Linda Bracamontes wrote:

Howie needs to wear a headband, his sweat pours into the food!

posted on July 18, 2007 at 11:37 PM

Linda Bracamontes wrote:

Howie sweat is gross! Please have him wear a headband!!!

posted on July 18, 2007 at 11:40 PM

ana ortiz wrote:

Today chefs were clueless about latin food. Who ever heard about cofee molasses or "mole" is part of our food. I think those braised pork and yuca has element of latin and it was something almost gourmet.!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 12:55 AM

Toni Reddicks wrote:

I was wondering if Tre was in a relationship or if he was single?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:29 AM

Charlie wrote:

I am very sad to see Lia go. She was a breath of fresh air in the sea of pomposity that tends to envelope the show. It is a shame that a chef at the most expensive restaurant in Manhattan gets past over because she is unfamiliar with cooking rice and beans for a Jewish chef who sweats in his pork. C'est la vie!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:39 AM

sharon baldwin wrote:

Howie needs to get off the pork meat. So far other than the frog legs, I think that is all he has used as far a meat dish. He may cook it well, but he needs to expand to other meats.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:45 AM

mrsscott wrote:

I am a serious fan of Top Chef.. It seems that in the beginning of the show that everyone got their fair share of air time.. I am kinda missing Tre. I have to watch the episodes a couple of times to make sure that my dude was not voted off.. I am missing seeing him.. He is very talented and all so very attractive.. So i would just like to see more of him.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 2:09 AM

Miki wrote:

I love her dress. Does anyone know who makes one like it?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 4:28 AM

Melissa wrote:

I never write into these things but after watching last night's episode on Latin foods I am truly surprised that you kicked off Leah instead of Casey who has been making terrible dishes the judges complained about. Leah has just won the last challenge and has proved herself a great cook - so what if Latin wasn't her thing, you kicked her out over a girl that made a Guacamole dip and Casey who couldn't even make rice?? Come On!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 7:41 AM

kim wrote:

To me Tre is certainly a master chef. Not only in his recipes and execution of them but in his mannerism, team work and friendly disposition. Good Luck Tre, my mony is on you.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 10:04 AM

Linda wrote:

I think Hung should go, not only is he not a great chef, but he has a really bad attitude and he is dangerous in the kitchen, when Chef Tom saw him running with a knife and almost cutting Casey he should have put a stop to it right there.

I like Casey but I think Tre will win this one, he seems to be a great Chef who comes in 2nd way to much!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 10:37 AM

Julie wrote:

If a producer from the show is reading, can you add recipes from the quickfire challenges (or at least the three favorites) I would love to recreate Joey' tarts -

also, I agree - Lia is a fantastic chef and I was sorry to see her go

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:01 AM

Tia wrote:

I LOVE WATCHING TOP CHEF, BUT I WISHHHHHHHHHHH THEY CAN ADD THE QUICK FIRE CHALLANGE IN THE RECIPE SECTION.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:08 AM

teri wrote:

good grief, i think hung w/h been the one to leave...arroz is just that...he's not even hispanic or latino...they're 2 entirely different rice dishes...he even said himself, "if i can't make rice i can't make anything"...well, DUH! AND HOWIE...get off the pork thing will ya...

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:31 AM

mpk wrote:

Pork is one of the prefered staples in latin cuisine. Good for you ,Howie, but...please wear a bandana or something that will hold your sweat running down your nose into the food. YAK! We have seen that drop falling plenty of time. That's enough.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:37 AM

BJ wrote:

Tre is the man......I think Hung runs around to get the cameras to follow him. he is going to hurt someone! And Casey is very compassionate to the other chefs and I like CJ too!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:45 AM

Theresa wrote:

I really wish I could taste these dishes.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:46 AM

Lizbeth wrote:

Not a big fan since Sam lost Season 2 but...I've begun to watch the show again and very sad that again people with simple and easy dishes that were not executed correctly still remain on the show and the people who win challenges are the ones to go. I think the judges should make decisions on OVERALL performance. OVERALL!!!!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 12:56 PM

Dominique wrote:

Man, everyone is so on point!!! Tre is definitely #1 for me...GREAT chef, excellent attitude...he just has it...and totally agree w/ mrsscott that he is NOT getting enough camera time. And as much as I don't want to admit it, Hung is a good chef, but he is SOOO conceited and I can't stand even watching him!!!!

I like CJ as well, seems to be a pretty good chef too!!!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 12:56 PM

rbovaboy wrote:

Unless her food was the least Latin, I didn't think Lia should have been axed. If Hung or Casey couldn't master basic dishes like chicken or rice, one of them should have been let go. And I don't think we ever got to see what Brian prepared for the luncheon...

