posted on January 25, 2007 at 5:54 AM

julia wrote:

Revising history....the e-mails are bashing Marcel...It appears Betty must be on her computer. Elia made a fool of herself and Ilan as usual looked like a sick bully.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 6:11 AM

Paula wrote:

I am still in shock. Sam should have been in the final. He has been rock solid through this competition. I will not be watching the final show. I am really disappointed. Marcel can use his cans of whatever and Ilan can saffron himself into a coma. This is more of the drama and not cooking. I am so disappointed in this season. I really wish Sam much success, he definitely got screwed in this competition.
Ilan and Marcel seem so immature, they deserve each other. These judges made a big mistake.. I am so done.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 6:13 AM

Crystal wrote:

Harold,
I loved watching you on the first show, and reading your comments about this season. I personally think that there was too much "drama" this season, and didn't like it. The backstabbing and childish behavior would not be tolerated in a professional kitchen.
I think that Sam is an upstanding guy and a great chef. I was shocked to see him go, and don't know if I'll even watch the finale.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:01 AM

watching the finale all the way wrote:

Oh my god, I'm not going to watch the finale...ooh that'll really scare the producers. What about the rest of America, and the World that has satellite TV?

What a bunch of immature viewers.

Sam didn't COOK. Get over it. Squeezing some juice over your tuna and grinding up your coconut is not the level of cooking that should be displayed at a big elimination like this. Elia used the same cooking over and over. I could get her dishes in any Italian or French restaurant in California, or New York. Where in the world - tell me this, will you get a beautiful poke with pineapple poi that utilized xanthan gum to be made in a short amount of time? Or the delicious chilli pepper and herb dish? Marcel is all about innovations and being "out there". If you're in a restaurant, wouldn't you rather get food made by science in like an hour, then slow-cooked food in like 4 hours? He's revolutionizing the industry.

Marcel is a victim. This is = to a scrawny kid being picked on, so therefore he is cold to his bullies, and his coldness is then called "social ineptitude". Um, vicious cycle, can you say? And, I know most ppl don't like that he's "a wimp". They'd rather he fight Cliff, or argue. But guess what? This just proves that you're immature. He's an adult, and Ilan is probably a virgin. Know the saying, "who smelt it who dealt it"? There you go.

p.s. next season will be watched by just as many people. if top chef always chose who viewers lusted over (SAM), it wouldn't be a cooking contest, it'd be a popularity contest. complain about the food, idiots, not the looks. shallow.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:04 AM

barbara wrote:

i was diappointed to see sam go i was rooting for him from the begining until about show number 10 don't get me wrong he is an good cook but he also had instangated people against each other i intially didn't like marcel but he has held his cool concirdening the way the other chefs were treating him and hope he does win he's earned it what do you think?

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:08 AM

Michele wrote:

Let's face it Marcel is a good cook and possibly top chef. I wanted Sam to go further but I think the judges thought he was capable of more and did'nt deliver. Elia didn't deserve to win. Everyone saw her true colors at the end anyway. Marcel had a way og getting to all of them. Elan out Sam in. Elan's creativity with leaves got him in.Go Marcel .

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:20 AM

Donna wrote:

I felt Sam overall should have been in the final. I think he was more consistent thinking out of the box. I do have a question and hope someone can answer. I was appalled to hear that chemicals were used and are used in cooking (Marcel). Is this a standard in restaurant cooking? I would hope when I go to a high end restaurant that I am not eating food cooked with chemicals. Is this a common practice? I hope I am paying for a meal that was created in a more natural process.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:36 AM

Judy wrote:

I tried a couple of the recipes. First was Michael's little appetizer for Thanksgiving episode. It was great. Everyone loved it. And I made Elia's prideful roasted chicken slathered with lots and lots of butter. I was wonderful. My guys pronounced it the best roasted chicken ever. I have printed out a few of the other recipes, and since the first two were so go, I may try more. That being said, many of the dishes made for the competition are just not the kind of things we would eat or that I would cook. Then again I am a 68 year old grandmother. Love them anyway.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:44 AM

kathie wrote:

Hi Harold,

Last season I was happy when you won. This season I will be disappointed by whomever wins. Neither of these young men are leaders. You keep repeating that you like chefs who are nice and not jerks which means YOU would not want to work with either of the final contestants.

