Linda wrote:

I am angry and will not watch this show ever again this is the worse judges table you have ever had and it was the most unfair. Brian and CJ clearly did nothing but for some reason you let them stay. CJ would not have won if it wawsn't for Tre' and then he threw him under the bus and I will not look at it again. I have watched for all three years and I won't watch again.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:25 PM

Marilyn wrote:

How could you vote off Tre, he was the best chef you had on the show and the only one who did not cause drama. He was always cool and collected and his dishes were excellent. I will not watch the show after this week, when you voted him off you lost half your audience!

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:37 PM

METallent wrote:

Andrea, as an amateur foodie, I would like to say I'm sorry that you had to read through all the drivel that was posted last week, and I wish you many pages of apologies this week! Like you, I couldn't read the hateful things that were posted.

I wish you had been on the second episode of the Restaurant Wars, as I would have loved to have your imput.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:09 AM

jane ryan wrote:

Not everyone presented their mix in's for the Cold Stone Ice Cream challenge; Can you tell me why

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:18 AM

Victor Infante wrote:

I'm not sure the discontent was entirely about Ms. Strong's credentials, as much as it was the fact that, no matter how qualified she is, they believed she was taking time away from hearing more of Daniel Boulud. Which is perhaps unfair, but then again, Springsteen's opening acts usually get the short shrift, too.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:30 AM

eric76 wrote:

Naturally, people react in a variety of ways to criticism, but one thing is certain -- if someone is confident in what they are doing and are criticized by people who know little or nothing about them, the best thing to do is probably to ignore them or to answer their challenges directly.

A response of indignant whining does not help one's case at all. I would bet that most readers, myself included, are put off by her response.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:45 AM

Andy wrote:

Ugh. These Top Chef watchers (myself included) are like the jerks in the bleachers at Yankees Stadium - fanatical and boorish and rude as hell. TC did you a disservice by cutting your presence in the last episode to just a snippet of video (in which you were associated with the overtly rude Christopher Ciccone) followed by a reading of your criticisms of the chefs - viewers didn't exactly get to know you as a person or even as a food critic. It's always amazing how nasty people are willing to be when they don't really know anything about the person they're attacking... Anyway, hopefully you'll find that you can brush it off pretty quickly; clearly, people's attacks have nothing to do with you - it's just a chance for them to defend their favorite contestants and vent a little hostility in the process.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:51 AM

pms wrote:

It's amazing that people who come to the internet to read about a TV show - who are commenting on a BLOG! - do not actually seem to understand the blogosphere. People: Would we call PADMA "just" some blogger?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:02 AM

Lisa wrote:

Andrea, I would be happy to see you and other critics serve on a judges panel in the future but when Daniel Boulud is on Top Chef, viewers want to hear from him, not you. I don't think it is a personal attack on your character or accomplishments for viewers to take that position and to take issue with the tone and substance of your comments. Suck it up.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:05 AM

s.p. wrote:

I also still stand by my impression from her blog that she's horrible and I did take the time to do research and sorry, still not impressed.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:15 AM

Corey wrote:

Andrea,

I don't question your credentials. To be honest, I don't really care about any blogger's background as long as his or her blog is interesting and well-written. Take Rocco's blog, for example. Even though I am an occasional Top Chef viewer, I don't know much about the restaurant industry, and I had never seen Rocco on TV before. Neither his past nor your credentials makes much difference to me. But I was very impressed when I read Rocco's blog, because it was thoughtful, well-written, and written in such a way that I immediately liked Rocco as a person. He had no need to explain his background to make a positive impression on me. Unfortunately, despite your credentials, I did not have the same reaction to your blog. I enjoy snarkiness, and perhaps you have a lot of talent, but in this particular case, your blog fell flat. The way you went on and on and on about Brian's perspiration, which you remarked upon six or seven times on three different pages (am I being unfair?), was probably what turned me off the most, but as a whole your blog was, to put it kindly, uninspiring, and I was not motivated to read more of your work. You can't blame my ignorance of your background for that.

Nevertheless, your response to the readers' comments has made me decide to reconsider your work. To put it simply, since you care what we think about you, I will try to be more sensitive in return. This "blogging thing" seems to confuse a lot of people. When a real human being appears on a TV show or writes a blog that thousands of people read, people tend to forget that one real human being is simply trying to communicate with other people. There's no need to blow it out of proportion and start a war between good and evil or something like that. I will try to read your commentary in the spirit in which it was intended.

In Restaurant Wars Part 2, both teams received a letter from you offering suggestions. I have to admit that my initial reaction was unfair, but after giving the matter some thought, I think that both teams should have been grateful for your input. As for me, I would like to thank you for helping them.

I'll try to be more openminded in the future. Keep the blogs coming.

Corey

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:18 AM

Somewhere in California wrote:

Sorry - but reading your bio doesn't improve my opinion of your blog. I didn't comment last week, but was very tempted. Why? Not because I doubted your credentials, but because it was just plain mean spirited. A poor attempt at humor at the expense of others. You can bring forth your bio and credentials, but it doesn't change anything about my opinion of your blog...mean spirited and poorly written.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:28 AM

John wrote:

I was one of those persons who chose to do a bit of research on Ms Strong's background before I posted anything. Many people were upset that Ms Strong appeared to preempt Chef Daniel with her blog and the use of it to criticise the chefs. I did not have a problem with that. Chef Daniel is one of the Great Ones. However in giving the chefs proper direction with criticism, he's a bit too nice.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:34 AM

Alex wrote:

I think you were harshly judged because you were incredibly critical and downright personally insulting to some of the people on the show. Brian especially. If you cant admit that, then i dont exactly see why you deserve an apology, your resume doesnt excuse your rudeness. As the comments on last weeks blog prove. Your credentials dont mean anything when it comes down to it. If the general public that reads your articles and blogs dislike them and your attitude, then it really doesnt matter what medals or previous experience you have. I should think the sheer bulk of negative posts directed your way might have illustrated that. and about Dining for Darfur. Im sorry but your hearts in the right place, But i hardly think that you convincing restaurants to give some money, and then wining and dining at some posh fundraiser is hardly the most noble of pursuits. I mean your way of helping genocide victims is to throw parties where you and your friends can eat really good food, and alleviate yourself of any guilt at the fact that you really arent doing anything to help over there. You want to know whos making a difference over there? The rescue and health workers, doctors, and volunteers risking their lives to help these people. So please spare us your "Look at how great a person i am, Even Don Cheadle thinks So!". That you used that event to defend yourself here is actually rather telling as to why you did it in the first place.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:56 AM

Crystal wrote:

It never once occurred to me to wonder about your credentials or question your right to judge. I didn't know your food background and stupidly assumed you had nothing more than a love of food and the show. I thought that was enough. The point of being a Top Chef I thought was ultimately pleasing regular people coming into your place and eating a GREAT meal. On that note I thought it was a nice and refreshing choice. I thought the criticisms were right on and being they were all given a second chance, I thought it was helpful too.
Thanks for your judging

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:07 AM

kriselda jarnsaxa wrote:

I think the producers did you a huge disservice by not mentioning any of your credentials when introducing your comments as an element of the judging. I know that I - and many others - felt that it seemed strange to be focusing so much on what a "guest blogger" had to say rather than getting more input from Daniel Boloud, but knowing more of your background, it helps explain some of that emphasis.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:23 AM

Yellowflower wrote:

This was a Very disappointing night! Tre deserves to be in the final! Tre was the top chef in several challenges, more than Casey, Brian and CJ. To judge him on a night that was passed off to him because he stepped up to the challenge of being executive chef (when his teammates didn't), is not right. The chef's should not be judged on their performance for one night, especially doing a continuous challenge! I agree with the viewer who stated that they won't watch anymore. If the judges eliminate talent based on a bad night with teammates who are only worried about themselves, I don't want to see it happen. Tre exuded all the components of a Top Chef, more than any of the past winners! He didn't get a fair chance. Tre, I wanted to see you in the finals, you gave your best and I'm sorry you were robbed of the "Top Chef" title, but I think you're a Top Chef and you'll prove to the judges what a mistake they've made.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:32 AM

spetitt wrote:

"negativity and nastiness on the Bravo blog and elsewhere is unfortunate, and I really do wish people did a bit of research about who I am and how I am qualified, before they lashed out at me. Just a thought."

Touch'e Ms Strong, Touch'e. Maybe if you'd done your research on Top Chef, and focused on the food and not the candles or table cloths or someone sweating...maybe if you'd written your blog review in a professional manner befitting a person of your 'experience' and not in a snarky amateur food blogger style..then maybe the comments would reflect the review.

Also, as a writer, your piece should speak for itself. Each and everyone. To defend your piece with your resume is little pathetic, dont' you think?

Was anyone else offended by her little, 'just a thought' at the end there? These 3 little words soldified for us all that GAWKER is right, ANDREA STRONG IS A HATER. (Yes, I did my research..there are these things called Search Engines, which were probably invented a little after Billy Idols last cd/album)

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:51 AM

Jimmy Park wrote:

I think there was a bit of dry humor coming from Andrea Strong with regards to her remarks about Brian's perspiration. Relax a little bit people! I didn't see anything really off about her comments about the food.It was clearly written...

