SGT. Kevin Coddington US Army wrote:

I would love to see the chefs make gormet meal out of MREs (military Meals Ready to Eat) and maybe serve them to some basic trainees, or even serve them to some deployed soldiers in Iraq.

posted on June 27, 2007 at 11:06 PM

Judy Torres wrote:

Does Sam have any good cooking tips for diabetics? Food that is good for them, but also tastes good.

posted on June 27, 2007 at 11:30 PM

Anne wrote:

Thank you so, so much for this segment! How great to know what all of our fave (and well, NOT so much fave) contestants are up to from seasons one and two.
It is good to see that with all of the pressure that they had to go thru during the competitions, that it has paid off for them in so many different ways. Most of these chefs are very talented and driven people, and I'm sure they will all go a long way in their culinary careers.
Great pix also!
Thanks again, and please keep these interesting news segments coming!

posted on June 27, 2007 at 11:53 PM

dl miller wrote:

Marcel, I am so glad to be able to express my opinion of season 2 and its, to me, unsatisfactory conclusion. You were my choice for winner from the second episode: you radiated professionalism from the first. Sam was your main competitor but he spoiled his position by working alongside the "winner" who seemed unable to leave his Basque roots throughout the competition and thus proved himself unworthy of the "Top Chef" title, if based on cooking style alone. However,I am confident that had Tom and Paddy done the right thing , he would have been eliminated for his most egregious behaviors toward you...nothwithstanding the shaved head episode for which your "manhandler" got thrown off the show while the instigator showed no shame , the repeated "accidental" mishaps ruining your preps and the equipment problems should have clued the principal judges to a problem they ought to deal with...I found the finale so distasteful that I vowed not to watch the show 's next season . Luckily I gave in and was fortunate enough the first show to watch WHAT? the dropped mangos, and the brush-off sounding pronouncement of the deed, dejavu all over again!! while you paled and tried to pick up the mess...Tom and Paddy have lost a lot of credibility with me as a result of show number two....this third season has not the sparkle of the first nor thankfully the hostile vibes of the second. I wonder if after seeing the ugliness of the second season there were many chefs vying to get on a show where they would be exposed to mistreatment....did the producers have a hard time finding great contestants this time around? You were attacked because the others recognized your superiority of attitude toward cooking and your creativity, far above the others, with the exception of Sam who also radiated great chefhood, if not like yours. I wish you both great satisfaction in your work, for that is in fact Success. I'll be looking for a cookbook that tells how to create a foam!

posted on June 28, 2007 at 4:06 AM

Rob H. wrote:

Great updates ... but it seems obvious to ask why our Season 2 winner was excluded from the collection? Are we to assume he's too busy keeping his hair well coifed?

posted on June 28, 2007 at 6:56 AM

LD wrote:

Will we be hearing about some of the other contestants as well? Curious about them also.

posted on June 28, 2007 at 12:46 PM

debby wrote:

Dave, where's dave? have i missed something important?

posted on June 28, 2007 at 1:52 PM

Tim W. wrote:

The update on Ilan is: he's out there someone being a condescending jerk to people and abusing saffron.

posted on June 28, 2007 at 2:57 PM

Tim W. wrote:

The update on Ilan is: he's out there somewhere being a condescending jerk to people and abusing saffron.

posted on June 28, 2007 at 2:58 PM

mimi wrote:

Hi all Top Chef fans. In response to Rob.. maybe Ilan was excluded because after his failed duck attempt in the Chef Cook Off.. he was dethroned and they crowned Marcel.. the rightful owner of Top Chef Season II after all. One can only hope! MKB

posted on June 28, 2007 at 2:58 PM

mimi wrote:

Hi all Top Chef fans. In response to Rob.. maybe Ilan was excluded because after his failed duck attempt in the Chef Cook Off.. he was dethroned and they crowned Marcel.. the rightful owner of Top Chef Season II after all. One can only hope! MKB

posted on June 28, 2007 at 2:59 PM

ANN wrote:

THESE PICTURES ARE GREAT BUT WHAT ABOUT MIKE FROM SEASON 2

posted on June 28, 2007 at 4:24 PM

Shawn Sparks wrote:

Marcel, It was upsetting on season two, you were my choice for the winner. Best of luck in the future

posted on June 28, 2007 at 7:17 PM

Laura wrote:

Thanks for the great updates!! I hope, when you have the opportunity, you can let us know what the rest of season 1 is up to as well. Thanks again!! : )

posted on June 28, 2007 at 9:29 PM

Jeff Walker wrote:

Hung ..is hung out to dry .. the attitude .. the disrespect ..liar ... and his food looks like NYC CHina town street fair

posted on June 28, 2007 at 9:48 PM

Tina wrote:

I noticed that there are no recipes from the 4 All star challenge. Would love to try Tiffani's recipes. I think she is a great cook forget the attitude

posted on June 28, 2007 at 10:21 PM

stephanie wrote:

Sooooo, what about Ilan??

Marcel was robbed.

posted on June 29, 2007 at 12:45 AM

Jo wrote:

Wow, who are all these Marcel "lovers"? It's disgusting how he made it to the runner-up position in Season 2. It should've been between Sam and Ilan, and even Elia! I don't doubt that Marcel is a good chef, but he should've been eliminated ages ago. I think they partly kept him in to cause tension and drama and he got lucky with key competitions. Also what is this professionalism that people think he portrays? If he was so professional, he wouldn't have been the most hated among his peers during the competition. Lastly, for the Season 1 vs. Season 2 cookoff, if Marcel wasn't the captain for season 2, they probably could've had a better chance to win. BTW, I love Harold, Sam, Elia, and LeeAnne!

posted on June 29, 2007 at 9:24 AM

Ryan wrote:

What about Katie Lee Joel??? Why wasn't she included? She was my Season 1 favorite!

posted on June 29, 2007 at 10:51 AM

Harry wrote:

Marcel was still the viewer's choice for season 2. Ilan Hall is a nasty, back-stabbing, mediocre saffron obsessed chef.

posted on June 29, 2007 at 2:17 PM

Dennie Hughes wrote:

Wow... LeeAnn Wong looks AMAZING! Can you guys interview her about how she lost all that weight?

posted on June 29, 2007 at 3:23 PM

paul wrote:

Ilan is pretty lame. Marcel and Sam should have been in the finals. Marcel always had some very 'interesting' dishes and Sam was pretty consistent.

posted on June 30, 2007 at 1:05 AM

Dean wrote:

It was quite disapointing to see Marcel lose in season 2. I loved every minute of both season 1 and season 2 right up to the decision to give the titile to Ilan. It was not a well balanced decision. How can you give a title of "Top Chef" to a person that made almost all of his dishes from one perspective????? upsurd! That is not putting yourself out there at all. Marcel toof risk after risk after risk including the final showdown. How could you not reward the person who shoots for the title rather than someone else palying it safe. Your own judges said that both cooks did a terrific job cooking. Then why not reward the cook that laid it all out there. Marcel was right. This is a cooking competition, not a restaurant atmosphere where comraderie, and the like, play a part. I think the judges who I think are great, in the end, gave in to the fact that Marcel was not well liked and factored that into their decision while breaking the Golden rule of a "competition". I won't stop watching Top Chef because I think it is my favorite show, but I will say that I'm not watching it with the same enthusiam I had before. I'll leave with this note. In my spare time I love to cook Italian food (because I am Italian) and I seem to make it tastier than any one I know. Does that mean I can win "Top Chef" being that it is the only cuisine I know how to make and I do it better than most people??

posted on June 30, 2007 at 3:09 AM

Heather Fitz (Air Force Wife) wrote:

I love the idea about the MREs. I think it would be great to honor deployed military members (like my husband) with gormet styled MRE meals. That is an awesome idea.

posted on June 30, 2007 at 1:08 PM

mae wrote:

Why are people rallying behind Marcel? Part of being a top chef is having the ability to run a kitchen effectively while earning and maintaining the respect of staff. He's a social neanderthal, and what is with that hair??? Ok..nuff about the hair..but he may have creativity and talent, but I can't see him running a restaurent very well because he'd never be able to keep staff. He's a distasteful little egotist and I'm glad he got his come-uppance.

posted on July 2, 2007 at 1:27 AM

Kelvin wrote:

I would like to see Sam do gourmet dishes prepared for diabetics. I think that would be a great idea.

posted on July 2, 2007 at 6:14 PM

Cari wrote:

Cari (Army wife) I agree that an MRE gourmet dinner would be a great idea! The men and women deployed overseas need something special to maintain their morale!
As far as Season 2 goes, Marcel took some chances, but making a foam almost every challenge made his cooking seem boring! Although Sam was the classiest, he used pickling spices too much. Ilan couldn't get away from saffron or spanish style cooking. Ellia was the only one in the final four who was consistantly different. Isn't that what should be looked for in a Top Chef; ability to get out of your comfort zone and still do well?

posted on July 2, 2007 at 9:03 PM

mary wrote:

Would love to learn more about Dave's "layering" of flavors, but do not see any info about him. Please forward if possible. Thank you.
Mary

posted on July 2, 2007 at 9:13 PM

bella wrote:

