Marc wrote:

Harold, I agree that Tom and Gail and Padma should put themselves out there at some point and go head to head with you guys. I guess if the network didn't want the potential negative fall out, they should at least do a private showdown off camera, maybe in the Perilla kitchen ;-)

posted on July 26, 2007 at 12:55 AM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

Hi, Harold -

I can't believe how isolated the contestants are. No wonder people are at each other's throats. Are you allowed to keep diaries or read? Do you ever get time to yourself?

Also, I heard someone say once that you aren't getting paid during that time.That just means you have to suspend your job or business, doesn't it? Surely there's some compensation for everyone besides the one top prize?

posted on July 26, 2007 at 1:00 AM

CubanKelley wrote:

They take your cell phones too? Thats ridiculous. You can't talk to your friends and family back home while you're there? No wonder there's so much drama in the Top Chef kitchen....I'd get a lil bitchy if I had to spend 24 hours with all those people and no contact w/ the outside world as well.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 2:59 AM

Kim wrote:

One question . . . why no books, magazines, newspapers or television? I certainly understand the internet prohibition (after all, you could look up recipes, etc.), but I really don't understand the others. They could block cooking programs from being viewed and could obviously limit magazines to those unrelated to food. But what possible harm cook a book cause (assuming, of course, that it wasn't a cookbook)?

Perhaps I could understand the limiting of outside exposure if the shows were "live", but it's my understanding that they're all taped months in advance and that, by the time they're released to the public, the final "top chef" has already been chosen.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 7:26 AM

Pam wrote:

Harold. Your bogs are my favorite. Keep up the good work and good luck with your new place. One thing I have noticed this season is that.... the first year chefs seemed to like each other for the most part. Second season it seemed they didn't. This year again they seem to be a tight bunch. Its a good crew this season, like the first. I sure don't miss big-mouth-betty screeching each show.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 7:42 AM

Jane Claire wrote:

I really enjoyed seeing you last night (for you are one of my favourites out of all 3 TCs), and I completely agree with your opinions about Micah not watching the show. Personally, I don't believe that she never watched the show and was just saying that. Her personality and social tactics are a bit off, if you ask me. Congrats on Perilla! From what I was able to see on TC, it looks beautiful and welcoming, and I'll bet the food is to die for. I am returning to university in England, but when I retrun to NJ on holiday, I will make every effort to get to Perilla.
-Jane
P.S. If you ever see Stephen Asprinio, please tell him that I love him. Thanks!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 7:53 AM

Don in Atlanta wrote:

I liked the special, it was a nice change of pace, however I felt like I was cheated out of an episode. I need my TC fix. I agree with you Harold abouts Padma's scar. I too was curious but just not that rude. Micah can deny it all she wants but there were a couple of instances where she seemed to be looking down at Americans. It could just be the editing but she did come off as pompous. Like the way she made a point of saying, in so many words, I experience life I don't just watch it like the rest of you.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 8:34 AM

Dana wrote:

Hi Harold. I thought last night's show was great too. Awesome that you got that nice commercial for Perilla thrown in. Yes, it does look great! And Chef Tom's comments about Perilla (and about you) were right on on the money. What a great compliment!

I also liked the comments about Steve. His intense and nerdy ways are obviously genuine, and I never had any doubt that he was 100% sincere. I found him to be entirely loveable.

Micah, on the other hand, seems disingenous to me and I don't care for her very much. Her appearance on last night's show kind of made me feel glad she got booted early.

I agree that the season 3 chefs seem like a nice bunch. Howie is still my favorite person (I don't think I've picked a favorite chef yet). There's nothing to not like about him. He is my Dave of Season 3. Go Howie!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 9:19 AM

FanFare wrote:

Hi Harold,
Great blog. I enjoyed seeing you and Perilla highlighted on the special last night. The next time I am in NYC, I plan to eat at your restaurant (along with the throngs of your other newfound fans). It is nice to see that becoming the inaugural winner of Top Chef has not gone to your head and you have kept your humility. I am curious if Tiffany even kept in touch with you. You both seemed calm under pressure (during cooking challenges).

