Kat wrote:

THANK YOU. Thank you for taking back your response to Casey's comment. Thank you. Thank you.

As a woman I found this challenge heartbreaking. It's not the same for a man to have to cook in his favorite button down shirt and a woman to have to worry about flashing someone. It's not the same and it's enormously unfair. It was ridiculous that Sara went home. Especially when Howie insisted on the milkshakes being his way.

Sham one you all for now realizing the sexism of this challenge in advance. But thank you for acknowledging it in hindsight.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Christina wrote:

I am a fan of the show; and I got to say, It looks like howie is a good cook, but he is going about the competition in the wrong way. When you are a top chef, you are the leader of a team, this to me means that you listen but at the same time guide, not yell and says this way is better. Maybe when you do listen correctly your team might just can care about you and your ideas to make them better. I do hope that is what howie gets out of this experience.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:23 PM

Justin wrote:

"I said, in fact, “You can’t cook because you don’t like your outfit?” I now think that this was insensitive of me."
Ted you were right on with your gyt on that one. I mena come on a male Chef from seacon 2 is considered a big attraction becauses he is sexy, but a female chef cant be seen that way. and well if you have probs with the foot wear kick it off...your not cooking with your feet.

Sara was the right one to go, she plays the poor me role to much and was upset just by the fact Howie was on her team to the point she basicaly withdrew herself from working at all.

Man people need to stop busting so much on Howies attitude, I do agree he needs to approach things diffrently but hey it seems like he holds back his opinions like a pressure cooker then blows up. He needs to speak up sooner but his gripes and observations are usually accurate just now put with the right time. I hope he finishes out well but am betting on Tre and CJ for the top 2.

Ted thanks for the input as we only get to see the edit and not the whole thing

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:24 PM

J. wrote:

I still am kinda on Howie's side. I do think that he is too much of a blowhard, but at the same time, the complaints he makes are usually true. Additionally, Howie has been on the top of several challenges and quickfires, proving himself as a worthy chef. On the other hand, we have Sara, who has been a soppy trainwreck in the kitchen multiple times and who allowed herself to be derailed by this challenge. She was uncomfortable; I get it. But she needed to get over it--you didn't hear Sara M., on the other team, complaining about her outfit. Sara N. took herself out of this challenge before she even started, before she know Howie was one of her teammates. Plus, she's never produced good food (that I can remember). She has often been criticized for having decent but uninspired dishes, and it seems like her sliders in this challenge were no different. And again, this is NOT the first time she has seem mentally out of it during a challenge/quickfire. The example the comes to my head is an early quickfire in which she could hardly explain to the guest judge what her dish even was. She was similarly wishy-washy during the Judge's Table for the Latin food challenge. Plus, back on the Howie issue, I think that a) the other contestants read too much into his short tone during cooking (To me it sounds like he is just very concentrated on the task at hand and that causes him to be a bit short, not some sort of inherent rudeness) and b) he isn't a great partner, but neither are most of the people he has worked with. I mean, Joey? Sara M? Sara N? Even Casey? None of those people behaved particularly well either. It's possible that Howie really just drove them all to be annoying, but it's hard for me to believe that Howie is simply impossible to get along with. Tough? Sure. But CJ, for example, despite the fact that he obviously dislikes Howie, seemed to get along with him fine in this past challenge.

I don't know...it's easy to be defeatist and start to cry and get everyone on your side like Sara did, but that doesn't mean that she didn't deserve to go. Howie could make food good enough to win this show, in my opinion. Sara never displayed that she could, and that's enough for me.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:30 PM

quori wrote:

Ted....nice post. I am 100% in agreement of Howie's lack of leadership. He claims he needs to be a bulldog to lead, fine...that can be a valid way to lead people albeit not the best way. But no matter the tact you take in being a leader, you must ALWAYS follow through. His opening "laying down the law" of we'll do this, this, this was fine. He then never communicated to anyone about jack. unacceptable.

As a leader you must always continue to monitor, asses, and reprioritize those around you. He clearly does not understand this...mores the pity.

In the end it probably did not matter if Howie or Sara went home tonight, based on their collective issues (and yes Sara has issues of her own, she is not blameless in this) the other will go home soon enough.

As for the dress/attire thing...a person should not dress if they are not comfortable with themselves. While I understand the practical part of the issue, that was not what Casey nor Sara claimed as the issue. At no point did I hear anything about "I can't work in heels. My dress was getting in the way. I had nothing to tie my hair in." It was about not letting themselves be seen in this manner of attire. Then don't wear it at all!! I dress in business attire to work..Dress Slacks, Button down shirt, dress shoes. I would wear the exact same outfit out to dinner, a party, Church Services at Christmas.

"They should have chosen clothing that they were comfortable in nno matter the situation." - the comment of my wonderfully intelligent and astute wife.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:34 PM

Clay Harwick wrote:

I never respond to the short clips that make up a TV show but I couldn't resist--CONGRATS to the writers who designed the challange where the "dressed up divas" were exposed for the true frauds that was obvious to many in the first episode--make the show realistic and axe Casey as well as the "baby diva" who was cut because of her meltdown--Although the public does not see the true professional in the clips that Howie and Tre truly are--Howie at least stepped up to the plate and told it like it really is--as a person who dines at Flays in AC and Morimotto's in Phila--I want to see chef's-not TV acyors NJChefmaster

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:34 PM

sarah m-h wrote:

I was happy to read that you changed your position about the women being very uncomfortable in this challenge. As a professional woman, I also would have a hard time trying to conduct my business when I was all dolled up to look like a babe. Wish Howie could've gotten the boot b/c he's totally obnoxious. CJ and Tre toally rock and you're right, Tre has been cooking like a fiend! Good work, Ted.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:34 PM

Clay Harwick wrote:

I never respond to the short clips that make up a TV show but I couldn't resist--CONGRATS to the writers who designed the challange where the "dressed up divas" were exposed for the true frauds that was obvious to many in the first episode--make the show realistic and axe Casey as well as the "baby diva" who was cut because of her meltdown--Although the public does not see the true professional in the clips that Howie and Tre truly are--Howie at least stepped up to the plate and told it like it really is--as a person who dines at Flays in AC and Morimotto's in Phila--I want to see chef's-not TV acyors NJChefmaster

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:34 PM

Rain wrote:

I dunno, I've always heard the term sliders for that style of burger in general, but then there are no White Castle places where I grew up so I would never have had the point of reference.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:34 PM

eric76 wrote:

I can't imagine anyone wanting to be on Howie's team for anything.

On this challenge, it was clear that he saw himself as team leader and refused to accept leadership from anyone else, yet he never led at all.

People like Howie will never be top of anything no matter how technically proficient they happen to be.

In just about every human endeavor, being able to effectively work as a team member IS the most important criteria. If you can't work as a team member, you are an also-ran regardless of your technical skills.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:39 PM

GC wrote:

GREAT Episode--It really illustrated Mars v. Venus when push comes to shove--congratulations to the writers for exposing the girls who like dress-up--I'll take Cat Cora anyday--this really isn't Iron Chef caliber is it--

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:47 PM

Andy B. wrote:

WWhat can I say Ted, another funny and right on blog. I think the jjudges got it right tonight. Sara was bummed out from the beginning. It affected her attitude and cooking. She was as always very slow. Sara is young, but she has to pick up the pace in all aspects of cooking to be a chef period. There is no room in the kitchen for a slow chef. As for Howie, he could have gone instead. He has shown for a couple of weeks now he's no leader. He's a lot like Joey, very headstrong. And you see where it got him.
The way I see it in the future weeks, Howie and Hung have no shot. Hung is getting worse each week. The key players are Dale, Tre, C.J., and maybe Casey. I expect a tough competition in the weeks ahead. This is one of the toughest fields T. C. has had.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:47 PM

Shelley wrote:

Ted, glad to see your honesty about Howie. It's a bit of a shame that y'all can't see what's going on behind the scenes. The thing that bugs me the most about Howie is not his pitbull personality, it's all the sweat that drips from the end of his nose into the food he's preparing. As I've said before: Eeeewww!!!

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:49 PM

erin wrote:

thanks for the retraction of the "you don't like your outfit comment," it was well merited. while i understand that cheffing is a competitive business, i nonetheless sense a serious undercurrent of gender discrimination in the last few episodes of top chef. the female chefs have it hard enough without having to cook in tottering heels and tops that don't provide any coverage from spills, splatters, or leering.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:52 PM

sin wrote:

siliders are white castle burgers...i'm from the midwest

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:56 PM

Shayla wrote:

Why are you apologizing for commenting about Sara's reticence to cook in "going out wear"? Give me a break. A champion works with what they have and a good chef could perform well naked. Do not take pity on my gender. No one makes us dress like with cleavage and skin showing- there is method to this.

And please- with all the monkey wrenches thrown they didn't partially expect another curveball? A show that has maintained a no outside contact clause since the beginning is suddenly going to be gracious? Sara and Casey set women back eons with the idea that we can be deficient because of something so trivial.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:57 PM

Heather wrote:

okay, just before I started to lay into you with a "you try judging in a speedo" comment, I read your comment. You are again fun to watch, and my universe is again in harmony.

(plus, low-cut, backless shirt or not, Sara had to go. At least, Howie has cooked good on occasion.)