Sam is hot!
Marcel is a great chef no doubt- but he needs to leave the arrogance asid- he seems so insecure being so arrogant.. if u r good, u r good but the way you guys acted was just childish, immature and unprofesional esp. when they tried to shave your head- grow up already! and this go both ways!
last of all, what is w/ all the nast haircuts- i expected a lot more from the hispanic girl- seems so rebellious; who does she think she os sinead o'connor? give me a break- look and act professional- not like you are in highschool! competitivenss seems to get the best of some people- makes them do really stupid things!

posted on July 2, 2007 at 9:47 PM

debby from detroit wrote:

I'm all for the MRE idea. I'm also glad they put Betty on here. I was wondering what happened to her

posted on July 3, 2007 at 12:22 AM

Don Blankenship wrote:

This show is very entertaining. I would enjoy watching the chefs attempt to prepare a gourmet meal for residents or patients in a nursing home or assisted living. There are multiple dietary restrictions that are required for these individual diets. This would be an interesting challenge.

posted on July 3, 2007 at 10:36 PM

hayley wrote:

i think marcel was robbed. he took risks. he had style. nd he is hot!
ilan is a loser . his attitude sucks . marcel is my idol. i love him! especially his laugh it is soooo gawjus! and his amazing cooking skills.
altho he was arogant at some places i think he was pushed out at the start and it seemed to be the thing to hate him.
they just showed al thatfor publicity. it is all about money these days isnt it. what is this world coming too :(
by the way that military food idea is brilliant i mean that would be very interesting!
(L) marcel x

posted on July 4, 2007 at 5:15 AM

Gypsyfish wrote:

They did the MRE thing on the Food Network's Next Food Network Star show just recently.

posted on July 4, 2007 at 1:57 PM

Just Nastie wrote:

I didn't like him at first and still don't know if I do, but Marcel Clear winner! By Far!
I like Sam at first, but soon change my mind do to the malicious sewing circle. Sam you lost from association. Professionalism, Leadership and creativity is the "key", also recognizing respecting and utlilizing other people's talents as a team. These are important attributes for a "Top Chef"

posted on July 4, 2007 at 9:56 PM

Robert wrote:

Marcel the best! Maybe at being an egotisical boob who could't get along with anyone. The foaming chef is more appropriate than Top Chef.

posted on July 4, 2007 at 10:54 PM

Lex wrote:

FYI: Coming up with gourmet MREs was a challenge recently featured on Next Food Network Star, so I imagine Top Chef isn't going to copy that challenge anytime soon. For those interested, all of the chefs from that show's MRE challenge pretty much bombed and were not successful

posted on July 5, 2007 at 8:56 AM

carmen wrote:

I love top chef! I have always enjoyed cooking, even if not on sophisticated levels, but the show seems to focus on cooking a lot more than other cooking shows that are obviously only looking for ratings. The one thing I would say is that the host needs to go. She is flat when delivering her lines and really needs to get some serious coaching! From season two to three her comments are more substantial but it is obvious that someone has fed her those lines because she doesn't deliver them with anywhere near the same confidence that the other judges on the show do. They have ground to stand on and it shows when they critique the food. Enjoying season three, but if you are looking for more appeal get a host that sounds like they know what they are talking about and one that can change her facial reactions!

posted on July 5, 2007 at 10:08 AM

William S. Simpson wrote:

1. What are the credentials of the two women judges on the panel? I would like to see either one of them prepare something that is even edible.

2. Have the judges ever been deadlocked, or even disagreed vhemently about a dish?

I will look forward to your reply.

Bill Simpson

posted on July 5, 2007 at 2:06 PM

HungryLawyer wrote:

Recycled MREs? Try watching "The Next Food Network Star." They just did this (at Fort Dix, not in Iraq).

posted on July 5, 2007 at 4:43 PM

Rose wrote:

Thought your were great very surpried it wasnt you and Marcel in the top 2!!! It should of been. Cant wait to meet you at Hennings Market on Jully 14. A devoted top chef fan!!!

posted on July 6, 2007 at 10:22 AM

Ramona wrote:

Is it me or is season 3 cooking a large amount of seafood (UGH!). Can we please move away from the seafood!?!

Also, already a re-run!!
Has Bravo ran out of shows already? After 3 or 4 episodes, I shouldn't see re-runs people.

Season 1 & 2 were fantastic. I'm not too impressed with the contestants on season 3. Where did Bravo find these people? Is this the best they could do? The magic of Top Chef is starting to wear off.

posted on July 6, 2007 at 2:33 PM

Kjell Bakke wrote:

I don't care what anyone says about him, Cliff can cook circles around any challenger! Cliff, you ROCK!

posted on July 8, 2007 at 7:13 PM

Stacey Gilbert wrote:

I would love to see TOP CHEF team up with Weight Watchers to have the contestants create delicious, yet Weight Watchers friendly dishes.

Also, for all of us vegetarian viewers, I would love to see TOP CHEF contestants create completely VEGETARIAN dishes. I wonder if the contestants can create dishes without using animals as the protein????

posted on July 10, 2007 at 1:46 PM

Susan wrote:

I found Marcel to be arrogant and whiny, he always seemed to be complaining about something or blaming someone else. Ilan didn't comport himself as well as he should, either. Perhaps it was the producers' selection of interviews that informed this view. In any case, Marcel has a lot of maturation to do, and then we will see if he is able to hold a kitchen together as its leader.

The rerun was July 4, not many viewers that night, makes sense to me although a holiday show can be fun.

Enjoy tonight's show, everyone. I have to wait for my mother to videotape (yes, that old thing) the shows and send them to me as our cable provider just removed Bravo from the lowest tier of plans. I was tempted but just can't give them $45 more a month for tv. Complaint to Time Warner said talk to Bravo, and Bravo (thanks for posting this message even though it is harsh on you) sent an email saying in effect that they didn't have time to read emails much less respond personally, here's a link to the FAQs. So, I guess at least I can post my complaint here even though it's off topic!

posted on July 10, 2007 at 6:33 PM

maryroc wrote:

Marcel is a tool, which is further demonstrated by the "where are they now"..... he is choosing to spend his time whoring his bad attitude and saffron foams - yes I get the irony - instead of taking his fame as the season 2 wannabe and making a real career for himself

posted on July 11, 2007 at 2:14 AM

michelle wrote:

Happy to see updates of some of the chefs, although would have liked to see what Dave and Cliff are up to. Ilan - who cares? He never should have won in the first place. It was obvious Marcel was the far better chef - at least he was not one-dimensional and definitely not an egotistic, arrogant, lying, back-stabbing wanna-be.

I've found I thoroughly enjoy viewing re-runs of Season 1. I refuse to view re-runs of Season 2. Season 2 was a supreme disappointment. So far, I'm enjoying Season 3. At least the chef's seem to be more talented and more mature than Season's 2 chefs.

posted on July 11, 2007 at 6:27 PM

weed wrote:

It's striking that there is no mention of Ilan, and no blog from him on this season's show.
Clearly no one is interested in him; once again demonstrating that Marcel clearly should have been the winner.

posted on July 11, 2007 at 9:13 PM

michael wrote:

it was cool hearing about everyone, and it would be nice to get an update on everyone, but I would guess this was out of respect for people's right to privacy.

posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:45 AM

jose ortiz wrote:

Sam should have been in the finals, not marcel. Marcel foamed almost every single time during the cook-offs. Ilan was the winner hands down over marcel.
In addition, SAM gave marcel the idea and CREATED one of Marcel's dishes during the final show down... why? Because marcel did not have a back up when he realize that he left behind one of his ingredients for his dish. Sam came to the rescue and saved marcel and that dish was loved by the judges.
Marcel himself confessed to the judges that it was Sam who created the dish. LONG LIVE ILAN, THE WINNER OF TOP CHEF!!!
TOP CHEF IS THE BEST AND IS GETTING BETTER WITH SEASON!!!!
ILAN FAN FOREVER!!!!!

posted on July 12, 2007 at 4:41 AM

Shannon Flaherty wrote:

I can't cook myself, so I thought it would be entertaining to have a quickfire or elimination challenge where the contestants design a dish that must be prepared by a non-chef. It would be interesting to see if they have the skill to design and direct in such a way that the average person could prepare a tasty dish. Since they will no doubt be directing sous chefs and writing cook books, it would be good practice for them!

posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:00 PM

yaritza wrote:

Harold's restaurant, Perilla , is extraordinary,
the food is fresh, and delicious, different but not intimidatind, and the restaurant is chic and charming at the same time. Congratulations!!

posted on July 13, 2007 at 11:03 AM

tommy wrote:

I would like to se some of season 1 and 2 winners take on the winners of foodnetwork reality show winners

posted on July 17, 2007 at 12:28 PM

Debbie wrote:

TOP CHEF is our favorite show! Here's a Top Chef challenge: Have the chefs fix a gluten free meal... from appetizer to dessert. The real challenge here is to see if they can make the substitutions correctly. Glutin hides in so many ingredients. Wheat free doesn't always mean gluten free!

posted on July 18, 2007 at 10:02 PM

Scottydont wrote:

Hey kids....
bottom line:
NO MORE FOAM!!!!!!!!!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:15 PM

Christa wrote:

Everyone knows that Sam should have won in Season 2 and Marcel was definitely my choice over Ilan! It wasn't about his attidude on the show, it was about him winning Top Chef. Good luck to you Sam and Ilia really made me not like her when she became a snitch at the end.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 8:57 PM

TCF wrote:

