Dave G wrote:

I always enjoy yhour interaction with the chefs and respect your decisions--they usually seem spot on--but why have Elia win when she used frozen waffles? Shouldn't she have made her own, or is it like bread for toast?

posted on December 6, 2006 at 11:51 PM

Melissa wrote:

I completely agree. Understandably, people forget how hard it is to work away from your family and support systems. It makes it more difficult to work and live with strangers who you are competing with. To credit them, I think they are doing an amazing job. I am by no means a chef, and I love watching the creation, and imagination of the courses prepared. Not only is it entertaing, but it is stimulating my own creative cooking ideas. Kudos!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:00 AM

Kathy Z wrote:

i just put my comments about tonight's episode on your previous blog by mistake, i was already in that page, ... please go and read it there (at the end of Talking Turkey blog), it is my last comment on this website for this disappointing season, as i have lost all faith in your decisions, and all interest in this joke of a competition!
Auf Wiedersehen!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:14 AM

Nanabro wrote:

I got a kick out of Frank's comment of remaining a gentleman, since he was the one who was gonna rearrange Marcil's face.

My question tho, is why don't the judges take the overall performance into consideration instead of just one challenge. Anyone can have a bad day. I thought Josie was one of the better chefs, where Michael clearly looks outclassed by all the others.

While I enjoy the interaction among the chefs, their audience and the seagulls, it's time they cleaned up their language. It sets a bad example for younger viewers when a word is bleeped and they ask what was said.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:19 AM

Sweet Mamma J wrote:

I think most of the time your chefs are babies. Indulged, pampered, and like so many other artists temperamental. I serve Betty's Fire Roasted Pepper Soup with Chicken or Portabella Melt everyday at Friday's. I was watching the show long before the corporation got involved. I know my way around things after 20 or so years in the business. I promo her dish and your show every shift. The final product I believe lost something in the translation as far as the soup is concerned. Too tomato basil. But I wonder, with all the opportunity that these chefs are offered. All the years and qualifying and whatever the hell they go through. Why are they so afraid to do what they came to do. Reserved and unsure and crazy. These are the top chefs aren't they? It's breakfast on the beach, elaborate dinner courses etc etc. They can't really be that unsure of their culinary talents can they? Please fix it. These guys are not tough enough to make it in any kitchen Mickey's Diner would eat em' up. Send em there. Mickey's Diner St Paul, Downtown Bar Rush. Why are they such babies?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:25 AM

Russ wrote:

Tom,
I love the show. You are gonna catch some flack over Frank's ousting but I will trust your taste. To me, Sam's dish looked really bad. But he has proven himself to be versatile and creative in past episodes. I'm glad you kept him around (as much as I'd like to call him a poser)

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:29 AM

Theresa G wrote:

This was my favorite episode so far. Great quick fire and elimination challenge. The chefs appear to be stepping up and becoming more comfortable with difficult circumstances. It was strange to see the unflappable Cliff doubled over as if it actually hurt when he was told that sand was in his eggs.

If Frank hadn't said himself that his dish was the weakest of everyone's I would have thought it was Sam's. As talented as he is, burnt bagel and gray eggs seem more unforgivable than dried over-done scrambled eggs. Sam and Cliff, both potentially facing elimination at the same time, boosted my interest meter way up. It effectively levels the field from here on out, since these two seemed so invulnerable and a lock to be finalists.

A couple of highlights for me were when the other contestants kicked in eggs for Michael. You could see them quickly evaluating whether they would hurt their own chances by sacrificing a few eggs. It made the ones that did look like Top Chef material to do so. Frank’s parting speech was also very dignified even if he couldn’t resist a parting shot about thinking others should have gone before he did.

It was great to see the three women as the top three. I presume Elia’s dish was judge best overall because she took the greatest risk even though I thought this would be the challenge where Mia was won.

Again it was a great show.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:34 AM

Wayne wrote:

Tom, thanks again for the thought-provoking insight (BTW, you're one of the sexiest chefs/men around.) I, too, rarely cook with a recipe in front of me (except for the first time), and just put in what I have one hand or change out an ingredient that intrigues me. When I saw that Frank's dismay at not having an oven, the first word I said outloud was "frittata." (No joke, I guess great minds think alike...:-P Then louder and louder was my screaming "FRITTATA" at the TV. I guess he couldn't hear me. I was sad to see him go, as I thought he had great potential to be a really fine chef, but that's what the competition is about. The thing about browned eggs-it must be an American/French thing. Not having grown up in the American food culture, browned edges (or on the bottom) on eggs are actually a nice flavor/texture contrast for a lot of people, myself included, but I guess Gail would balk at the ideal of crispy fried eggs... I'm also SO glad you had Raphael Lunetta as a guest judge (also one of the sexiest chefs around). I've been a big fan of his from his earlier years when he was partnered with his childhood friend and fellow surfer Josiah Citrin. I've yet made it to Jiraffe yet, but it's definitely at the top of my list of "Restaurants to Go When Someone Else is Paying"...

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:41 AM

Lib wrote:

Oh my goodness, it is late where I live. I have watched the lastest episode of Top Chef. At this hour I have only a few comments to make. Tomorrow after thinking more, I will comment further.

I have always thought your comments were correct but this one comment, ouch! Tom, Tom, Tom, you said . . . "Is it any wonder, that they flip out when someone touches their toothbrush?" Are you listening to yourself? I travel with a theatre company for five or more months out of the year. We are in tight quarters and there are MANY different personalities. As Company Manager on tour, if I knew it was happening, I can assure you I would not allow another person to threaten another company member.

Yes, I do believe the people are tired and we all make rash decisions, but sweetheart, that is not excuse for Frank.

I am ever so happy that Frank, the singer,who proclaims he is a gentlemen,has packed his knives and is hitting the road.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:04 AM

JavaJunkie wrote:

When I saw that those crusts were useless, I was actually yelling at the tv - "Make a frittata, Frank!!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:09 AM

Theresa G wrote:

I forget to mention that one of the absolute highlights of the episode was guest judge Raphael Lunetta. He was so positive, full of life and a love of food. He seemed like an all around great guy.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:10 AM

Cindy wrote:

Great episode! About Frank's exit though: being a chef means being a gentleman? Hmmm . . . he's probably been the least gentlemanly of all the chefs. I don't think anyone can retain the title of "gentleman" while threatening physical violence. Maybe Cary Grant could do it, but no one else.

And yay for Marcel and Elia!!! It's great to see them shine. Can't wait until next week.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:11 AM

Bill Gunter wrote:

Right on about Frank. As we were watching this episode I turned to my wife and said Frank should switch to a frittata, it'd be perfect over the open fire (just like Ilan's tortilla, his Spanish training has served him well on more than one occasion). Instead, he turned a boring scramble into wretched burned eggs. Oh, well.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:42 AM

Jessica Robertson wrote:

I thought this was very interesting challenge, it really forced the chefs to think about their ingredients, and as Sam put it, take a few gambles. I agree with the decision to let Frank go, but I'll miss him, he is a very cool guy. He could have made a wicked omlette with those ingredients too, a classic breakfast.