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:57 PM

Mary wrote:

Hi Ted,
Howie has been paired twice with Sara and when he suggests anything she bristles. She would have been antagonistic to anything he said in the way of speeding things up.
The watery "milk" shakes are an example. Sara insisted on putting ice in them against Howie's advice.
I think he was really shook up at the remarks from the judges at the end, so maybe there is hope for the boy.
Please don't let your dislike of Howie's personality get in the way of enjoying his cooking.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:58 PM

Amy wrote:

Ted,
I'm a fellow midwesterner from Chicago, IL. I have to agree with your definition of a Slider. To me, a Slider is a burger from Whitecastle, greasy, square-shaped little things with grilled onions and pickles. Hearing Slider applied in the show as any small burger was confusing... like calling any chicken nugget a Mcnugget.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:00 AM

anne wrote:

I do want to see the male chefs try and cook
in high heels and a shirt open to thar... ;-)
Of course knowing Bravo we knew there had to be a fly
in that invitation.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:00 AM

lisa wrote:

The female contestants this season have no interest in being Marisa and babbling on about the power of their sexuality, so don't put them in that position by not providing them the appropriate clothes to do their job.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:02 AM

MORGAN wrote:

Well Ted,

This is probably because society (and your television show too) loves pushing an underlying message of male dominance and the submissiveness of women. Funny how the 'dominant' male Howie gets to stick around, although he is verbally and emotionally abusive to the other chefs, while Sarah gets chastised for not being 'dominant' enough (although her suggestions were unheard amongst the other men.) It is depressing, but a fact, and the more that we all acknowledge these facts the quicker it can change. Maybe you should talk the producers and try to be proactive about the situation, rather then pondering why.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:03 AM

Rebecca wrote:

Tom,

I am SO impressed with you! I loved you on Queer Eye and am loving you on Top Chef. You always take the high road. You are never condescending, arrogant nor self consumed. You are wonderfully knowledgeable and a great judge. Thank you for your integrity, wit and personality.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:03 AM

Naruv wrote:

Oh Ted. We don't grief you about your face-lift because you're just too adorable. There's nothing "catty" enough about your personality to take a swipe at you. So start talking trash already! =)

As for Rocco and Anthony, I SERIOUSLY doubt that these two fine folks have any real animosity. It's all in good fun. Shit-talking is an important part of any business directly in the public eye. They eat it up!! Heck, I don't need to tell you, you have to sit next to Jeffrey Steingarten!!!

And lets be honest here....Rocco does need to get back in the kitchen, that's a valid complaint from not just Anthony but most foodies and Chefs in general. Keep up the good work Ted, I hope to see you this year during Iron Chef.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:06 AM

Stephanie Labbe wrote:

You're right...a slider is most definitely a White Castle burger! Okay, so I'm in Ohio, maybe it is a regional thing...

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:08 AM

Neel wrote:

I'm from the Midwest too, and we've always referred to sliders as burgers from White Castle...but I have no problem in referring to mini-burgers as sliders either...Keep up the great blogging!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:09 AM

Ariana wrote:

Thanks Ted, for sticking up for the girls and at least acknowledging your error in judgment. Yes, comfort and respect in the kitchen is important! We viewers don't know these folks work long hours shooting this show. So when they were told that they "had a night off", and ended up working the night, I thought that was awful. Sara had a right to be bummed but she is probably kicking herself now for failing to just get over it!
On the subject of Bourdain's dissing of Rocco, I think in essence he is right to do so. Actually, we should DISS all the celeb chefs and chef shows (like this one and Food Network) that have prostituted themselves to the corporate beast. We foodies long for the days where we watched shows about REAL food made by REAL chefs that were passionate about what they do, and not trying to sell you substandard commercialized food. I don't remember that from Season One! If this "advertising" on Top Chef doesn't stop soon viewers will pack their knives and go.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:10 AM

Wakinyan wrote:

I have to agree, the TC producers are real scum for getting the chef's hopes up for a night off and then springing an elimination challenge on them. Guys have it easy, it's just another nice shirt and slacks. But, for women stuck in hundred dollar dresses and high heels, you have to feel sorry for them. So a note to the producers: Gon't Do That Again. Keep the contests honest and fair.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:13 AM

NANCY SP. wrote:

I agree that this challenge presented a sexist predicament. It's awfully hard to work in high heels, and the low cut tops are a problem because they make you self conscious in a work environment. Tre was able to remove the uncomfortable part of his outfit; the women could not.

I also agree totally with both of your comments on the Rocco/Anthony Bourdain thing. I was surprised to see Tony slam Rocco, and I was impressed with Rocco's sensible, non-confrontational response.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:13 AM

Carole wrote:

Hi Ted,
I have never blogged before, but I was so disgusted by the show tonight I had to. I totally agree that the lie was cruel. It will probably get lots of attention, which makes good TV, but I'm truly thinking of not watching anymore.
To tell the chefs they were getting a night off, film them while they excitedly get ready and mentally prepare themselves to make the most of a well deserved break, and then nastily smile and change the scenario was awful! To add insult to injury, to dismiss their discomfort and thus inability to apply themselves to the challenge, especially while being constantly ignored and brow-beaten by a big, burly, pig headed "teammate," was ignorant.
I appreciate your hind sight comments. They are insightful and sensitive. They are not on the show, however, so will only be seen by those who visit the blog. The shows are taped, so there could have been an apology or an explanation before or after the show if anyone really recognized and/or acknowledged it's problems. No comment means acceptance of the final product. Shame. The show was so "tasteful" before.
I believe that the average watcher appreciates the pressure the contestants are under just by being on the show and separated from their families, much less living with their rivals, defending their knowledge and reputations as chefs, struggling to find a rhythm for each challenge with those rivals, and then being criticized for the outcome in the end. We don't need to see you torture the contestants to drive home the point. I'm so disappointed.
I've always felt that people who complain that TV offers more and more garbage and less and less quality are silly for watching. By watching we encourage the junk to continue. Watch what you truly like and you are encouraging what you consider to be quality. Which leaves me with a decision to make.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:14 AM

Pete wrote:

Ted. Absolutely agree on Howie, he is a big talker but not a big doer. Talks too much listens too little.

As for the Tony Vs. Rocco. Rocco didn't take the high road, he took the only road he could because he doesn't have a leg to stand on.

Bayless has a body of work to stand on and he did his endorsement with everyone knowin gthat he is the man that he has done it before. Rocco showed his chops at Union Pacific, but when he did "the Restaurant" he blew a lot of credibility through his partying behavior when he really should have been behind the house fixing the problems. The best way out of getting his balls busted is to shut up and go back to being a chef, shwo every one he still has the chops and isn't taking shortcuts anymore, that is how you shut people up, not by doing cat food commercials.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:16 AM

Dominique wrote:

Always enjoy your blogs Ted!!! And thank you so much for reconsidering your feelings about the ladies of Top Chef and what they had to endure for this challenge. Now I do feel that after about a minute or so of feeling bad for yourself and feeling extremely uncomfortable in the situation, YOU HAVE TO GET PAST IT. You signed up for a competition, so you have to be ready for ANYTHING they toss your way (basically...always keep some gymmies in ya purse :-) But, everyone should be able to recognize that the ladies did have to overcome more obstacles as far as attire...heels, low cut blouses...ect.

Tre is OUTSTANDING!!! It seemed as though Hung used to be the guy to beat, but now it is Tre all the way!!!

And I don't really know what exactly went down with Rocco, but I don't enjoy reading people bashing him for previous faults, especially Anthony B. (whose blogs I also usually enjoy(. Joey during his exit interview also bashed Rocco pretty badly, as if he was the main reason he was kicked off...no Joey, you messed up!!! Alright, that's it for now...again, GREAT BLOG!!!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:18 AM

Dominique wrote:

Always enjoy your blogs Ted!!! And thank you so much for reconsidering your feelings about the ladies of Top Chef and what they had to endure for this challenge. Now I do feel that after about a minute or so of feeling bad for yourself and feeling extremely uncomfortable in the situation, YOU HAVE TO GET PAST IT. You signed up for a competition, so you have to be ready for ANYTHING they toss your way (basically...always keep some gymmies in ya purse :-) But, everyone should be able to recognize that the ladies did have to overcome more obstacles as far as attire...heels, low cut blouses...ect.

Tre is OUTSTANDING!!! It seemed as though Hung used to be the guy to beat, but now it is Tre all the way!!!

And I don't really know what exactly went down with Rocco, but I don't enjoy reading people bashing him for previous faults, especially Anthony B. (whose blogs I also usually enjoy(. Joey during his exit interview also bashed Rocco pretty badly, as if he was the main reason he was kicked off...no Joey, you messed up!!! Alright, that's it for now...again, GREAT BLOG!!!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:18 AM

mel wrote:

Ted, you echoed my sentiments exactly. I think Howie has talent, I just have a really hard time seeing him running a successful kitchen. Ultimately if you can't work with people, it's going to be a lonely ride and your food will suffer (as his consistently has when he's had conflict).

Also, I totally understand how Sara and Casey felt, as I too am a female in a male-dominated industry, but I think they missed out on an opportunity to turn the situation into a positive one. Brian did just that: he entered into the party spirit fully in a way that drew the crowd to the food they were serving (and got them excited about it). I think Casey and Sara could have used the situation to their advantage in a similar way--said, "you know, this is not what we planned for, but we already look good...let's make some kickass food and then show those clubbers that we know night life and WE know what theyr're hungry for."