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:53 AM

Matt wrote:

Ms. Strong,
Your credentials and experience don't negate the fact that your writing is bad. Albeit, there are lots of bad writers who have made a living at it (just look at "The New Yorker"...), but the writing on these Top Chef blogs has been in general top notch, and your entry sticks out like a sore thumb. Most of the bloggers are admirable unpretentious, while still being witty and engaging. Your drivel may fly with New Yorkers who squeeked English degrees out of their safety school and then took soul-devouring, high-paying jobs, and yet still think they're the world's authority on culture, but I'm sorry, for this underpaid foodie, gratuitous adjectives does not good writing make.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:56 AM

Gustav wrote:

How ironic it is to see Andrea Strong bemoan the "negativity and nastiness" of the comments sent her way when those comments were in response to her very own negative and nasty review.

Protip: don't send the dish out if you can't taste it.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:59 AM

Timothy wrote:

No Andrea - you *are* a hack - if you need to reference an article four years ago - you didn't make it, your opinion is 'snarky' and you have no legitimate claim to be a judge on TC....

...why is this hard to see? do people pay to read your blog? I think not - which makes you a mere NYC hack trying to get free dinner....

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:03 AM

Lisa in Tx wrote:

I don't and didn't question Ms Strong's credentials. I judged, as did she, based on what she presented to us - her blog critique, which I found to be unnecessarily nasty, without the mitigating tone of affection that others who've mastered the snark can deliver.

One shouldn't have to look up a resume and read someone's life's work in order to deliver an opinion on a piece of writing - the words should, in fact, speak for themselves.

Or to put it in Top Chef terms, the proof is in the food - and your food was not appealling.

I think you came to this challenge with the idee fixe that being biting would elevate your words. Instead, I think you got bitten.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:09 AM

Kit G. wrote:

Ms. Strong --

Suck it up. You put it out there in the public eye, and the public didn't care for it. Did anyone say anything more savage than you, yourself did about the contestants? Not that I saw.

Personally, I wouldn't have cared if Hung's monkey had written the blog, so long as it was well-written and informative. It wasn't. Knowing your credentials (which I did before reading) made no difference either way.

Either grow a thicker skin or don't put yourself in situations where you're subject to criticism you'd rather not hear. Don't dish it out if you're not willing to eat a big serving of it, yourself.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:50 AM

judy stokes wrote:

what happened with the judges this week? clearly too much wine. tre is top chef his other team mates in the resturants clearly are not top chefs i canknow longer enjoy the show the top chef was sent home........

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:14 AM

Linda Bunker wrote:

Was really sorry to see Tre go. He was one of the best Chefs.I thought maybe brian would have been the one. Love the show and the drama that goes along with it....

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:41 AM

Chester wrote:

Andrea was mean and rude in her blog, so the people commenting were mean and rude back to her. It's simple as that.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:49 AM

Bonny wrote:

You're going to be an attorney and the comments to your blog were disheartening? Please. Give me a break. I'll say this, though, dissembling is certainly a tactic. Way to distract from the core arguments.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:13 AM

Donna wrote:

I am a big fan of top chef. And when you disqualified tre, It made me take a good look at your judgement. Brian should have went home. And all the judges allowed cj to get away with what he did. Besides that tre is a better chef than brian. You can be harsh at times and maybe you should take a look at your judgements. I respect you as woman and also a professional but let's face it nobody is perfect. But that does not take away form last night episode the show really sucked at the end when you sent tre home not good bad judgement!!!!!! I have been watching top chef from the beginning have you?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:49 AM

Alison wrote:

So you're hurt by the viewer comments? For a snarky blogger you sure have thin skin, which is hilariously ironic. Just goes to show how much of a manufactured persona you are as a blogger - quite different from your 'real' side. I didn't read your bio because quite frankly I don't visit the Top Chef site to read excuses. Did you read the contestants' bios before you unload your tirades on them, and us? Do you consider any chef's background and achievements to factor into your 'reviews'? I'll bet not. You review based on your reaction to your meal. So it should come as no surprise that we responded based on your writing. Please refrain from future Top Chef appearances. You'd be doing us, and yourself, a favor. Thank you.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:53 AM

sandra wrote:

Ms Strong,
I am surprised that with such credentials, your experiences weren't visible in your blog. In fact, as a blogger, you should have talked more about things that you witnessed and that were not shown on TV, to give us more insight. As a food critics, you should have explained more about how the food tastes, if the different courses fits together, with the right wines... As a journalist, you should adopt a writing style which is appealing to the large public, us.
I believe your decision to put up your resume is an odd response. At the end, what makes your professional success or your failure is not your credentials, but public appreciations of your writing. Putting up your resume sounds more like a free self-promotion than a professional response to criticism, and also tells something about your ego.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:56 AM

Keiran wrote:

I agree with what Alex wrote above. I was totally put off by Andrea's bio and the self-serving accolades. Especially "Dining for Darfur" - the true heroes are the UNSUNG heroes, the NGOs and on-the-ground journalists. Not some blogger with a web campaign who has probably eaten food worth more than the $100,000 raised. People would be better off sending money to Red Cross than contributing to a blogger's campaign.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:01 AM

Maria wrote:

Um, No. I don't care about your credentials. Your experience was not the issue for me at all. I hated your blog because it was overly mean, pretentious, even disgusting. It made me feel sorry for you, because you must be a tiny miserable person.
The fact that you might be a tiny miserable person with some actual experience does not change my mind one iota. My opinion remains the same, and I wish to REVOICE my plea to Bravo:
PLEASE, NEVER EVER give this woman airtime again! And that goes double for Madonna's coattail-riding brother!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:17 AM

Lori wrote:

Would you care for a nice selection of cheeses with that whine?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:43 AM

PeachPie wrote:

Andrea, I posted last week, but my comments weren't about your blog because, to be honest, I didn't even read it. I heard enough of what it said from the snippets I saw on the show to get the gist of it.

I also didn't read what other said last week about you and your post....I'll have to go back and do that now.

I will say that, In the world of blogging, there are enough snarks out there. I got over the novelty of bloggers who consistently use razor sharp, mean spirited wit long ago. I'd far and away rather read comments like those on Rocco's blog, which I found thoughtful and well written. That's just me. I'm sure you have your loyal fan base, and that's fine. Everyone's entitled to their own style.

When writing with cutting wit about this show, there are some, like Bourdain, who can get away with it. I'm just taking a guess here, but I think it could be because TC viewers already know and love him and know what to expect. Also, there's that underlying belief that he has a deep affection and respect for the contestants. If Bourdain calls someone a knucklehead, it's like your big brother yelling at you.

As I said, I'll have to go back and read what people posted about this last week.

I guess, in the end, just goes to prove again that TC viewers are very protective of their contestants and the show.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:44 AM

Dawn wrote:

Frankly, I'm glad it's been a bummer for her reading the comments. Think of what a "bummer" it must have been for poor Brian to be slammed over and over again on national television for sweating. His sweat was an involuntary reaction over which he had no control. And he was called out for it and humiliated, repeatedly. So it seems only fitting that Ms. Strong should feel at least a little bad about viewers' reaction to her meanness, over which she had complete control.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:48 AM

B. wrote:

Don't assume that everyone who commented negatively did not read your bio first. I did and it did not excuse your personal attacks and petty comments. Nor did it excuse your poor choice of company, in dining with Chris Ciccone. Face it you went national and bombed.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:13 AM

Sue wrote:

Andrea, I'm sorry you can't take it as much as you like to dish it. Especially seeing all the snide reviews you give others. I do feel bad for you because I am not a hater and don't just sit around and throw stones. In fact, every week I go to Anthony Bourdain's site and LOVE him and obsess about how incredibly witty and hilarious and sharp and PERFECT he is.

But you.. first of all, your first impression to us was someone being mean just for the sake of your own supposed "humor". To make jokes at other's expense without producing any real feedback. That isn't cool.

By the way - don't you mean "choose" not "chose"? But who knows, I'm not a professional or anything.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:16 AM

Susan Dobbins wrote:

Andrea, How telling that you feel letting us know how important you are in the "foodie world" excuses what was a rude commentary on the challenge. I certainly will not fawn over you and apologize for feeling you did a poor job just because you are considered knowledgable in this arena. I hope that all of your writings are not so hatefilled towards those you are critiquing. The judges have all found ways to comment and critique without saying downright mean things just to get a laugh.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:26 AM

trog_mm wrote:

Ms. Strong,

It wasn't your credentials that I questioned, but your manners. You were rude and unnecessarily nasty in your critiques of these "restaurants". Not to mention, extremely harsh in attacking the chefs personally. Perhaps it made for good TV or good (bad) editing, but to me you just came off as a mean jerk. You and your dinner guests were not presented in a very good light.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:01 AM

Alice wrote:

I would just like to put my thoughts out there on the controversy of having Andrea Strong have such an important part in last weeks show. Had they not edited more of her comments into the judges table and more from the judges this firestorm might have been avoided.