And I was so glad that Elia won. She has been my favorite since the beginning. Sure, she's opinionated, but I like her ideas, and I admire her ability throughout the competition to not gang up on Marcel like everyone else. While I am not Marcel's biggest fan, it's not adult or mature in any way to do or say what many of those chefs have. It's not kindergarten, it's a food competition. Put up, or shut up.

Pass it on that the chefs are doing great, and to keep their spirits up, things are getting hectic, but it's worth it in the long run.

-Sincerely, Jessica

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:51 AM

Frank wrote:

I'm sorry Tom, but your blog sounds like a big excuse for not choosing Sam as the one who should go. The food he made looked like bad dog food. I wouldn't have cared if my mother told me it was delicious, I wouldn't eat it. Perhaps the fact that you'd lose 80% of your viewers if he left played a wee part in the judges decision on this one. Marcel had immunity, but what he made wasn't even shown on the show, seems to be a first, even the others when they had immunity were included in the show. I am speaking of the main challenge, not the quick fire challenge. After Betty's rantings of the last couple episodes, she somehow managed to look rather sweet again. Psycho mamma in my book, no matter how your producers present her. I noticed you also took a jab at Elia in your blog, about how this was the only judging she seemed to like, not true, you should watch your own show. She just called em like we saw them too. This is my first time to this site so I'm not sure if this is the place where I should comment on the show, but after this episode, I don't care who wins, I think they all should work at Cracker Barrel. Big big difference from last season. Michael belongs in an unemployment line, you couldn't work ANYWHERE with an attitude like that. Who in their right minds would hire him after these shows, they'd be total idiots. Ilan seems ok, but he'd probably be out by now if this was last season. Mia should open a Mom and Pops diner somewhere, seems like she'd be very happy and the place would probably do a lot of business. I think the main difference is, last season was interesting, the characters were interesting. I think Gail is great on the show, she's pretty, sweet and tough as nails, you never know what she'll say and seems not to have a favorite person, she lets the food do the talking. I'd love to like Padma as well but I just don't, I really don't know why, perhaps she just seems so boring one minute, then trying to act like Heidi Klum the next, it just doesn't work. Maybe you should come up with a catch phrase like, Aufed!!! Maybe-- I'm sorry, you're Fried!... or Sorry, you're Cooked....or Betty, you're Overdone!!,, I don't know...but you guys really need something this season.....If you don't think I'm totally nuts by now, I've got a great idea for next season, totally doable, fun, and exciting. Bravo has my email if you're interested. It would only take 20 seconds and could make your show a hit again. (Hell, anything is possible) Thanks for letting me vent, I work nights, but asked for Wednesdays off because I like this show so much. Which now that I think of it, is totally weird since I go to a nice restaraunt about once a year, if that.
Oh well, have a great rest of the season.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:51 AM

linda wrote:

Tom, love reading your blog.. but love watching you on the show even more! You are the hottest guy on the show... and you are welcome in my kitchen anytime!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:53 AM

dak690 wrote:

I am surprised that with the technology they have on them ....ie PDA's,palm pilot, blackberry ,that they would not think out side of the box when "brain farted",and go to those items for at least an idea like the frittata.
I know with all of the variables in cooking ,their is now way the brain can remember it all, so I deffently think experience, meathod , technique,come into play .
Hell ! I am getting my butt kicked trying to do "porfiteroles"! LOL!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:00 AM

Joe Incognito wrote:

Tonights show was a close call (beach challenge), what would you do if your best chef's got eliminated too early? If Sam or Cliff would have been eliminated it would have been criminal. How Michael has made it this far with his "Flintstonian" (that line was classic) style is a mystery, I am perplexed..........

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:04 AM

ceejay wrote:

Hey, Chef Tom, you TALK a great game, but you and the other judges cook in your nice fancy kitchens, with a planned menu, and top ingredients, not to mention a LOT of help. These challenges are so tacky, mean-spirited, and worthless in measuring anything but NERVES, and the ingredients are simply laughable. If it ain't the producers turning Top Chef into The Jerry Springer show or Survivor, then shame on all of you judges for doing so. I would love to see a bonus episode where the three judges are handed a series of challenges designed by the contestants. A little revenge on all you Count de Sades!!! Bet the three of YOU would be packing YOUR knives!!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:10 AM

Diane wrote:

HI Tom:
This was the most enjoyable of all of the episodes I have seen. I think it was because the show was more about the food and less about the drama, which we are all very tired of. I am glad you discussed the stress that these human beings are under. I think many people forget what this might be like if they were in the same spot. I personally know I would go insane. That being said, I think we are now looking at the best contestants, and now I think it's going to get fun if you can stay away from the Marcel and Betty dramas which have become tiresome. (I was so glad we were spared.)

I also liked your guest judge, who I felt was polite, professional and positive - a great and welcome change from some of the less polite guests you have had as guest judges. He treated the chefs with human respect, which is something most of your other guest judges lacked. I was glad to see Elia picked as best chef for this challenge for the right reasons. Now, she had better cool off when she is not chosen or when she is critized.

Just an interesting aside for you and your readers: My daughter's culinary arts teacher has a daughter who works as the pastry chef at St Regis. She says she knows Marcel, and he is a great guy. I cheered when he won quick cooking challenge. I don't buy the producers desire to make him out to be the bad guy. To me, he's just fine.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:17 AM

weedy wrote:

Having some experience with 'reality television', I can say that the producers may not INSIST on an outcome, but they make their opinions felt.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:18 AM

Wendy wrote:

Hi Tom,

I thought this was the absolute best episode of TC Ever!!!

I noticed when Frank left he hugged Marcel right along with every one else. And I have to say that changed my opinion of him immensely. Yes he may have gone way overboard last week threatening Marcel, but that hug spoke volumes.

Even Betty shown this week, sharing her eggs with Mikey!!

And WTG and Thank You Bravo!!!! We got the beach, half naked guys, good food, and NO drama!!!!