While I agree with you that Micah should have researched the show prior to her time, it was sad that everyone ganged up on her ketchup comment and her ethnicity. Lots of Americans pour ketchup (& or salt) on food without thought or tasting the dish first. Big deal! Furthermore, I could not believe that she was forced to defend her background. It was insulting and demeaning. If someone called Padma "half" something, they would not get out of there in one piece.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 9:44 AM

G. Clarke wrote:

CONGRADS~!~ Cant wait to make it to your place!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 10:23 AM

Sara Krajewski wrote:

Harold,

My husband and I went to NYC from Charleston, SC and Perilla was one of our first planned stops. The food was great and definitely seemed to reflect your genuine personality, we wish you long success - you seem to have created a place that will thrive even after the Top Chef groupies are gone. Great beer and wine list, too!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 11:07 AM

Bryan wrote:

Harold, i loved seeing your restaurant and i think Chef Colicchio compliments were right on the money, i can tell he thinks highly of you as a chef. I have to say your challenge to the judges is something id love to see-im itching to see Chef colicchio cook.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 11:13 AM

Faye Petty wrote:

Harold, really enjoyed the reunion last night. I watched it twice! If you see Dave, asked him why he has stopped blogging! Miss him and his comments on TC. I thought he was in California but from Lee Anne's comments, he is in New York! What is he doing now? Maybe working at Perilla's? Just curious.
In a way, I am glad that Micah was voted off last week. I find it hard to believe that her mother never fixed a meatloaf for her family! And the African-American comment I think was completely uncalled for by her - loved the look she got from Cliff - it was priceless!
Glad to hear the comments on Stephen, glad to hear he is not as bad as the show made him out to be. Now if Marcel can just grow up, everything will be fine but I am afraid that is not going to happen.
What has happened to Tiffany from S1? I didn't particularly care for her but I think a lot of people are curious about her and what she is doing - still in Vegas?
Enough for now! Great blog and even greater reunion of the 3 seasons! I agree, I would love to see a cook off between you, Ilan, the winner of S3 and Chef Tom and Antonion Bourdain and maybe one other judge. I think that would be great!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 12:11 PM

Deb wrote:

I hate to cook, but I'm hooked on Top Chef-LOL!! Harold, I like you best of all 3 TC's and if I didn't live on the West Coast I'd come to Perilla.

Hey Harold and others. I understand what you're saying about Padma's scar but if anyone is interested she wrote about it in one of her blogs I think. Either that or she told how she got it and why she was proud of it when she was on "The View". She is proud of it and that's why she never covers it up so I really don't think she minds the questions about it.

NO BOOKS even. Crikey, that's ridiculous....even the bible???

posted on July 26, 2007 at 1:32 PM

Allan wrote:

Harold, you are a class act!!!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 2:12 PM

Cathy wrote:

Harold, get your menu up on the Perilla website!!! I'd love to see what you're serving there since I'll likely never get to NYC to taste your lovely food. You're the best and I wish you all the luck with your restaurant.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 2:13 PM

Wendy wrote:

I enjoyed the special. The nonverbals among the chefs were interesting, particularly regarding Padma. Obviously none of you have much respect for her and the fawning over her gets on nerves. I noticed that she had trouble laughing at the impression of her from Season Two. I dunno -- she's the show's Vanna White. What's the big deal? Her talent is looking good? I guess so, since the insights she offers regarding food are an amuse buche at best.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 2:25 PM

jen wrote:

Honestly, I think Micah is full of crap. She lied about being "American" and growing up here, so I don't believe she didn't watch the show either. Does she think we believe she just kind of wandered onto the set one day?!