This is a reality show, not a restaurant. While her opinions were mostly on point, I prefer a blog from the judges, previous judges and previous contestants. They comment from their experience with the show, not a one time visit to a set.

As a faithful viewer of this show from the beginning I just wanted to explain why I think reviewers have no part in criticizing or commenting on the show. Thank you.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:08 AM

Sara wrote:

Andrea, despite all your credentials, my impression remains the same. But I didn't respond to make you feel bad. Actually, I read everyone's blog on this site and have never ever written anything negative to anyone at all. In fact, I'm one of the few who have defended Ilan, until that is he stopped writing altogether.

But when I read your review it made me feel mad and defensive. Which is silly because I've never met the contestants before. You were trying to be funny when describing Brian's sweating, which wasn't funny and seemed almost desparate. As opposed to Chef Bourdain, who is a writing genius and seems to NEVER offend even as brutally honest as he can be. Its a difficult skill.

But I believe you were given an unfair chance. Mostly because we disliked the judges using your opinions as FACT at the judging table. Because you are just one person with your own opinion (no matter how sharply contrasting it may be to mine). The fact that they used it as fact when Chef Boloud sitting right there was quite infuriating. Your monkey guest at the table didn't help our impression either. So it was basically a culmination of several things, but it is what it is.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:08 AM

Heather wrote:

1) I was on the verge of writing a complimentary comment last week on your blog. Your descriptions of the food gave me a better sense of what was being served and how it must have tasted. At the time, I was going to say I wished you would continue blogging. Unfortunately, I didn't, so this note just sounds like a "I always supported you" kindof comment.

2) HOWEVER, after reading your current note, I am glad I didn't.

A critic getting her feelings hurt because other critics comment on her work? Are you kidding me?!?! You can't make up this stuff. Did you think the cooks get their feelings hurt because of your blog? If they did, what would you have thought of them if they had whined "but, but, but...you don't know anything about me...wah, wah, wah!"

Whatever your credentials, you obviously need a new line of work.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:10 AM

Deborah R wrote:

I'm curious--did Ms. Strong research all the cheftestants before critiquing their restaurant efforts? I doubt it. And her review was much harsher than anything I've read on these blogs. Brian had to endure being told he needed deodorant on national television. At least Ms. Strong is reading these comments in the privacy of her home.

As for her swipe at the ignorant viewers who didn't bother to check out her credentials before reacting to her blog: I am the customer, Ms. Strong. I'm "buying" a Bravo product--Top Chef--and taking my valuable time to visit the Web site and read the blogs and post my comments. It's not my job to research the bloggers. It's your job to tell me who you are and it's the job of the producers to properly introduce you. It may come as a shock, but no, we don't all live in New York, subscribe to the Times/Post, or read blogs on restaurants that are hundreds of miles from our homes.

I watch Top Chef and read/post to these blogs for fun--not to be chastised by people who enjoy dishing out "negativity and nastiness" but can't handle the karmic consequences. If the goal here was to make us hang our heads in shame that we picked on the poor blogger, it's had the opposite effect on me. I didn't get to taste the food but both the "mystery blogger" and the "monkey" designer have left a bad taste in my mouth. I hope this is the last time the producers serve this meal.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:02 AM

Edwin wrote:

Ms Strong,

First, people with much stronger credentials than yours have had their judgments questioned. Just look at the "debates" about global warming or the harm of smoking.

Second, I, at least, was responding to what I believe to have been either badly thought out or completely irrelevant comments about decor and perspiration. I just happen to think that your comments about Brian's perspiring (warmth + jacket = perspiration) and the decor were both tactless and irrelevant. It's likely that many people were responding in a way which they considered to be in-kind. I don't know how long you've been blogging, but the Internet is far older than the Web; the people in usenet and the various newsgroups have long known that reasoned discussion is extremely fragile, much more so than it is in older media.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:18 AM

marslea wrote:

Hi there Andrea:
Personaly i felt you were right on with your coments last week.
You my new found friend on Bravo know your stuff.
keep it up.
Thank you keep it up!
Marian

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:18 AM

Georgia wrote:

Actually, knowing that the blogger is a "professional" writer makes it worse for me. Some of the stuff read out loud during judge's table last week was pretty embarrassing, e.g. "I don't wanna eat off Billy Idol." I guess we should chalk one up to her editors for hammering her writing into something fit for publication in national outlets.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:34 AM

Dan in ATL wrote:

Padma... (I've misspelled your name everytime until now so I apologize)

It was no offense to the blogger, but it just makes bad TV. If I want to read web content, I go to the web. If I want to watch someone read web content to me, I go to church...

Why not have her be a special guest judge? The one you had added very little. It just seemed wierd to all of a sudden surrender all of your thoughts to some unseen, unknown (to most), web blog writer.

I guess the best word to discribe it would be odd.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:47 AM

John L. wrote:

Ms. Strong,

Despite your impressive white collar credentials, in the food service business it hardly suffices. A "crash course in everything from payroll to inventory" and a total of 2 years in the business total (only front of the house to boot) grants only minor merit to your acerbic comments—if any at all. If you thought 15 hour days of management were tough try washing dishes, deep prep or shuttling 50 pound buckets of ice up and down 2 flights of stairs for an equal amount of time (well not quite—but almost). I would not expect even a scintilla of respect (or worse pity) from those of us living the day-to-day reality only to scrape up this month’s rent. You haven’t earned that right.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:54 AM

carol wrote:

Are you kidding me? Tre was the most talented chef left and now he is gone?! I was under the understanding that this show was to find/discover an amazing "top chef". There are a few left (C.J., Brian) but none the callaber of Tre. I think the producers did a total disservice to the show and the fans by letting Tre go.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:01 PM

Daniel Scholl wrote:

Ms. Strong,

I find it interesting that you feel it is okay to sit back and lob criticism at others yet get offended when it is returned to you. Perhaps you feel you are above reproach. If so, I would ask why. You have nothing that makes you very special.

Also, if you do on fact own the skills to be a qualified food critic, why not offer constructive criticism? You offered nothing of value to the chefs or if you did it was so deeply buried in mean spiritedness, hatred and vitriol that it served no other purpose to amuse you and your party. That in fact makes you not a critic but a curmudgeon.

If you want to only take shots at others but don't want them taken at you, don't publish a Blog and don't go on TV. And remember, you reap what you sow. Perhaps if your comments and been negative but fair and not simply just vile for that sake of exposure than the response to you would have been returned in kind. In short I say to you, grow up or go away.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:01 PM

Aww wrote:

A whole page reserved for your credentials? How sad for you. Unfortunately, your writing spoke for itself. I wonder if any of the contestants can rebut your nasty review by sending YOU their list of credentials? hmm..

By the by, if you don't like what we have to say, then stop coming here and damaging Top Chef's credibility.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:10 PM

Julie wrote:

Top Chef has always been a favorite of mine, that is until last night. Letting Tre go made it very hard to believe in this show. I guess a cook who sweats in the food is much more appropriate than having a real chef move forward. It was very disappointing and now I have Wednesday nights free to find a new "real" show to watch.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:31 PM

Stephen wrote:

I love all these comments. I am so sick when holier than thou hipster wannabes think they can get away with their banal critiques posing as wit.

No one doubts or even cares about your credentials Ms. Strong, if that even is your real name. What we care about is that you wrote a dreadful blog that wasn't funny, or witty, or biting. It was just old and tired. It's obvious you think quite highly of yourself yet at the same time have low self-esteem, a recipe for disaster on a human level.

I am also glad the responders called you out on your inane Darfur nonsense.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:37 PM

Shirlo wrote:

Dear Ms. Strong,

Grow a thicker skin.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:46 PM

Annie wrote:

Umm.. negativity and nastiness? Gee, guess who started it Andrea? If you go to any other web blog on Top Chef, you will see that we are perfectly warm and welcoming to Rocco, Sam, Carlos, my dear beloved Anthony and all the rest. But unwarranted attacks on our dear chefs will surely spur Warranted attacks on you and your writing (and your taste for that matter).

Well if it makes you feel any better we "amateurs" are not the only ones who thought you were nasty. Check out Ted Allen's blog. So.. feel better now?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 12:51 PM

Jill wrote:

Andrea for someone who enjoys writing: "Brian Note to self, Get thee some Right Guard" (on national television no less) you are actually surprised at all the negativity thrown your way?? Huh?