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:09 PM

renee wrote:

Is it just me, or is there WAY too much love floating around in this kitchen? The point of this show is drama, right? I want to see some cat fights and some testosterone riddled brawls. They havnt even thrown us a bone and had any namecalling.

In addition to that-I'm not particularly impressed with the talent this season, I love the show, but am disappointed in the judges decisions.

Gail, from Food and Wine, is snotty and has comments that are pointless and trivial. She isnt actually in some kind of seat of authority over there at F&W, is she?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 1:46 PM

hellee wrote:

I am trying to figure out what was wrapped around padma's pig tails. I don't think they wee just braids- they were too stiff. It looked cool and I would like to know what it was. Anyone?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 2:13 PM

Tani wrote:

I think Hung should have gone. He was the least favorite of three of the last four challenges (including quickfires), yet he seens to think his food is above commentary. How arrogant. And he is a danger in the kitchen. How can you vote off last weeks winner for one bad meal, but leave Hung there?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 3:08 PM

Mario Menendez wrote:

I like the contestants however, the overall show is lacking if you compare it to the last two seasons. Everyone plays nice. There is no conflicts ala Marcel from last season and the tie wearing, arrogant Stephen from season 1. Even Joey and Howie are cool w/ one another. At least there was some beef between them before but now they high 5 one another. I agree w/ everyone that Tre has been consistant. Sad to see Camille go since she was the hottie of this season. Although Hung has not stood out, he brings some drama to the show. Marcel & him are buddies (if you caught the showdown b/t season 1&2 contestants, Marcel confirmed it-explains alot!). Cy is exceptional as well as Brian. The seafood sausage was original.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 3:57 PM

Quinton Lee wrote:

THE JUDGES NEED TO BACK OF HUNG HIM AND TRE IS THE BEST CHEFS ON THERE I THINK HUNG DISH WAS GOOD

posted on July 19, 2007 at 6:43 PM

miki wrote:

Yeah I want to know about Padma's braids as well. I loved her whole look. I'd love to get that dress though. Anyone know who makes it?

posted on July 19, 2007 at 8:20 PM

Christa wrote:

I like Hung for being confident about his food. Like the other chef said, the judges have their favorites from the beginning. Plus, their taste buds seem to be off. You notice how if the group like it, then Chef Tom gives a weird face like he didn't like it, but he'll go along because he doesn't want to look bad.

Plus, the judges knew they made a huge mistake last season not choosing Sam or Marcel, so this season, they are kinda soft or holding back.

Yeah, we need to see more of Tre, but if there is no controversy then there is no spot for you. We'll see something later, believe that

posted on July 19, 2007 at 9:19 PM

Jason S wrote:

I liked this episode. I think Joey is finally coming out of his shell. I mean he had immunity but was one of the top two. Unlike Casey in the last one where her tuna tar tar sucked! I want Howie to win! GO HOWIE!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:06 PM

Jeremy Smith wrote:

Without question, Tre is the best from what we have seen (and unfortunately we don't see him enough). I think it will come down to Tre, Hung, and Howie/Joey (I consider them one).

And for those of us that enjoy a meal during the show, get a freaking headband Howie!!!

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:32 PM

Raphael wrote:

Some of the Chefs were preety clueless on Latin Food. They should put a bell around Hung so the other contestans know where he is.

posted on July 19, 2007 at 11:34 PM

Geri wrote:

I sooo agree with Dominique!! I've loved Tre from the very first show!! There was just something about him that made me say "hmm I like this guy" . He has such an air of being a gentleman, and he has proved that he can cook!!
Hung on the other hand, has proved that he can cook, or has he? His attitude just sucks. Anyone can run around like a chicken with their head cut off! It is kinda like looking busy when you really aren't doing anything special! As far as being a friend of Marcels, that gave me a bad taste in my mouth!! It made me think he was put on the show because he would have a nasty attitude and that would be a "wow" factor.
As far as Howie goes, I know he sweats, but I love him!

posted on July 20, 2007 at 12:39 AM

Consuelo Lopez wrote:

I'm coming from a Hispanic background and live in the Southwest only a few miles from International Border -- I have a lot to say about last night's challenge. Congrats Howie -- pork is a huge Hispanic staple so that dish was right. Good for you Joey - you got it right too. What happened to the Chile Rellenos that everyone was raving about? It didn't get a single recognition other than the applause at the table from people who said they were Mexicans! Mole is a very big staple in our cooking and for a chef to deviate from that, it totally defeated the purpose. Mole is mole - a rich savory sauce that is supposed to enhance the flavor of the dishes you prepare - and certainly not composed of coffee or chocolate. I really expected the chefs to be a little more well-versed and have a diversity of cultural experiences -- not just seafood! Just because a person knows a few words of Spanish doesn't mean he excels in the cuisine. Hung apparently is eager and enjoys what he does and good for him, but since everything is a learning experience, he should also learn to be teachable and accept the constructive criticism that is coming his way from experts in the field. He would benefit from taking good advice and add to what he already has. Boo on the safety issue - you don't walk around being sloppy with knives just because you are under pressure. I would have kicked him off just for that. And about our guy from San Diego -- what's up with that? We have been rooting for our home boy all this time! You live in a city rich in diversity -- with a huge Hispanic population -- and you don't know how to make a taco or enchiladas? When you come back, please go to Old Town San Diego and introduce yourself to some of the great Mexican restaurants and even some of the hole in the wall type -- the best kind -- to enlighten you on Latin cuisine. I'll even invite you and show you where the locals go!
Good luck to all -- and c'mon folks, get it right.

posted on July 20, 2007 at 1:16 AM

Angie B wrote:

Tre IS Top Chef in my book..what professionalism!...Where is his camera time? So not fair...Hung needs to go..

posted on July 20, 2007 at 4:31 AM

radrad wrote:

I agree with many of the comments made by Consuelo Lopez.

I have tasted mole on several occasions and absolutely love it! I have had it prepared in San Antonio, Tx where I lived briefly. There was a dish called enchiladas pablanos. I understand there are several different ways to prepare mole. This particular mole contained of pablanos peppers peanuts and chocolate. Some of my friends from Mexico City prepared home-made mole in a similar manner. I have had red and green mole as well in Albuquerque.

I too believe that Hung seems talented as evident from his initial performances. But, he did seem unprofessional on this last episode for his behavior in the kitchen. I never realized how dangerous cooking could be!!

Go Howie! I have seen all of the comments about his prespiration, ok...all out sweating. Even so, he always sounds sincere and makes alot of sense.

Thank you.

posted on July 20, 2007 at 4:21 PM

Kelly C. wrote:

Howie's food looked amazing!!! But he really needs to wear a headband. On the other hand, Hung needs to get the hell out. He is completely stuck up and does not know how to handle constructive criticism. He thought his arroz con pollo was the bomb. But it was a complete flop. Oh, and another thing. The "Telemundo" cast did not think he was being cool by busting out some Spanish. Hung, they were laughing at YOU not with YOU. Do us all a favor and stop trying to show off your amateur knife skills before you hurt someone.

posted on July 20, 2007 at 5:38 PM

kary wrote:

I think that the chefs should try to make different spanish food. NOT ALL LATIN PEOPLE ARE FROM MEXICO. Argentinans, Chileans, Peruvians, Equatorians, WE DONT EAT TORTILLAS... so why are they doing this.. Do they think that only latin food is tortillas!!!??? Chiles Rellenos????? what???? Can they try other type of latin people... I dont have anything against mexican people but they have to understand that latin food IS EVEN MORE THAN TORTILLAS AND CHILES !!!!!!... And yes Howie's sweat is absolutely GROSS>>>

posted on July 20, 2007 at 6:37 PM

Marylee Bassett wrote:

For once there is a reality show on where the contestants are not bickering and fighting. There is enough of that on other shows. It is refreshing to watch cooks do their thing. I do not think we received the whole picture with Hung and the knife though. Casey has been making issues over Hung's behavior for some time. Hopefully this will stay as an intelligent cooking show, not a drama filled show full of fights.

posted on July 21, 2007 at 1:25 PM

Kathine Leeks wrote:

Tre is HOT, SUAVE, and SEXY I was wondeing if the previous question was answered is he singe or in a relationship? I would describe his professional style in one world SMOOTH in a good way he needs more camera time because hes delicious on the eyes.

posted on July 21, 2007 at 1:39 PM

jadzea wrote:

Hellee,
I call those snake belly braid.. You use 2 strands of hair instead of three.

posted on July 22, 2007 at 4:23 PM

Pat Davis wrote:

Re Lia's dish-I wonder how the dish would have been rated if she had used tortillas instead of polenta? (And about the polenta-one of the judges,maybe Gail S, said it was "mushy"-in my area of the country, polenta is called corn mush-it can be served right after it's cooked or you can put it in a pan & refrig it for slicing & then fried but it does not always have to be fried or grilled). I don't think anything was said about how the trout tasted. Latin food certainly does not have to be spicy to be good. Well, I think I'm going to look up Lia's recipe & try it & judge for myself.