I found it interesting that during the season 1 & 2 cook off that Marcel and Hung instantly recognized and knew each other. They both have the temperment of third graders (wait, I know third graders that are more mature, my bad). Marcel's overall attitude of "whatever" and Hung"s questioning every decision against him. I would have tossed Hung the first time he showed disrespect to a judge or guest judge. I am glad that Marcel lost the title and think it should have gone to Sam. If Hung makes it to the final three I may just give up on the show as it would be a definate sign that the producers are keeping him for the dramatics and theatrical excitement.

posted on July 21, 2007 at 3:14 AM

lisa ginnetti wrote:

I liked Elia all along until she started acting like Ilan and Sam. I thought Ilan,Sam and Elia acted so childish. Elia should have been embarrassed by her behavior.I didn't exactly care for Marcel's attitude but he never cheated! When Elia accused him at the end I thought it showed what a poor sport she was.

posted on July 23, 2007 at 7:15 PM

Gwen Coward wrote:

I would like to see the chefs prepare a meal for folks that have had gastric bypass surgery, low fat, sugar free and high protein, it would be interesting to see what they come up with !

posted on July 24, 2007 at 2:32 PM

Megan wrote:

I am curious how Mia is doing. She showed herself to have more honor and integrity than most all of the contestants. To step aside as she did, to be so centered in what is right in her life, I hope all is going well for her. To date, I do not think we have seen any other meal eaten in its entirety and everyone wanting more, as her frog legs were by all the other chefs. That recipe is a keeper.

posted on July 25, 2007 at 4:06 PM

David B wrote:

It is truely a sad fact that so many foodie neo-phyte viewers cannot see the truth about Ilan & Marcel.
From the beginning Marcel's gameplan was to take the focus off his cooking skills & on to the drama . Marcel attacks on a personal level & then when others retaliate he crys 'poor me' & I'm the victim! It is disturbing that the American public is so gullible & nieve
Marcel may someday be an accomplished chef. However let us remember that he did serve raw chicken in a challenge, thats pretty basic.Ask yourselves should a winner know how to coook a drummette?
Ilan did say some wrong things & lower himself to Marcel's level , However if you look at the challenges, they are designed to put contestants out of their comfort zone to see what they have deep down. Deep down Ilan is a natural & Marcel is a fake

That being said, I believe the true winner of season 2 should of been Cliff. However, like Ilan , Cliff responded to Marcel's taunting & unfortunately turned Marcel inot a victim, That is the little toads game, because Marcel is a show, not a chef

posted on July 25, 2007 at 11:24 PM

melissa wrote:

Has anyone checked out Harold's website for Perilla. A menu would be nice. Maybe a way to request reservations.

posted on July 25, 2007 at 11:27 PM

Kim wrote:

I think the Sarg's comment was interesting as they did that on the Next Food Network Star a month ago. It would also be simmilar to the vending challange from season 2 as they would have to take a prepared "dish" and make it into something else entirely.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 6:31 AM

Kim wrote:

All I can say is I commend all the chefs, designers, and stylists on Bravo that have had the courage and faith in their talent to open themselves up to be publicily criticed, not always gently, by the top people in thier professions on national television. I wonder how many of us could stand up to that challange. I think these people are all special though I may have quetioned the behavior in certain situations. I also believe it to be a great kindness on their part to want to continue to share their lives with their fans and I thank them for that. I also have to commend the judges because they do try to handle difficult situations with as much grace as possible.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 7:29 AM

Armando wrote:

Elia was the best chef in Season 3, followed by Sam and Marcel. Ilan was pretty weak, and I thought he was much more immature than Marcel.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 9:55 AM

FanFare wrote:

It is nice to hear about the more brittle contestants Tiffany and Stephen. A;though they were not cute and cuddly and crying a river like Dave, their meals had merit and rated highly with judges (especially in the S-1 vs S-2 duel). I would be happy to sample their food anytime. The same can not be said for some others (those who sweat into their dishes, or cannot remember to season sometimes, etc.) I guess it is already, "Ilan who?" Aaaaahhhh - from the reunion show, he (looked like an organ grinder without his monkey); it seems as though he is too busy spending his ill gotten gains.
Thanks for the updates. Keep 'em coming.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 10:15 AM

h saltman wrote:

Don't understand why everyone bad mouths Ilan: Try his recipes--they are awesome. Liked the tux without socks. Ilan is creative, Marcel is trendy. Both still have much to learn, but Ilan seems to be going in a better direction.
Now after two seasons, the producers are getting more sophisticated in creating the cooking challenges. I think this encourages creativity in the kitchen. This is the only show I watch regularly. It inspires me to take chances with my dishes. Thanks Top Chef.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 5:46 PM

Margie Rick wrote:

I'd like to see the Top Chef contestants create meals for those with gluten intolerance (celiacs). I think that would be an incredible challenge for them. Additionally, they hsould have a panel of celiacs judge the food.

posted on July 27, 2007 at 2:44 PM

Alvin wrote:

The MRE concept is indeed a very unique challenge for the chefs. However, I personally think it will be more entertaining to have them prepare their dishes using the "tools" found in the whole MRE package. For example, use the same heating pouches we have, the utensils(including all the gear found on a typical ruc sack, plastic utensils and any other equip. found on our web gear) and the seasons we have-salt pepper, tobasco etc. The feel of the episode(it if does occur), will be one of a "cross" of survivor-man and top chef. Create their own fire and basically using their surroundings to accomplish the mission. This not only adds difficulty to their task at hand, but it also instills a sense of awareness in the chefs on our adaptability in whatever environment we as soldiers are placed in. Regardless of the details, it will still be very entertaining to see a "gourmet" MRE. These chefs are extremmely talented, and they should be able to complete this task with FUN.

posted on July 27, 2007 at 2:57 PM

Theresa wrote:

I just saw "Watch What Happened". I would like to let Chef Tom know it is not just the gay men who think he is great. Middle aged housewives think Chef Tom is the kind of man we would all like to have. He shows quiet surprise, embarassment at his own image, sensitivity, masculine, and of course an excellent chef. He can cook in my kitchen anytime!

posted on July 28, 2007 at 12:19 PM

Theresa wrote:

I do not want to engage in the "Marcel Debate". I hate watching repeat episodes because he is in them. I would however, like to see something in the future with Cliff. I think it was a misfortunate mistake that Cliff readily admits was wrong. I don't think he should be judged for eternity for one mistake. Cliff proved early on that he is an excellent chef. I would love Bravo and Top Chef to have future programs that include Cliff. I would also like to see a future for Sam. Something that does not include Ilan or Marcel. Sam's abilities extend far pass either one of them. I was very disappointed over his elimination.

posted on July 28, 2007 at 12:27 PM

debbie retreage wrote:

Howie and Joey will be the best finale thus far started out hating eachother now they like eachother that tension is still ther and will come out full blast if they are in the finale together also can someone please sen Hung home he hates when someone tries to comment on his food. He is no the best he needs to go home Now he is irritating.

posted on July 29, 2007 at 5:15 PM

susan wrote:

Hi: I am a super fan and enjoy watching the show-- and even the re-runs which are pretty frequent on Bravo. I am glad to know where Harold's restaurant is and when I go to NY in Sept. I will make an effort to go there for a meal.

I do not like Hung-- I believe that he really thinks much too much of himself and is quite obnoxious about it.

One thing I do not like abut the re-runs is the wrap show which is running at this moment. Once was great, the second time OK but now I would say Basta.

I did enjoy the cook off between seasons 1 and 2 and would love a cooke off between the three top chefs with some of the judges. that would be great fun.

Susan Gara

posted on July 29, 2007 at 5:52 PM

Tjomsland wrote:

Marcel is such an egocentric, narcissist, that even after his foam had become the negative sameness of his dishes even when noted by the judges, he still could not present a dish without foam. They were literally tell him enough, but as an egomaniac, he could not stop. He could never be a Top Chef, simply because he cannot work with other human beings in a kitchen.

posted on July 29, 2007 at 7:44 PM

Gray wrote:

Dued, You should have won. You were and still are the best all round Chef in all of the season's Good luck with everything. Id come and work for you. If you are ever In Hawaii, Maui look me up
Chef Gray Rollin. Im going to tryout for next season.

posted on July 31, 2007 at 4:59 PM

Wanda wrote:

I stopped watching TC when you eliminated Sam. I did watch the
cook off with season 1 & 2, and the reunion that aired on 07.25.07. You need to have an TC All Stars, and let the fans pick from the eliminated chefs from season 1,2 & 3. Sam should have won TC from season 3, NOT Ilan. And to have Marcel in the final was laughable.

posted on August 1, 2007 at 11:17 AM

BRANDY wrote:

I really think season 1 has been the best so far!! But must say i would try anything cooked by Brian,everything i have seen him cook looks so good but really they are all very good Hung needs to go and i would like to know why we didn't get to see the Dave and Tiffany thow down on the update episode that was the funniest one ever!!!!! Sam u know u should have won season 2 but at least u have the looks if not the top chef title....

posted on August 1, 2007 at 8:28 PM

Meghan wrote:

Greeetings Sam,
I finally succumbed to connecting with you via the net. I have to comment upon your existence in the world of culinary arts. Your dishes were consistently impressive, and presented in an appropriate manner. This was illustrated by your demeanor throughout the challenge. What I felt most akin(sp) to in reference to your person was the natural growth process that you showed the public. To explain, I imagine you lived in the world of restaurant and bar situations that are typical of all regions. What i enjoy and related to most was the end result that not many have the fortitude to represent. To maintain the fervor of your passion in conjunction with a self respect. Your ability to demonstrate your skills without having to explain. A true proffesional!