Andrea perhaps you should write note to self: Get thee some writing skills and a thick skin.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:06 PM

John L. wrote:

Ms. Strong,

Despite your impressive white collar credentials, in the food service business it hardly suffices. A "crash course in everything from payroll to inventory" and a total of 2 years in the business total (and front of the house no less) grants only minor merit to your acerbic comments—if any at all. If you thought 15 hour days of management were tough try washing dishes, deep prep or shuttling 50 pound buckets of ice up and down 2 flights of stairs for an equal amount of time (well not quite—but almost). I would not expect even a scintilla of respect (or worse pity) from those of us living the day-to-day reality only to scrape up this month’s rent. You haven’t earned that right.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:25 PM

AJ wrote:

Um, I don't think people were concerned about her credentials. They were put off by her mean-for-the-sake-of-being-mean "review" of the chefs performance & her amazing self importance. I, for one, was far more disgusted by her comments because I know her creds. You would think that someone with her experience would have something better to write than pure snark. It's like when politicians say "I've been doing this for years, so I can call the other guy an idiot." No, you can't. If you've been doing this for years, your food reviews should have more to do with food, than a server with a sweating problem. Get real.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:39 PM

MK wrote:

I started watching Top Chef in the second season and have avoided missing an episode since. Generally, I've found that the judges seem to be pretty accurate in who they eliminate from week to week. But last night it seems to me that they made a huge error in judgment. Tre has shown himself to be one of the most accomplished chefs of this season (if not the most accomplished) week in and week out. When one compares him with the chefs that now remain on the show, it seems unbelievable that he is no longer a contender on the show. Clearly the wrong decision was made in my opinion, and to be frank, I honestly could care less about watching the remaining episodes this season. You've eliminated the one real professional that I actually saw on the show this season. No one else has even come close to demonstrating the level of accomplishment one expects from a Top Chef.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:46 PM

Manny wrote:

Ms. Strong,
It seems unlikely that you are unaware of the irony in complaining about being "judged harshly."

While a restaurant reviewer (or blogger) should absolutely be honest and critical (and snarky), it is difficult to imagine how "Get thee some Right Guard" is a fair or reasonable criticism. Your repeated comments about his perspiration - which while likely not appetizing was not under his control - attenuate your claim to be above "negativity and nastiness."

Your dining companion was apallingly rude. Diners should absolutely register their complaints about a dish; any responsible restaurant wants to make their guests happy and needs to know if they are not. But comments such as "if that's a vegetable medley, then I'm a monkey" are not about registering dissatisfaction. They are a power play.

I am quite certain that Frank Bruni's dining companions do not behave like that.

If you wish to be treated like a professional, acting like one would be a great first step.

-Manny

posted on August 23, 2007 at 1:54 PM

thea wrote:

credentials or not, it's not nice to criticize too harshly. you said you couldn't read the blogs anymore because the opinions and criticism of the other bloggers about you offended and hurt you, and yet, you can just express criticisms to other people off handedly just like that. you came off as somebody who just want to say anything to put the contestants down.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:23 PM

jenny wrote:

Andrea- This is your second post and second misspelling. "More faith in the Bravo producers to chose"? Really? The word choose has two o's. I'm going to challenge you to find your spelling error in your first blog. As a journalist myself between your beyond sloppy sentence structure, lack of any apparent education in writing (might want to pick up a copy of Strunk and White)You drop prepositions, dangle everything etc, etc. I am dumbfounded you have the gaul to write in public. One of your "postings" would not even get a passing grade in a freshman jourmalism seminar. It's funny you feel so comfortable being nasty to the chefs, and yet when people point out your very large amount of hackiness you act all hurt. HILARIOUS! My editor would dump you on the street!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:32 PM

Stella wrote:

Ms. Strong:

Do you really think that the people outside of your “foodie world” care about your so-called credentials? The viewers of this show – who are real, everyday people in the real world – were offended last week by your personal attacks on Brian. So he perspired. So what. You claim to have opened many a restaurant. Are we to assume that you did not ever sweat or get nervous? Even on your first night?? Or are you really just that perfect?

I researched you last week and read your “credentials” and I wasn’t impressed with you then. You’re a corporate lawyer turned food blogger. Big deal. So you raised money for Darfur. “Rais[ing] awareness and funds for humanitarian relief” does not make you a nice person, nor does it prove that you are gracious, well-mannered, courteous, or respectful. Your mean personal comments about something a person cannot help – not to mention the company you keep (i.e. the exceedingly rude and arrogant Christopher Ciccone) – exposed you for what you are – a food snob who makes snarky comments to prove how superior she is. And now you’ve shown us “credentials” to prove it. Awesome! Even now you don’t have the courtesy to apologize for saying things that – maybe, just maybe – embarrassed and humiliated someone on a personal level. All you’ve done is come back here whining and crying about “the negativity and nastiness on the Bravo blog ” about you and then posted your resume as if that should excuse you for your vulgar comments.

You have very thin skin for a blogger and a former lawyer who has put herself in the public eye. If you’re going to keep making nasty remarks about people you’d better grow a thicker skin, sweetie. What’s the old saying? You can dish it out but you can’t take it.

Finally, Bravo made a huge mistake using your blog as “opinion” at the judges’ table, when Chef Boulud’s opinion was barely credited. Padma is responsible as well for embarrassing Brian by the relish with which she read your comments. Shame on her. And shame on her for having you blog in her place. Again.

P.S. How’s that Right Guard holding up?

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:35 PM

Nilo wrote:

Hi Padma,

I'm not sure Ms. Strong would have been so questioned had it not been for the fact that one of the top chefs in the US (arguably in the world) was there as Guest Judge - Daniel Boulud. Yet we were never shown very much of him speaking. We heard lots and lots from Ms. Strong's comments; but it felt that it was at the expense of Chef Boulud.

Of the two, it was HIS words I wanted to hear. Especially since Ms. Strong's blog was then put up here - so we had a chance to read all of it again. But we never had a chance to hear or read much of Chef Boulud's opinions.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:38 PM

Benjamin Keyser wrote:

I thought Andrea's writing (read out on the show) was clever and descriptive. I have been reading Andrea's blog for quite some time and its impressive. Andrea was a great choice and really elevated the show.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:38 PM

crazylove wrote:

Hi Andrea,

I know that last week must have been dispiriting, but I think that a lot of it wasn't personal towards you. Most of my ire at the producers featuring a blogger's opinions so prominently arose from the fact that the guest judge that week was one of the premiere chefs in the world, and we heard very little of his comments but a great deal of yours. No offence meant, because I'm sure that you are very knowledgeable, but it felt like a huge opportunity that just got missed.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:49 PM

S. wrote:

Personally, I assumed you had some credentials or the producers would not have asked you to appear on the show. That being said, I really don't care what your credentials are when I can't even finish reading your blog and I will not be chastised like a child for my opinion. You may have written other blogs/articles that were great, however, this one will not be included on that list. I still say you, and your dinner partner, were rude, crude, and unacceptable in your behavior. Your blog was harsh, mean-spirited, crude, and gross. It's almost like you decided to try to create extra drama and ended up with Hung's egg vinaigrette on your face. Now you defend yourself with your resume? Please. Don't insult me or the other TC fans. How about you apologize to the fans of TC and to the cheftestants for your personal attacks?

I'm sorry to say, that this season of Top Chef has really turned me off, and it seems to get worse as the season progresses. The only redeeming value lies in Chef Bourdain and Ted Allan. I don't think I'll watch next season.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 2:50 PM

andrea 2 wrote:

I didn't question your background Andrea, although it would have helped if Top Chef had actually give you an introduction rather than calling you "a blogger." But I did think your writing was bad. Although I imagine you were working on a tight deadline, I didn't enjoy your comments which were "snarky/attempting to be witty, but not quite making it."

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:27 PM

ImpalaMaMa wrote:

What happened to Padmas arm? Never noticed that huge scar till last night...Sad Tre' is gone, wrong choice.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:53 PM

Richard Prince wrote:

Tre is a class person. And this is not a competition for class people. Hung and Howie take people down and destroy them to cover for their incompetencies and the judges are totally blind to their arrogance and cockyness. The fualt really is with the judges. Everyone in the viewing public see right through this guise and smoke screen of finger pointing blame.

And I don't buy Howie's line about being competitive. He is NOT competitive when it comes to being a leader, a team player, and half the time he screws up his food. And when he messes up as a chef, he goes on the attack to destroy someone else instead of taking criticism as a man or an creative person.

Hung is exactly the same way -- he cannot take criticism, he blames others or he tells his critics "they didn't understand" or "they just don't understand complexitiy" blah, blah, blah... Hung has never won the respect of any of the guest chefs with his food.

That's why is is such a shame that Tre didn't get beyond them. But what a class guy -- he didn't complain, he said as the executive chef he takes all the blame (even though he didn't deserve it) and he was very respectful to the judges upon leaving. It makes the judges look sooooo bad because they are not good at doing their jobs.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 3:56 PM

DL wrote:

She's got a habit of hitting back at critics of her writing. She picked a fight with Pete Wells, then of Food & Wine, now of the New York Times.

Her rebuttal.

Wells was gentleman enough not to respond.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 4:08 PM

JK wrote:

I didn't care about your experience or lack of experience. Your background was irrelevant to me. I just thought that your blog was poorly written. You were trying to be Bourdain, but it failed miserably. I think it's quite ironic that you like to dole out very mean-spirited comments but can't take a bit of criticism. And your response to the all of the TC fans incenses me even more. You pulled an "Ilan" defending yourself. You just talked about your creds, but never looked at your own work, which was what people couldn't stand about you. You seem pettier than ever. I hope this experience has humbled you, and you will think twice about writing your future reviews. What comes around goes around.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:00 PM

Gretchen wrote:

I have a message for Padma:

I'd like you to know that I have enjoyed your part in Top Chef this season. It seems that the producers have finally figured out how to show that you are part of the team, and a warm and intelligent person. I have enjoyed watching you and hearing your comments each week. I hope you will be able to return to blogging soon. I think you will find that you have a lot of fans here.