Buh-bye!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 2:39 PM

gary.e wrote:

Harold: I enjoyed seeing you and Lee Anne and Dave on the show last nite. What has happened to Tiffany and Steven? also loved the plug for your restaurant, why did you name it Perilla? as always your blog was great.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 4:29 PM

Janna wrote:

My boyfriend and I ate at Perilla about 2 months ago... we snuck in Memorial Day weekend and lucked out on getting a walk-in table. I can't even explain how amazing the whole evening was. We're both starving artists, so it's rare that we go to a nice dinner, but your place is the best of both worlds—amazing food with a chill, relaxed environment. All in all... you're just really impressive as a chef and a restauranteur. Everyone should head to Perilla if they're in town—it's such a NYC treat!

posted on July 26, 2007 at 5:30 PM

polly wrote:

Love the blog. Didn't Stephen use the internet to find a recipe during Season One? I want to say it was during the Ted Allen group challenge.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 6:25 PM

sue tuite wrote:

why hasn't anyone asked the obvious? what about Elia and Ilan? okay fine, Elia feels lonely so Ilan moves in to her room - that i'll accept...but the spring in his step the next day is clearly that of a man who just got laid.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 10:55 PM

city girl wrote:

For those interested in what's served at Harold's place, I saw reviews in the New Yorker and Time Out - I'm sure they're online. Harold, you're a class act. Your reactions to the madness around you on the show always cracked me up (kinda like the Top Chef version of Jim on the the Office). Will visit the restaurant soon.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 11:31 PM

Karen L wrote:

Hi Harold! i watched the show on wed and it was great seen all of you guys again. I must say i like S1 n 2 better. havent gotten use to season 3. i dont really cook but i love the show. they are amazing chefs...and all of their personalities add more flavor to the show. Not to mention all the Good looking men. Ilan (Cute, def unpredictable), Sam (Love his Roughness n his passion for food) and of course my fave Harold, i have to mention how SEXY you look when you cook! i think you deserved to win not only for being a good check but also for your integrity and always keeping your cool...hard to do on TV. The best wishes to all the chefs!

posted on July 27, 2007 at 12:02 PM

Dana wrote:

Harold, I forgot to mention yesterday what a kick I got out of your challenge to a cook off with the judges. Haha! Way to rock the house!

Hey, how about Hung's complete inability to take any criticism? It's very entertaining to watch (tee-hee!), but it definitely makes it tough to like him or to want him to win.

I think I'd like to see Tre win the competition. He's the only "total package". He's got the talent, he's a class act, etc. I can't think of anyone else who is well-rounded like that and has a good chance. So yeah, I'm gonna go with Tre, but of course, I'd love Howie to be the dark horse that goes the distance.

posted on July 27, 2007 at 1:20 PM

Leigh wrote:

Hey, Harold. I still think Season 1 had the best chefs so far. Chef Tom can do his excellent marketing tactic of promoting each upcoming season as the highest caliber thus far, but your group had to me the most creativity, the best leadership, and the most resourcefulness. A cookoff between Season 1 & 3? Too easy. I do respect, however, that you guys have proven yourselves five times over! Yeah, be done with the cookoff thing!

Sidebar: I get the superficiality comment, but the scar deal is actually a welcome question. Now maybe people can stop endlessly asking about it on the blogs! Besides, I'm sure she doesn't mind -- it's a badge of strength for her and she shows it off!

posted on July 27, 2007 at 2:33 PM

Tanya wrote:

I loved the special! I just about died laughing at Elia and Sam's mock "judge's table" - almost as funny as the junk food taste test during your season :) I can't wait to come out to NYC again and go to Perilla - it is getting really good reviews and I am excited! I have one question, if you could possibly answer it - how long does Top Chef take to film? We only get one episode a week, so it seems like forever to us for you all to go without internet and phone, etc. I know the finale is a couple months after the finalists are picked (Vegas and Hawaii, I mean) so I was just wondering how long you are all away from your family and friends. Thanks Harold :)

posted on July 27, 2007 at 3:30 PM

Faye Petty wrote:

I'M BACK! Just finished reading Ted Allen's blog and he brought up the subject of the "sweat" running down a particularly TC chef's nose and dropping into the food. Can you answer a question for me, in most restaurants, are people not required to wear some sort of cover on their heads to prevent this sort of thing from happening? I know that back in the "good ole days", people in food preperation were required to wear hairnets. Am I dating myself or what!
I have noticed that a couple of the chef's wear a headband, and some don't. I never noticed this problem in the episodes for TC1 and 2. Surely Chef Tom has noticed this person sweating and has he not said anything about it? It will be interesting to see the next episode to see if this particular person is wearing some sort of head gear!

posted on July 27, 2007 at 3:48 PM

michael wrote:

Hi Harold! :)

You are awesome. I think your poise and attitude have been the BEST of ANYONE from any season so far. Your talent is obvious and being a New Yorker, I plan on visiting Perilla some time soon.