posted on August 2, 2007 at 12:27 AM

Lauren wrote:

What in the world are you people taking about? Marcel was such a complainer and took the competition to a place it didn't need to go. I think the TC winner should be more like Harold, competative but not eager to brag and blame. So far my season three favorite is Casey, she is a consistent (barring the latin thing) chef, her recipes are new and exciting. In addition to all of that, she has won the respect of her fellow contestants. Is she bragging about having immunity twice or just generally pleasing the judges? No. So, for her winnig attitude, diverse abilites, and creative recipes, Casey is my pick. Plus, I think its about time a woman earns the title!

posted on August 2, 2007 at 12:42 AM

Alex wrote:

Am I the only one who finds Season 3 a snooze? Joey and Howie get on my last nerve with all that whining and back-biting. Sara is equally annoying and not too skilled. She couldn't figure out how to use powdered gelatin? Give me a break. I can't tell what to make of Hung, who definitely reminds me of Marcel, and that can't be good. Hung made a good call during the frozen food challenge, but foolishly let Joey dump the hot sauce on the pasta. To say Joey is a moron doesn't even come close. My partner, who can't boil water, even pointed out when Joey did it that there was no way the pasta wouldn't get soggy. Joey's excuse: you have to hit me on the head to get my attention? Don't tempt us! They both need to learn some leadership skills. Hung gets way too snippy and defensive when receiving criticism. The other remaining chefs are good, though they do make some glaring errors. I appreciated when Dale and Casey took responsibility for their blunders during the trio episode. Joey and Howie were ridiculously irresponsible for not tasting Casey's dish, especially when they misjudged the soy sauce and she had immunity. They should have exited for that idiocy alone. I'm also put off by how gauche and/or declasse so many of the Season 3 chefs seem to be. Unfortunately, some of the classier chefs have already departed. There are also too many shots of the chefs smoking. If there's anything that turns my stomach, it's smoking in general, let alone when engaged in by food handlers and medical practitioners. Smoking shortened the lives of my parents and many of my friends, so I take it personally. It's disgusting, especially around food. Let's face it, the residue lingers on smoker's fingers, and these chefs don't seem to be wearing gloves. I know this is my issue, but it is important to me, as well as to many others.

posted on August 2, 2007 at 2:53 PM

Alona wrote:

@David B-

????????????????

First of all- Marcel's chicken was not raw. It was rare. The judges in fact upon tasting it SAID it was rare. Using the word "raw" was an exaggeration.

Secondly- Maybe Cliff has put out some amazing dishes, but above being a chef you must have priorities and realize when a situation begins to get out of control. I don't see how he thought attacking Marcel would be okay. I also don't see how your theory of him "provoking" the other chefs fits in. Marcel was sleeping before this happened.

Third- So Marcel's gameplan was to take the focus off the food and on to the drama? How many times have you heard him insist, "Let's talk about the food"?

Yeah, Ilan's natural, a natural jerk. If he showed his true colors the whole season, what does the fact that he stood there and laughed during the whole head-shaving incident tell you?

posted on August 2, 2007 at 8:54 PM

Caro from QC wrote:

Everyone, fans of Marcel or not, please give me a break.
We WATCH Top Chef, but we don't get to TASTE food.
How can you say "This one should've won but not this one" if your never tasted the freakin' food? As Tom Colicchio would say, it's a cooking competition. Viewers can judge on the visual, the creativity, and mostly the personnality (even though it might not be an exact portrait), but they can't judge on taste, and I think it all comes down to this. It's called Top Chef, not Top Haircut, not Top Personnality (that counts in a real chef, but can you really rely on what you see, knowing that part of it is edited?) (I'm making a Tom of myself ;o))
I'm a hardcore Top Chef fan as you all are, but I'm not preposterous as to say who is a better cook and I'm not naive enough to believe that every Cheftestant would act exactly like that in real life. Pressure and cameras are always getting the worst out of someone. I had my favourites and was sometimes disappointed by the judges' decisions, but eating only with my eyes can't help me decide who should win or lose.

posted on August 8, 2007 at 1:15 PM

Sandra wrote:

Hurray to you Harold, we think you have stood above all other chefs on all three shows. Wish we lived in NY, we would have already been to your Perilla's. Good Luck with everything, we're really excited for you!!!

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:10 PM

Lydia wrote:

I agree with you Caro when you say that we don't get to taste the food, but that's what the judges are for to give us their feedback. I still think Sam was robbed, I haven't gotten over the fact that Sam didn't win, he was incredible throughout the entire challenge and even tho he had his differences with Marcel still did all he could to be on the winning team. Sam was all over the competition and all Marcel and Ilan were putting out was foam, Jelee and saffron, it was like Groundhog day the movie. Atleast Sam had variety.

Sam ROCKS!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 3:46 AM

mark wrote:

I have been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. I have difficulty eating anything that isn't liquid or soft. This is a very boring and limited diet. Dieticians have been of little help. I would like to see a show where the chefs create a tasty meal for those of us that have servere dietary restrictions.
Thanks. I love the show.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 9:10 AM

Elyse wrote:

I love watching this show. This gives me great ideas on what to make. I was about to make an app for this show but unfornatly. I'm not 21 yet but I'll be there soon enough. I hope everyone on this season keeps on doing a great job. And I'm just waiting for Hung to get kicked off. I know that was mean but come on he's becoming very dangerous in the kitchen. In that Latin Cooking Show, he nearly clipped Casey with a knife. Also, he is starting to become more and more full of himself when it comes to his food. But anyway, there isn't anything I can do I'm just a fan of the show.

posted on August 9, 2007 at 2:37 PM

Wendy wrote:

I love Top Chef, Bravo stays on 24/7 @ my house!!! I miss Dave! I loved watching him... funny, loved his personality!! I really hated to see Sam leave, I thought he was better than Ilan & Marcel and I can't help but wonder if the conflict between those two kept them "in" til the end to keep the competition more interesting!?!? Better ratings perhaps?? Sam was a better person than that in my opinion, that's what makes him so attractive. He seemed to always take the highroad, he may have slipped the one time w/ Marcel, but who hasn't wanted to put him in his place?? I'm actually amazed and laughing my butt off after reading some of these blogs @ all of the people that actually liked Marcel! Wow! I'd really like to see Casey,CJ, or Tre make it to the top this season!! Hung needs to go work w/ Marcel so they can brag about themselves to one another cuz nobody else cares how great they "think" they are!!

posted on August 9, 2007 at 8:27 PM

B Edwards wrote:

The competing chefs are all entertaining and enjoyable to watch and get familiar with. The judges however are the weakest part of the show. The guest chefs are good and straight forward. I have just watched for the first time and hope the Top Chef judges don't run me back to the food channel during the Top Chef time slot.

posted on August 15, 2007 at 12:18 PM

Delidy wrote:

It is obvious to me that almost everyone thinks Marcel should of won. He took risks and came out amazing at the end. I also think it was amazing how he had to put up with alot of Illan's trash and put downs when he could not back it up with anything specially since most of his dishes were spanish related.
So let me just say SAM should of been the finalist come on. Why not? Everyone would of stayed watching it for years. ^_^

posted on August 15, 2007 at 3:15 PM

one_more_time wrote:

I am home sick.. and just made my fiancee sit with me and watch Marcel & Ilan go at it again for the millionth time on reruns and I loved it !!! I see something new that I missed each time I watch any of the Seasons reruns.. I was surprised and thrilled to know a neighbor of ours went to a Culinary school.. but sadley this young man was kicked out for partying too much but he still remains fascinated with TOP CHEF and we discussed all the recipes we could rememebr.. he told me since I was going to Vegas in a few weeks I should see if Marcel was still there and we may get lucky.. sadley enough he has moved on and I also missed the opportunity of seeing him here in action in Laguna Beach the other weekend.... anyone know of where i may catch him next here in So.Calif ??? He would be fascinating to watch cook.. Thanks..

posted on August 15, 2007 at 7:16 PM

J Hermens wrote:

Watching the replay of season 2 finale was irratating. As Ilan and Marcel served their food, and after when the judges and guests compared notes, it was clear that Marcel had won. Their own words were basically that Ilan had, as usual, rested on his Spanish background and that Marcels food was more inspired, creative and daring, AND lighter. So based on all they said after the meal it was clear they would pick Marcel...
But they didn't, and in picking Ilan Tom said that Marcel wasn't ready. It was jury nulification. The top chef is about the food. What is this "not ready" stuff. I smell producers interference.

posted on August 16, 2007 at 9:05 AM

Tim Fronimov wrote:

Season 3, I like Sara M's accent. I hope you she wins!
She's just got to hit her stride.

posted on August 16, 2007 at 7:12 PM

PRM wrote:

The season 2 finale should have been about the food and it wasn't. I would not have had a problem with Ilan winning except that he not only made all Spanish dishes, but if you do enough research you will find that almost every one of those dishes was taken almost straight off the menu of the restaurant he worked at (Mono). The "original" bay leaf dessert was on the menu as were a few others. Ilan has learned a few tricks, but really doesn't have much creativity. As for Sam, I have no doubt that he's a great chef, but the show is set up so that you are supposed to be judged by the last thing you cook. If it wasn't set up that way, there would be no hope for someone to come from behindand win it.

posted on August 17, 2007 at 12:57 AM

frab wrote:

howie's secret ingregient.... salty sweat dripping in the food.. i wouldn't eat anything he touched if my life depended on it YUK

posted on August 20, 2007 at 4:35 PM

jwstewart wrote:

it's about time an african-american chef, chef govind armstrong, was featured. i really enjoyed the quick-fire and elimination challenges. some of the ice cream concoctions were totally ot the box. i don't like grits, but tre's bacon wrapped shrimp over grits may be worth trying.

back to chef armstrong, he was also very easy on the eyes, although i usually don't like men with dreadlocks.

posted on August 20, 2007 at 5:23 PM

Kittina wrote:

I would have liked to know what was going on with Cliff. If you all are real foodies like you proclaim and actually watch the show, consistence was the name of the game. The top three in my opinion should have been Ilan, Sam, Cliff. In the reunion show Tom said the judges thought that it was going to be Cliff in the end. Remember the judges are the ones who actually have to eat the food.