Wendy :)

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:26 AM

Monique wrote:

Wow, Mike forgot the most important ingrediant for a breakfast - eggs. Was it fair that he had help and is still in?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:32 AM

David Harris wrote:

This was probably the worst scenario I've seen. The Chefs should have been told they were cooking for surfers, or over an open fire or on a beach. You (or the producers), let 'luck' play too big of a roll. I understand what you said here in your blog, but that thinking process was not at all clear in the program. 'Lady Luck' was the key palyer, sadly. In this kind of competition, luck s/b a minor player, not the major one. And, yes, I know that 's...t', happens. But with good planning, this would be a minor bump. The chefs should have had another piece of the puzzle, even if a bit obtuse, in order to do better planning. I can't think that there would be any catering event that would be agreed on with so little known. This episode depended too much on luck and not enough on skill....cooking, planning or adapting.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:32 AM

Kimberly Clark wrote:

I want to see Rafael Lunetta surf without a wetsuit on. Is that too much for a girl to ask? He was by far your cutest guest judge. Loved his smile and his genial way with the contestants. I'll serve him breakfast in bed, forget about the surfing! Whoa, Tom, agree with your food assessment but after seeing Frank threaten to beat a competitor to a bloody pulp his mother wouldn't recognize I question how much "heart" he has. I question that most of the chef's were sad to see him go, most people are afraid of violence, I know I am. I kind of thought he would go tonight no matter what he cooked because of his blow up last week, Bravo has to be responsible for the safety of contestants, no? This was bigger than a toothbrush. When he left he said something about a chef being a gentleman in or out of the kitchen? I think a thug is a thug in or out of jail. All the dishes sounded delicious and I'll probably gain 10 pounds trying them mall out. The hash with sweet potatos sounded really yummy. Hope Chef Rafael likes his women a little fleshy after all that food! My comments always get deleted. Please leave this one up, it's not so bad, is it? Did I mention Chef Lunetta has a smile for days?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:47 AM

frank morel wrote:

I have to agree with you about Frank's distraction getting the best of his vision. Its called; "quicksand" the more you dwell on the problems at hand, your attempts at recovery keep becoming more mistakes. This I noticed each time the camera focused on him. When they first arrived on scene and saw the fit pits, I said the person who would win this is a person who goes camping and fishing and used to such outdoorsy setup. But when Frank spouted "I am screwed" my 80 year old Italian mother and I said in unison, FRITATTA! I was kinda suprised that Frank didn't draw on his italian background for this dish... he had it. To quote an old jesuit priest from my school days... "the answer is always in the question"
Sadly, Frank failed to see the answer in his ingrediants..

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:49 AM

Angie wrote:

Chef Tom (because I dont know how to spell your last name) haha, I was wondering if there was any way I could see you cook some great food! I love Top Chef, but being the superior chef that you are, I was wondering if there was a way for me to see you cook something? Maybe you need your own show on foodnetwork or something!?! lol. Who knows? But I'd love to see some of your recipes!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:50 AM

David Harris wrote:

What I was trying to say earlier....some of the Chefs had dishes that worked with the scenario by chance and others had to think on their feet, not always well. And that is the crutz of the problem for this episode...'luck' was such a big player that some at it easy and some did not by the design of this scenario...not enough information was given to to the chefs to make this a meaningful competition.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:11 AM

cam wrote:

You really should have let Sam go this week. His dish clearly sucked the most. But Sam has been good up til now, and Frank hasn't, so it's understandable.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:20 AM

Lynne Rossetti wrote:

Hi Tom,
The thing Ilike best about the show is your very real approach to food and the fact that you incorprate a great attitude and good customer service into your approach.
This week's show reminded me of my summer job.
I have cooked at a family-owned vacation camp in Maine for 14 years, one summer month a year, where the campers consist of all ages (0-95) who are very active, and health conscious, (although they always find room for dessert!).
The conditions have been less than perfect, and until a couple of years ago when we installed a generator, and hot water heater, there was no electricity, so we boiled water to do the dishes, and used gas lanterns, gas and wood stoves, and very narrow gas refrigerators to get the meals out. I have to drive 15 miles to buy most of the staples and supplies. I cook three meals a day for up to fifty people with many obstacles such as dogs passing through and kids looking to help or hunting for tackle containers and the like. I have had the help of my teenage son and his friend and others over the years to do dishes and some prep work. When things are fairly calm, I let the young children help with baking, rolling meatballs, and such with their very clean hands!
For me, all of this is what makes the job so special and so real and it has become a wonderful summer event for my family as well as the families we serve. When the kitchen gets to hot, we get to jump in the lake as often a we like. There is laughter and fun happening all around the camp, on the porch, and in the kitchen. and the good food is just icing on the cake.
I prepare what I like to think of as elegant camp food, using mostly local produce and seafood, wonderful summer berries from farm stands or the woods.
Although I know my food and creativity are very much enjoyed and appreciated, I believe it is my attitude and flexibility that shines through and keeps me coming back year after year.

I love your show!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:06 AM

spoonbread wrote:

This was a god episode. The quickfire was a good one....selecting fresh produce and creating a dish from that. I loved that watermelon was onthe forefront of a couple of dishse.

Although Chef Tom may or may not read these comments ( I'd like to think he does), I disagree with what you said about how chefs should rise above the circumstance. If I should comment from your blog, it is easier to rise above a difficult situation when you have alot of options....such as creative personnel to work with, a pantry that is stocked, etc., it is alot harder to adapt when you are on a beach with little access to things that would help one overcome some shortcomings of expereince and environment. I have done many "campfire" cookings as a chef and even the best get screwed when you are out in the wild or on the beach and have little access to what would be considered a fine dining dish. Cliff did well....he just didn't do a great presentation. It happens!!! When ya got to feed the people, feed them! Frank obviously did not do well....there is no excuse for over cooked eggs.

This episode showed alot morecreativity from the chefs than the past ones.....even a surprise that most of the better ones were now one the bottom!! Wow!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:23 AM

Susan L wrote:

Tom,

I have the utmost respect for you as a chef and judge, BUT, your blog this week made my skin crawl and I have lost faith in you as a “tell it like it is“ person. Please stop making excuses for these sorry so-called chefs and face the fact that they are in no way ready to be called Top Chef. Whine, whine, whine and excuses, excuses, excuses. What is wrong with you? The chefs from last season faced the same obstacles in the challenge, but seemed to come through without the inability to focus and create. So drinking is the only outlet these people have, huh? It seems strange that they could drink and not be allowed to listen to music or watch TV. So what if you don’t have the drama of fighting and childish interaction with the chefs, maybe they should try to got to bed earlier and get rest instead of acting like morons all night with drinking and stupid, childish antics for the camera. Like so many other previous comments, I wish the focus was on the preparation and cooking of the food instead of the drama. What is wrong with using their time in a constructive way?

As for Sam the sloppy looking trouble maker. He has in every episode started some sort of chaos but didn’t have the guts to follow through. This week he complained about Elia using frozen waffles in hopes that the judges would take on that issue and, maybe, change their minds. Get real, Tom, and stop enabling these children with your excuses; obviously, they are not in the same class as a Top Chef. The only thing they should be doing in a kitchen is washing dishes, that is, if they could stop drinking and throwing temper tantrums long enough to do the job.

Yippee, Frank the bully is gone and hopefully Sam and Betty will be next.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:39 AM

Michael wrote:

It was a Breakfast Sand Which? Only he forgot the Bread.
Keep on Cooking.
Be Tougher Tom. Make the men and women cry.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:59 AM

janice williams wrote:

this was a very subdued bunch.what happened.it almost looked
like a set-up.i mean marcel gets immunity and frank the enforc-
er is sent home.
it was a very strange show.i know what happened,you sent all
of them away for charm school and thats why they were weird.
i know that when i worked in restaurants,any threats like ive
heard would have been cause for immediate termination.
no one should have to put up with it ever.
please,if the show isnt going to be on please annouce it on t.v.
we were waiting and didnt know what happened.
we love the show and all the judges,also love padma.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 6:52 AM

Christine wrote:

"they’re allowed limited internet access in order to research food"--Oh man, am I disapointed. They get to research food. I thought this was just the chefs and their ability.
Glad to see Frank go. I thought he was so unprofessional. I didn't care for the way he threaten Marcel (not that I love Marcel). I though he was very aggresive and not in a positive way, in a very threatning way, to indimidate people. Is that something that would be allowed in Tom's restaraunts? I sure hope not

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:04 AM

Gina Sommers wrote:

Wow, I had not idea how limited their lives were during this. I'm going to have a whole new outlook on my viewing now. Very interesting....and the plot thickens...