It's NOT just about food unless you are someone who is planning to work in a kitchen alone.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:53 AM

Chef Mommy wrote:

Hi Harold,
This is America and in America we root for the underdog = MARCEL.
Go Marcel, kick that smug Ilan's butt in the kitchen. Ilan is just an immature jerk. And in my opinion, does not deserve to be there.
Hopefully TC3 will have a better cast or at least a more mature one. (no diapers please)
Thanks again Harold.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:11 AM

Debbi wrote:

Babette, your comments are "spot on." Sam is not even in the same ball park as Harold or Lee Ann. He has been very immature--I'll never understand how he was voted fan favorite. HIs outburst against Marcel in public while they were shopping was terrible. Sicilian...hmmmmmph!!! No excuse for using such profanity in public. He's still an instigator in my book. Don't even get me started on Elia....what a turncoat. I was in shock at her accusations about Marcel's moving the pan. How can any of us tell what Marcel is like to work with? The hate mongers started up a long time ago & have colored everything Marcel does. The bottom line is that his coworkers in Las Vegas seem to get along with him just fine. Don't you people see that Marcel is often poking fun at himself? I'd be happy to work with Marcel & the next time I'm in Vegas, I would make a point of eating where he works. On the other hand, I wouldn't eat in Sam's or Ilan's establishments for all the tea in China.

Please let's go back to the caliber of Season 1!!! Harold, you are a class act extraordinaire & I would definitely visit your restaurant. You were always my fave from the get-go!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:30 AM

RJ wrote:

Harold, you're a class act. Keep up the good work. cheers.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:36 AM

DonnaC wrote:

I really hope season 3 is more like season 1. I'll watch 1 episode next season and if it's all about the drama queens with foul mouths, I'll quit. You guys had class, knew how to cook and were interesting to watch - quite the opposite of this season.......

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:38 AM

AJ wrote:

Harold,
I was pretty religious about watching the show(I used to work with Ilan) but after the last couple of episodes I don't know...To embody the word chef is to LEAD and be a MENTOR. To be the bigger person in any situation. I know the ratings will go a higher by the way they edit the show, but come on man...this isn't American Idol it's TOP CHEF. CHefs like Robert Curry,Todd Humphries, or Gray Kunz, that's the persona of a top chef. To show INTEGRITY....$%*#@...what do I know I'm still a LIne Cook.......

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:39 AM

Mary wrote:

I'll bet you guys who say "Sam was robbed" and that you won't be watching TC anymore will be front and center next Wednesday. Ha ha for sure.
If the winner is half as cool and candid as Harold...........well, that would be Marcell.......
Marcell is more interesting and original, but Ilan seems to have it on taste so far. Since Marcel is the brains of the outfit he just might figure out how to pull off a win! I wonder who will replace Padma next season. She has worn off for me.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:39 AM

Bob wrote:

I made Betty's Firehouse soup and it turned out pretty good, I would have liked to have seen Mike's carrot chips recipe since Padma and Ted seemed to like it so much......... Love your column BTW, you have integrity as a chef and a commentator about the proceedings and you're never afraid of expressing your opinions.
I thought them losing Sam in the past episode was a mistake, he's proven himself the entire series, and except for a couple of errors ( the beach cook off for example) he's been spot on for each challenge, meanwhile Marcel has been repetitive in his cooking and has shown 0 % leadership ability. Last season when you won I thought it was fair ( the exception to that was Dave being disqualified for forgetting a dish, despite being the favorite in 2 out of 3 and The Redhead not winning any) but this season, while being high on drama, lacks that fairness.
Marcel is on par with you? or Tom? *L*

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:42 AM

Dana wrote:

Wow, I hadn't heard Marcel was attacked. How sad and horrible. I really feel sorry for that kid. It's that whole group mentality thing and it's bullshit. He really hasn't done anything wrong. Can anyone think of one thing that he's done to justify the animosity towards him? I can't. And if you just want to throw stones at his personality, spare me. He is nowhere near the wear machine that Tiffany was. Not even close!