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:22 AM

Stephanie wrote:

If you all think that Howie is a better option for Top Chef than Sara you should all pack your knives and go home!! Howie is a disgrace.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:24 AM

Jen in GB wrote:

Thank God! You get it, totally and completely about that #$%!& Howie. He's disruptive and and piss poor excuse of a cook, not a chef, a cook. He's the prime example of someone who is enamored with the culinary world, has learned a few buzz words and concepts, and just spews them nonstop in order to brainwash people into thinking that he actually knows what he's doing. BLECK. I'd fire his ass in a NY minuted were he in my kitchen.

I love me my Anthony, but also think Rocco's getting a bad rap. Leave him alone, and he'll do his thing, and everyone else can do theirs.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:28 AM

Jen in GB wrote:

Thank God! You get it, totally and completely about that #$%!& Howie. He's disruptive and and piss poor excuse of a cook, not a chef, a cook. He's the prime example of someone who is enamored with the culinary world, has learned a few buzz words and concepts, and just spews them nonstop in order to brainwash people into thinking that he actually knows what he's doing. BLECK. I'd fire his ass in a NY minute were he in my kitchen.

I love me my Anthony, but also think Rocco's getting a bad rap. Leave him alone, and he'll do his thing, and everyone else can do theirs.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:29 AM

lisa wrote:

face lift??? While i honestly didn't notice....was the doc working with a picture of Ilan as a reference? You're starting to look related, right down to the glasses.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:32 AM

Jon Hochstat wrote:

Ted,
I am from New Jersey as well, West Orange (about 25 minutes from where Tom grew up). I agree with you on the sliders being associated with White Castle although or local name for them was less appealing and not something I care to put into writing.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:33 AM

karen wrote:

BEst Blog I read all year, your so insightful, nice, funny and dead on with your recap of this weeks show. You make top chef my favorite show to watch. Keep up the great work, and I'll keep reading your blog first. thanks karen

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:34 AM

Dominique wrote:

Oh, one more thing...slider, definitely just a White Castle burger. From Ohio as well...pure White Castle!!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:35 AM

April wrote:

It may sound strange, but wearing heels or open toes - or even clothing outside of one's normal "work attire" - really CAN throw off one's "game" - in my industry, some jobs are unsafe in open toe shoes. One day, I was asked to fill in for someone who was absent. Not expecting to be in this role, I was wearing sandals (okay for my regular job.) A lot of my brain "bandwidth" was spent thinking about the shoes and being extremely careful - it really threw off the normal "flow" of the work. It says a lot (all good) that you rethought your initial gut reaction. Thanks for stating that in your blog - which I continue to enjoy.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:37 AM

Y wrote:

Thank you Ted for rethinking your statement about cooking in club clothes. Maybe if you and Tom had thought about how successful (or not) you would have been cooking in three inch heels, full makeup, a push up bra, dealing with drunk, leering guys who've returned from a night of partying, Howie would have been sent home. I know that Gail has said before in her blog that she has no interaction with the contestants and that is like how the typical customer would approach the food, I don't understand why MOST of the judges are isolated as well from the behind the scenes action. After all, a diner can LOVE the food in a restaurant, but not be privy to the poor business decisions that the head chef/manager makes. Such a restaurant would shut down despite A-grade food, right? It seems that you're judging on more than food in the team competitions, and if you don't actually SEE the team interactions, then what you're judging on is food and judge's table presentation skills. Or in Howie's case, finger pointing skills. I hate how the constant refrain seems to be, "Well, a TOP CHEF would be able to [fill in blank]." In this case, it's implied that a TOP CHEF would be able to handle Howie. Well, a TOP CHEF would also rank above Howie and have the power to fire him. I think if a TOP CHEF observed someone behaving like Howie in the last two challenges, Howie would have been fired already. So I think the question is not whether Sara is a Top Chef, but more are the judges Top Chefs for not recognizing Howie's bad sportsmanship and attitude and not "firing" him earlier?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:47 AM

Sharon wrote:

Ted,

I just love your candor and amiability. You are so natural and your personality projects through the television screen into my home. Thank you so much for your blog! ---Sharon

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:48 AM

susan m wrote:

Oh Ted -- no apologies necessary. As a woman, I get darned tired of seeing women using their little outfits as an excuse for not digging in. If they had on uncomfortable shoes and had to cook, then, dammit, let them kick off the shoes and cook.

love your blogs -- always funny and refresing. :)

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:51 AM

Sheryll wrote:

Hey Ted,

Great post, as usual!

I am about your age and I grew up near St. Louis, the land of White Castle burgers! I never heard of the burgers called "sliders", they were known as "belly bombs" and a few other slang names, but "sliders" is a new one on me.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 12:59 AM

TNnis wrote:

You had a face lift? No, I hadn't noticed, but my mother colored her hair for two years before I picked up on that, so don't feel badly on my account.

"Sliders" in my neck-of-the-woods (Tennessee) and vernacular, started out referring to the small, 3" x 3" square, flat as a flitter, steamed-bun bugers served by Krystal, but the definition expanded to include those from White Castle and a couple of other little joints my crew has run across over the years.

In this crowd, sliders are also referred to as "fried (arm) pits" because of the lingering smell in your vehicle if you accidentally leave one or two in a bag in the floorboard for longer than 12 hours. Yuck, I know, but try it and you'll understand, be repulsed but not repulsed enough to stop eating the ghastly little things.

It's interesting that Ted softened his views on the women's complaints about having to cook in their evening clothes. As soon as Padma said, "You have the night off", I was screaming at the TV - "It's a TRICK!! She's LYING!!!! You're going to have to cook!"

I wonder, did anyone, even for a split-second, consider that something hinky might be going on?

I felt badly for the girls - they were at an unfair advantage. I can't imagine having to do my job while wearing inappropriate clothing for the task. Showing up for work in my swimsuit with dirty fingernails has been a recurring nightmare of mine for ten some-odd years, and I equate what they had to do in this challenge with a nightmarish level of discomfort. Guy clothes are guy clothes -- case in point, Tre looked fabulous and dish-appropriate stripped down to his wife-beater tee at the sautee station. He looked like the king of bacon-shrimp and cheese grits!!

Thanks for the great blog and insight into TC, Ted.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:00 AM

John wrote:

I don't know if White Castle burgers were called 'sliders' but they were sold way before McDonald's, Burger King or Wendy's came into existance. There is a burger shack in the village where I live. If a burger ever deserved to be called a 'slider' it is the burgers that come out of this shack. These burgers served with fried onions and are plenty greasy. It is all the bun can do to soak up all of the grease. Maybe the grease is why these burgers are called sliders.This shack is a gold mine. People come from 20 miles around just to sample this fare.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:05 AM

Mark wrote:

Ted, the more I see of you, the more impressed I am. In your blog, you said that you had a change of heart:

"I now think that this was insensitive of me."

It takes a very big man to step up, admit a mistake, and publicly take a new position on an issue. You really seem to "get it" now, and I for one appreciate that. I hope that Sara and Casey will appreciate it, too.

By the way, I assume that "slider" is a regional term, simply because I've never heard of one before. Maybe I'm just showing my ignorance, but hey, I'm not a food critic.

And also, the reason why I never said anything about your facelift is because I'm too much of a gentleman (snick). You look good and you have style. I'm straight, and I'm grasping at straws here, so let's leave it at that, ok?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:16 AM

Desrae wrote:

Ted,

I am glad that you apologized for your comment on the show. I was very disappointed in your initial comment on the show about the women and what they were wearing. Unfortunately what frustrates me is that had I not come onto the website to leave a message, I would have been unaware of your actual stance on the initial comment. I think the comments on the show reified the women's position as "pretty things." It is hard to go work in high heels and I frequently try not to given that I often have to walk long distances in my daily work day. I cannot imagine cooking in high heels. Either way, I think the challenge was far easier for the men. If you notice, the men were able to wear comfortable shoes, and Tres even took his shirt off when it was hot.

I just think the way the this show was shot and edited simply reified perceptions of women and men and was designed to inadvertently be more difficult for the women than the men.

Sorry, I had to add my two cents. I just wish your retraction of the comment would be something that would be broadcasted on the show. All of the women in the room where I was watching the show were simply shocked that it was even said.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:16 AM

Sarah wrote:

My boyfriend and I thought the cheftestants got off easy. When we saw the preview we thought they were going to have to cook hungover or still drunk.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:31 AM

Lisa wrote:

Ted - Another great blog, thanks for your thoughts! I really wish Howie had been the one to go tonight. I think his attitude is lacking, and I was seriously nausteated by his sweat in tonights episode. I am from Illinois and I agree with you that a slider is specifically a White Castle burger.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:39 AM

Astrid wrote:

Dear Ted,
I really enjoy your insights on the Top Chef contestants. I think noone has commented on _your_ face lift because you look like you've just had a great vacation. C'mon, you look fabulous as ever. I also agree with you, B-A-C-O-N on everything (except for ice cream). As for Rocco, I think he may have gone to the same plastic surgeon as Carrot Top. Besos!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:44 AM

slapstick wrote:

It's nice to see one of the judges come out and say that watching the show has actually changed his opinion. Most of the time they will stand by what they said and did, and as a female (and someone who isn't particularly fond of Howie), it's very refreshing to hear you admit that you were mistaken.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 1:50 AM

Andrew wrote:

Even though it was true that Sara did kind of disappoint in this challenge, I was really sad to see her go this week. I feel Howie deserved to go home. At first you get the conception that Hung is the a__ in the house but Howie is so much more now. I feel so sad for Sara

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:15 AM

ben wrote:

Ted

Im from the midwest and those little white castle hamburgers have always been what I consider sliders....