I pretty much find myself agreeing with everything you say, I just wish your segment showed you smiling a little bit more. ;)

Best of Luck!

posted on July 27, 2007 at 4:43 PM

Sarit wrote:

Harold - Always wanted to know how you got to Top Chef? How you found out about it, that is. Also, do you read our comments?

posted on July 27, 2007 at 4:59 PM

Veilgirl wrote:

Sometimes the show reminds me of the movie Multiplicity with Michael Keaton. Each season seems to be a bit more watered down and more about the social situations and the personal relationships then the food. I must say as much as I loved season 1, season 2 did grow on me, but in the "Smackdown" episode, it was still apparent the difference between the 2 seasons in the way people acted. I hope Season 3 grows on me more, I will continue to watch regardless.

Harold, I am so glad your restaurant is open and I wish you all the luck in the world, you seem to be one of the classiet people who have been on the show. (There are more, of course, not only you) but you never fought, showed an ego or played games, you cooked, performed the tasks and really are a Top Chef!

posted on July 27, 2007 at 9:27 PM

Kate wrote:

Hey, as good as i think your blogs are, and as excited as i am for my sis & i to visit your restaurant, im kind of confused as to why everyone on this show is overlooking a HUGE contestant. CJ has, while sometimes not being the best, consistently been super-impressive in quickfires, and has been flying under the radar lately with Tre. He's the "whole package", and yet nobody seems to remember him or consider him competition. Am I missing something, or is there a reason?

-Kate

posted on July 28, 2007 at 12:01 AM

Meg wrote:

When will the restaurant have an online menu?

I'd love to go, but I'm not 100% sure if its within my price range.

posted on July 28, 2007 at 8:17 PM

Celeste in Tampa wrote:

Congrats, Harold! I'll surely visit your restaurant next time I'm in NYC. Your grace under fire was great to watch. One of my favorite scenes was during the final challenge when you stooped to take a "swig" of liquor in the kitchen to calm yourself. Endearing! I refuse to join the Tiffany-bashing bandwaggon, but I don't think I'd ever watch another segment of TC, if you or Leann hadn't won!!

I'm a cook from a family of "old school" cooks. I rearranged my weekly card game to make sure I see TC - it's my favorite show hands down. My only concern is that TC keeps sending obviously talented chefs home of S3 (e.g. Lia) and keeping "personalities" and/or focusing on chef's looks, etc. A chef's body of work (not only the immediate challenge) must count for more on the show in order for TC to remain legit. Oh well, take care and good luck with Perilla's.

posted on July 28, 2007 at 9:52 PM

cathryn wrote:

Harold,
Would love to see you cook in competition again. What about doing a harvest show in Idaho with fresh vegetables that you pick out of the garden? Even choose a pig to slaughter. Keep it real!
c

posted on July 28, 2007 at 11:46 PM

Rachel wrote:

Harold,
I am visiting this site for the first time, and just had to log on to comment how impressed I was with professionalism you exhibited during your stay on Top Chef. I don't cook, but I'm thinking I should start now that I've become addicted to the show. It was fun to watch the "get-together" and hear that your venture is doing well. And although I know that looks aren't taken into account when the winner is chosen, I have to say that watching you made first season even more enjoyable. You must have women breaking down your doors! Enjoyed your blog. Rachel

posted on July 29, 2007 at 1:19 PM

MSflamingo wrote:

Rantings from an insomniac.....
TO FAYE PETTY- RE TIFFANY-last I heard from a friend who works there(about 1 month ago), Tiffany is running the kitchen in the very Upscale Harrah's Hotel in New Orleans. High Rollers Suites and services. Also some of the cooking in the most upscale restaurant (forgot name) in there. I ~think~ she was there to get it going again after Katrina as well.
To HAROLD-Thrilled you won, my next visit to NYC will def. include a meal at Perilla's.
To SAM-You should have won! All season long, they chastised Ilan for his narrow-minded Cuban flair. Then the Hawaiian judge likes it, so he wins the whole thing? Well, Sam, you use your exposure to make your own way, and understand that you are a hero to thousands of kids with diabetes. And now to us fat chicks who love duck fat ;)
GENERAL-Howie, love you, man, but put a freaking bandana on, wrap a dish towel around your head, whatever! The dripping sweat is a real turn-off!
Glad to see Miss high and mighty Micah go. Poor thing, never had meatloaf??? Too much emotion and whining!
Hung is a cross between TC 2 Astro-Boy & Betty, and TC 1 Stephen. At first I liked him, but his "I am never wrong" attitude is just getting old. At least Marcel & Stephen stirred emotions within one, good or bad. I just want to slap that smug right off Hung's face. Sometimes it looks like the judges would like to as well.
I also think they should have kicked off Sari (?-the cheese maker) instead of Lea. Can't make gelatin from a box??? I was yelling at the tv "read the darn box, you idiot." Long before Judge Tom said it! They should have kicked her off for the dumbest excuse ever!
As for Padma's scar-as a nurse, I've been pondering over it as well. Old tattoo? Tattoo with make-up on it but melting off in the Miami heat and humidity? Scar from an accident. But 2 things here-
1)you're right, it really isn't anyone's business. I just think it's really showing up this season where it hasn't before. and 2) I am sure they ran that question by Padma before tossing it at her in front of the whole world. Although it looked like it really hurt her emotionally to even talk about it. My sympathies, Padma.
Ok, ranting over for now, but I'll be back!

posted on July 30, 2007 at 5:19 AM

Harold wrote:

Hi Harold,

I didn't find the question so intrusive...she's become a public figure and it seems that she goes out of her way to make sure it's visible. Anyway...my favorite segment was when Elia and company did the mock quick-fire. When I first watched the episode I was tried from work but it was still entertaining. I watched a rerun during the weekend and I laughed so hard. I suppose she was referring to the feedback she got when she cooked kidneys when she asked why the beef tasted like beef. Hilarious. And to say...'well, you had 30 seconds".

I would love to see Tre win. So far he's served up some sophisticated dishes and he displays class.

posted on July 30, 2007 at 3:02 PM

Nate wrote:

I really disagree with judges putting themselves out there while they're judging for the show. Especially in a head to head competition. It could really undermine their credibility and I think that the show itself depends on judge credibility to work.

posted on July 30, 2007 at 4:09 PM

Kiraa wrote:

What's the problem with asking about Padma's scar? I was curious myself! But I checked her wikipedia and found out there.

posted on July 30, 2007 at 6:46 PM

Mark wrote:

Harold,

My wife and I ate at Perilla. Thanks for the sides. Hope you liked the chocolates and confections. I definitely had a chefgasm. Your farro risotto was fantastic. The duck was cooked perfectly. Well, you can read all that on my blog. It was all good. Nice desserts, too. The staff is superior.

I'm glad that your restaurant is going well. I love your idea of a smack down with the judges. I think that the winners from season 1,2,3 and 4 should have a head to head with the judges, Chefs Bourdain, DiSpirito, Keller, and some pastry chef. I didn't put in Tom Collichio because he'll have to judge.

Who ever they pick, Bourdain and Keller have to be on the team.

posted on July 30, 2007 at 8:51 PM

Belle wrote:

Hi Harold,

Love your blog - I always enjoy reading your insight as a former contestant. The mock competition w/ Elia & Sam as the judges had me laughing SO hard that I couldn't hear what they were saying so I rewound just that segment. I loved that! One of these days, I'll come to NYC & check out your restaurant. Congrats on your success!

posted on July 31, 2007 at 4:10 PM

Anthony McCool wrote:

Hello Harold,

I just wanted to say that you are an amazing chef who knows how to handle himself in the kitchen and be very articulate in any and all conversations during Top Chef. I wish you the best of success and I hope that the judges reconsider your offer for an exhibition match just for you and for all the wonderful chefs that have been on Top Chef. The "Watch What Happens" segment was in one word, "hysterical." I love knowing about the backstory or the chronicles as to how a story unfolds and this segment delivered it pretty good. I am positive that Season 3 will have more suprises, twists, and turns for the episodes still to come. Thanks for taking the time to read my blog and may god bless you for all of your hard work, time, energy, and dedication with Top Chef!

posted on August 1, 2007 at 7:33 PM

LindaR wrote:

"One question . . . why no books, magazines, newspapers or television? "

I'm pretty sure its because the purpose of them being there is to be in a tv show and its boring to watch people read.