Ugh. Anyway, about last night's show, yes, it was very sad to see Sam go. I really think he showed himself to be a cut above the rest pretty consistently, and I definitely think he should have made it to the finale. I'm very disappointed that he was sent packing.

I don't know who is the best among the rest of them, but I just can't believe it's Ilan. He played it safe, plus unlike Sam, he's made some really stupid moves along the way. Remember the failed foam dressing? How stupid and immature was that?! I don't respect him, don't like him, and don't think he is more talented than ANY of the rest that made it to Hawaii. He is surely not more talented than Sam. Not by a long shot.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:51 AM

Larry wrote:

Speaking of trying out the recipes: I tried your chicken wing recipe from Las Vegas last season. However, I knew from the start that it wasn't the same exact recipe that you used in the competition (which looked fried _after_ the coating).

I realize that many chefs want to protect their best recipes for their own use in their restaurants, but then why post an obviously altered recipe on the Bravo site for the fans and call it the same? (I have also noticed this 'switch' with other recipes from the Top Chef webpages, this season and last.)

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:02 AM

carol wrote:

Marcel lost his only friend at the end -- if you can recall, Elia stood up for him often. While none of the behavior displayed by these chefs has been exemplary,I wonder what makes such divergent personalitie such as Frank, Betty, Ilan, Sam, Cliff, and now Elia despise Marcel so? There must be something there beyond the fact that he is merely annoying. The guy has to be evil. Now I don't condone beating him with a bottle. But, seriously, this guy is inflammatory. As someone pointed out, "Chef" means "Chief." What sort of leader is Marcel? It may be about the food, but at this point, really, who cares? Marcel has won fewer challenges than any of them. So, what you are left with is consistent mediocrity-- safe and in the middle. The fact that Marcel stays and Sam and Elia are gone makes me even more suspicious that this thing is rigged for drama. If Marcel wins Top Chef, count me out as a viewer for Season 3.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:06 AM

Ron wrote:

It's to bad they went for the drama and not the truth again. At least last year they kept the best chef in there to win. This year the best Top Chef by far, Sam, was let go just to try to get ratings over the cat fight between Elin and Marcel. I won't be watching the finale. There's no point to it.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:12 AM

JBH wrote:

I thought it was interesting, but not terribly surprising, that Ilan egged on Elia into speaking out at the Judges' Table, but then he himself fell silent. I don't like him; he gives me a bad vibe.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:12 AM

Greg Harabedian wrote:

Harold, I'm just wondering why you weren't brought back this season as a judge or in some other form? If anyone knows what it takes to be a top chef, it's you!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:13 AM

Eleanor wrote:

"I’m really waiting for Ilan to make something besides Spanish food."

Dude, seriously. It's his freaking job to make Spanish food--he's skated by this whole time recreating things that he's told to make every day.

Go Marcel. He's the only competitor I can stand to see win.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:17 AM

Dan wrote:

Let's face it, Top Chef has been entertaining. It has shown the worst of people as well as the dignity that can be restored when seeking redemption for mistakes made. In some respects it was almost noble and provided some great character lessons. Regretfully, as the season nears its conclusion it seems these admirable traits have evaporated. You're left feeling used. For example, is Marcel being given special treatment because he's been bullied and the producers want to avoid legal action? Is the entire drama and Marcel shock factor being forced just for the sake of entertainment and to keep us coming back? I hate to admit it, but you almost feel used. Like you've been toyed with. In my mind, Sam has been the Top Chef the entire season.