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:51 AM

Regina Sommers wrote:

After having read your previous blog regarding their limitations, I completely understand where your coming from and agree with what you said regarding the production tactics....but boy it makes for good TV.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:56 AM

Lynda I wrote:

Hi Tom,

I really enjoyed this last episode. The QF and elimination challenge were both unique. I wondered what I would have prepared in the same circumstance. It was nice to see many of the chefs figure out something beyond the banal. (Mike's chicken-breakfast tortilla thing looked different and edible.)

I am curious to the following: if the surfers liked Mia's the most and Sam's the least, why weren't they given the nod or ejected (as the case may be)? In past challenges, the winner / loser was chosen by the people that the chefs served...

I also want to thank you for your explanation of the conditions the chefs endured. It explains some of the behavior we have seen. Further, I think Betty's act of kindness toward MIke (by giving him some eggs) redeemed her. That was very generous of her.

I was not ready to see either Sam or Cliff go. Therefore, it was just great that Frank was relieved of his services. In my opinion, he displayed a lack of execution with the simpler ingredients, (i.e. rice, salad, and eggs). He will not be missed.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:59 AM

Raquel Santiago wrote:

I really had issues with this 8 page attempt at an explanation that the producers dont attempt to create drama. The setting you described alone sets the scene to create drama and who created that the producers who set the rules. What parts do the producers of the show show us, the drama parts. I could continue on about it but ill stop there and get to the sad part.

All three on the chopping block who had been three of the strongest contestants totally shocked me. IMO, no one should have gone home.

First of all you put them on a beach and give them a campfire (so to speak) to cook over. Well you dont have a judge on the panel who does fine dining. You have a beach goer on the judges panel or you have someone on the panel who has had experience with that type of food.

Granted i did not get to look at the food as closely as you guys did but I have seen Fine dining food that looked a lot worse than those three plates and they were served at 5 star restaurants!!

Granted you guys are doing a great job of opening up the challenges to different things but im seeing a consistancy on each show that you have a well fairly knowledgeable judge about nothing that the contest should be requiring at the end of the table who doesnt know what ACTUAL REAL PEOPLE eat in the real world.

(I.E) The TGIF contest,, that guy didnt know his head from a hole in the wall. I dont care if he was the big shot of TGIF. A customer should have been on the judges panel who eats at TGIF.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:07 AM

lotuscw wrote:

If the producers *really* wanted to add some drama to the series they would've gotten rid of Cliff because that would've been the most outrageous decision of them all. It's ridiculous enough that it even got as close as it did. I can't fathom how one more person can be let go before Mike. Betty's quick-fire dish was a sloppy mess, but since that wasn't an elimination challenge there she still is. Elia is also there after her disgusting kidneys and who knows what else. Mia has constantly demonstrated that she has no presentation skills and is mostly a down-home cook. Yet, if Frank had received immunity for this week's dish, and frankly I'm surprised that he didn't, Sam or Cliff would be out. There really has to be a better way.

If anyone else but Cliff (or Ilan) had made the comment that there's no way they were going home I would think them extremely arrogant. But Cliff was right....how could he be on the chopping block when you've got a ragtag bunch in the back? I'm just glad the judges did the right thing but I still think the challenges are ridiculous. Cliff's food still tasted good and although his "presentation" was lacking it certainly wasn't so out of step for the beach environment. Change the bowl to a dish, and maybe he wouldn't have been in the bottom three at all.

Anyway, this had to be thee most exicitng finish yet. GO CLIFF!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:23 AM

george wrote:

Hello Tom and Crew.. Just got through watching TC, one of the best episodes yet... I too was sorry to see Frank go... I had no idea the chefs were under so much pressure... I was glad to see Betty was back to normal... I think she was at herself when she was the first to offer Michael some of her eggs... then slowly some of the rest of the chefs followed her lead... but some did not... I too was surprised that the top two chefs were in the bottom three... It just goes to show you that not everyone is perfect all the time... Keep up the good work.... Also, I noticed that you are casting for a new TC... I find it the most interesting show on television...

George, Glendale

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:29 AM

Kristlkrost wrote:

TOM....Your blog is sooo good now..No more show blow by blow recaps....lol

Really......You are a fantastic writer!!!!

No...REALLY!

*Sigh* I'm a Tom groupie....One of the Blogs has you as the sexiest man alive..YUP...lol

You are our "Ol ' Blue Eyes"

Frank (Sinatra) ain't got nuthin' on you!!

OK....The dry turkey thing still bothers me
You have to try cooking the turkey at 500 degrees first (chicken too)......It really works and makes it so juicy.. BUT I saw on the FN some place that cooks it breast down....Ya' think????

Please try and let me know.:o))))))

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:30 AM

rosemary wrote:

WELL YOU DID IT TOM - I KEPT THINKING THIS WAS JUST AN EXERCISE - BUT IT ISNT - IT IS REALTY TV AND IM LOOKING FOR CHEFS THAT TAKE GOOD FOOD AND MAKE IT BETTER - NONE OF THESE QUICK FIRE OR OTHER EPISODES SHOWS ONE BIT OF WHAT THESE CHEFS CAN REALLY DO - WHEN I WAS ON A TDY TRIP AND HAD TO STAY A MONTH AT THIS HOTEL THE CHEF ASKED WHAT I WAS HUNGRY FOR SINCE I HAD EXHAUSTED THE MENUE - NOW THAT IS WHAT I CALL A CHEF - ALL THIS OTHER STUFF AND I HAVE TO TELL YOU ELIA MAKES ME WANT TO THROW UP - STIRING HER FOOD WITH HER HANDS AND LICKING HER FINGER - REMEMBER THE GUY YOU KICKED OFF THE SHOW CAUSE HE PUT HIS FINGER IN TO TASTE THE FOOD - YOU GUYS HAVE REALLY SWITHED THE MEANING AND METHOD OF THIS SHOW AND I WONT TAKE THE TIME TO WATCH IT - THIS GROUP NEEDED TO BE LET GO - THAT MICHAEL I WOULDNT WANT TO TOUCH MY FOOD - WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IS CHANGE THE TITLE OF THIS SHOW SO YOU DONT GET SOMEONE TO GET AS DISGUSTED AS I HAVE BEEN WITH THIS CREW - AN X VIEWER

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:56 AM

Julia wrote:

Loved the show. I thought all three, Frank, Sam and Cliff should go. It's about the dish not about what they've done in previous episodes. To be Top Chef means to get it right each time.
Frank is scary with his outburst to Marcel. Sorry but being tired is not an excuse anyone should use for being so threatening to another person. Can you imagine working with him? Yikes....
Sam always seems to have an excuse about others. If Sam hadn't gone off to Frank about what he would have done to Marcel with the toothbrush incident would Frank have been more understanding??? Sorry, but Sam has been making excuses and not stepping up and taking responsibility. Always references someone or something else. Finger pointer for sure.
Cliff, what a disappointment. Sand in the food? Guess he doesn't care what anyone eats. Would you eat in his restaurant.
Tom - you've got to stop looking back at their prior challenges and look at the challenge at hand. They should get it right each time or say "pack your knives and leave".

posted on December 7, 2006 at 9:07 AM

Diane wrote:

Sorry but Sam should have went. It seems his was the worst, the surfers even said so. I thought they were eliminated by the elimination challenge not because you think they are better chefs or whatever. Or not because they have never been in the bottom three before. This is rigged.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 9:50 AM

deego wrote:

Maybe Marcel needs to blow off a little more steam and stop being so passive. He needs to nip all of this picking on him, pronto.

When Mia moved his pan, he should have put it back and told her with no uncertain terms to keep her hands off of his pan. If she moved it agian, throw the pan into the ocean. Maybe she will learn to stop being such a bossy boor.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:23 AM

Michael wrote:

Chef Tom,

First, I think some people need to remember you don't set up the challenges. Second, reminding people what circumstances the contestants are going through is not making excuses for them.

The Quickfire challenge was very enjoyable. I thought taking them to a farmer's market and telling them they have to make a meal without cooking what they buy was inventive. It made them stretch creatively and all the dishes looked pretty good. Some more than others.

The elimination challenge was also interesting. I thought telling them they don't know what facilities they will have and exactly who they're cooking for added a pretty good twist to the challenge.

Having them show up and find concrete block firepits with grates to cook over was certainly an eye opener for all of them. It looked like some had a hard time bouncing back from the challenge. Especially Frank and Sam.

I was happy to see that Elia won the challenge and not too surprised to see Sam, Cliff and Frank at the Judges Table. I think Frank took responsibility, Sam tried to tap dance and Cliff thought his food was good.

I'm surprised that you only found sand in one of the dishes. After Frank's last outburst on Marcel, I was not sad to see him go.

I'm not surprised that Michael forgot his eggs. I think he'd forget his pants too. It was nice surprise to see the other's pitching in eggs. It did take several minutes for them to do that because they wanted to make sure they had enough for their own dishes.

I wasn't surprised Betty pitched in first because I think she realized how much of a bus driver she looked like in the last show at the judges table and in the kitchen. I still think she needs to go.

Sadly, while I think Michael is enjoyable, I think it's also time for him to pack his knives as well. I understand his dish kept him in but he's been skating far too long and if the others hadn't helped him, he would have been the one going home I think.

Lastly, please, please, please tell your fellow Judge and host Miss Cheesecake that showing up wearing a bikini top with a vest???, bandana, denim skirt and boots is inappropriate wear for a judge even if it's at the beach.

She looked like a model showing up for a photo shoot not a judge and host for a TV show. All she did was reinforce my personal belief that she's only there as cheesecake.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:31 AM

june wrote:

It seems that the whole world was screaming out "Frittata" to Frank--I know that was the first thing I thought. But even then, it is not really cutting edge or memorable--just something that would have saved him from packing his knives. I think Mike's not having his eggs shows how scattered he is and not really all there--and I wonder if he ever will be. To be a top chef, doesn't it take a certain sensibility and education about foods of the world? So far, what I have been seeing from him is chain restaurant fare and a lack of enthusiasm.

I am starting to be disappointed in Sam, whose undermining attempts continue. I agree, I don't think using frozen waffles is Top Chef quality. However, he isn't the one to point that out. I think Mia's dish should have won. It was imaginative and interesting and the surfer's favorite--so, I don't get why she didn't win.

I think it is important that Betty coddled her eggs correctly--and that she is reining in her cutesy mannerisms. They are fooling no one by now. It is good the women have done a good showing here because I was becoming increasingly disappointed with their skil levels compared to the men. Their emotionalism was grating on me too and I did not see too much leadership ability among them (except for Josie).

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:33 AM

connie wrote:

Sorry, don't think Frank was such a good guy, and glad to see him go. He acted like a "gansta" type guy, and anyone who actually says to Marcel what he said (I don't care how tired you are, or how stressed you are, one simply doesn't threaton such severe bodily harm to another; he is uncouth and crude and has no character)

Thats just my opinion, but I'm quite sure some others must feel the same way. Even if Chef Tom thinks Frank "is a nice guy", to me, he most certainly didn't come off as a "nice Guy", and in the words of Michael, "I hope Frank goes home today". C.P.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:05 AM

GoddessLu wrote:

Hey Tom,

Great write-up and episode. I think Frank was the right one to go even though Sam's dish was dismal as well. I knew Frank was "toast" (sorry couldn't resist) when Gail went ON and ON about the eggs. Yet, I completely agree that eggs are difficult to cook--as a person who does not eat them and have had to cook them for 2 now ex-husbands, they can be messed up pretty easily. Personally I would have done a fresh fruit crepe or something silly like that but that's me...Love the show and each time I watch I get newly inspired the next time I'm in the kitchen. Perhaps I can ditch the legal world and slave in the kitchen--chefs are HOT.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:20 AM

Debbi wrote:

GREAT episode - all about the food, finally! The only dish I thought cut the mustard was Mia's... and would I love that recipe!

Betty, glad you redeemed yourself with the egg sharing, because while you were my fav starting out, the fishwife performance has been getting old. Frank, you should have gone (to the slammer) awhile ago for threatening physical violence on Marcel.

Gayle, if you haven't tasted a sweet/salty breakfast combination before, may a suggest a McGriddle? Seriously, I thought it was interesting that you were ready to pan Elia's combo when before all the judges wanted was a single, well executed dish with layered flavors. Good job tasting it and owning up to your prejudgment.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:23 AM

jackie k wrote:

Tom,
I loved yesterday's episode but I really think Sam should have gone home. His burnt bagel and brown eggs looked awful. I have to disagree with you on the reasons the chef's act just plain whiny. Frank looked like a maniac when he threatend Marcel. There is no reason for someone to threatend anyone. That reason alone he should have been sent packing. Beside that tho Sam's dish was clearly the worst. These chef's should also watch the language. I can't believe that they had no idea how it would be when they signed up for Top Chef. As for the drinking, that is so sad that they use that to cope with stress. What does that have to say about someone who runs to the booze to handle stress. Betty needs to tone it down some,it makes her look like a loud mouth when she starts in with Marcel. I wish she would cut the language out,too. Yes, Betty, we get it you don't like Marcel, do me a favor and be silent.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:27 AM

Marcy Sheiner wrote:

After reading Tom's blog, I understand a little better the reason the chefs are always getting these curve balls thrown at them--before, I thought it was just done to make for better television. One thing, though, I think they could have changed in the breakfast challenge: they could have let the cooks know they'd be cooking over a firepit, couldn't they? I thought that was a bit of cruel and unusual punishment. Felt very bad for Frank--but again, after reading this blog, I get it.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:38 AM

Mark LaPolla wrote:

"are kept isolated from other people (except the judges, crew, and the people they feed) which gives their world a surreal, hermetic quality."