Gretchen

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:20 PM

Beckie wrote:

That was pathetic (did you write the "Tina" part too) and only served to turn people against you more. It is as if you are trying to say look I waited tables for two years I have the right to personally attack people who are trying to do their best. Your rebuttal only shaowed what a sensitive hack you are. Suck it up! Be a big girl! Pack you knifes and go.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:26 PM

Kate wrote:

I am glad Top Chef seems to listen to peoples' posts - because I think you need guidance and direction!! Please, please Top Chef management - change the judging rules if you are going to kick off the best chefs (early in the season!!) I will not be watching the rest of this season

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:28 PM

John wrote:

I'm sorry, you "had to stop reading the comments?" Please. One would think that as either a lawyer or a blogger you would've developed a thicker skin. Especially with the venom you were spewing at the best efforts of chefs who were actual professionals, rather than overpriviledged dilettantes who stumbled into restaurants after finding their first high paying careers unbearable.

One understands that you'd want to bring your "A-game" to a television appearance, but it really seemed more you'd pre-written a number of "witty" put-downs and then sought an opening to use them, rather than letting the teams' food/performance drive your criticism. That is simply unfair to the competitors and I can't imagine that you conduct a real restaurant review in that manner.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 5:42 PM

Josephine wrote:

Well Andrea, you dish it out, you gotta learn to take it. I'm sure Brian wanted to stop hearing your comments about his perspiration, but he had to stand there and hear them and have the whole thing taped for national TV... on Bravo...where they repeat episodes constantly... for years! I felt so badly for him I wanted to crawl under my chair. I don't care who you are or what your qualifications are, you need to learn to have some compassion.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:10 PM

Erin D. wrote:

As I read these comments, I get more and more frustrated. I am sad to see Tre go, but come on people! This is a competition. You have to be at the top of your game all the time. He made some bad decisions and it showed. Everyone needs to give the judges a break and realize that it isn't easy sending anyone home, espcially this far into the competition. As you may have read in the blog from Chef Colicchio, he thought that Tre should be in the finale. Unfortuately, Tre didn't do his best in this challenge and it showed by him going home.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:26 PM

Andrew wrote:

Andrea, how nice of you to take the high road and lump us all together as nasty and negative and throwing stones at poor you. Yes, we viewers all across America decided to ban together and conspire against poor Andrea Strong.

Um.. no. stop playing the victim. You put this on yourself when you decided to spew out mean uncalled for things. Just check out any other blog on this site. There is nothing but love for Chef Bourdain, who is just a "dry" as you but with actual humor and without the personal insults. Chef Rocco and Barton G as well. In fact they are all more interesting and compelling writers - and that is not even their "profession".

All you had to do was admit some of the things you said were uncalled for and we can all leave it at that. Instead you have to assume we are all computer illerate and that is why we don't "get" you. please.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:27 PM

scott haley wrote:

Maybe people reacted so strongly to Ms. Strong's blog because (a.) it was so out of character compared to her usual love fest with the chef reviews so throws out in NYC. (b.) the comments were unusually mean and personal. --I would love to hear what people thought she smelled like after moving, setting up and cooking all day before slipping on a suit. (c.) whatever credentials she thinks she might have, does she really in her stuck up "I write a blog and am from New York" fantasy world think her opinion about food should be listened to more than Daniel Boulud's? Bad timing for her.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 6:31 PM

Richard Prince wrote:

You know... let's not hide behind guises. People reacted to Andrea Strong without knowing anything about her because of the NATURE OF HER CRITICISM. I don't care if she is a shak lawyer in NYC or a stay at home mother with precious little children. I don't care if she eats nothing but mac-and-cheese and peanut butter or if she's been dining in the best restaurants around the world -- that all make little difference in light of her nasty and ill-tempered comments that few people cvould agree with. And that's what it comes down to -- she get EXACTLY what she deserves! And don't come crying like a wounded victim after all the toxic fumes you spewed out in your snarky blog.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:04 PM

Laura wrote:

Everytime I watched the show, I am blown away by your class and style. You have a beautiful way about you that is so graceful. Even at a delicate moment you tend to appropriately know just what to stay. Hurrah for the Laksmhi DNA.Your family must be so proud of you.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:07 PM

Artemnesia wrote:

Credentials are irrelevant, and just as the cheftestants are judged based on their performance in each challenge, your blog needed to stand on its own merit. It didn't.

I'm a writer. If something I write doesn't go over well, alienates and annoys my audience, and leaves me feeling misunderstood, then I have no one to blame but myself. Someone with so much journalistic experience should know that. The way you handle the type of criticism you received last week is by trying to learn from it and then chocking it up to experience, rather than lecturing the same people you offended and whining, all aghast, "What, you mean don't you know who I am???" You could stand to learn a thing or two from Tre.

Andrea, please pack your laptop and go.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:15 PM

Leenie Bopper wrote:

Honey, it's not about your qualifications, it's about what you said in your critique and how you said it.

"I really feel very harshly judged by the viewers"

Hmmm. Imagine how the Top Chef contestants felt reading your snarky comments... Evidently you can dish it, but you can't take it.

Now Anthony Bourdain, there's a guy who can dish it AND take it. Seems only fair that a critic should be able to take criticism, whether deserved or not.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 7:34 PM

the big d wrote:

haha yes all the comments you received were because of your unknown credientals, it had nothing to do with the fact that your blog was so poorly written it was offensive. you review made no sense at all, especially your dogmatic sermon on how garage conjures images of anti freeze and oil spills and how eating off a black tablecloth is like eating of Billy Idol... the only thing stranger than your analogies is the fact the you have somehow made a career out of writting, despite your obvious lack of talent.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:21 PM

Abigail wrote:

The fact that Ms. Strong posted her hurt and defensiveness at the comments on her earlier Top Chef blog post is proof that she is not deserving to be a Top Chef blogger. The blogosphere is *about* getting plenty of random, often critical, comments. If a blogger gets comments they do not deserve, the absolute worst thing to do is post something about their credentials, implying that their critics didn't *understand* them. In blogging, credentials are nice but unnecessary. Striking the right tone in the right context is everything. Many Top Chef bloggers are very good at giving their honest opinions while still respecting the show, its contestants, its viewers, and the general spirit of reality TV: it's fluff entertainment, but it does mean something to its participants, judges, hosts, and viewers. Ms. Strong failed to master the proper tone of Top Chef blogging, and she failed again when she proclaimed herself to be wounded by the fact that viewers did not "trust" in her background or qualifications. No, it is not about your background, Ms. Strong. It is about your writing, your tone, your engagement of your audience. You did not understand your audience, and evidently you still do not. I don't think Ms. Strong should respond to this post, I think Top Chef should not invite her back to be a commentator of any kind. She does not understand the requirements of being a charming (though honest and appropriately critical) Top Chef judge.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:23 PM

Alexandra wrote:

Ms. Food critic, I am sorry to say that I would close my restaurant if I saw you and your obnoxious friend walking towards it. :( Good luck to you.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:26 PM

LindaR wrote:

I don't care what your background is, your witticisms were, like, not.

You're not funny, you're just mean.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:55 PM

PeachPie wrote:

Well... I did go back and read last weeks post.

All I can say is, like it or not, Top Chef viewers, especially those who've been in it for the long haul, simply consider the cast our family. I grasp how simplistic that sounds, I do. But I don't know another way to put it.

Like family, we sometimes get pissed at each other. We can disagree and fight out our opinions here on the blog. We might even yell at the damn TV.

BUT....but GOD HELP the outsider who tries to come in and punch one of our own. I may sometimes get pissed at my sister, but if someone called her something nasty or hurtful, damn straight I'd be the first person there defending her.

And I think that's what happened with Andrea Strong. It doesn't matter what anyone's credentials are. For pete sake, look at the reaction to Mike Yakura when he's been on.

You just can't walk in to "our house" and say rude and crappy things about our family. Critique, sure. But not violate.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:00 PM

Debra Gibson- Welch wrote:

Padma, you need to pack up your bags and go home with your team of judges. Your decision last night only goes to show that all of your are clueless, Howie and CJ are still there and tre went home?

Wonder why................ Hmmmmmmmmmmmm
I will never ,ever watch this show again.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:13 PM

Tyshawn S wrote:

Hell0!! Where is Tre? I really enjoyed watching Top Chef, but is this show about Top Chef !!Tre is one of the Top Chef on the show, Please have a vote to have Tre back, like have Tre prepare the salmon over or a quick fire or cook at Hell's Kitchen for a day!!!!!!!!! Just get Tre back on the Show or Have him produce a Top Chef show or A Judge on the show !!! ask the blogers and let them vote for Tre to come back!!! and what do they think about that. I do like watching the show. Thank you

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:20 PM

Kate wrote:

Who cares about her "credentials"? She is still a self serving, sarcastic, nasty, and classless blogger. I will never again read anything she writes, and hope she is never again associated with Top Chef.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 9:50 PM

Jana B. wrote:

I have only one thing to say to you Ms. Padma or whatever your name is.....Bad Move last Night!! You have made the show a joke...You guys aren't interested in talent, you are interested in shock value!! And I thought I finally found a show that had some class!! NOT!