As for Padma's scar, she got it because a car accident. Don't you people have Google?

posted on August 1, 2007 at 7:46 PM

Linda wrote:

Congratulations on Perilla! I thought the special was great and I was thrilled to see you have opened your place! Although it is no surprise. You were always very focused and destined for success! Watching the piece on your restaurant made me homesick and missing NYC, but you will always be our #1 TOP CHEF and we will definitely be comming by the restaurant on our next visit to NY!

Much success and happiness!

posted on August 1, 2007 at 8:35 PM

Djak wrote:

I'm not sure how everyone answered the question about Stephen's authenticity with a straight face, considering that particular host. He must be the lovechild of Troy McClure and Carson Daily. And when you throw a real, complex person like Harold on screen with him, you can't help but see how two-dimensional the guy is. I guess FN didn't quite have it in 'em to allow a similar question about Betty?

posted on August 1, 2007 at 9:45 PM

Tami wrote:

Harold....first let me say I am a fan of not only your food, kitchen style, and straight talent, but your personality and conviction. I totally agree that the general public is far too intrusive when it comes to the private lives of those with any kind of celebrity status. The segment on your restaurant was great!! It looks charming and I am very certain that I will be visiting in the future. Keep being yourself and keep up the hard work that has made you all you are. All the best to you and yours!

posted on August 1, 2007 at 11:39 PM

Single Mom wrote:

With regard to Micah not watching the show, it is my impression that she is a single mother who owns and operates her own business. I can well believe that she has no time to watch television!

posted on August 1, 2007 at 11:43 PM

Deborah Smith wrote:

Harold, I'm very late but hey. I am very happy you won in season. First off I wanted you to win, secondly, Tiffany, in my opinion, lost the "vegas" challenge.

As far as Mica comments; she really came across condescending but ignorant. With all her "experiences" she still can't cook. I'm of British/Jamaican descent and can make international dishes. So while she is "experienced" Mica you are still under exposed. I also believed you did watch the show but just got your but kicked by the "less experienced" over exposed other chefs.

Good luck with your restaurant -- I will try to make it their w/my 8 year old "experienced" son. LOL

posted on August 2, 2007 at 1:36 AM

vincent wrote:

Greetings,I recently started watching all 3 seasons ,concurrently.My favorate thus far is season one.Drama,yes,but the food and drive for excellence was always the top agenda.With you,Harold,you singularly provided this show with uptmost credibility and likability.Your genuine and your drive for excellence,along with your fellow contestants, was real.If season 2 were the pilot season-TC would have collapsed as a show.If I may say,as its fresh in my mind,Ilan is an underhanded,obnoxious bastard.(Not to mention his loudmouthed wench supporter).Ilan suredly confuses his title and fame for real talent.Nothing more pathetic than self delusion.But I blame the judges,ultimately.
I mention Ilan in order to juxtapose your nature,along with your season one peers,with him and his gang.
Having watched the latest special,I am pleased you challenged the judges.Your challenge was inspired by honest competition,I do not believe if Hung or Ilan stated that challenge that it would have the same impact,people would roll their collective eyes and be utterly annoyed.
So,thanks for winning season one,your win catapulted this now terrific show into stardom,providing it with inherent credibility-enoungh to overcome the Season 2 debacle,wether you are/were aware of it or not.
Best. E

posted on August 2, 2007 at 2:49 AM

w!L. wrote:

Harold, your blog is always one of the best to read. I totally agreed with you on the Padma question. Seriously, who cares?! It's kind of rude as it was when it was asked here on the blogs. Lastly, I ate at Perilla a month ago and me and my bf loved it! What a great place and amazing food. Keep up the great work mister. :)

posted on August 2, 2007 at 8:42 AM

Deb White wrote:

Hi Harold
loved the Episode my best friend is coming from Key West end of Aug and he was one of RI's best restauranteer's we have reservations @ Perilla on the 24th and are SO looking forward to our visit. hope you will be cooking that night and that you will be there. Was VERY happy you were season one winner and had been WAITINg to hear where your restaurant was
looking forwarf to my visit
as far a s the reunion show agreed with you about Padma's scar, would love to see a smackdown with season one and the judges even tho I loved Sam from II was glad my season ONE won the smackdown and never realized HOW isolaed you guys were. No WONDER Cliff wanted to shave Marcel's head
ciao and mucho sueto with Perilla
see you the 24th!!!!

posted on August 2, 2007 at 9:17 AM

wEnDy wrote:

Hi Harold!
Had dinner last night at Perilla and it was a wonderful experience. Very laidback atmosphere and I enjoyed the spicy duck meatballs and the skate wing immensely. Will definitely go back there soon! =)

posted on August 2, 2007 at 11:06 AM

penny wrote:

Harold,
just wanted to let you know that i have watched the entire season that you were on and I am happy that you won your very talented... good luck with your resturant in perilla my husband and I would love to visit there someday and come enjoy a meal ....best of luck

posted on August 2, 2007 at 11:35 AM

Jillian wrote:

After checking out your restaurant's web site I have got to say great beer and wine selection! Don't get me wrong, the food looks more than tasty, but La Chouffe on draft? Schnieder and Brooklyner? Great ideas that should go really nicely with the food you're serving up.

posted on August 2, 2007 at 2:21 PM

rachel wrote:

hey harold
please keep doing the blog, it rocks. good insider info and i tend to think the same way. you mentioned that you wished you were a bruiser sometimes...do you really? it doesn't seem like any of them get the same kind of respect as the more self-contained, low-key type leaders.

posted on August 2, 2007 at 6:17 PM

Sarahahahahah wrote:

Duuuuuuuude... Now I most definitely want to go to New York, even though I already wanted to go to New York, your restaurant makes me want to go even more. I love food!!! Mmkay... Bye.

posted on August 4, 2007 at 12:06 AM

Patricia Singer wrote:

I have watched TopChef from the beginning. You were always my favorite-Iam so happy you won and wish you luck in the Restaurant. I will be back in NY this fall and plan to visit. The times said to reserve three weeks out. I am an unschooled home cook,but have visited the CIA in Hyde Parkoften and knew many instructors. I was in the wine business for many years.Can you tell I am NOT young,but really appreciate yourprofessional,yet charismatic manner.You are a fine addition to NY Restaurant scene. Pat

posted on August 4, 2007 at 10:11 AM

darlene richman wrote:

Harold, just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy watching you and I wish you so much success at Perillo my husband and I cant wait to go/to meet you and to eat! love from cape cod,MA

posted on August 6, 2007 at 5:37 PM

Karen wrote:

Hey Harold,
Loved the section on Perilla. In fact, after seeing it, my husband booked our anniversary trip to NYC, and we have reservations to come dine there. Loved watching you cook on the show, and can't wait to come to Parilla!
Karen in Texas

posted on August 7, 2007 at 4:35 PM

Lisa wrote:

Hi Harold!
Wow, I've never signed a blog before but since getting hooked on Top Chef during your season win, I thought I'd go check out how to make 'contact'. NO ONE compares to your finesse and understated confidence (not to mention your talent...and dashing good looks!). One day I hope to dine w/my hubby at your establishment. Lisa in San Antonio, Texas

posted on August 15, 2007 at 7:58 PM

Jennifer wrote:

Hi Harold! I was rooting for you through the whole first season of Top Chef and was thrilled when you won! I was so happy to hear you opened your own place in NYC! I recently dined there for my birthday! I LOVED it! I'm telling everyone I know to visit Perilla! You are a very talented chef! Keep up the good work!

posted on August 15, 2007 at 11:30 PM