Boo hoo, Tom. It sounds just like being an innkeeper. I have limited internet access. Limited by my time. I have limited contact with the outside world. No jaunts for me. No time. I am thrown together with strangers, the guests and students who stay here. We have art workshops. And since we are a country inn, we have breakfast, dinner, lunch. I have to prepare 30 breakfasts in 1/2 hour. I have a BBQ, no indoor grill, and would have felt right at home cooking over an open fire.

I have to make 30 dinners every night (3 courses) as well. They all have to be out and on the table in 5 minutes. Plating is extremely stressfull. OK. It's like Iron Chef every night. Oops, wrong network.

Mind you, I have 1 waiter, 1 prep cook, 1 dishwasher, and my wife who's my very parttime sous chef, and it's 30 dinners not 300 but I have to do this every night, 24 hours a day. When I'm not cooking, ordering, buying wine, inventing new dishes, talking to my guests, I'm an innkeeper dealing with quite a range of problems. And I don't do this only for a show, that's every hour, every day, every week, for 10 or more months a year.

Good episode. So far, last year was better and I still don't know why everyone is down on Astroboy! ;-) What a hair cut. But still, he doesn't seem like an annoying or evil person. This has not been obvious. Also, it's too bad that the scores are not cumulative. Sam seems like the best chef so far. But every competition is a new chance to screw up. Gee, just like the restaurant biz. ;-)

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:49 AM

Sybil wrote:

I make a point to watch Top Chef every week. Even though both Cliff and Sam (my favorite) were in the bottom three this week, it would have been a shame to send the most talented duo home after one mistake. They have both won the Quick Fire several times and always ranked very high in the elimination challenge. I think your call to send Frank home was "right on". Frank is not a gentleman, nor is he a top chef. While I don't particularly care for Marcel's arrogance, I think it is deplorable the way the other Betty and Frank have talked to and about him. It only shows their lack of character when doing so. How Michael got into the competition is beyond me and should be sent home as soon as possible. Elia is not a chef and should be sent home soon! Regardless, I do enjoy your show and it will remain on my list of shows to watch.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:52 AM

rconnelly wrote:

This was a fun challenge and Frank was the logical choice.
Soem are chefs; some are cooks. I think Frank is a cook, albeit a good one, but with very little imagination (the Alice in Wonderland thig awile back was just plain silly).
Three cheers for the ladies, but I don't hink Mis will last much longer.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:55 AM

Audra wrote:

I just want you to tell Cliff. Happy Birthday for me..... I think he is an awesome chef!!!!!!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:01 PM

JOSIE BAMBROUGH wrote:

Are you not getting tired of Sam making excuses for everything he does. If he doesn't win he always looks pouty like I am the best one here, how can I be in a losing situation. I didn't like Frank but I thought at least he and Cliff fessed up to their bad choices. Not Sam and his was the worst in appearances and per on surfer he couldn't eat it because the food kept falling off. No Tom, bad choice not letting Sam the instagator go. YEAH FOR MARCEL THOUGH.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:16 PM

lon wrote:

What drama. What a way to expose the chinks in three strong performers' armor. Put them on a beach when they're tired. Strip away their protective coats.

I have to eat a little crow because I said in a post yesterday that I thought Ilan, Sam and Cliff were the strongest with maybe Marcel and Frank coming in next. That the girls had not showed much imagination.

But the women performed well in last night's show. Kudos to them. Betty put her feud with Marcel aside and concentrated on cooking. Betty and Mea used their catering skills to shine.

Based on the previews for next week's show, it looks like we will see the self-centeredness and inability to work together again.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:20 PM

connie wrote:

So glad that crude, rude, angry looking and acting guy Frank got the boot. Sorry Tom, this was not about contestants being under alot of "stress", and therefore, losing it because of their deplorable living conditions and such.

This is about a guy who should have already been kicked to the curb with his rage towards another contestant, and threatening bodily harm.

Personally, I'd sue the guy for threatening me, as Frank did. In todays society, I would hope we have come further then allowing that type of behavior, and even condoning it, as "hell, thats what happens when people get stressed".

The winner in that scenario was Marcel; Personally, I'd taken Frank out back and beat the crap out of him; But, Marcel took the high road.

Don't most people want to at least try to take the high road anymore? And no, beating the hell out of Frank would not be "taking the high road", but, what goes around, comes around also; and, I think Frank is a bully and a coward for picking on someone alot smaller then him; AND, I think the real reason he said what he said, was that Sam said how upset he would be if someone touched his toothbrush, and Frank wanted to save face and to do that, had to down grade another person; someone he pretty much knew would not be any kind of a threat to him;

Hey judges, wake up; you can't let people threaten physical harm to another contestant; what if Frank had beaten up Marcel horribly? You all would be in big trouble for not taking some sort of action about that;

nuff said.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:38 PM

Tami wrote:

It was interesting that Sam mentioned Elia's frozen waffles - I assume he made his own bagels? Sam always seems to throw some kind of disparaging comment about the other chefs into his comments, almost making them sound like asides. It's getting old.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 12:41 PM

Barb P wrote:

Greatly enjoyed last night's shows and Chef Tom's comments about that show. My teenage daughter blames me for influencing her to watch the show; now, neither of us want to miss a single episode! However, I was a bit bothered by one comment at the judging table refering to the chefs not being prepared to cook at the beach nor being able to wisely adjust their dishes. This challenge was both a surprise location with issues with the elements of sand, wind and open pit grills and a surprise as to the "kitchen appliances and equipment" available at the surprise location. I myself would not have guessed a beach location, except for Padma's description of "California athletes after their practice." However, technically surfers may not really be practicing, as surfing is the sport, whereas practice implies working on other skills too. Anyway, I thought all the chefs did an excellent job and the food all looked like "good outdoor food", even Frank's, Sam's and Cliff's food. Camping food can look sloppy but taste delicious. I would have selected Mia as the top winner both because the surfers voted for her and her food looked yummy and beach gourmet! I too am glad the three women prevailed as the top three in this challenge, go girls! I camp out a lot and have studied both regular and gourmet camp cooking. It can take months to perfect your "cooking over the camp fire" skills. I have even taken courses just in camp fire cooking. So, perhaps Frank could have been forgiven and maybe no one should have gone home. Sam looked a little ill and maybe nervous and Cliff seemed quite defensive, as both may have felt they had failed in this challenge. I won't miss Frank's drama, but he seemed like a great chef with good culinary skills and creativity. I look forward to the next show too. Thank you producers.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:01 PM

rconnelly wrote:

Re: connie
Frank is a blowhard. He proably couldn't throw a punch.
But talking about suing someone for making a threat is over the top. Heck you wrote you'd beat him up...that's a threat too.
Bullies suck, I agree, but the best way to handle them is to blow them off as Marcel did....our justice system has way better things to be concerned with rather than bags of hot air.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:23 PM

Theresa wrote:

Quoted: "While I enjoy the interaction among the chefs, their audience and the seagulls, it's time they cleaned up their language. It sets a bad example for younger viewers when a word is bleeped and they ask what was said."