This is one fan who is NO longer a fan! Bye bye, I think I'll go watch Hell's Kitchen now, at least he knows talent when he sees it.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:12 PM

punky wrote:

I'm writing because the producers indicated that they are closely following our opinions on Ms. Strong's blog and I want to add my voice to those who still believe that Ms. Strong's blog -- her credentials aside -- is not a positive reflection on a show of TC's purported character. I agree with Corey and Alex: the credentials are not the issue. The issue is the level of discourse. TC viewers have come to expect a certain level of dignity and gravitas (if not always from contestants, then at least from judges and bloggers). We expect criticism to be constructive and we hope to learn and grow from it. Ms. Strong's opinions were mean spirited and banal; reading her blog was more like being gossiped to than being informed. They did not teach us anything new. Of course, if Bravo continues its association with Ms. Strong, I can simply choose not to read her blog; however, I for one feel that any further connection with her would tarnish TC's image.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:25 PM

Maddie wrote:

When will Padma be back with her regular blog? This Andrea Strong keeps managing to embarass herself more and more with each passing word. Someone please tell her to pack her laptop ... AND GO.

posted on August 23, 2007 at 11:43 PM

ceejay wrote:

Baloney. Credentials? She is still a HACK CRITIC, who enjoys trashing people for "entertainment". And the most obnoxious thing about it is that she thinks all the slams and cuts are "witty" and "cute". Those who CAN actually DO. Those who CAN'T stand back and become a "critic". Shame on Top Chef for even INCLUDING a food critic. Judges need to be working chefs. And for all of you who are enamored of the "blogosphere", it is nothing but ego and narcissism run amok. Any fool can write any ridiculous thing, and find a following among those who enjoy seeing people ridiculed and destroyed. Toxic. And those of you now apologizing to "poor Andrea", go back and re-read what the witch wrote. She is a hit man, nothing more and nothing less.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:37 AM

David wrote:

The decision to have Tre pack his knives and leave was one of the worst decisions made by this show. I understand that he was the executive chef and the blame was laid at his feet but from what I saw there was plenty to go around. I think that you guys should come up with a way to get Tre back on the program. He was one of the main reasons I set my television to BRAVO on Wednesday's. I don't know if I want to watch your show any more.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:01 AM

Shelema wrote:

Please, I don't really care what your credentials are. NOTHING at all excused your lack of tact, class and courtesy showed in the blog you wrote. If your such an expert on food and restaurants, stick to that. Jokes about someone being sweaty and nervous have no place in thoughtful food critiquing. Don't bring that rude jerkoff (Madonna's brother apparently) with you.

Any experience you've gained over the years was overshadowed by your petty attempts to be funny at the expense of one of the contestants.

Also, I find it funny that you complain about the words or everyone here hurting your feelings when you were just as bad when you wrote your blog. Maybe you'll take more care now that you've been on the reading end of a blog.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:50 AM

Jen in GB,WI wrote:

I had a nasty comment last week, but apparently it was overboard because Bravo did not post it.
The crux of my rant was 'who ARE you' and 'what
credibility do you have'?
After reading this entry, I see now that you do you have cred and might know a thing or two about the culinary world. However, as much time as Bravo and Padma spend on product placement and introducing the guest chefs and judges, they could have given you a better entre into that episode than they did. I'm positive the ire induced would have been greatly reduced.
But...no matter, you still came off trying to be the female Anthony Bourdain, but not well.
It just sounded mean for mean's sake--one pissy thing after another.
Anyhow--interesting that you didn't do the follow up critique for the second night.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 2:00 AM

Bilybob wrote:

Ms Strong,

If you would like to write blogs about TC and be critical without being so snarky and rude, perhaps you should read some of Anthony Bourdain's blogs. He has the ability to rake someone over the coals without them feeling hurt. I don't care what your credentials are. The fact is, you're the only blogger on this show that has written a very bad piece that virtually everyone disliked. I also find it odd that Mr Ciccone was willing to meet with the contestants face to face, even after they had heard his criticism, and you decided to covertly have some letters slid under the door of the penthouse.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:34 AM

Jennifer wrote:

Wow, I'm surprised how upset people were at Andrea's blog. I just read it after reading these comments and I don't understand why people were so irritated.

She was there and we weren't. All of her comments may have spot on.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:53 AM

PeachPie wrote:

spetitt wrote:

"negativity and nastiness on the Bravo blog and elsewhere is unfortunate, and I really do wish people did a bit of research about who I am and how I am qualified, before they lashed out at me. Just a thought." Was anyone else offended by her little, 'just a thought' at the end there?"

Spetitt said it. I've already posted on this topic. But the more I think about it, the angrier I've become.

I don't care if Andrea Strong owns half of Dubai. She was unnecessarily rude. And, if I may take from another poster here, well-written snark has an undercurrent of affection which she lacks.

How dare you through your credentials at us as if we are a group of idiots. Does Ms. Strong not realize that many, many of the viewers are probably FAR more credentialed to comment than she is?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 7:25 AM

PeachPie wrote:

I meant "throw". Oh yeah, I'm not an editor.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 7:28 AM

Patty wrote:

I am one of those Midwestern hicks who has no idea who any of these people are. I read your blog and was thouroghly unimpressed. I looked up who you were and it didn't make your writing any less nasty and unimpressive. The reactions were to your writing and critique. It was judged lacking.
Don't think if your resume was posted before your blog we would have been any more favorable in our reviews of you.
As Tre's dismissal pointed out if you want to be Top anything your work has to show it not your resume.
PS..... I bet if you and your friends just gave up a few nights out and gave the money to Dafur you would raise more than $100,000. I love you "noble"celebs who have to blow your horns about charity fund raisers. Just give the money and skip the event. The money people save on designer dresses could feed a nation.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 9:11 AM

Valerie Little wrote:

Andrea, TC has a huge fan base. Constructive criticism is appreciated, but the mean-spirited, overly-snarky tone of your initial blog was not well received by many of us. Some sarcasm is funny, but being mean, not so much. And lecturing to people how wonderful you are and basically demanding your "due respect" in a subsequent blog isn't well-received either. As an accomplisehd writer, surely you recognize that the tone of your comments is quite off-putting?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 9:43 AM

Cie Kay wrote:

Ms. Strong:

Karma's a bitch, isn't it?

I don't feel the slightest bit sorry for you. Why don't YOU apologize to the people whose feelings YOU hurt?

posted on August 24, 2007 at 9:56 AM

Mark wrote:

ms. strong: your "credentials" count for naught if you are not really a very good writer, especially when you have to resort to the mean personal attacks which made up way too much of your blog last week. in fairness, i had originally associated you with the rude man at your table, but i sure you felt as dismayed by his rudeness as much as everyone else was repulsed by it - watching a repeat i caught a glance you made towards dale which i hope was saying "this clown is not speaking for the table" ... but, to your comments above, if you are a critic, you need to be able to take criticism of your art/work as much as you can dish it. you stopped reading the comments? come on, take the bad with the good. i see a few of your flunkies are out in force this week ...

note to bravo: don't TELL your viewers what they have to like or accept. if we voice something at odds with you, don't get so defensive. i've not liked everything about the show (e.g. the cheesy tie-in such as those ice cream people) but i accept it as a reality of doing business. however, for the blog commenters from last week to be collectively "put in their place" by padma's blog and by posting strong's bio doesn't change the fact that she did a poor job. most of us commenting KNEW who she was, and our comments still stand. asking rhetorically "who is this woman?" was surely more of an exclamation of exasperation that she was let away with what she got away with ...

posted on August 24, 2007 at 10:53 AM

tigerdragon wrote:

Who cares about the woman's bio? Nothing excuses her rude, obnoxious remarks of her guest blog and why, oh why, did Top Chef choose to silence established credentialed proven chef Daniel Boulud via reading the remarks aloud of Andrea Strong and not allowing Chef Boulud more air time? How very distasteful and how very disrespectful. Padma seemed quite gleeful reading aloud these remarks as if it was her idea. Whoever's idea, very bad plan. The person owed an apology and a reappearance is Chef Daniel Boulad if he would even accept the invite after the slap in the face Top Chef and Bravo gave him as if he had been pulled off the street himself to comment and was overlooked. How can you justify treating this renowned chef in this offhand manner? Who cares about Miz Strong except as someone who was used to insult a fine chef? If you wanted comments, why didn't you do diners' comment cards again? Nothing wrong with those. Also, unless this was planned as a two part episode, someone should have gone or there should have been a double elimination. Didn't seem like Chef Boulad had much input on the decision not to eliminate anyone, just a do you agree with us sort of thing instead of a what do you think? as if this had already been decided. The whole double episode had a re-edited quality that made it appear to be re-filmed in segments as well and was very choppy and had a staged feeling. Reality t.v. should feel real not acted out. Whole problem with Project Runway season 3 was, and some even admitted to it after the fact, the acted out rehearsed quality of that season, the assumption of a mask and persona, becoming a character and not revealing the true person. Kayne Gillaspie and Jeffrey Sebelia even admitted that's how they played it as a game, an act after the fact. Don't turn Top Chef into PR3 and with this episode, that's where it seems to be going, but with sublimation on the part of the contestants instead of nastiness for the most part, which is just as unreal. Everything's pie in the sky sublime with Howie the lone evil villain bulldog and the outside blogger the heavy nasty this time around.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 11:44 AM

tkw wrote:

your bio is irrelevant. your comments were sarcastic and unfunny. either is ok, both combined is lame. i am glad that top chef invited you to participate, though, i think it is a good idea to get feedback/comments from non-chefs, no matter what their pedigree.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:12 PM

thea wrote:

You said "I feel very harshly judged by the viewers. I had to stop reading the comments."