I highly doubt that Tony is jealous of Rocco, I gather from what I can get from his books and TV shows that the "sell outs" of the kitchen world do not sit well in his stomach (see Emril, Rachel Ray, Rocco, Tyler Florance...)

Just my .02

Kudos to Dale on the quickfire and wow, watch out for Trey as he gets his second win in a row.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:16 AM

Sara wrote:

When I first got done with watching this week's episode, I couldn't help but be bitter about the judges' decision to send Sara N. home, rather than Howie. The reason for that was the fact that you judges have talked endlessly about not basing your decisions for each elimination challenge on any previous ones. This seemed pretty hypocritical to me, since before Sara N. was sent home, Tom stated that one of them (meaning Howie) was more cut out for the competition than the other, and it seemed to me that the reason Howie stayed was because he had proved his talents in previous challenges.
Reading your blog, a bit of my bitterness has subsided, because I do realize that Sara N.'s performance was lacking because she wasn't able to bounce back and get to work. However, it was still EXTREMELY disappointing because it's clear that the whole thing with "we don't take previous challenges into account for our decisions at judges' table," seems like a load of crap, because it's obvious that you only stand by that statement with certain people.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:21 AM

Valerie wrote:

I must say that I am always greatly impressed by your comments both on the show, and on the blogs. I really appreciate you understanding a professional woman's point of view. On one hand, an outfit really shouldn't hinder one from creating a wonderful dish. But at the same time, dressing to go out and dressing to go to work are completely different. I would not want to work an 8-hour shift in food service wearing high heels and a party top because it is both uncomfortable and unprofessional.
Also, this episode was such a low blow!! How can someone promise the contestents a night out on the town to enjoy themselves, then turn the tables around so quickly? Yes, this is a competition and you have to be on your toes, but I would be PISSED if my co-workers invited me to a party, only to have me work all night instead.

That being said, I think that it was only a matter of time before Sara N. was sent home. Throughout the show, she has not necessarily made a big splash. She's stil young, and seems less experienced than others.

I also predict, that no matter how good his food is, with Howie's lousy attitude, it's also only a matter of time before he's sent home. I think that he's messed up more than enough, and has consistently made weak excuses about his shortcomings.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:27 AM

Jeanne wrote:

I am so angry at the producers of this episode that I had to write this immediately or I wouldn't be able to sleep. This was a totally demeaning challenge for the women competitors. The lack of sensitivity in putting the women at a disadvantage by being in the position of having to compete in high heels and dress clothes shows how ingrained the male dominance of this profession is. That Ted would make such a comment as "What she can't cook because she doesn't like her outfit" is remarkiable coming from a gay man who has probably suffered many indignities. Women chefs have to suit up and put on their armor to go into the kitchen and compete in a male infused profession within a male dominated society. To think you are going out on the town and then be asked to cook without your armor on is like asking Tre to cook in a minstrel outfit . There is just no equivalent to compare this to for a white male. Shame on you all! You undid all three female chefs and one had to go home.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:30 AM

Maureen wrote:

I think the women over did it on the complaints about the clothes. I bet every single one of them has been fancy dressed with heels cooking at holiday dinners or cocktail parties. As a woman, there was nothing demeaning - I didn't see their cookmates oggling them or making lavicious remarks to them which would have made it sexist then. Course I think Casey made a conquest when she CHOSE to step out of the wagon and engage in conversation with a drunk.

I think the concept of this show was that emergencies happen in the cooking world, plans made have to be changed and you have to be willing to step up to the plate in what ever attire you are in and be prepared to save the day - which happens to be cooking in this show. Not getting over your disappointment and letting it affect your cooking shows a real lack of comittment and dependability.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:38 AM

Jeanne wrote:

I am so incensed that your Top Chef producers would be so insensitive as to put this challenge on tonight, creating a situation that put the women competitors at a complete and utter disadvantage. Women chefs must put on their armor every day to walk into kitchens in this male infused profession in a male dominated world. To set them up by telling them they were going out on the town, leading them to leave their armor behind, would be like asking Tre to cook in minstral garb. There is no equivalent situation that a while male could be put in that woudl even approach this. What was even more disappointing was that Ted could be so insensitive to say something like "What, she can't cook because she doesn't like her outfit" is beyond belief, coming from a gay man who has probably suffered many indignities and much discrimination. So you defeated all three women and one of them had to go home. Shame on you all!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:41 AM

Elaine wrote:

Ted, right on tagrget as always! It was a cruel challenge and it gives TC no credibility. If I was on the show, I wouldn't belive a word said to me again. Howie obviously wanted Sara to go and that's what happened. He's a liar and doesn't take responsibility. How much of character does get taken into account of winning and losing anyway? I can wait for Howie to go, as he should have done in challenge no. 1 because he DNR (did not finish.)

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:50 AM

Timothy wrote:

Oh, Teddy - I'm a Michigan guy - we know Sliders - smack down Chef Tom, wouldja?

Lord, my friend Krista would be soooo disappointed that this were my first Queer Eye moment - but keep in up on Iron Chef America too, eh?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:55 AM

Amie wrote:

First off, I'm a huge fan of your's (I'm going to risk sounding like a doofus to make this personal address); your critic on both Top and Iron Chef seem so point on and witty (delightfully so). Second, I really appreciate the response to *tonight's* episode of Top Chef. The challenge, while really seeming harmless at first, created quite a gender riff that I just couldn't stomach completely by the end of eliminations. I think that this reason is partly because I am female myself, and so something just started seething watching poor Casey and Sara run around the market, and then trailer. But once again, the response is much appreciated...hehe I look forward to future judging and blogs :)

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:04 AM

Crissy wrote:

Ted, I was really bummed to hear your "can't cook because your don't like your outfit" comment, implying that the women who talked about inappropriate kitchen attire are frivolous. (But it's not just you, I'm disappointed that Padma didn't come out in defense of women having to run around the kitchen in heels.) It bums out even more to think that there were probably a lot of people watching the show who agreed with you, but wouldn't admit to being insensitive as you do here.

Wearing high heels can be painful and tiring, especially if one is not used to them. Cooking in them, in a competition setting no less, is ridiculous and can be downright dangerous. There was definitely some serious handicapping going on in this challenge. Next time, everyone should wear high heels and cook. We'll see who gets sent home for bitching and moaning about their poor feet.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:05 AM

Peggy wrote:

Hey Ted,
New to this blog thing but want to ask why, after you have seen the shows and what goes on in the kitchen, hasn't anyone told Howie to quit sweating in his food. It's disgusting to watch him cook! He should at least wear a headband or something. He's a real a-hole and needs to go. Bye.
PS: You look wonderful, but then again, you always have.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:16 AM

Kouri wrote:

It was really cool of you to retract that statement about the ladies' clothes. While I agree that you need to put on your big girl pants when you're faced with a challenge on this kind of show, there was more to their complaint then just not liking their outfits. Thank you very much for acknowledging that fact.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:19 AM

Liz wrote:

You got a face lift?! In all truth, I don't see it dear. Oh well. By the way, long time fan and a first time caller/commenter.

I agree completely on everything that you have said. I do hope that Howie is cut soon, because I can't stomach him. I haven't been able to since the second episode.

Cheers!
Liz from Chicago.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:23 AM

BTCarolus wrote:

Ted, when your face looks like fondant that's been stretched too tight and then assaulted by an air brush filled with orange Wilton food color we'll talk it up plenty. Until then we'll just gaze on in admiration.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:32 AM

Trish from NoCal wrote:

Your review was right on target, and my respect for you has risen even higher than before. I totally agree that the female chefs had every reason to be upset that their professionalism was compromised by the bait-and-switch nature of the challenge, and that Howie is a complete tool who deserved to be sent packing. Personally, if he cooks pork one more time (and sweats into it), I'm ready to pick up the nearest object and chuck it at my screen. I feel badly for whoever gets stuck with him for next week's team challenge.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:32 AM

Steve.R. wrote:

Ted,

Thank you for reading my mind, and talking about a little justice here. Before I read your entry, I had planned to begin my entry by saying that the producers should be ashamed at what they set up this week. I ought to stop watching the series because of the number of times that the producers cynically did a bait-and-switch with the setup: three times this season, damn it! It's just dirty pool. And this one in particular, in which Padma told a bald-faced lie to the cheftestants!

Now, to the dishing: it's sad to see Sara so demotivated that she can hardly function. Given the sudden death method of elimination, I can understand it. I share her feelings about this kind of brutal competition, though. The judges can be rather brutal; the situations are brutal, even outright setups for failure. Some of the contestants are unkind, although we've seen justice to the end. (In Season Two, Foamboy provoked and provoked the bad behavior he got in return.)

Anyway, Howie will be gone eventually. Hopefully, we won't inadvertently loose one of the other outstanding competitors to a misstep along the way.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:37 AM

Gopal Krishna wrote:

The elimination challenge was such BS. I felt nauseous and prepared to swear off Top Chef for life upon the realization that the contestants had been misled about their "night out". Top Chef is becoming My Big Fat Obnoxious Boss (Fox), or more accurately, a parody of itself. I don't watch the show to see people miserable and crying.