By the way, I wonder if they really flew First Class? If you watched Project Runway you probably already know the whole First Class trip to Paris was staged. They actually flew coach despite the illusion the producers created. That's what I mean...are we all being played? Can't wait till next week. LOL...only kidding, I think.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:22 AM

sam g wrote:

You would have thought after the head shaving debacle that Elia and Ilan would ave had the sense to grow up given they had two months to reflect on their inmaturity.
I hope that Elia now realizes that Ilan is not her friend he used her to do carry out his dirty work on Marcel.
I wish the final two would have been Marcel and Sam.

I hope that now that Ilan and Elia having watched the episodes ackowledge that they need to grow up.
For Elia it cost her going to the finals because she allowed her immaturity and easily led personality to interfere with what the competition was about.
Cooking!!!!!
Having waiting on tables for years there are chefs who are jerks and arrogant- but for those who focus their energy on the food rather than getting back on another chef or waiter or waitress are the ones who will be successful.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:43 AM

Vicky B. wrote:

See, I knew my rooting for your win last season was apropos. You make sense. It's very hard to really know the complete reasons for the judges' decisions if you haven't tasted the food!
And drama is a natural part of competition.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:56 AM

Bobbi wrote:

Hey Harold! Thanks for being a stand up guy and I would love to visit your new place! As an avid fan of Top Chef, I have to say that it sickens me to hear that Marcel was attacked. I may not be his biggest fan, but come on people - attacking someone??!! Leave him alone!! If you don't like him based upon what you have seen through editing then you are are a true MORON. This is just a show! It's no wonder that our country is in the state it is because of drunken idiots like this bimbo. We say that we Americans are the best, most intelligent and moral, yet here we go again. Marcel, I hope you are ok.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 9:57 AM

Randy wrote:

Wow! I used to live for this show. Probably won't watch it any more now. I can't beleive how Marcel can manhandle a woman in the water on the breakfast on the beach episode and not be kicked off the show like Cliff was. Wouldn't surprise me if Cliff hired a lawyer because he was just totally screwed. Or how they kicked (forced ) a chef off they show for not paying for something but Marcel can cheat in the kitchen and they don't do anything. I thought Sam and Cliff should have been a great finale, but then who am I to say. I'm only a veiwer who used to love the show. I guess Gail and Tom will do anything to keep there jobs huh! Marcel must be related to the producers. Signed by an ex-viewer.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:00 AM

sandy wrote:

It was decided in the first episode that Marcel would be the one everyone hated. Everyone is saying that Marcel doesn't inspire anyone, but he never actually did anything to anyone. I liked Sam too, until he let others lead him in their direction of thinking. All the contestants at one time or another made rude comments, why pick on Marcel. What doomed everyone else for me was when noone put a stop to Cliff's antics with Marcel. It shows me that none of them had the "Top Chef" qualities. Marcel didn't whine or cry about what happened to him. He just cooked. Marcel did win challenges and all of them at one time or another were in the bottom three, even Sam. (remember the Toad in a Hole thing?) I must have been watching a different show than most of the rest of you, because what I saw was a bunch of people picking on one person for no reason at all. Good luck to Marcel and his foams, it's no different than all of Ilan's "Spanish dishes"

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:04 AM

Zoe wrote:

Hello Harold,

Let's look forward using a typically wise comment from you and a surprisingly wise comment from Sam I Am Talbot.

Three thoughts to improve the show for next season.

1) Select contestants who are close to evenly matched at the beginning of the competition. Sujai had ZERO chance to win. Mikey had ZERO chance to win.From the outset, people KNEW Sam would make it far. Total mismatch. Thus boring.

2) I agree totally with YOU that the home-chef trying to duplicate the dishes adds interest to the show. Bravo does an abysmal job of facillitating this. I look EVERY week for something I can make. To date, I've actually attempted a whopping THREE. Sorry, but in the real world we don't typically have XANTHAN GUM in the pantry. Bravo should consult with YOU to offer simplified recipes from the Elimination Challenges and some from the QUICKFIRES. To date, there have been NONE from the Quickfires.