Now how does it feel the other way around? Didn't you come up with harsh comments about the contestants yourself? up to the point of embarrassing them? The "right Guard" comment was highly irrelevant.

Credentials or no credentials, you came up as a very rude person.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:13 PM

Ruby wrote:

Andrea: Perhaps Top Chef did you a disservice by choosing to air only snippets -- albeit the harshest snippets -- of your comments on Restaurant Wars I. As soon as I heard the comment that Brian needed Right Guard I was immediately turned off. It was mean, and plenty of viewers didn't like it--hence, the nasty comments in return. Being associated through TC editing with the unpleasant Christopher Ciccone didn't help either. And seeing Tre, one of the fan favorites--if not the ultimate favorite--get kicked off in Wars II was the last straw. And so Top Chef fans have to revolt... We are all guest judges, bloggers, foodies, and viewers, too, after all. (Check our credentials). Unfortunately you are the unlucky recipient of our unhappiness.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:06 PM

PRM wrote:

It doesn't matter what your qualifications are if you write amateurishly. There are plenty of well-trained but bad chefs, lawyers, writers, etc. What I did not care for was the online blogger mentality in the comments posted. That is, I did not care for the accent on getting a cheap laugh over legitimate content.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:12 PM

John wrote:

There's actually an object lesson in effective writing here. As numerous others have mentioned, Anthony Bourdain gets away with comments as brutal as anything Strong dished out. If he got slammed by a bunch of Bravo commenters, can you imagine him huffily posting his resume, including an appearance in the estimable Marlowe & Co.'s Best Food Writing from half a decade back?

People cut Bourdain slack because he makes himself the butt of the joke as frequently as he does others. Andrea Strong, on the other hand, demonstrates that self-important bourgies ought to leave their humorlessness implicit. Stick to good works for the people of Darfur.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 1:43 PM

Lei T wrote:

I did not think you were trying to be particularly mean with Brian (no more than the judges are mean sometimes to other contestants in their critique). I did feel sorry for Brian though because it was not his choice to be front of the house (he was appointed by another team member...CJ?). Front of the house is alot harder than most people think (especially when crowds of people swarm in). Brian had no experience, yet CJ suggested that he do it (vs Dale who had been a server for years). I think you were just giving your opinion (maybe mentioning one thing too many times) but the viewers took it as a personal attack. I just felt that it was unrealistic for the producers to expect the contestants to put together a restaurant in such a short period of time and force one of the contestants to be front of the house. Of course, the people dining in the restaurant have no idea that the host/server has no experience in front of the house and that the designers are chefs/cooks (and have no idea that candles are not to be scented). I guess if I were a sophisticated enough foodie I would know that scented candles were a no no (noticed how some of the judges hid behind your comments...when Padma said the stink of vanilla...she hid behind your comment rather than just saying that that was her own opinion). Anyway, I had to disagree with your comment on the tablecloth. I loved it! But we all have differences in taste and of course what gives one person delight, might cause another person discomfort (refering to the decor). I did feel that you did give some insightful comments (positive) about the food, as well as critical comments. Again, Padma quoted the gumminess of the risotto. Why couldn't she just say, "this is what I thought of the risotto.....". Oh well. I was curious if the judges would have liked the heavier food if it were winter. And also, I was curious if the knives on the tables were sharp enough. I know, that I have served tables before in a casino and that sometimes if the knives set on the table are not good steak knives it would make the meat appear tougher when cutting into it. Aside from that, maybe the meat was actually tough, but in a real restaurant, the contestants would have had a chance to chose a supplier (and not shop at the grocery store). Anyway, I did enjoy the positive comments about the food that you described. I just felt that all the judges (whether they are writers or not)..including Anthony, need to be a little more considerate when putting down contestants (I like Anthony too but feel he can be overcritical too).

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:49 PM

Simple wrote:

Ms. Strong,

That I might be more experienced, or gifted, in my field than others might be has never endowed me with a sense of superiority nor the feeling I've the God given right to ruthlessly attack someone. Quite the opposite.

A qualified critic has the right to critique. No one is denying you that. You were called out for being a bully. These are quite different things.

If it is your style to make ruthless, nitpicking, unkind remarks, then it is. I personally find such "reviews" of little value to anyone but the author.

It doesn't take a degree to notice the imperfections of others. If anything, that education should have provided, somewhere, a knowledge of what is appropriate and what is not. It doesn't take a genius to make fun of the flaws of others. It takes a genius to point them out in such a way that the recipient feels respected and whole.

Furthermore, what exactly ARE the requirements for someone to call themselves a food critic? Is there a course at Columbia? Harvard? Tufts? Is there a minimum requirement of 10 years in the industry? No, there is not.

I could eat 1000 sirloin steaks and call myself a food critic. So credentials don't really mean very much. (By the way, I AM degreed and have more culinary experience than you, just FYI). Your credentials are irrelevant.

You offended not just the contestants, but the Top Chef viewers as well. In fact, by the simple phrase "just a thought" at the end of your comment, you furthered deepened that wound. Just couldn't resist, I suppose.

I would whole heartedly suggest to Bravo that, should they desire another mystery blogger, they choose one actually likes the show and the contestants.

I personally have a fairly good amount of disgust for people who've found in blogging that long-seated desire to rip people to shreds under the absurd guise of "humor" and "critique".

posted on August 24, 2007 at 3:49 PM

Rick wrote:

It amazes me to hear someone complain about about hateful things said about them. When you Ms Strong dished out the most rude comments possiable. Ms Strong how would you feel if some said you need Right Guard? To me that means you have Body Odor and you are not clean. Just think about it.Padma even said Brian did not smell so she must been drawn to the same conclusion as I. Just because you are educated does not mean you can talk to people anyway you want. There are nice ways to say what you said and still get your point across. P.S. I am an educated person myself and your comments were terrible.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:54 PM

gary.e wrote:

It seems that you have shook the bees nest and they are really p.o.ed , I too was sorry that Tre was let go, but! the judging is per episode and tre missed out, a chef has to perform day in and day out with the best food and repeat, repeat time and again, there are afew chefs still there that should have been let go at the very begining. there seems there is no end to Howie and Hong,

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:55 PM

Lina wrote:

Did Andrea Strong think that posting her resume would make her immune to criticism? Thanks for the laugh Andrea. Maybe if you dedicated your life to living among the poor in Calcutta, you may get a pass. But Mother Teresa was not snarky, so no guarantees for you, girlfriend.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 4:55 PM

suzy wrote:

Andrea, while I thoroughly enjoy your writing, like your web site and think you have a great back story... I'm afraid you've fallen victim to some shortsightedness on the part of BravoTV producers. As the guest judges are always reminding the cheftestants, it's not about what you want but what your customers want. In this instance, the producers seem to be a bit out of touch with their audience. The people who watch Top Chef love food, love the show, but they don't live in the city of New York and they don't all have subscriptions to the New York Times, Food & Wine magazine nor the many other publishing venues your writing has appeared in. The term "foodie" has many meanings -- many love food, can't cook, love to eat and love to dream about what they see. But expecting viewers to know the ins and outs of what's hot and what's not in New York and around the country in terms of food and restaurants is not realistic. They still watch -- and read blogs -- to be educated and entertained. TV and Web Producers -- don't forget who your audience is. And don't put hange your guest bloggers out to dry.

posted on August 24, 2007 at 10:13 PM

Janet wrote:

I didn't read this woman's blog, but I did see a little of her and her dinner companion, who, I have to say, wins the title of Mr. Obnoxious . Where do they get these people? I guess this is as good of place to express my distaste for this last episode as any. With Tre gone, this show that I have looked forward to seeing every Wednesday has lost its' appeal.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 3:33 AM

Margaret wrote:

Its hard to read the bathroom wall... which is sometimes what a lot of blogs come across as with the exaggerated descriptions, which were evident in Andrea's blog. however... she was on "display" she had to spice it up, so I can understand her need to be witty. but as much as she does not like to read what was written about her, how is that any different than the harsh criticism towards others she pours on in her blogs. Personally I found the second helpings episode very offensive ... between Andrea and the Town and Country critic, along with Modonna's brother... Top Chef came across as exactly how many view the restaurant world... annoying and self absorbed.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 4:23 AM

Jennifer wrote:

Andrea--regardless of your credentials, your blog entry came off as mean-spirited and biting for the sake of seeming authoratative. It was a huge turn-off. With your credentials, one would expect that you perhaps would know better to judge chefs so harshly--given that they have mere hours to prepare a restaurant opening. Your "but I'm important and I have experience!" rebuttal falls flat.