Unrelated, though also irritating, is how the reruns of Top Chef episodes are being re-edited. What's gone? Anthony Bourdain's invitation to Tre for late night yakitori and to get him "savage drunk", Clay's mentioning of his father's passing, Joey's tirade about one female contestant during a shopping scene, and probably more. Is this just to create more time for commercials or is something sinister going on? I am especially annoyed about the Bourdain cut, because it revealed a very charming aspect of his personality that made me want to find out more about him. Now I am a fan and watch his show on the Travel Channel religiously. Perhaps if I had not heard those words, I might not have taken an interest and would have been deprived of his cultural and culinary critiques.

What's going on Bravo? You also need to address judging mistakes that are made and aired on TV, not just on the web site. For instance, the whole lobster/cholesterol issue that was grossly blown out of proportion. Oh, and what about Micah's supposed South African roots? Born and raised in the US? (Source: Amuse-Biatch) Where's the due diligence?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 4:07 AM

Christy wrote:

Ted i love you! You crack me up and i think you hit it head on with everything from tonight's episode.

1.Did you really get a face lift??

2. I'm from Atlanta and I consider sliders more than just burgers from White Castle...plus we don't have White Castle here...only Krystal. And I actually hadn't heard of sliders until last year...weird.

3. I completely agree with you about Howie. He needs to chill out and evaluate himself and his own cooking.

4. Don't apologize for your comment about the girls and their outfits. That was a seriously disappointing excuse that they gave and it was embarrassing to me as a girl. If you don't want people to see you like that in the kitchen then why do you want people to see you like that in a club?? Don't let your chest hang out and dress up like that unless you want everyone to see. PS. They are on TV already!? Everyone is seeing you.

5. I love your take on Rocco and Anthony. I think they are both awesome and I love hearing what they have to say.

Please keep on blogging and doing everything you're doing!! You are so smart and witty and a joy to watch and learn from!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 4:09 AM

michelle wrote:

Ted that's bs! you guys said that howie cooked a big doughy mess. Doughy mess or underseasoned burger? I pick the later. Who cares if she was unhappy?

I have believed that you guys made the right decisions up to this point. I believe that this is howies fourth time on the chopping block...and that you guys let him stay to cause more havoc.

Yeah I'm sure you guys really judge based on the food- toms explanation at the end really showed that the decision was about food.

I have never felt resentful towards top chef before until this point.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 5:01 AM

Rza wrote:

Howie is a fat, sweaty excuse for a human being. He looks like a pig, he eats like a pig (he's the only one always stuffing his face in every challenge...not tasting, but shoveling away), and he ONLY cooks pig. AGAIN! Cuban sandwich = pork. WTF? He should at least be docked points for cannibalism if anything.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 5:18 AM

Top Chef Nut wrote:

Hi Ted!

What part of Ohio? That is where I am currently living; although I am originally an East Coaster (MA). Loved the bit on the Maine Lobsters. Dont ever move another fisherman's trap!

I am glad that we have the same poisiton on the Howie/Sarah issue. Howie is very talented; but his attitude and actions toward fellow contestants is really wearing on my nerves. He cant get along with ANYONE! So the problem has got to be his. Is there anyone he hasnt sparred with? Sarah was the weaker of the two; but she always tried her hardest and was kind to her fellow "cheftestants." (Love that term). I have to admit that wearing a low cut shirt and heals; slaving over a stove would have been a little tough to deal with.

It would have been nice to see what all of the chefs had made for their ice cream mix-ins. Uh what was Hung thinking?? It was nice to see him act accordingly and not his usual obnoxious self. Perhaps it is finally sinking in?? I liked Govan as a guest judge. What an upstanding chef. You could tell some of the flavor combos didnt work well and he didnt use his culinary expertise to belittle anyone like some past chefs have. I hope he comes back in the future.

As for the Bourdaine vs DiSpirito battle; props to Rocco for taking the higher road. The past is the past...can we please just move on?

As always; I love reading your comments. Looking forward to next week's edition!

~Carrie

posted on August 9, 2007 at 6:14 AM

Kim F. wrote:

Sliders are definately White Castle Hamburger- often imitated NEVER duplicated! Ted you are awesome!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 6:30 AM

Pam I wrote:

Hi Ted

I totally agree with you about this episode, and as a woman myself I have to go along with you about the producers dirty little trick on this one: man that was harsh! But for the most part everyone came through with flying colors. I was ready to see Sara go, but I really felt Howie should have been the one to hit the door on this one. Of course, hindsight is 20/20. Tre is my favorite too this season, and would have loved to have been there to try everyone's creations, because they all looked great for the most part. Great blog as usual, can't wait for the next one!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 6:31 AM

kriselda jarnsaxa wrote:

As a fan and viewer, I really appreciate that you're willing to clarify things that were said or done on the show that maybe weren't quite right. It says a lot about the kind of person you are, and it adds to your credibility as a judge and commentator. I've long enjoyed watching you on that other show you sometimes judge for, and am really glad to have you here, also!

Ok, now that we've got the fawning out of the way :) can I just say that Howie is a complete ass? Ok, so I'm not the first to notice, but geeze! One of the many blogs I read that discusses this show commented that he seems to have the most trouble working with females - and that seemed to be true tonight as well. Is he misogynistic? I dunno, but he does come off at least somewhat that way at times. I really hope he's gone from the show soon, though.

Something else I've learned tonight - don't trust Marcel or any of his friends to make ice cream for you - they have no concept of what is good! Last season, of course, was Marcel's bizarre avocado and bacon ice cream (there's one place I'll bet even YOU agree that bacon doesn't improve things any!) and tonight we got Hung with his ice cream "suicide". White chocolate and cauliflower? with mint? and pistachios? oh, and why not add some brown butter and "gelee" for the hell of it, eh? Gah! I think someone just needs to round up all those guys and take them to some kind of a remedial ice cream boot camp or something.

I'd never heard of Rocco before he was the guest host last week (no, I didn't watch The Restaurant) so I don't know what the big deal is with him. He seemed like a reasonable sort of fellow, but I didn't get to see that much. Bourdain being Bourdain he's not likely to care much what he says where, so I wasn't surprised to read his comments, but I did think it was a bit of a cheap shot. Hopefully, Rocco's response will be the end of it - whatever their personal beefs are, its not really germane to the show. ::shrug::

Last - I'm in the midwest and have only ever heard "sliders" used for White Castle burgers. And, honestly, I think it's better for chefs and other cooks to avoid calling anything else a "slider" if they don't have to - "slider" just has this image of something so greasy and slimy to the point of being nauseating. But maybe that's just me :D

See ya next week, I hope!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 6:51 AM

Lori wrote:

Hi Ted-

You are so kind to express sympathy for the girls, but really...you were correct at judges table. This isn't real life, it's a competition. The gang should be prepared for any curveball thrown. It reminds me of Project Runway's Jeffrey Sebelia when Heidi announced that there would be a little party that night. His response was something like "the one thing I know is that it won't be a party , it's never a ******* party!"
I can't believe these chefs did not have a clue. I thought the ladies modesty to be oddly prudish. Tre showing some skin was HOT! Whatever happened to the old adage 'sex sells"? With the right attitude the ladies could have capitalized on the situation.

Ted, you are handsome inside and out! LB

posted on August 9, 2007 at 7:00 AM

Michelle wrote:

Good morning Ted!

I haven't seen the show yet, but I had to start my morning with your blog. I am currently living in Columbus, Ohio and sliders are the unappealing steamed hamburgers from White Castle (just my humble opinion -- they have legions of fans!) It will be interesting to see if other regions call their hamburgers in general "sliders".

I was appalled at the blogs from last week. Such bile from some of the bloggers. I have to wonder if everyone of them have squeaky clean pasts with no bad karma to overcome. If so, snaps for them -- although I am left highly skeptical that this be true. I try to live in the present and, at minimum, to do no harm. Maybe that is what Rocco is trying to do. If not, that is his karma and I leave him to it. At least he took the high road in last week's blog.

And as for your face, it is perfect as it is sweetie. You have yourself a great day. Looking forward to watching the TC I taped last night with hubby over dinner. Go Tre and CJ!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:01 AM

shawn spencer wrote:

I disagree. Howie has every right to be angry with most of his lame partners so far. It seems to me they are trying to sabotage him. In one team challenge he had Casey with her flippant additude and she was the broken wheel on the team. He then had Sara M as his team-mate she too tried the passive aggresive bit bringing the team down letting him do all the work to try to set him up for the fall. Last night he gets the indifferent Casey again and Sara N. who acts like a spoiled brat because she cannot get her way and go party whaaaaaa. This leads to HER not him causing discontent because someone else has to pull her load. He is correct this is a competition and when it gets even tighter you will see people like Tre, Hung and CJ get more competitive and cut-throat. Shawn

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:20 AM

Tony wrote:

Ted, love your blog. You're a very talented writer. I am impressed with your willingness to rethink your position on Casey and Sara's discomfort. And it is time for Howie to go! I am so over him. The other person I am ready to see go... Malarkey! I don't find him cute or funny, just annoying and a little bit insane and scary. Plus, he did seafod AGAIN last night. He's almost as bad as Ilan and his saffron...