Enjoying Season 3, but Hung needs a time-out. Everytime he loses, it has to be something wrong with the judging.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 7:29 PM

Tanika wrote:

I think Trey should have not been sent home. Casey's cooking skills have always been questioned and she has never been sent home. IT WAS WRONG!!!

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:07 PM

sandra wrote:

I am totally upset that Tre was eliminated. He was professional, a great chef and just downright dreamy! I dont understand why Hung is still standing, he is arrogant, condescending and just a jerk...I hope he gets voted off next.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:20 PM

jan wrote:

Very bad dicision that the juge make tonight. To send Tre home because just one mistake. He very talant and some people do bad more than him. I will not want to see top chef anymore for this episod. Because You are judge very badly.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:23 PM

Kate wrote:

What a shame, Tre has been eliminated. No I am not black, but I certainly can see talent and he has it. Brian was the one that should have been eliminated. He did nothing and got to stay.
Apparently this show does not judge on ability and talent. Maybe they get pd. off. Just like everyone says, Sam should have won. Now we see the most untalented are the ones that will win this round. Brian is pathetic. In fact the rest of the team pretty much left Tre out in the cold on this round. He had to carry everyone and they did nothing to support him. What a joke.

posted on August 22, 2007 at 11:45 PM

August wrote:

I can't watch you pick an inferior chef, now that you 've sent the best one home. What a poor decision. Apparently being weak team players keeps you safe. Maybe Season 4 will be better, although somehow I dobt it ...

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:45 AM

sugarmag wrote:

Whatever happened to Cynthia??? Slightly crazy in the kitchen but told it like it is! We haven't seen anything from her since the first season's reunion show :(

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:09 AM

aninterestedviewer wrote:

is top chef ever going to come out on DVD???

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:19 AM

Nik Wms wrote:

I think that SGT. Kevin Coddington's, US Army, suggestion would be a great challenge. As a Veteran of Foriegn Wars, if "the powers to be" does use this suggestion, I hope that they will include female soliders, also, to the mix. Most of the food in MRE's r based on a man's tastebud, however if you really want to spice up the challenge include women.

Women are soliders and Veterans, too!

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:51 AM

maribel wrote:

It was really sad to see Tre go. He has a great personality and good ideas. The judges went wrong on that decision. I will not see another program .

posted on August 23, 2007 at 8:42 PM

Denise wrote:

I was disappointed in restaurant wars twice now that they don't have a conjoined theme...I would love to see teams have to create a romance room - would it be a tiki lit water featured south pacific banquet or an italian grotto - or a victorian parlor for two with food to match???? I think it's harder to judge who fit the bill the best when each is so mundane!

posted on August 24, 2007 at 12:05 PM

eve wrote:

congrats to harold on perilla. i went there a month back with family - all big-time foodies - while they were here on a visit & we were impressed. i'm glad to have an innovative (yet non-kitschy) cozy new spot in the neighborhood. ps, those crazy "doughnuts" for dessert are to die for. kudos & wishes to harold for his continued success.

posted on August 28, 2007 at 1:13 PM

ollie wrote:

WHERE IS DAVE?

I miss his persona and his blog.

Pray tell.

posted on August 29, 2007 at 2:37 PM

marcy wrote:

what a pathetic judgement to send tre home........
the judges have no sense and lack clearly lack judgment at all who cooks the best?????

casey, the tall guy or even brian should have been sent home........

last season too, top chef was ilan......who has so limited ability to cook anything but spanish?????? i thought this season the judges will not mistake but after all they did???

I am anot going to watch top chef anymore for top decision blunders..........i'd rather see food network channel and the great chefs there?????

posted on August 30, 2007 at 1:54 AM

Lindsay wrote:

I read an article on the news on Comcast about a bizarre foam that covered thirty miles of the Australian coast north of Sydney. So, that is what happens when Marcel makes too much foam for his food! LOL :0)

posted on August 30, 2007 at 10:38 AM

Sarah wrote:

I'm so very sad to see Tre go. He seemed to be a great chef and normal person. I was hoping to see him in the finals. It's pretty obvious that if you aren't 'exciting TV' to the higher ups at Bravo - you get eliminated. Ilan and Marcel showed us all how to make it to the finals. I could have cared less who won Season 2 in the end. I don't think it's about whose the top chef - its about keeping the ratings up. That's reality TV for you.

posted on August 30, 2007 at 12:56 PM

Ranger Dan wrote:

If you hate someone, that's your problem, not their's. Marcel never tried to harm ANYONE on that show. And he never said he hated anyone or that he was plotting to get rid of them. He was too busy trying to stay on point and to cook! All he did was compliment people for their strengths,speak his mind without hesitation, express his preferences like a man, and make honest observations about gastronomy. Poor guy was ganged up on by a bunch of insecure Yahoos and their disciples. If they had tried being positive for once and befriending him, they would have found all of their malice unfounded. It was just easier to make him the scapegoat of all of their fears. All they accomplished doing, though, was coming off as a bunch of freaks with problems. I wouldn't eat their scary cooking if you paid me a million bucks! Especially Betty's!

posted on August 30, 2007 at 6:14 PM

Patricia wrote:

Yes Kevin - what a GREAT idea - making gourmet meals out of MRE's!

posted on August 31, 2007 at 12:59 PM

cindy wrote:

As much as most people would like to see everyone getting along and it being all about the food the truth is the personalities and drama are what keep people coming back. I was not a number one fan of Marcel but by the end of the season I felt I was watching this clique going after the one kid and no matter what he did he was wrong. I believe it is the scene where they are doing the seven deadly sins and Marcel tells Betty to stop and wait to serve and she goes off that she was yelled at I thought that was so ridiculous, I do feel bad that Tre is gone, I felt he was a great communicator, I felt his team dropped the ball and one of them should have gone home Love the drama will continue to watch

posted on August 31, 2007 at 7:00 PM

C wrote:

Bravo Marcel - you are my all time fav chef from all 3 seasons - your sense of humor and adventure thrill me! It was clear from your talent and expertise that you should have won - the only mistake you made was trusting Sam and Mike to work for you when it was clear from the Restaurant Wars epsiode that they were only concerened with sandbagging you for Ilan (all three of them need to grow up)! So glad you are going to see Ferran - I wish you well and can't wait to go to your restaurant! PS - the tons of saffron and no duos comment was hilarious! Cheers!

posted on September 4, 2007 at 12:17 PM

K Oliver wrote:

I, too, believe Marcel should have won Top Chef Season 2 - although I wish he'd stop "rapping". Ilan should have won top spanish chef of home kitchens.

posted on September 4, 2007 at 8:19 PM

kandie wrote:

Top chef is a very good show indeed, that's why we tune in every week. On the other hand I think the judges sometimes miss who really hides behind someone elses glory. Tre was the most interesting chef I have seen since all seasons, along with Harold, Leanne, Marcel. Tiffany's dishes always looked great even though her attitude sucked, but its about the food right? Cliff's food looked amazing despite the incident. I would like to see a cookoff between Cliff, Tiffany, Tre, Dave, Sam, and Leanne. Wow!

posted on September 4, 2007 at 10:25 PM

Michelle wrote:

Season 3 the latin food episode Hung said himself "If i can't cook rice right then i should be sent home" i think the judges should have sent Hung home instead of Lea.

posted on September 6, 2007 at 4:40 PM

Marie G wrote:

I felt so sad for Howie, even he's a total jerk, he's way of cooking is great especially the taste...too bad i am not watching it anymore. Howie is the only reason why i am watching this!!!

posted on September 7, 2007 at 12:48 PM

malika wrote:

i think that all the good chefs are gone now,thathowie is gone.i will not be watching another episode.

posted on September 8, 2007 at 5:39 PM

Jon Alexzander wrote:

Why don't the judges and the producers of the show come up with a " Vegan" challenge for the contestants ??? Vegan food is just more than a pasta with veggies. Its a little more complex than it sounds. I'm not a vegan but I have had to come up with plenty of dishes for vegan's in my restaurant, and its always a challenge.

posted on September 12, 2007 at 2:49 PM

Armando Silva wrote:

I would like the chef's take on traditional portugese dish
or a traditional acorean dish mainliy from terceira or Portugese dish engenral...