3) I'm guessing that for juvenile reasons, Bravo will insist on keeping the goofy "fan favorite" 10 grand prize. So, let's ADD a MOST IMPROVED prize. And make it 20 Grand. This year, Marcel would have won that hands down, as even Sam admitted.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:06 AM

Sue Stromberg wrote:

Hi Harold,

I agree with your assessment of this episode and the season overall. Just wanted to weigh in on your question about how many viewers actually try the recipes created for the challenges. We've printed several but haven't tried any yet. My husband loves to cook, is great at it, in my opinion, but he is all about what he has a taste for at the moment. I'm just along for the ride! When we do get around to trying some, I'll let you know how we did!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:07 AM

Michelle wrote:

I am excited to watch this episode! Too tired to stay up for it last night.

I have made one of the Top Chef recipes. I made the berry cheesecake that Elia made while visiting Camp Glucose. Right away I had a feeling the recipe was wrong. The recipe calls for way too much yogurt and not enough gelatin. It tasted pretty good even though it looked pretty bad.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:11 AM

ALEXA wrote:

I think that Ilian should have been fired for threatening Marcel with knives.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:21 AM

Jeannie wrote:

Well I have watched all season and I now know one thing. This is not a reality show. Just another scripted show with no truth to it. That was proven by Sam being let go. It makes no sense at all. The two finalists should be people who have exelled all season. Most of Marcel's dishes have been way below standard and Sam has been a continual winner. I will just skip the finale and the next season.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:29 AM

Amanda wrote:

I agree wholeheartedly with you. I espeically want to say thanks for those last remarks you said about Marcel. People's hatred for him continues to baffle me (especially since Ilan has always appeared to be much more worthy of dislike) and I can't believe certain fans are taking it to extremes. Throwing bottles at him? Threatening to never watch the show again because he made it to the finale? It's very disappointing.

I too am looking forward to the showdown between Marcel and Ilan. It should be very exciting to watch. Hopefully the best chef and the best man will end up with the title.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:54 AM

Eric wrote:

The best two cooks got booted, period. It starts with the head and heart and ends in the hands. Marcel may lack all three, but certainly thw two most inmportant. It was interesting that when they interviewed one of Marcel's co-workers who waxed on about how great he was that they never showed the diaper - how long, or more importantly, how many people has this kid ever worked with?
Professionalism and mutual respect aside, Marcel must have at least a few chops to be working at Joel R.'s, even if it is the "Vegas-version". And as much as everyone will hate the end result, he will probably beat a" pretty good cook", now that two "chefs" are gone. It's kind of like pro wrestling - TV drama and ratings just trumped the real world and good food. A long-time viewer is no more. Cancel my F&W script and my Grammercy rezzie.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 10:54 AM

Claire wrote:

Hi Harold -

Yours is the only blog I've visited on this show - thanks for the sane input -

I was shocked at Sam and Elia's exit - I thought, at the least, Sam would remain, if not win. Marcel's cooking scares me. I would feel uncomfortable eating his food as I would be concerned with what was in it! I personally believe that chemical help should not be rewarded.

At any rate, good luck with your restaurant and well done for winning the last season.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 11:14 AM

ubidiah wrote:

To answer your question about who is trying recipes: We did. My 14 year-old son is a huge fan of the show. It's great because it has really opened up two new interests for him: cooking and eating. He is willing to try just about any new food now, and really enjopys trying out new recipes.

We made Betty's take on tomato soup (the winner of the Friday's challenge). To be perfectly honest, we weren't that impressed with the results. The recipe called for canned tomatoes and the result was a very metallic tasting soup. Maybe the can had nothing to do with it, I don't know. But, that hasn't stopped us from trying new things, and Top Chef is in our top three TV shows.