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:26 AM

Corrine Puntel wrote:

Okay first...Face lift ...what? Second Chefs Tony and Rocco should keep it on the playground.. but i concur .... It was hilarious! Third the 5th eye roll from Sara said it all...

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:31 AM

alexia wrote:

You had a face-lift? I just thought that was your natural hotness!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:33 AM

Malena Analia wrote:

I agree with you regarding Howie. He talks so much about respect and what not. However,to earn respect you have to show some to others. Also, how many times do we have to see him sweat on food??? Is disgusting!!! Sorry to see Sara go. Obviosly is a mean world out there,and being nice does not cut it. How sad is that?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:33 AM

Caligula wrote:

To me sliders will always be those little green turtles that are now illegal. But I think sliders (the burger) are from White Castle. It seems like the term has be co-opted.

Poor Dale. His "reward" dinner looked like a really bad blind date.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:36 AM

christine wrote:

Great insight Ted! I really love that you are man enough to change your position about women and their attire in the workplace.
Keep up the good work! I really enjoy it when you are on the show.

Christine R.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:47 AM

bmoregiri wrote:

Dear Ted,
I'm in Maryland, where there are both White Castles and Little Taverns. White Castle burgers are "sliders" or "whiteys;" Little Tavern burgers are "death balls." So it would appear you are right, as you usually are--and one of the nicest things about you is you admit it when you are wrong, as in the cholesterol content of lobster. You're the top, hon.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:47 AM

Barbara wrote:

Thanks for exactly what I thought after reading Anthony Bourdain's blog. Very eloquent, witty, and VERY unprofessional.
The contestants should have known better-in two seasons, has there been a night off? No! Hopefully, they have finally learned to not let their-or their blouse-down.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:02 AM

Kim Peters wrote:

I think you were right that your comment about the clothing and how it may or may have not affected the outcome of the dishes was a little rough. I wish Sara had been able to overcome her disappointment and produce the quality food that she can do, but I really would like to see Howie go.
I'm wondering, as I'm watching this, how much the producers input in the judges' decisions is influencing the decisions to keep Howie. He has been in the bottom more times than not, but he always manages to squeak through.
This was a "mean" challenge in many respects. The frozen food challenge was silly, but this was mean. The chefs should have expected it -- look what happened on the first episode -- but it was mean.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:07 AM

J.R. Bovinet wrote:

As someone who grew up in the Midwest, a slider will always be the little steamed burgers from White Castle. I am somewhat amused when I hear "upscale" establishments offer "sliders" made from venison or buffalo or veal or whatever.

So tip one back to half a dozen sliders, a pail of nails, and some wash from White Castle after the game.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:09 AM

Christina wrote:

Ted~
I live in Michigan and here sliders can be White Castles OR any greasy, cheesy, onion grilled burger you eat after midnight. Now, to be clear, McDonald's, Burger King, and the like do not count. They are usually from some local greasy spoon and MUST be flat top grilled with onions and covered in pickles. :) However, I will admit that the White Castle Crave Case is the preferred slider in my mind! Thanks for the great blogs and insights. Love being able to see you here and on the occasional Iron Chef America.
~Christina in Michigan

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:16 AM

Victor Infante wrote:

Ted wrote: Well, to be honest, I was surprised that a writer as gifted as Tony felt the need to take an ad hominem swipe at a colleague -- although it was, I have to admit, hilarious

Dude. Bourdain's all about the ad hominem swipe. He's the jester in the court, saying what most of us at home are thinking but few others will say in a public forum. And God bless him for it.

Also, I'm glad you've apologized for your comments about Sara and Casey not being comfortable working in those outfits. I've been a big fan of yours since "Queer Eye," and frankly, I was terribly disappointed in you at that moment. But now, I can see where, in the heat of judgment and not having a context for what was going on, sympathy might not have been quick to come. Still, it was an incredibly sexist maneuver, and you're right, the producers should have been ashamed.

And speaking of sexist, I wish someone would call Howie on his misogyny. The way he attacks women in the kitchen is getting frightening. And yes, he's had troubles with just about everyone, but the way he goes for the throat with the women he works with is startling and, frankly, happens too often to be the product of an edit.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:18 AM

Karen wrote:

Ted, I'm with you on the topic of sliders. I'm from Chicago and I wouldn't call anything other than a burger from White Castle a slider!

Keep up the great work - on screen and in the blog.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:25 AM

Beth wrote:

Ted,

Loved your blog, as usual! Have to say I agree with you on the term "sliders" being tagged for White Castles. Although, many restaurants are serving what they're calling "sliders" or "mini's" and saying, "They're like White Castle's only better." (We were actually told this at a "Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant - and was disappointed because they weren't better, they were worse!)

I completely agree that Sara (and actually, Casey too!) had a very hard time getting past the idea that they weren't actually going clubbing. It was like they had that set in their minds, and just wouldn't let it go. The other team seemed to have no problem "rolling with it"...and that's why they won the challenge.

Howie is bulldog-ish - but I do agree with him to an extent of trying to get past the personality issues and listen to the message. When he was commenting to Sara about the milkshakes that he never put ice in his...I don't think he was being rude or destructive in his comments, just telling it like he saw it. I think Sara, not liking what was going on, not getting into the challenge and all, just took offense to it, being a little overly sensitive. I didn't think there was anything wrong in how or what he said about them...I also agreed with Tom in that if she wanted to make something else, then she should have just bucked up and said, "This is what I'm doing." Mia and Mikey did that in Season 1, and it turned out successful. Part of her demise was that she didn't want a confrontation, so rather than speak up for herself and do something she wanted, she hushed up and did what someone else wanted to do for the good of the cause, and didn't stand up for herself--it cost her.

Anyway - keep the blogs coming! Think you are right on target!

Beth

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:29 AM

Jade wrote:

Your comments are cogent and I couldn't agree more about your opinion of Howie. I take it leadership isn't taught in culinary school? What a shame. I've been underwhelmed with the women chefs this season and one thing really screams at me: the female participants touching their hair. YUCK. Even if they aren't doing it while around food -- YICK. I thought the "clubbing" challenge was one of the most interesting and a good test of their skills as cooks AND organizers/leaders.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:34 AM

Megan wrote:

Ted, I'm taking your side in the argument with Tom. To me, a slider is a burger from White Castle. Nothing more, nothing less. Personally, I think they're disgusting, but my parents would eat there during college after a night of drinking (this was when the drinking age was 18). My brother-in-law also loves them.
This would have been a fun challenge! I'm surprised that they took Padma at face value. If it were me, I would have been asking, "Okay, what's the catch?" I love late-night after-drinking food. But then again, who doesn't?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:37 AM

Mary wrote:

Thanks for your timely post, Ted!! I really enjoy reading the blogs and it's nice to get the judges take so quickly after the show aired. You are doing a great job.
I really don't have a comment about the episode. I just wish Howie would be eliminated just for the fact that he is really grossing me out by how much he is sweating in his food. Ewww! Someone please hand that man a bandana or something! Looking forward to next week!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:37 AM

Jerilyn wrote:

Ted! What a great facelift!

Where in Ohio are you from? I'm originally from Cleveland. And I agree--White Castle should have trademarked the term "sliders," since I've never heard burgers called that outside of the White Castles in the Buckeye State.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:38 AM

oceanguy wrote:

Ted,

I first heard sliders as a Navy term for all burgers... it was NEVER just a White Castle thing for me. And YOU a face lift??? If you have, consider it a compliment to you and your surgeon that it is so undetectable... you certainly don't/didn't need one!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:41 AM

AMY wrote:

Well i'm glad you DO realize some issues women have to deal with in a kitchen...Last night I was screaming at the t.v "You try working hours and hours in a kitchen IN HEELS!!!!"...I waitressed ONE NIGHT in heels and my feel doubled in size...The old adage is true "It's a man's world"...Love your blog

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:42 AM

Leigh wrote:

Hello Ted:

First, I need to start by saying that I am a huge fan!!
I cannot thank you enough for your apology to Sara N. and Casey. Misogyny was on disappointing display at the judges table. Your apology was particularly appreciated because you explained why you needed to do so. Thank you!

Thank you, too, for recognizing that Howie should have been the one to go. He is a bully. Not to mention the first episode, where he didn't get his food on the plate! (I still don't get that one!)

I wish we could see more of the judges discussions and more food discussion! I would like to hear more of what could have been done to make the poorer dishes better.

Thank you as well for your comments on the Rocco v. Anthony "flare-up." The hostility wasn't necessary. Bravo to Rocco. Is it the massive egos? You tell us!!

(A slider a baseball pitch and a slyder is from White Castle!)

Looking forward to seeing more of you!
Leigh

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:46 AM

Jesse wrote:

Ted said:

But first, it has always struck me as funny that in a culture where women are still often expected to be the cooks at home, the business of professional cheffing is heavily dominated by Y-chromosomes. I’m sure this is changing, but it remains a very macho world.

Actually, it's like this when you look across the Bravo competition shows -- sewing, cooking, hairstyling are all "women's work" at a low level and/or at home but "men's work" at the upper eschelons. It's not right, but there it is.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:49 AM

Carlin wrote:

Hi Ted!