posted on September 12, 2007 at 4:20 PM

Marlas Wagner wrote:

I love the idea that fans come up with new ideas for the judges. I think that a fan should be the guess judge sometime. I think it would be fun. I can not cook like top chiefs, but I woul like to be a guess judge. I think a new challenge should be the chief should come up here to north Minnesota. They should use things like deer meat, bear meat and wild rice. I do have more idea, if want. Thanks for reading.

posted on September 16, 2007 at 4:16 PM

vivian jackson wrote:

I liked Marcel. He was the best chef. Marcel was abused horribly on your show yet he remained professional. He was really the winner. I felt that he was cheated out of his position as top chef.

posted on September 16, 2007 at 4:27 PM

marilyn sanchez wrote:

Marcel was one of my favorites. Thanks so much for the update on everyone. Please tell us what Dave is up to. I would love to purchase a cookbook with a picture of each chef and their recipe.

posted on September 18, 2007 at 3:33 PM

LaNita Crews wrote:

I would like for the top chefs to make a dish for the hardest crowd to please ever KIDS!!!!!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 6:40 PM

ella shonder wrote:

I can't believe some of you people. anyone who is a marcel fan is delusional. my husband - who is an executive chef at a very popular restaurant - thinks that he is the last person on earth he would ever let near his kitchen or ingredients. i agree - watching this marathon makes me a little sick that he made it anywhere near the end. if you know anything about working in kitchens one of the key components to being sucessful is teamwork. its sad to see so many of you glorify his poor attitude. i am glad to see some updates on past contestants - specially harold - there was someone who deserved to get as far as he did on the show.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 8:34 PM

Miki wrote:

I just finished watching the season 2 marathon and was horrified when whatshisface won. I went to Google "Marcel got robbed" and landed here. The judges should have done enough research to know the other guy was cooking right off the menu where he works. It's hard to know what to believe anymore. What could have motivated them to give the 100 grand to the guy who caused most of the trouble and clearly was not the best chef?

posted on September 21, 2007 at 5:51 AM

Bryan wrote:

I give the MRE idea a thumbs down. Aren't there enough shows out there that use patriotism as a marketing gimmick?

posted on September 23, 2007 at 6:13 PM

bluebird wrote:

Most chefs have a mentor and Marcel's was obviously Joel Robuchon. I live in Tokyo where world famous masters of gastronomy are doing business on every other corner in the central part of the city. I've been to L'atelier de Joel Robuchon in Roppongi Hills, and clearly, Marcel's techniques (foam, presentation, chemicals, etc.) are influenced from Monsieur Robuchon. In spite of the little comments here and there between him and his colleagues, Marcel was very ambitious and talented as a chef. My personal favorite! His colleagues should have not let him get to them. Afterall, it is a cooking competition! Personally, I would have liked to see Marcel win season 2, but as the judges said- he will be a better chef in few more years when he can outshine any of the other contestants. Good luck to you, Marcel, and I will be waiting and looking forward to when your restaurant opens in Tokyo!

posted on September 24, 2007 at 12:02 PM

arenca wrote:

I have been a fan of Top Chef since the 1st season and I know that the show has a huge fan base. With all the information about Global Warming that we constantly hear about in the news, I am disappointed to see that the Top Chef contestants are not using reusuable eco-friendly shopping bags when they are shopping for their groceries. They are available for purchase in almost every store now but I see very few people in my area carrying them around when they shop. I think that the show has a huge opportunity to encourage their audience to use reusuable shopping bags and help save our environment.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 2:03 AM

k.Watson wrote:

I agree having a personable attitude should be a Top Chef quality. Just because yiu may cook well doesn't mean you have the right to win the competition. I think Hung may cook well, but his attitude stinks!!!!! I hope Casey wins she displays the necessary skills to really be a "Top Chef"

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:35 AM

TERRI HEINRICH wrote:

When are you going to get rid of Hung? He has been on the bottom more than any of the other chefs. He doesn't even belong with the remaining chefs.When he gets any critisism it is always the judges fault that his execution is poorly recieved. They just don't have the sophistication to appreciate his cooking.The last time I checked a chef cooks for his diners. Without them, there is no one to cook for! There must be a reason that he is still a sous chef with his family being in the business. He is the most inept of all the remaining chefs and many of the already eliminated chefs! CUT HIM LOOSE!!!
If he wins Top Chef I'm sure that you will lose quite a few viewers. Its almost as if the program is rigged!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:49 AM

Donna Bridger wrote:

Bravo, Harold! I hope to enjoy a visit to your restaurant some day. Your menu is absolutely irresistable..., I'm sure you are delighting customers by the droves!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:50 AM

Claireness wrote:

HA. the conspicuous absence of Ilan....He never should have won, and is probably bopping around the lower east side in his skinny jeans and john varvatos chucks living it up as we speak. It's truly inspiring to see someone as focused and professional as Harold put that $100,000 seed money to beautiful use. I can only hope that Ilan will wake up and scrape together whatever's left of his prize money to follow suit.

That said, I need an update on Dave! Who was never anything but sincere and genuine (although tearfully so) throughout Season 1. Lovable in his attachment to and mastery of all foods delicious and junky.

One last thought--my favorite Top Chef moment...hands down--in the showdown between Season 1 and 2 when Tom Colicchio comments on Tiffani (Y?) Faison's dish--and says to her with such respect and affection "I've missed your food." (or something to that effect.) That to me sums up what the show is about.

Now can someone please get rid of Padma? Her comments are rarely constructive, never insightful, and always delivered in a whine so slow and annoying I want to bust my eardrums so I'll never have to hear her again. Stick her on a show like the one she had on the FN way back. But as a judge on Top Chef? What a downgrade.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 5:04 AM

crystal wrote:

I would love to see a show where some of the past chefs from each of the episodes that didn't make Top Chef do a season. Would love to see Dave from season 1 in it. Think it would be interesting to see the past seasons working together going for Top chef. Love the show.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:07 PM

Jennifer wrote:

Season one my fave was Dave. I just loved him! What is he doing now? I'd love to hear about him. Season 2 my fave was Marcel. He was a great cook & made all of his dishes look like art. I couldn't stand the immature, saphron using Ilan. Yuck! How in the world did he beat Marcel? This year I am a big Hung fan & I hope that he wins. If not, I'd be happy with Casey winning.

posted on September 28, 2007 at 11:02 AM

ellen wrote:

Please correct your copy in Sam's info...it is the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, not "Junior"

Having had Juvenile Diabetes (otherwise known as Type 1) for over 36 years, I am glad to have a spokesperson to champion the cause. Would love to see Sam do more to educate the public about this disease.

Great show---can't wait for the final! (and it better not be Hung!)

posted on September 29, 2007 at 12:24 AM

Tish wrote:

This past season has been my favorite. Everyone has been "nice". The first season one of the "nicest persons, even tempered" won. Harold was a good choice, but others deserved it also. The second was a bunch of "mean spirited", "dog eat dog" bunch. I didn't care who won. I don't even remember who won. This season I want everyone to win, they all care about the others and even though they want to win, they express real concern when another goes home. I think they are a good example and wish they all could have won. Than you for letting me give my opinion.

posted on September 30, 2007 at 2:02 PM

jackleen wrote:

They featured mre's this season on Top Chef. It was pretty interesting. I am in awe of the fact that Casey is still on there given the fact that she screwed everyone over in the beginning. Oh well, Karma, Casey. It's a shame because she is really talented when her head is on straight.

posted on September 30, 2007 at 2:16 PM

Kat wrote:

Here's an interesting challenge that would be good for the chefs: make a lactose-free low-fat low residue high soluble fiber dish. Another one is making a gluten-free dish.

posted on October 1, 2007 at 2:41 AM

maggie wrote:

Bravo to Hung. He earned his prize and he clearly deserves it!He was one of the most talented chef this season!! The judges were right on with this decision! What happened last season? I just have to mention my guy Marcel! He was absolutely, most definitely robbed. Its pretty obvious from all the blogs that 99% of us TC viewers agree on that!

posted on October 4, 2007 at 1:22 AM

Mark Nobbe wrote:

Well it's a good thing that, unlike some other reality T.V. shows, America did not get to decide the winner of this competition. The fact that Casey got 58%, and Hung only received 16% of votes from viewers that participated in the poll, proves that, rather than basing their decision on the talents of the chefs, the majority of viewers chose to turn it their votes into a popularity contest. For me I could never have voted for Casey because of her catastrophe with the chopping of onions. Hung never once showed a weakness, and contrary to obvious popular belief, that is not a bad thing. Congratulations Hung!

posted on October 4, 2007 at 2:07 AM

Larry M wrote:

Kudos to Hung! And to BravoTV! I want to personally salute Bravo TV and Their continued support of the GLBT community. It was so refreshing to see gay contestants portrayed in such a positive Manner. It helps erase the negative impressions of the past. Kudos to Dale and his positive role in this season. [ (Wish he had won) But I am biased LOL!)

posted on October 4, 2007 at 1:22 PM

chyna wrote:

Hung ? the judges hung again. he can't cook rice. on the grocery aisle quick fire he presented a mess. his whole attitude sucks. the only winner you have ever had was Harold. a winner needs to be passion about his food and hung all he said everybody in his family was a cook. if they all cook like him we are trouble. he talked about slleping in the kitchen when he was a child what kind of nasty people let a child sleep in the kitchen. we have seen that before in chinese and vietnamse. changing their babies diapers on the counters that food is prepared on. hung asnd his family are a joke. he only said that he is passioned about food after Dale saying that he found himself again. hung is the second biggest joke after Ilan. The winners should have been Marcel(season 2) and Dale (season 3). tyhe judges are making it harder and harder to watch. Hung need to Hung out to dry.

posted on October 4, 2007 at 6:08 PM

Jackie wrote:

I think you are a good chef, but I certainly would NOT want to work with you.....no fun at all.

posted on October 5, 2007 at 10:34 AM

Jackie wrote:

I was so disappointed to see Hung win the finale....During the whole show he was not a "team" player nor did it seem like he made any connections with his teammates. He was most often on the bottom two every show and just because he had ONE good day which happened to be the last episode, he wins...No way!!! Either Dale or Casey should have won. They were both more consistent than Hung ever was. I can't believe the judges did that!!!!! Very upset!

posted on October 5, 2007 at 10:45 AM

Nicholas wrote:

First, I think Hung was the right choice. I like Dale but what a mouth. It was either bitch, balls, ass or f--- you. He had the balls to do dessert. He served his ass off. He said f--- you when told to do something with a pie crust. Please clean up your vocabulary, you'll be much more attractive. (Remember he was dumped).

posted on October 5, 2007 at 8:55 PM

tom H wrote:

This is a blog for CHYNA,
First of all, Hung won fair and square. you know nothing about their family and it seems like you are a racist bigot. The judges made a great decision! eat your heart out CHYNA, You Suck!!!

posted on October 6, 2007 at 2:19 AM

Kari wrote:

I will never watch this show again. Hung did not diserve to win. He was such a jerk and he thinks he is better than everyone. Casey should have won!!!

posted on October 6, 2007 at 3:10 AM

elizabeth wrote:

TC fans, remember Casey screwed her teammates earlier in the season and Dale tried to cheat. Casey also tried to blame Howie and the altitude for her "cooking" in the finale when everyone had the same conditions. Casey's cooking seems like simple comfort cooking and never rose above that. But since everyone loves good diner food, it's no surprise she was in the top 3. Dale's food was creative, but there were so many times when he should have been cooked off. Hung was the only one that was consistent all the way and the world renowned chefs liked Hung - so TC got it right this season. Congratulations for choosing Talent and not changing this into a lopsided popularity contest where everyone bashes the person at the top. SOOOOO HAPPPY!!!!

posted on October 6, 2007 at 10:15 AM

Kimberly wrote:

It's awesome to see where many of the other Top Chef contestants are headed - with Tiffani, Miguel, Sam, Stephen, Elia, and Harold. I would totally track them all down and try to get a meal from them! (With a hefty check from me, of course.)

I am also curious about Ilan and Dave. What are they up to these days? If Dave's working anywhere, I would love to hunt for the place. And when will you have your info up about Hung, Casey, and Dale?

posted on October 6, 2007 at 8:16 PM

Donna wrote:

This season was indeed a positive one, but I must admit to be being again disappointed with the winner. Chef Tom has stated numerous times that a "Top Chef" needs to not only be a good chef, but a leader, team player, and possess integrity. It seems as if during the last two seasons the Top Chef chosen was merely a good chef. The other qualities don't seem to matter.

posted on October 6, 2007 at 8:26 PM

Pat wrote:

After the season finale, I find my self wondering why the judges don't keep a scorecard on the final contestants, and in making their final decision who should be Top Chef, refer back to the scorecard to see how many Quickfire Challenges and Elimination Challeges each contestant has won? It seems like it has become a competition for who is the Top Chef for this one particular meal. Doesn't the contestant's records for the whole entire competition mean anything at all? Congratulations to Hung on his win - but I personally wouldn't eat anything that I saw him cook.

posted on October 7, 2007 at 10:45 AM

Sandy wrote:

I am soooo disappointed that Hung won...But I can't wait for the next Top Chef Series! He was such a spoiled brat, as was Marcel...Couldn't stand either one of these chef's..more to life than fish and rice Hung!!! And to Marcel...a little foam goes a long way!

posted on October 7, 2007 at 4:34 PM

Susan B. wrote:

I'm thrilled that Hung won this season's Top Chef; he's earned it, and I'm glad his talents were recognized. I wish that Marcel's expertise could've been acknowledged as well. The whole "gang up" on him was childish and petty, not to mention uncalled for and unprovoked. He was ostracized from the beginning because of Betty who was the group's mouthpiece and trouble-maker. As soon as the others realized the fierce competition, they tried every dirty tactic to make things as uncomfortable as possible for him. Marcel is a real trouper and did not get rattled amidst all the back-stabbing and jealousy. He was bullied, picked on, sabatoged, harrassed, and attacked. Marcel still managed to maintain his focus in whipingp up great foods with creative flair despite the immature "crowd mentality". Marcel should've won over Ilan any day of the week! Ilan is hands down a fabulous Spanish Culinary Chef, but certainly not one who is well-rounded or worthy of the title of Top Chef. Ilan cooked one style and only one style thruout the entire competition, showing no devience from the only type of food he knows how to cook. Marcel's cooking range and culinary flair reflected a wide range of skills, styles, and talents. It's truly a shame that he could not get the appropriate recognition he was ousted from the little clique and club that was formed among the chefs simply because his superior cooking skills threatened them. Ilan in particular probably displayed the worst behavior of all of them and never deserved that honored title, and he knows it. I believe Tre got caught up in the childish stupidity and openly admitted his wrong-doing, so he can be forgiven. But shame on the others. Shame on Ilan, Betty, and Frank for their indespiccable behavior on the show towards their fellow chef, and in my personal opinion, a genuinely nice guy and phenomenally talented chef. Love you Marcel and wish you great things. Keep on going; someone will notice you. You're terriic man.

posted on October 8, 2007 at 8:23 PM

Gary wrote:

Well except for Harold, we still have not seen an all around TOP CHEF yet. Maybe it was his magic little bottles that kept him focused,and the ability of respect and hard work that he had shown! Good things happen to good people. Good Luck on your place in New York!

posted on October 10, 2007 at 12:15 PM

Billy wrote:

Dale...you're adoarable.....would love to eat your food.....so wherever you settle ...let it be known. If you're ever in Key West let me know. You are this fan's favorite.xoxoB

posted on October 11, 2007 at 11:30 AM

John wrote:

I agree with :

SGT. Kevin Coddington US Army wrote:

I would love to see the chefs make gormet meal out of MREs (military Meals Ready to Eat) and maybe serve them to some basic trainees, or even serve them to some deployed soldiers in Iraq.

I think it would br fun to watch Top Chefs make delicious meals out of MRE's.

I also think that the judges take a look at the whole season when judging who is THE Top Chef. It seems that someone can win every single quick fire and elimination cahllenge, show leadeship and team work but still lose to someone who was in the middle of the pack the whole show, just because they had a so-so day in the finale.

As Donna wrote:
Chef Tom has stated numerous times that a "Top Chef" needs to not only be a good chef, but a leader, team player, and possess integrity.

By just taking the last dishes of the finale into consideration this seems to nullify his statement.

posted on October 11, 2007 at 12:49 PM

Happ wrote:

What I want to see is the ones who got eliminated first from all 3 seasons compete against each other. We know who won and we saw all about them, but what about the ones who didn't make it? Hmmm?

posted on October 12, 2007 at 2:45 AM

Sally wrote:

I am not a chef, but I have really enjoyed watching all three seasons. Being from Dallas/Ft.Worth, Texas, I was hoping for Tre or Casey to win season 3. The articles in the newspaper were great. Looking forward to season 4.

posted on October 13, 2007 at 5:09 PM

Victoria wrote:

Hello Marcel, I know you're going to come out with a cook book & when do you think It'll be released to the bookstore? Take care, Victoria

posted on October 17, 2007 at 12:30 AM

Christian wrote:

Sam shouldve won Top Chef 2 (against Marcel). Ilan is an idiot and a backstabbing coward. Betty was also an arrogant prick. Hey wheres Mickey? Bring on that steak sandwich dude.

posted on October 18, 2007 at 5:27 AM

n miele wrote:

i liked the first two seasons of top chef, the third, i found to be a bit on the ameuturist side. no one really impressed me with technique, flavors, or presentation. im a chef in providence, ri. and to tell you that my ambition is to be recognized as one of the best chefs in this nation is not even #1 on the to do list. without any formal culinary education, except being adopted into an italian family that cooks constantly, and learning o.j.t. from some great, not so famous chefs in r.i. and learning some things on my own, i think i could stand very tall against most of season 3's competitors.

posted on October 19, 2007 at 3:43 AM

Gerry wrote:

Where is Dave? I miss hearing about him. He always brought a smile to my face. I sure would love his receipe for his kobe beef at the finale, it looked wonderful. I adore TC but must admit season one is still my favorite.

posted on October 23, 2007 at 5:04 PM

margaret wrote:

Ok Casey fans..I ate at Shinsei and it was amazing Casey made most of our meal and oh my it was delicious and she was so very nice ...Shinsei is in Dallas tx ...go to the web site Shinseirestaurant and you to can eat at happy heaven...

margaret

posted on October 23, 2007 at 5:21 PM

carol szczecinski wrote:

Just want to know if this show is still going to be on. If so, when? I like it alot. Fun to watch. I am also a Marcel fan. Hated the way he was treated, especially by that jerk, Ilan. Think Betty qualifies as jerk #2 Carol

posted on October 24, 2007 at 4:14 PM

Paul Mc wrote:

Marcel is basically a good guy and I thoroughly enjoyed watching him attempt to carry out his unique vision on food. If nothing else, it made for good television.

posted on October 28, 2007 at 1:53 AM

stella wrote:

I follow up with TC info in mags, and newspapers. Some cannot be found however one areticle spoke of #2's winner being down and out, lost his job and spent most of his money on bling. His appearance on tv didn't fit the life style of inproving or getting on as a winner. No. 3's winner Hung, Marcel was there and appeared well. Working in LV should be an experience that one can only get better with food. In TC1 there was a confectioner chef who got a spread in the SF Chronical with her store. Maybe you will remember her. Each season has diosplayed problems or hatred in a chef by some. But TC2 broadcasted the anger in open facilities, comments in front of judges thhat had to be told and ihe instigators who never told or stood up for their actions. A wall full of placques doesn't mean you are the best (Balld female TC) if you don't use what you taught.. Also needing "company" to sleep...Ilan to the rescue..I read she lost her boyfriend also. Many of the iron chef's and judges and judges from TC3, expressed the importance of technicality in dishes, the best tech can only enhance the owner of a restaurant. Owner's want more from each dish. Do the trips won in a challenge actually given to the winner, if he or she doesn't become the actual Top Chef Seasons Winner? The kitchen work ethics are fast and furious. Limitations of space, number of dishes being prepared, size, number of line cooks, SC, Chefs and maybe an Executive Chef allows for somethings to occur, however some used their mouth as a means of frustration rather than any professional experience they learned. I am looking forward to TC4 and in someway a change in the style and methods used in the challenges. Thanks

posted on October 29, 2007 at 2:42 PM

Julie wrote:

I just wanted to let Bravo know that I love this show. This is the first reality show I've ever watched, I'm not a cook, and I seldom watch anything other than crime drama, but I'm hooked on this show. My daughters even laugh at me because I will even watch the reruns. Too bad the seasons aren't longer. I really think you could get more shows into each season. I would watch it every day. My favorite for season one was Tiffany, I thought her cooking and technique was far superior than Harold, Dave drove me nuts being a cry baby and Steven was just so obnoxious, season two I really enjoyed Betty's smiling face and enjoyed seeing her try to put Marcel in his place, thought it was funny to see the reruns and be reminded that Hung and Marcel were old friends, definately think Season 1 was better than season two, but season three made up for it. Who wouldn't love Casey and Dale, but Hung deserved to win for being more consistant, great technique and creative too, remember the crumbled cereal fantasy plate :-) When it came to the judging I'm glad that it was based on the food and not the personalities, a competition has to be judged by the rules and I don't remember them saying play nice or treat your fellow contestants like you would your staff or coworkers. Thanks for letting me put in my two cents.

posted on October 29, 2007 at 11:44 PM

Rhonda Jones wrote:

Rhonda says that she has loved top chef since the begining and some people are right season1 they faught for their spot on top chef, they didnt just sit down and take it.season 2 lost the fire in their eyes!!! I WIll always watch top chef and I hope you keep them coming. p.s. sam is beautiful on the inside and out!!!

posted on November 5, 2007 at 11:28 AM

Larry wrote:

I like the show. I just wish you could pick the right winner.
You blew it in season 3.

posted on November 7, 2007 at 11:18 PM

alt wrote:

Anyone ever notice that in the finals of both Seasons 1 and 2, Tiffany and Marcel's sous chefs could care less if they won and wanted them to fail? Tiffany wanted Dave to like her and Marcel wanted Mikey to like him, but it just wasn't going to happen. Seems once they pissed someone off, there was no forgiveness. Thankfully this didn't occur in Season 3, where the chefs were so much better at getting past anything that bothered them and making up. I hope to never see Ilan again. The worst sight ever was Betty hugging him when he won. Betty and Elia turned out to be horrible, mean contestants, and they could not take any criticism. I grew to like Marcel because I never saw him attack anyone. As for who should win, I'm not tasting the food so I don't know! But definitely not some thug like Ilan.

posted on November 9, 2007 at 2:06 AM

alice wrote:

I am in Ireland so only saw the finale of top chef 2 tonight, I am furious! Marcel was the clear winner, something fishy went on there. I am so incensed I don't know if I will watch season 3. My confidence in the judges is shot. Am I wrong, but didn't Sam lie when he said the sea beans were his idea? I know series 2 is long over in the states but I hope marcel has been supported by the public and congratulated on his tolerance and maturity in the face of such gross disrespect. I Don't know if anyone heard about the furore created by celebrity big brother in the uk when an Indian actress was shamefully bullied by other contestants, but the way Marcel was treated by the other competitors on top chef reminded me of that. For shame! Shame on anyone who condones it. But apart from that, Marcel was the better chef.

posted on November 11, 2007 at 2:37 PM

David Lee wrote:

I am living here in Singapore and I wanted to add that low-cost meals from "hawker stalls" are amongst the best tasting dishes here in Singapore's 42 year history from the beginning until now. The location is spectacular from China, Thailand, Malaysia, to the Indians living here. The fusion here is spectacular with the Westerner's from the U.S. and Europe. I think if they had an episode here, it will be amongst the best, I love cooking and eating as do the people in this region. The birthplace of the World Famous Drink, the Singapore Sling was invented here at the Raffles Hotel. To go, I can but I just want to say that SIngapore is like the Asian West!

posted on November 12, 2007 at 5:49 AM

JustAHomeCook wrote:

What, nothing about the ever-snotty Ilan taking the culinary world by storm? Shocker... but then what can you expect when you have to get your croanies to sabotage the competition in order to "win?"

posted on November 26, 2007 at 1:06 PM

emerald wrote:

I am surprised that the most obnoxious, blaming, and untruthful competitor of Season 2 is going to be on the "cook-off" show on December 6, 2007. I am referring, of course, to Betty.

For a "woman of a certain age," she certainly showed no class, no maturity, and behavior toward Marcel (no matter how provoked) that she should be embarrased to watch. I'm going to watch the show, but I won't enjoy it as much as I would if she weren't in it.

posted on November 30, 2007 at 1:09 PM

jackie wrote:

I can not believe so many people thought that marcel should have won instead of illan! are you people blind or what? He did nothing but sabatosh others, backstab and complain about being the victim. He did not do anything special with the food except to add that nasty "foam" to everything he did.
as far as i am concerned he reminded me of dracula.
and as far as hung is concerned they should have sent him packing a long time ago for his chicken and rice disaster.
he was nothing short of egotistical, arrogant and every time his dishes came under fire he could not understand why they did not like it. he practically stood there and whined and found fault with the judges that "dared" to tell him that they were not impressed with his cooking. like others have said, he would say that the judge was not sophistocated enough, or did not understand the concept of his food. for gods sake hung grow up and quit being a baby. he should not have won because he was not able to run a kitchen and handle a staff. he clearly does not have leadership skills needed to do it.

posted on December 5, 2007 at 3:28 PM

François wrote:

Dale,

A technical performer won, but we prefer someone who can CREATE dishes. If we own a restaurant we'd hire you as the EXECUTIVE chef and Hung as the SOUS CHEF to perfectly execute YOUR CREATION.

François & Jody Bouchard, Vancouver Island, Canda.

PS: Please let us know you read this post as we really do appreciate your creation ... and will use some of them...

posted on December 6, 2007 at 12:10 AM

Mark wrote:

Why not tell us the name and location of Tiffany's Los Angeles restaurnat?

posted on December 6, 2007 at 1:37 AM

Bette wrote:

Wow, I feel as if I must have been watching different competitions when I read alot of these postings waxing rapturously about Marcel and Hung. First, I completely agree with the poster who reminded us all that it's virtually impossible to truly "judge" these competitors without being able to taste the food! But anyone who says that Marcel was professional and mature must be living on another planet. He was constantly refusing to help other contestants; removing their dishes from burners; taking credit for ideas that weren't his and avoiding blame for problems that were. He is an officious little twit (read his self-promoting over-the-top blog for proof) and I was thrilled he didn't win the foam-off! Elia completely blew her chances with the disastrous hair fiasco and her emotional instability (how many times can you "throw in the towel") showed she was not worthy of the title. Sam should have been in the finals v. Ilan and I think Sam would have won but he got screwed by the stupid Hawaiian challenge and the judges' opinion that you must have heat to "cook." As far as season 3, Hung should have been eliminated way earlier in the competition -- anybody remember his "spectacular" canapes (Ritz crackers with salmon-flavored cheez whiz, basically). He has great knife skills but lacks the creativity and depth of many of the other competitors and also clearly had a game plan that I just found distasteful (no pun intended)! I was shocked how Casey tanked the final but really would have liked to have seen CJ make it. Owell ... but again people, please look back at the machinations of Marcel and Hung throughout their seasons and open your eyes to what true jerks these two prima donnas are!

posted on December 7, 2007 at 1:33 PM

LIsa wrote:

Wjy the hate for Ilan? He did not have his cronies sabotage Marcel! Mike from the show said it perfectly...Marcel was fighting for the title..take responsibility for yourself! He blames his sous chefs for his mistakes...He served salad! I can make salad. He wa