posted on July 22, 2007 at 11:46 PM

Peggi Dames wrote:

I love watching the show, but everyone is right Howie should wear a bandana while cooking! Padma & Tom are great!!!! I love the both of them!
Tre will win,Go Tre!!!

posted on July 23, 2007 at 8:34 AM

eduardo a de cardona wrote:

latin rice is by far very different from "gringo" rice, down here in Puerto Rico, we don't like dry rice....so Hung should just shut up and accept criticisms, or else pack his knifes and leave, before somebody gets hurt....the salty comment about the glass of water after tasting the rice, what was that ? !....Hung, please learn some manners......... Kary's comment is great, latin is not synonym to mexican.

posted on July 26, 2007 at 12:18 AM

eduardo a de cardona wrote:

Howie's success is due to his secret ingredient, his sweat ! ! ! ...leave him alone, no headbands, maybe just a towel on the showlder or a bandana (more style than a headband)

posted on July 26, 2007 at 12:27 AM

Lisa H wrote:

I was just wondering why TOP CHEF doesn't come out with a "Top Chef Cookbook"?

posted on July 28, 2007 at 11:57 AM

Maggie R. wrote:

Okay first I want to say this episode was one of my favorites! And yes! I agree with everyone saying that Howie's sweat is just gross!! he looks like he is a genuine guy, but his sweat is disturbing... As for Hung... Well he's very arrogant, but I think they're keeping him on the show for that same reason! I really loved watching Lea on the show... =( I absolutely Love CJ and Tre, Tre is very hot! Overall I love the show, Keep it Up!!

posted on July 29, 2007 at 1:53 PM

laurie wrote:

i think tre is such a gentle, he is just about the only one the really keeps his cool on the show. he is so layed back and his mannerism is awesom.

posted on July 31, 2007 at 3:19 AM

max wrote:

Who's the woman in red in this picture? She's gorgeous!

posted on August 4, 2007 at 5:04 PM

susan walton wrote:

I watch top chef from season one. I love season one group, I like season two. My favorite on Season #3 is Tre, he reminds me of my husband , a very quiet and gentle person. Keep it up Tre, I know you will win this season. Another favorite person of mine is Chef Collichio, a very professional man. If only you can watch what happened inside the kitchen before you make your judgement, like the last episode. Joey should not be fired but should be Hung. He is a very good liar. He made Joey do everything but when he learned from CJ and Tre what they did. He will tell everybody that he knew whats to be done. Lia is a better Chef than Casey, she always use her tears as her weapon like what she did with Howie and Joey. Well, I love Bravo shows and I fully enjoy Top Chef. Again, I like to say, Brian, Howie, Cj are good chef. But my favorite is Tre, I love looking at you Tre. Smile honey. Good luck to everybody.

posted on August 6, 2007 at 2:47 AM

lynn wrote:

Howie needs to wear a sweat band. He drips sweat into everything he is cooking.

posted on August 7, 2007 at 10:10 AM

Tina wrote:

Howie might sweat alot, but he sure can create some great dishes!! Casey needs to gooooo..........

posted on August 8, 2007 at 11:44 AM

manfred weickert wrote:

I would love to get the receipe from howie's braised pork with the spanish flair? good luck howie

posted on August 8, 2007 at 8:25 PM

Elyse wrote:

This is the first season I have really watched Top Chef and I agree it has been a relief to see most of the chef's really trying to have some dignity and not constantly bash each other although, everyone has alot to say about Howie, with very good reason. Sara was right when she called him a bulldog. When he is backed into a corner he comes out very venomously.

Personally, I am CJ's biggest fan.......He carries himself well in the kitchen and I have read others say that his leadership skills are lacking but I feel he really does well keeping the pace and atmosphere laid back and as stress fre as possible..I understand that this is a competition and I am not a professional chef anymore but I know how much integrity means in the kitchen and I especially know how important it is not to get stressed out when you are in the weeds. First and foremost...he is creative and there seems to be good flavor to his food. From what I have seen, he has been nothing but a good guy from day one. He stands up when needed and knows when to step back, as well. I say all of this, to also say I have a huge crush and I think on a personal level, from what I have seen, he seems like a really laid back and very kewl guy........Did that sound like an advertisement?? LOL

So my personal favorites to stay are CJ(of course), Dale and perhaps Casey. I really liked Tre but sadly he is gone. I feel there needs to be alot more sothern food in the kitchen today and he definitely was representing us down here in the South!!

Namaste!!

Elyse, 36
Nashville, Tn

posted on August 23, 2007 at 10:01 AM