Were my son big enough to understand what was being said (he's only three months, and he watches the show with me every week. But, like I said, he's not really big enough to get it either), I'd take the opportunity to let him know that a bad word was said because the person was frustrated, or angry, or whatever, and that it was bleeped because it isn't appropriate to talk that way.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:24 PM

Kim Williams wrote:

Hi Tom,
I really love the show and I can't wait for the new episodes. I just started reading your blogs and I can't tell you how I enjoy your thoughts. Last night was great, I agree with you about Frank. I can see where others would feel Sam should have went. I clearly could not be a judge, Sam is one of my favorites along with Cliff. The way Betty and Frank have acted toward Marcel-although he's no angel either- have made me kinda support him a little more. I'm just not sure what to even say about Michael, I thought he would have went before now. I must admit I've joined the growing number of women enjoying your smile and pretty blue eyes, if you ever leave the show I'd be bored with it. Keep up the good work!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:49 PM

cacy carrasco wrote:

Thank you for clues to why tempers flare and chefs appear stymied...lack of sleep, no personal time, etc.

Makes sense.

The show makes more sense now.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 1:57 PM

Sarah wrote:

I felt bad for the chefs when the Elimination Round was introduced. After the QF (where no heat was permitted), I was envisioning something outdoors with hot clay to cook on.

I don't think this was a fair challenge at all — but it was awfully creative.

Based on performance... a burnt bagel with gray eggs has GOT to go. Though I'm happy to see Frank was eliminated (what a jerk), I think the judging was not specific to the challenge.

When, oh, when will Michael get booted? Is it fair that he's still around with his egg fiasco? Frank, a much better chef that Michael, was eliminated because the chefs keep confusing TC as a big party with pals when it SHOULD be a competition. I would never have given up my eggs, even if I had 10 to spare. That's competition, folks. But perhaps, the chefs were smart to keep Michael in the game. After all, it did get a better chef eliminated. And who is worried that Michael will win it all?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:00 PM

Nadine wrote:

Well, you judges were there and I wasn't. But just based on your comments--all justified--it appeared that Sam was the one who completely shut down and relentlessly tried to execute his idea despite the fact that he simply did not have the means to make it work. It also looked burnt and messy, and the surfers didn't like it at all. So, why Frank? Admittedly, Frank didn't cover himself with glory....I have to say that it appears that you gave Sam the benefit of the doubt based on his past successes. Frank had successes too, but I can't help feeling the judges looked down on him -- maybe because of his gruff demeanor, or his strange mushroom salad. In the same way that Dave was never really accepted last season. (And maybe he shouldn't have been--I'm not complaining.) Anyway, I think it would be better if you just admitted that you're keeping a karma count--however informally--in these decisions. There's nothing wrong with (in my view) except that it's not explicit.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:05 PM

Nancy wrote:

Yes! cooking is an art in which each dish represents the unique culmination of specific ingredients and circumstances. Those of us who enjoy cooking realize, I think, that it is the moment when imagination meets ingredients that is enjoyable, not the stale following of a precise recipe, though the final product is important. I appreciate that you are also able to pass on what you are learning as judge of a "reality" show, because this is the new territory for us all, and these contestants, and possibly judges, are the product we viewers consume, appreciating the stress of the public scrutiny and the effects on our own imaginations.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:20 PM

johnw wrote:

Chef Tom,
I enjoyed your blog. How much consideration was taken into account for Elia and Mia using pre-prepared ingredients, frozen waffles and frozen crabcakes? Michael buys roasted chicken. There seems to be no penalty at all for taking these shortcuts.
Was Frank's dish really the worst of the bottom three? Overdone eggs? It's a matter of taste and I like mine well done. Frank's jumping on Marcel must have carried over into this round as certainly Sneaky Sam's dish got the lowest surfer rating of the entire bunch. And Cliff somehow managed to get sand in his dish which put it in the same category as Emily's salt dish - inedible! Different rules for different chefs. With regards to the frittata dish, most frittata recipes call for the use of an oven. It can be done in a pan only by cooking both sides in a pan, but it seems to me that in a beach environment, that it would call for a bit of luck and dexterity not to make a mess.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:21 PM

Deborah wrote:

1: Padma's outfit was completely inappropriate, beach or no beach. She also has the most flat and boring affect I've ever heard. Robots have more emotion. On the ad when she says "everything about food excites me" I just laugh and think "you sound about as excited as a limp noodle and you clearly don't eat more than a handful of birdseed a day"

2: This blog is nothing but apologist garbage attempting to exonerate contestants for unacceptable behavior. I get it, they are under a ton of pressure. ALL of them. Yet, Frank and Betty are the only ones who seem to act out in wildly inappropriate and dangerous ways. Marcel is nearly 20 years younger, but does not act this way. A few others instigate and make snarky comments, and that I can write off to stress, even though it does make them look bad.. Now that Ilan has become one of those with his comment regarding Marcel's QF win, Cliff is the only one show near total restraint and good behavior. And he is under the same stress as everyone else. Don't make excuses. They are all under equal stress. But they don't all act out.

3: I am glad Frank is gone. Even if his dish wasn't really the worst, because he should have been gone for threatening Marcel last week. Betty behaved better this week--but I bet she would not have given Marcel any eggs if he had been the one to need them, so what does it prove? Emotionally erratic people, borderline personalities, are always like she is... sweetness and light one minute, screaming irrational scary freaks the next. you never know what you are going to get. So her kind behavior this week hasn't changed my opinion on her one iota.

4: this challenge was beyond ridiculously unfair. having no idea if you will have heat of any kind to cook on or not, or even if you will have simple utensils? who could plan for that? the only sure bet would be cold cereal and milk, or fruit and yogurt, something that required only cold items. And had anyone done that, and then found they had a fire to work with, they'd be blown out of the water by those who actually cooked. as someone else here said, those who did well, mostly did so by sheer luck.. they happened to pick dishes that suited the circumstances. the chefs should have at least been informed that they would have basic utensils and SOME form of heat. bad move on the part of whoever designs the challenges

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:35 PM

Nancy wrote:

Manipulate must be accurate - from your lips to my computer! Betty appears to be a bi-polar closet Dike, Marcel extremely patient and mature for his age and not vain, Elia needs to get medication and social awareness of the country she lives in, Mike is a gentle bear of a Chef, where did Cliff's attitude come from?

Great editing? or just a good show?