Being a female chef and former restaurant owner, I agree whole-heartedly that that any woman in this field is fighting the battle of sexism and does not want to go to work with her cleavage hanging out. But much more importantly, what about the safety issue? High heels in a catering truck with fryers going (i.e. floors with a greasy, slippery residue)? Low cut blouses exposing lots of sensitive skin to potential burns from popping or spattered food? Materials that are synthetic and flowing, and probably highly flamable? The organizers at Top Chef are darned lucky noone was hurt. Our non-slip, closed-toe shoes, chefs jackets, etc. are more than badges of our profession -- they were created for our protection in a harzardous work environment!

Sorry to sound too much like the Mom I am, but safety first!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:54 AM

Charles wrote:

I enjoyed last nights show, but I have to be honest - the Chef's suprise over the Elimination challenge did not make sense to me. What other time has there been a show where a Quick Fire was not followed by at least information regarding the Elimination? These Chef's should have had a big red warning light blinking in their heads - when Padma smiles like that something is gonna happen.

Having been a chef on an Aircraft Carrier for the Navy, I appreciate the hard work these Chef's put into this competition - I would have to agree with you that Howie should have been the one to go though. His attitude and argumentative nature do not lend themselves well to a team environment, that sort of attitude on a Navy ship would result in some serious issues - I think that Howie needs to take a step back and look at how he has been acting. Sure, hes a big chef - he knows how to cook - but teamwork is a necessity for being a GREAT chef.

On a final note: I don't agree with the term Slider in reference to the burgers either; In my eyes a Slider is a derogatory term for a hamburger patty - or a term for a patty that has more grease than normal (it 'slides' down your throat).

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:55 AM

Art wrote:

Ted,

To answer your question, the answer is jealousy. I gave you a C+ score partly because of the remarks that you've now modified. Don't feel bad. Padma got a D. Tom an F. Armstrong an F.

You judges really need to step up your games. You can start by standing up to Tom when he's DEAD WRONG. Are you afraid of him or something?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:00 AM

Hellene wrote:

Ted, I agree with you. I grew up in the Bronx, but live in the Midwest - only White Castle = Sliders. Is there a whole Slider-loving community we don't know about?

Thanks for addressing the clothing issue for the ladies. My boyfriend & I had that argument last night. While the men can expect a reasonable amount of comfort in their "nice" clothes, women's evening-wear is defiinitely something NOT for a hot kitchen. I do believe if the gals were given a chance to change to t-shirt & sneakers, they'd be able to get down to business. I'd even wear a wife-beater ala Tre for ease & comfort!

Ted, as always, you are so witty and point-on. Thanks!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:01 AM

misscooksalot wrote:

thank you for apologizing for what you said on the show. i would like to to believe that each and every one of the judges will rethink what they said about the women getting over their outfits. as a woman in the business i have worked incredibly hard to overcome the natural prejudices against me in the kitchen. at this point in my career i do sometimes cook in high-heels and non-chef like outfits but that is my choice and i never would have done that as i was struggling to get to the top. this was more than just a bad clothing day for the women-it was completely offensive and degrading to them. the producers could have at least offered them t-shirts or chef coats--without ruining the production value of the show. i do not believe that the women and men were able to compete as equals in this competition. it is pretty hard to do a good job when you are constantly worried about what can be seen every time you lean over. i know that for some women that wouldn't have mattered and good for them but they are the exception and not the norm. frankly i think sara's time was probably coming to an end but i would have liked it to have been unaffected by outside controllable factors. in fairness the producers and the judges as soon as they realised the women were extremely upset by the situation should have cancelled the competion or remedied the situation.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:08 AM

Barbara wrote:

I've lived in the Chicago area all my life, and Sliders are from WHITE CASTLE. Period. Call other mini-burgers anything you like, but a Slider can only be produced at White Castle---square burger with holes, grilled onions, steamed bun. So, I'm with you Ted.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:08 AM

Jeni wrote:

Ted -

Thanks for acknowledging that you were a bit insensitive at the time to the girls... I, for one, appreciate that you thought it over again and offered a public apology to Casey and Sara for the comment about their clothes.

I always enjoy reading what you have to say... Thanks for posting on time, so that I always have something to read Thursday mornings!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:11 AM

JK wrote:

Love you Ted.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:18 AM

William Bradley Hooper wrote:

I think you hit the nail on the head here. Sara obviously did let things get in the way of letting her talent shine, but is inconsistenly good really worse than consistenly bad? I mean the impression that I got from Howie's sandwich was that nobody liked it. At least there were some compliments on the mini-burgers. Oh, and let me tell you as a Mississippi boy, I was proud to see shrimp and grits win! Great job Tre, keep showing off for the South! Anyway, Howie has an increasingly bad attitude to go along with his "Cuban" sandwich. Incessant whining and throwing colleagues under the bus shows he's lacking in that area, and the more he preaches about it the worse he looks.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:26 AM

Jeff wrote:

I always like reading your blogs. I have to say one thing though. It's not always male vs female but how you stand up for yourself. (remember Tiffany and Leanne from Season 1). There are great chefs of both sexes there. I wonder, if Sara had got in a shouting match with Howie, would she have been judged as not a team player? Every team challenge, we see the judges saying a person should have stood up for themselves and then criticize the "Team Dynamic" for not getting along. Being on a team means listening and compromising. Howie does none of that. Unfortunately, Sara did it all, to her detriment. I understand that Sara shot herself in the foot with her comments but let's be real. If Chef Tom was invited to a trendy nightclub and when he arrived told he was to cook for all the drunks instead of partying, I think he would have issues with it too. I do wonder when you judges realize, if you ever do,(since the show was taped and is probably already over by now) that Howie rarely does anything but Pork. And, he seems to have a 50% success rate at that anyway. I understand having a strength but.... a chef needs to be able to flex.
I understand the need to have Sponsers and the in your face product placement you need to keep a reality show on the air but I would like to see some head to head stuff like you choosing the Protein and making all of them do a dish to compare. And.... not just choosing Kobe Beef. (even I would have a hard time screwing that up and I have no culinary training at all). Then we could see who is the better chef rather than who should be the next Ice Cream clerk at a ColdStone Creamery.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:27 AM

Gail Bronner wrote:

Ted,
You always look good, so if you say you had some work done I don't know why, but if it makes you feel good go for it. This is the point of the mode of dress bothering Sara and Casey. It is an obstacle, that they were constantly reminded of every time they moved or moved their feet. I can't believe Sara got through the whole evening on her feet in high heels. It is a form of torture to wear such stylish, but uncomfortable shoes. Foot experts recommend that they only be worn for six hours max. I think you Sara workmans comp for having her work in them.
I agree with you totally about bully Howie. I believe his attitude will get him in the end.
Gail

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:30 AM

Eric wrote:

Well Ted to answer your question about chef's who get endorsement deals: I've always liked Tyler Florence on Food 911, but when he started showing up in Applebee's ads talking about his signature dishes, including steak, I had to be suspicious. Two years ago I had steak at Applebee's... WORST STEAK EVER! Tasted liked the cow had died of natural causes. It's one think to plug your cook book or your own restaurant, but when you start showing up in frozen pasta dish or coffee and donut commercials, or even worse when non-chefs start posing as chefs, I have to agree with Bourdain, it screams "Sellout"!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:38 AM

SarahD wrote:

Thanks for the good perspective on the episode, Ted. I wondered if anyone would have second thoughts about the challenge in retrospect.

As for Anthony, that is who he is--he is talented and brilliant, but also full of bravado and challenges. This is the man that ate a beating cobra heart, after all. Anyone in his general view is liable to get shot at as a matter of course, nothing personal. It's obnoxious to a degree, but expected. Rocco handled it as he should have.

And, come on, Ted, you haven't had a face lift ;)

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:41 AM

Leslie wrote:

I want to add my thanks, Ted, for your realizing your comments about the women's concern about their attire were insensitive and for your apology. Though I'm not a chef, I happened to have had the opportunity to spend the afternoon in the kitchen with a female chef in DC earlier this week, and she talked about how challenging it can be to get respect from kitchen staff. Rightly or wrongly, clothing can help or detract. I'm guessing "what to wear" is an issue men in the kitchen don't really have to think about, beyond comfort.

Great season so far!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:42 AM

Jennifer wrote:

Hi Ted,

I am so appreciative that you addessed the Howie issue. My partner and I were stunned that he was still in the running last night. Not only does his attitude suck but can he make anything besides PORK!?

Pork n' slaw, pork n' applesauce, pork sandwiches...