Keep up the good work, guys!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 11:16 AM

Patty wrote:

Sam, Ilan and Elia should have been cut for participating in the assault (yes, it was an assault) on Marcel - shut up about Sam - he was an awful horrible person - and a coward - he instigated others to pick on Marcel - that is what you call a leader - no wonder the world is such a mess - just because he is nice looking - looks don't make you a leader - personality does - and his personality sucks. He sat back snickering while Cliff was holding Marcel down - what show are you watching - you should be appalled by his terrible awful horrible behavior - not upset that he is gone - he should have been eliminated before this episode. Good Riddance to the hyenas - because that is what they are a pack of hyenas - and I hope Ilan and his silly smirk are eliminated next episode.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 11:35 AM

Mary wrote:

I'm glad Sam and Elia were booted off in last night's episode. Most people talk about how Marcel is soo cocky and annoying, but Sam is just the same! His cockiness may not have shown in front of the other contestants, but in the past episodes when he is in the confession room, he talks highly of himself! Personality aside, Sam has been more consistent with delivering the best dishes than the remaining contestants, he would have been my choice as the next Top Chef. But between the remaining two contestants, I will be rooting for Marcel to win.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 11:56 AM

Mitchell wrote:

Once again the show was disgraceful! Ilan is a troublemaker. He eggs everyone on to pick on Marcel because he does not have the guts to do it himself. Just like last week he was calling for someone to shave Marcels head while Cliff was holding him down but Ilan did not do it himself. He was begging someone else to do it even Elia. What a childish little punk. He deserved to be sent home along with Elia. They are both immature and are threatened by Marcel. I hope Marcel wins and shames Ilan in front of the nation.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:15 PM

Rebecca wrote:

I was (and am) very disappointed with this seasons' finalist ...

All season the four who went to Hawaii were actually on the top of my list, (althought Cliff was too before he attacked Marcel) but I don't see Ilan as finalist material. He didn't branch out enough or wow me, or prove any type of leadership abilities. I don't care for Marcel, but I think his dishes were good. I would like to have seen Sam and Marcel as finalist.

Why was Sam dropped? It doesn't make any sense ... unless it has to do with the ratings, which would be horrible. Sam was a consistent, good chef. He was a good leader and follower ... I'm disappointed and not as compelled to watch the show any longer .... sadly.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:21 PM

Seriously Laughing wrote:

Dear Posters:

I can't help laughing at how many of you declared that you will never watch Top Chef again, and /or next season, merely because Marcel made the final cut. How dramatic. Here's the way life works: it doesn't always go the way you'd like. The operative word in "Reality Television" is--wait for it--reality. Top Chef isn't "Happy Days", it's a competition involving real people. If you can't endure the idea that a person you're not especially rooting for might win, then don't watch reality television, go watch Doris Day movies.

BTW: Go Marcel. Anyone who thinks he's not qualified to be in the finale, go back and read his bio. He's got the stuff. And I hope he wins.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:23 PM

Eileen wrote:

Well I certainly don't apporve of anyone hitting anyone and I hope they caught whoever assaulted marcel, but I also don't apporve of not having the person with the most wins, the person with the most consistency, the person with the most leadership and clearly the best cook and only one with the combination to be top chef, Sam, eliminated from the finale. It really looks like the producers had Sam eliminated to clear the way for marcel to make things up to him. It just smells of being fixed. I think Bravo needs to take a good look at how this happened it really is going to be a huge ratings loss.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:24 PM

Frenesie wrote:

Harold,

Please come back to blog next season! I would happily beg Bravo on bended knee to have to back. Your perspective has consistently been refreshing, honest, and funny. Better yet, maybe Bravo could just give you your own show. Really, they could just film you cooking or talking about food, and I'd watch it. True wit and goodness seem to be rare nowadays, but you have them both.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:26 PM

tina wrote:

harold, curious about what you think . While Marcel is annoying to most ( I honestly haven't noticed anything more from him than the others, who are often out and out nasty and vulgar), what about Ilan? He does not seem Top Chef material to me because he is the worst and most hateful and like a Jr Higher seems quite happy with himself whenever he gets in Marcel's face. Is this sort of childness seen much in the real world of Chefs, or has Bravo left these 2 to fight it out for the sensationalism?