Tre should not have been sent home this week. Brian did ABSOLUTELY nothing except run the front of the house. I thought this was a cooking show...why is it that he didn't have to cook anything for two episodes and was still allowed to remain? What's up with that?

posted on August 25, 2007 at 5:34 AM

Pam wrote:

I was already familiar with Andrea Strong, and was very aware of her background. I was a subscriber to her blog until this happened. Being experienced and knowledgeable in the food industry doesn't give you license to be so rude. You should read some of Anthony Bourdain's blogs and books and perhaps try to get a feel for how to criticize without sounding so smug and hateful.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:45 AM

Coaster wrote:

Well Missy!

After reading almost every comment on this blog, it seems that my and my Bride's thoughts of you weren't just flaws in our character. I guess you could say...WE are normal.

As you can see, there are many......MANY folks that are huge fans of this great show Top Chef.

But..........

Fans of yours?

When my cold dead fingers are pryed from my chefs knife, is when you can rejoin the human race!

Get real! You blew it....hope you're never a guest on OUR favorite show ever again. I'll have to turn the channel so my blood pressure doesn't rise to unhealthy levels.

Too many times food critics have ruined many triving businesses that just had one bad dish on one night/day.

Some advice, take it or leave it, in the future, before YOU ever review someone's place and you're not impressed with their fare, return a second time before you crush their livelyhood into oblivian as I'm sure YOU have done in the past otherwise, you wouldn't have developed such a horrible manner of expressing your views.

It's the Christian thing to do.

Not impressed one bit Strong......

'Nuff said.

Coaster

PS: I will say a prayer for you since you write for the New York Post.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:56 AM

Ivyfree wrote:

I had no clue who you were when they mentioned you as a blogger, which is a term that may mean something or nothing. Now that I know your focus is the New York scene, I'm not going to bother to read your blog because why should I give a rat's patoot about New York? I'm not planning on visiting there in the new future or even the far future. Bravo didn't do themselves any favors when they picked someone who focuses on one city for a show that is broadcast nationwide. You may be the best food writer and restaurant reviewer around- I wouldn't know, and thanks to your mean-spirited original comments and your whiny followup, I don't care.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 1:37 PM

Jill wrote:

I stand by my criticism of Ms. Strong's review.
In fact, hearing that she does have a culinary background makes her comments even more henious because as a professional, she should know better.
The Right Guard and Billy Idol comments were immature, non-sensical, and off-base--she can do better.
The reason why so many fans thought she lacked the proper credentials is attribtable to her poor choice of language and she should hold herself accountable for it.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 3:37 PM

Jill wrote:

Hearing that you have a culinary background makes your insulting and unprofessional comments even more henious because you should know better.
And to turn a cliche into a pun: those who can dish it out, certainly can't take it.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 3:41 PM

MRD wrote:

Perhaps the real disservice was not the omission of your credentials, Andrea, but the focus on your comments that were more about "clever" snark, than the food. Unlike your other reviews, your comments here are read with insight into the constraints of the challenge--with or without restaurant experience, we know from watching how difficult it is to create a restaurant from scratch, in 24 hours, and by contestants whose primary talent is cooking, not service, hosting or design. I don't know why I keep expecting that judges with experience (so you've opened restaurants, eh?) will take reality vis a vis these uber challenging constraints into consideration.

It's great television to watch someone suffer outside their element, but to focus on that and make fun of it instead of what really interests people in the show--the cooking--is a shortcoming and turnoff that your blog shared with producers' decisions about what makes the show "interesting." That we mostly heard your comments about decor and sweating on the show--repeated ad nauseum here--underscores the way the producers seem to think it's more entertaining to hear petty snark than a professional view of what's right and wrong with the food.

Maybe they directed you to have the same focus, or maybe they chose you for perceived ability to be cutting and mean, but the result was the same for me as a viewer and reader. I'm interested in the food, how it's prepared and the skill and character required to do it well. If you've got experience in the realm then help me, the layperson, understand why these tiny details can make or break a chef in the real world. As it is, all I'm thinking is that a real chef would hire a better staff, spend more time thinking it out and ensure the place is air-conditioned.

A little bit of pettiness is tolerable and fun, but the quality of the show is taken down a notch when so much time is spent on it. Your comments about the food were thoughtful and appreciated. The gratuitous mean spirit was not and I'm one who feels additionally insulted by your response to the criticism and the belief, obviously shared by the producers, that your resume makes it okay. Leave the harsh witticisms to Bourdain--it's his specialty; all it did for you and the show was undermine credibility.

It's better this season than last--please, no more vending machine challenges--but it's still sometimes hard to take seriously. When Padma gives the suspenseful pause before a twist, I fully expect her to say that the chefs will be expected to prepare a four course meal in 40 minutes with nothing but an Easy Bake oven and plastic spoons. Bravo on this week's Quickfire challenge--it really showcased basic skills and the need to have them. Maybe the restaurant challenge should be reserved for the finale with more time and resources provided.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 4:13 PM

Fernando wrote:

I have been a TC fan since day 1 on season 1. The challenges and outcomes on the show are exciting and addictive. One can easily find themselves anxiously awaiting next weeks epesiode while time moves at a snail pace. However on a personal note I would like to congradulate Bravo tv and TC on their emmy awards and thank them for Season 3. All those wonderful Chefs are so talented and inspiring that it is a joy to watch them time and time again. I wish each and everyone of them HUGE SUCCESS on all their ventures and look forward to dining in their Restaurants. The way they respect each other and their craft(aside from the competition)is humanity at its best. The way they all feel the loss when one of their colleague's is dismissed and honor that departure, resonates a profound human and professional element that many of us easily overlook in our everyday stress induced busy life. Thank You! Brian, Casey,CJ,Dale,Howie,Hung,Sara,Camille,Joey,Lia,Micah,Sandee,Tre....And no matter what is the outcome of TC season 3,at the end of the day-each and everyone of you is well deserved the title of TOP CHEF! and one more thing hang in there CASEY and bring it home to TEXAS for us...We Love You! Awsome..Awsome job Bravo Tv on casting such talented individuals.

posted on August 25, 2007 at 4:16 PM

Lacy Moore wrote:

I was just curious to know if/when there is going to be a casting for Top Chef 4. I am super interested!!!

posted on August 25, 2007 at 4:58 PM

Educator wrote:

I've always loved TOP CHEF but cutting TRE OFF WAS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE ON T.V. HISTORY!!! You took away from the show. It shouldn't have been per challenge but an overall on how good they are as a CHEF and LEADER. Like ALL TOP CHEFS in the world they have BAD DAYS and MOST TOP CHEFS have line cooks where they aren’t preparing a menu for a restaurant on their own but they have help doing everything. Maybe you guys are blind but he had to do almost everything because everybody else was too afraid. Poor decision because I know Tre was TOP CHEF. Honestly, there’s no point of watching the show anymore when the real TOP CHEF was ELMINATED OFF!

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:08 PM

darryl.wingate@sbcglobal.net wrote:

This judges table was probably worst than the meat loaf dish that was served some episodes back! To vote off Tre was akin to the judges commenting on dishes and then taking an hour to cook minute rice! WHAT A CROCK!! Tre was arguably the most talented chef you had on this hack of a show - and don't throw the Emmy stuff at me - Susan Luci can attest to what an Emmy means! Last time I'll turn on this Atlantic City casino buffet! You'll never be better than Hell's Kitchen - at least the judge knows how to recognize talent!

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:23 PM

kitty wrote:

how do you keep up with the blogs- why do they seem to be so far behind??? maybe enlighten us all - then again - maybe its just myself that does not understand ??

posted on August 25, 2007 at 8:29 PM

GLORIA wrote:

If you knew Andrea or read her regularly you'd know that she has a wonderful sense of humor and why you have all (or most of you) taken this so seriously I don't know. She was trying to be amusing. If you listened to what the restaurant's would be judged on it was service, decor, and food. Which is what she did. She was asked to go to Miami for one night - she had to write her comments that evening. She had not seen any episodes as you all have. Why are you raking her over the coals? Get a life - you all sound like a bunch of spoilt children who have nothing better to do than to bully the new comer on the block. Andrea never hurt anyone maliciously or intentionally - you all with your horrible comments are doing it with intent to hurt. She doesn't need me to speak up for her but I had to say something. Because when you say mean things about her it hurts me too.

posted on August 26, 2007 at 12:05 AM

trish wrote:

I was so disappointed at your decision tonight. This is the second season in a row the best have been let go. It's discouraging as a viewer to know Top chef in no way means the best.

I don't have the stomach for this show anymore.

posted on August 26, 2007 at 12:55 AM

Sean wrote:

"...it's been a huge bummer to read the comments on the Bravo blog and how many people just hate me and think I am a hack..."

Folks have plenty of basis for thinking those things.

Even more now, that after you write a mean-spirited and hateful review of the chefs creations, you suddenly think it a "bummer" when others do the