One other thing, Casey and Sara... "Oh please..." is all I have to say. Even watching from home I knew they were not going out and that were going to be cooking. Give me a break. Like we are really going to have an episode of Top Chef with all the chefs partying and getting down. What is this? The Real World?
Have the chefs ever been allowed to relax and go out on the other seasons? NO! It was so obvious that they were messing with them. Please... duh!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:47 AM

Mad Chef wrote:

Ted – First thank you for truthfully admitting the wrong decision had been made. I am having serious reservations about Chef Colicchio’s judging and food knowledge. He does see what happens in the kitchen and is supposed to be reporting this at the judge’s table. He does not know that the bromelain enzyme in fresh pineapple will degrade the gelatin protein (read the side of a Jello box). He thinks lobster is high in cholesterol when a 3 ounce serving has 61 milligrams of cholesterol. He does not realize that approximately 20% of the black truffles come from Italy, not to mention white truffles are also found in Italy. Maybe that is why he is no longer blogging. Last night no one had one redeeming thing to say about Howie’s dish or performance. There were, however, good comments about Sara’s dish and we see who went home. Chef Colicchio has publicly admitted that Mike Midgley had no business being on this show, but we see how long he stayed last season. If there were any doubts about Chefs remaining because of the drama they produce there are none now.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:49 AM

Shayla wrote:

Misogyny? Are you kidding? Thankfully less politically correct heads prevailed (see Mr. Bourdain) and pointed out the truth- to whine about your mode of dress is ridiculous. This show is based on "gotcha" moments- did the contestants not think for one second that this could be a ruse? A champion prevails despite the conditions and a good chef could cook naked in the tundra. The fact that Casey and Sara took the low road to proclaim that their game was off due to wardrobe is vapid and pathetic. Thanks for continuing to set women back.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:54 AM

Buddydave wrote:

1. I agree that "sliders" are White Castle burgers only, but then, I'm from the Midwest, too -- so maybe it is regional.

2. I was a Howie fan until the last two episodes. He's very quickly wearing out his welcome.

3. Nice job giving bacon it's due. EVERYthing's better with bacon!

4. I don't think it's dedication to craft or jealousy that made Tony attack Rocco -- I think Rocco is just annoying and embarrasing and an easy target.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:54 AM

Julie wrote:

Tim,
I thank you for your apology as well.
Yes, Casey and Sara N. should have sucked it up and cooked. But Casey's points were absolutely on point.

I also think Sara N's major stumbling block was not her outfit, but Howie. She was competely intimidated by him. When the team was pitching ideas, she would speak and Howie woul cut her off. She would try again, and Howie would speak even louder. When she offered suggestions, or asked questions, Howie dismissed her or ignored her.

Sara was *afraid* of Howie. At least, that's what the edited video evidence seems to show. She was very uncomfortable about working with Howie, especially after Sara M's treatment by him last week. (And I'm disappointed by the judges' response to her as well: labeling Sara M as "passive -aggressive" in te face of an "aggressive-aggressive" was plain unfair).

And Howie's comment that Sara was "the baby of the house" was simply inexcusable.

Yes, professionals will need to deal with difficult employees, colleagues and bosses. Yes, both Sara's could have used better strategies to handle Howie's arrogance and bullying. But Howie should not be rewarded for what I see as sexual harassment.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 10:56 AM

drab wrote:

Ted,

I think that this was a challenge that very much favored the men, as outside of slacks and a shirt, what other fashion options are there? Women with more fashion options, dresses, high heels low cut blouses etc. are put in a more precarious position when required to change gears from social to work in my opinion. Tre for example removed his shirt and chose to work in his T-shirt. Not really an option for Casey and the two Sara's. Overall, really an unfair challenge for the ladies and I don't think the men at judges table recognized this.

For the first time, I truly felt like Howie attacked someone without provocation in order to save himself. In previous incidents, based on editing, it appeared that Joey and Sara M. started the ball rolling and Howie responded to it albeit in a scorched earth fashion. While I was really disappointed in him and very much think it is now time for him to go given the number of times he has ended up at judges table for some of the worst dishes (at least 3 times), I can't quibble to much with Sara's elimination.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:00 AM

Heather wrote:

Ted,

Love your blog. Chefpetitors? Omg thank you.

I really hated to see yet another female get thrown under the proverbial bus last night. It seems like if there's a a choice between a female chef or a male chef in the bottom group then she might as well pack her knives and save Padma the sad puppy-dog eyes. No doubt the other Sara will go next, leaving the lone Casey to stand her ground. It was also nice to read that you now wish you guys had sent Howie home. It's amazing the times he's been in the bottom and yet is still in the competition. Ah well, hindsight is always 20/20 isn't it.

Thanks for commenting on the Rocco/Tony thing. Way to go Rocco for a truly classy response.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:06 AM

Laura wrote:

Great blog, as usual, Ted! My two oldest boys and i watch the show religiously (even though it's a school night for them, they have agreed to a pact in which as long as they get to school on time every day, do their homework, etc., and don't bitch and moan about how tired they are on Thursday a.m., they can stay up to watch Top Chef!), and we particularly enjoyed last night's challenge. Your comments are on point, especially with respect to Howie. My God, can this man grow some you know what's, so that he can finally take responsibility when at the judge's table? While, quite honestly, I wanted to smack both Casey and Sara for their whining and utter inability to get past their disappointment, Howie was being a complete jerk. Granted, Team Orange did not appear to have an abundance of "can do it" attitude, let alone a surfeit of organizational talent. So, I could understand that Howie felt the need to try to get them organized, albeit in his too bossy, don't care about anybody but my own opinion way. However, while CJ, Casey and Sarah pouted about his bossiness and decisions, NONE of them stepped up to the plate and said "wait a minute, this is what I'm going to do." Instead, they consistently sulked - case in point, CJ, who as the front man clearly witnessed the disintegration of his team's effort, but did nothing to expedite. As for Casey, I simply do not buy that she didn't notice any problem - if that's the case, she shouldn't be running ANY kitchen. Throughout the show, the boys and I agreed that Sarah should get booted - not just for her behavior and poor performance on this episode, but also, in my opinion, for not having given me any indication of her strengths and personality as a chef for the entire season. That said, during the Judge's Table portion of the show, we all changed our mind - Give Howie the boot! we shouted at the tv. His mentality, his willingness to throw anybody under the bus rather than take responsibility for his own actions, is appalling, and I think will soon be the end for him. (Incidentally, there's something very nice about hearing your 12 and 10 year old boys, who spend hours daily playing soccer and baseball and what have you, discussing before bedtime the merits of foams, or the wisdom of using cauliflower in an ice cream dish, or deciding what kind of late night food Mom and Dad would go for. Top Chef has also inspired a new game for my four boys - I have to come up with a special challenge, say "awards dinner for Little League team," or "tea party for the church's women's group," and they get a budget, and while they're at the grocery store with me, they write up their entries. Trouble is, I have to choose a winner....!)

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:09 AM

Steve wrote:

In New York we've got "Sassy's Sliders". It's not just a White Castle thing. I was reading an article on the wall at Sassy's and it explained that they got that name because they slide in, and they slide out (eeewww)! I don't eat sliders anymore, for that reason.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:11 AM

Valerie Lord wrote:

Ted- 20 minutes into last night's challenge I turned the TV off. I was so uncomfortable watching this sexist, cruel episode that I felt by watching, I was supporting it, so I opted out, deciding the Top Chef and I would go separate ways. However, reading your blog, I'm heartened to know that even if the producers don't get why this challenge was wrong on so many levels, at least one of you judges did, even if after the fact. I think the Bravo reality shows should display a higher standard than those on other networks, and this one was a BIG step backward. Thank you for thinking about it and sharing your thoughts on the matter.

Val

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:12 AM

Justin D wrote:

Ted, great entry!

I think the problem I think the problem with chef's taking endorsements is the classic battle between art and commerce. Artists make art, but they also need to make a living. Running a successful restaurant is a good middle ground - the chef has control over what they put out, and the reward for their skill seems direct. Endorsing a restaurant seems to compromise the art. It calls into question the chef's integrity and dedication to his trade.

What's always been interesting to me is the line between artist and artisan. Chefs, at the end of the day, are responsible for getting their customers fed, and for instilling in the public a love and appreciation for food. Their art is meant to be consumed, literally. This is different then painters or sculptors who create intellectual art. In this way, it's much easier for an artisan to 'sell out' since there are many more industries in the field - everyone has to eat, and it doesn't have to be fancy.

Although, it's strange to me that a chef who starts 'shilling' for a restaurant seems to have automatically dropped down to the restaurant level, whereas a clothing designer doing a line for a retail chain would more likely be seen as revitalizing the store's brand and improving the quality of the product. Why this differentiation?

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:12 AM

Dawn wrote:

You're right Howie should go home, but not because of his attitude, but because he only seems to make pork dishes. Likewise, can Brian cook anything other than seafood? These two have taken Elan's one hit wonder style of cooking to new lows.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:20 AM

Beth wrote:

Well, I'm from Michigan, and I'm with you on the slider issue. Seems the term has been appropriated to refer generically to any type of mini-burger, but in truth it is and always will be a White Castle burger.

By the way, Ted, I wanted to say that I've enjoyed your work as a judge on that "other" cooking show, but now that you've had a more high-profile presence on Top Chef I've really appreciated your wit and intelligence. You're a great addition to an already addictive show.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 11:21 AM

Beccy wrote:

Although Howie definitely did not act like a leader at judge's table, produced an uninspired sandwich that would not even be served at Subway and failed to inform Sara that she was taking forever, he did speak up about his concerns for the milkshake. Though rightfully criticized for being "bull-doggish" he eventually backed off and allowed Sara to make her own, ultimately damning decision about putting ice in them. While I would by no means call him a leader on that team, he did say SOMETHING, which is more than can be said for Casey and CJ. Howie also did point out something which none of the other chefs had the (pardon my crudeness) balls to say: Sara is painfully slow in the kitchen! Even though Howie, like a petulant older brother who lets little Timmy take the fall for wetting the bed, placed all of this on Sara after the point, it is clear after watching last week's episode that this is something that was acknowledged by Brian, Tre and even the producers. I could hardly contain myself last week when the music changed from a face-paced tune to the farty-sounding trumpets superimposed onto Sara cutting those peppers with all of her might...for the entirety of the 2-hour prep time! I am a small-time cook, but even when cooking for one I do not allow myself to linger on prep work. Ultimately Sara was n