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:27 PM

Julia wrote:

OK Harold, you said it yourself, Sam had what it took, had "the chops", to make it to Top Chef. So, WHY did he get kicked off?
Is it because he sort of looks like you, tall, dark,handsome, and they need variety in looks for who becomes top chef???? I would really like to know what their logic comes down to. I wonder if they knew back then, when they made this decision, the kind of reaction the public would have. Have you read how many people aren't going to watch the finale, or Top Chef ever again, because of this decision???

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:39 PM

R. Lampkin wrote:

Happy to see that justice was done. Marcel is the best hands down a class act. I cannot believe the chintzey behavior of the other contestants. Ilan should be shown the door.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:52 PM

stefanie wrote:

Marcel’s in and Sam out? Hmmmmm...this is up setting. You guy's are sell outs-you did it for ratings. For that reason alone I wont' watch the final episode. O-Kay-now you have to boys-Boy #1, I call them numbers now because they are characters for Bravo's ratings. Boy #1, dose what he knows. Spanish food, great but do you think he could have he's own restaurant and come up with he's own recipes? Not now at least. Boy #2-.belongs in a lab at Pringles figuring out there new “flavor" of the year. The only place for foam is on the grout in my shower. The world has had enough with additives. I would never go to his restaurant. O- Mr. Kraft, Marcel’s food, that’s not cooking either. I would pick a FRESH dish, over a dish full of actives any day of the week. Sam made the right choice with the beautiful ingredients that was at hand. I would have made the same choices Sam.
Stefanie G. Las Vegas, NV

posted on January 25, 2007 at 12:53 PM

Lora Christy-Garcia wrote:

I was so surprised to not see sam.....in the final.. I hope that Marcel KICKS Ilans ASSSSSSSSS!!!! Ilan is cocky and Marcel is just being himself througout the show,, and the other contestants didn't like it.. so what.. its NOT ABOUT PERSONALITY PEOPLE!!!!! GO MARCEL>> I WILL BE ROOTING FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:09 PM

Javi wrote:

Hi Harold
It look like the great finale on top chef is going to be the same as season 1.
Good vs evil. What sell most?
To bad the show ended this way.
Whoever win good luck.
I recommend future contestant please come with a nasty attidude and you will go to the finale of top chef.
No worth staying up late to see these junk.

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:12 PM

Denise wrote:

I would just like to say how much I live this show, and I LOVE Marcel. There are just a few instances where he might have been annoying but who isn't? I really hope he takes the honor of becoming TOP CHEF!!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 1:37 PM

shelly wrote:

I really enjoyed watching this week, until Elia started her crybaby routine .... again.

The food looked fantastic!! I was impressed with Alan Wong also. He was a pleasure to watch and even the other judges this week seemed to be more at ease (could have been the atmosphere). I really hope this would be a person they have on again as judge.

I am not the least bit sad or upset to see both Sam and Elia go! They are both little crybabies always trying to put blame on someone else. Elia waits until she probably knows she is going to get booted and tries to say Marcel cheated (wonder when Sam, Elia, and Ilan decided to come up with that little scam). I was so glad to see Tom call her out on it and she did a fantastic job of making herself look like a complete idiot. Too bad Ilan got to stay but they had to leave at least one snake there.

I still do not understand where people seem to think Marcel is arrogant. If that is what people think arrogant is then I have to wonder how they will fair in life because Marcel is NOTHING near arrogant, just wait until they have to deal with REAL jerks in life. I like Marcel. like his confidence, I like the way he wants to create and gets excited when talking about creating with food, it's his passion and I think he is most pleasant to watch. I can only hope he presses charges against the ignorant redneck who hit him. I would eat at any restaurant Marcel was running. Sam's? No, he's too dirty (sorry to the Sam lovers but he looks like he needs a bath). Ilan? No, many of his dishes did not look very appetizing. Elia? No, but you probably wouldn't have to worry about it anyway since she would start crying and quit and you would never get the food anyway.

Harold, a