Nancy

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:38 PM

Andrew D Scott wrote:

Tom,
I love these people whining over Frank's threats and all the drinking going on.Apparently, none of these people have ever worked in the restaurant biz. If that girl Marcel had gotten up into Frank's face and told him his toiltries did not belong in any kitchen and if he had a problem with it, he could kiss his a--, Frank would have peed his pants. As far as the drinking is concerned, it is inherent in the business. These people are not doctors or astrophysisists. They are cooks! Some are even artists. But they are all in a business that accepts indulgence. Walk into any restaurant kitchen and see how many driver's licenses there are. Wake up. Life is not as pretty as some might like to fool themselves into believing. I'm not condoning the behaviour, nor do I condemn it. It's called REALITY!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:42 PM

E.Bollar wrote:

Why is Betty still there? She has cheated and blatantly lied! When she DID CHEAT and RE-DID her cookies, (BECAUSE THEY WOULDN'T RISE!) So, the 2nd place Team SHOULD HAVE have then WON! And, as an aside, she is the most imature adult I've ever witnessed, and also quite mean spirited. I'm guessing you guys don't view the tapes before moving onto the next show? I cannot imagine her being a supervisor! I'd bet she KEEPS TROUBLE BREWING at her restaurant. She has good cookings skills, but she is also an under-handed, mean person, and doesn't deserve to win all that would be given to her!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:51 PM

Linda Haskell Mad Dog Design wrote:

I really enjoy this show; as a graphic designer I can't image having to conceive and produce a magazine layout in 30-minutes where each challenge might take away my pencil, my computer or all my fonts.

What I can't reason out is why some chefs have a difficult time with Marcel; perhaps there's more going on than is shown? I think situations where people work cheek to jowl can manifest unfortunate personality traits. Lose of Humor, Patience and basic Human-ness.

Betty appears the ring leader of the anti-Marcel click – a case where the biggest mouth has encouraged smallness. In my field it's unprofessional to publicly voice disparaging remarks about a fellow worker, immature to make faces behind their backs, lay blame on others for your own project's failure (creame brulee), and not act as a team player by using bulldog leadership-style when not considering other's opinions. Topped with a mean spirit, I can't figure why Betty should be considered Top Chef material. As in life, I'm sure this bad apple will be gleaned from the tree.

All the participants, but particularily the remaining chefs, have displayed versatile solutions to the challenges – I applaud their creative gifts, their culinary skills and their fortitude. They are brave artists who allow a spotlight on their winning and losing problem solving.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:54 PM

Rachel wrote:

I think that Marcel has a crush on Elia. Did you see the way he tackled her in the surf? Very grade school little boy who wants attention from the girl. It's cute, though.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 2:55 PM

linz wrote:

This is the first time that I have read through all the comments- and I have to say WOW- I love how in this world everyone knows better and would have done something better- or needs to claim that they will no longer watch the show. Good for you- it is just a tv show after all- watch it or don't- who cares but you.
And for picking on every decision of the show- what makes you an expert? These judges were picked for a reason, and while we see a glimpse of thier deliberations, I am sure that their decisions are made carefully and thoughtfully.
Like or dislike the contestents or the challenges- it is just a show- GET A LIFE!!. Of course I realize the irony of me saying that since I have reduced myself to an annoying commenter as well- and really who cares about my opinion but me.
With all that, I do want to say, Thanks Tom and all involved for an entertaining and interesting TV SHOW.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:07 PM

Tommi Whitfield wrote:

Tom, I LOVE your insights into the show...but even more I love the stuff learn from you. As an average but avid cook I'm always (hopefully) learning - and even the idea of concepts and techniques vs. recipes is an eye opener. I learned from my Grandmother and a French housekeeper (excellent sources) so I've got some good basics - but everything you guys add is grist for the mill. Many thanks!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:13 PM

Sarah wrote:

Tom, I do not think that all of the viewers of your show (which is great, by the way) realize that they are not seeing everything that is happening on the show. I also do not think that they know that some of what happens on screen is ACTING. I know it sounds hard to believe, but on reality shows some people act even if they are not supposed to. Big surprise!! In no way do I think that you have made any bad decisions, except for the fact that you haven't sent Mike home. I love Sam and, while his dish was lacking this week, he has been one of the best for almost every episode and is the best cook on the show. Thank you for not sending him home, he is great!!! He seems like a genuinely nice guy. Okay, I have a question for you, what is the host's tattoo on her arm of? My fiancee and I watch the show every week and even in reruns and we have noticed that she has something on her arm, my fiancee thinks it could be a scar. What is it??

Thank you for your time, you are the hottest chef around, my fiancee is jealous because of how often I mention how handsome you are. And you seem like a nice person who at least tries to be nicer to the contestants than anyone else.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:15 PM

Joyce wrote:

I love reading Chef's insights and watching him on the show. He is a calm but honest judge who, unlike other judges (not from Top Chef or Project Runway!) does not act obnoxious or try to be the star. I will miss Frank but I never thought he would be a Top Chef!!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:17 PM

Jenna wrote:

I think it would be interesting to have the food evaluated without the judges knowing who made what, so that the evaluation is based solely on the food and presentation, not personality or knowledge of past performance.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:18 PM

Jay wrote:

Tom,

I was amazed that Cliff wasn't let go: his was the only one who served up sand! What would your reaction be if one of thee chefs in your restaurant served up a dish with sand or dirt or rodent hair in it?!! This was a much greater transgression than overcooking eggs.

I was also amazed that most of the cooks on your show had troubles with an open flame.

As far as the debate about how the producers may "create" drama: I can accept they do not interfere with individual shows. However, it is obvious they make the initial contestant selections based on potential for drama rather than culinary skill.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:28 PM

csvale1 wrote:

Maybe Marcel recognizes a big wind bag when he sees one...anyway good riddance. What I see as a problem is that they are all so concerned with self preservation that not one will step up to taking on responsibility in a leadership role (i.e. the Thanksgiving dinner fiasco). If one had suggested a menu instead of everyone taking off on different tangents they might have come up with courses that complemented together, rather than flopping separately. I would have expected more from a group billed as top chefs, but haven't seen much thinking 'outside of the box'. Just a complete lack of creativity, innovation, adaptability, and improvisation.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:29 PM

Kathie wrote:

I love this show, but my general impression is that this year's chefs are not as talented as last season's. Last season there were abrasive personalities, but this season some chefs are not only abrasive, but dishonest and mean-spirited. I hope when you consider who is going to be Top Chef that more is considered than food preparation. A Top Chef should be someone you would want as a colleague or boss, and not too many of this year's candidates fit this description.

I went to Friday's to try Betty's sandwich and soup. I hope that something was lost in the mass production, because the sandwich was flavorful but very greasy. I might try to make it at home, but I will never order it again!

I really like Tom's comments because it gives me some insight into the reasoning of the judges. His is the only blog I read.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 3:57 PM

Lisa wrote:

I am personally glad that Frank was eliminated out of the three. I think past performance should have some basis for elimination each week. I am not one to do a lot in the kitchen. I cook for my family but it is not anyting exciting or daring. I watch a lot of Food Network and of course Top Chef. When his quiche did not work, the first thing I thought when i saw his pan was frittata. I have seen so many of the cooked on TV that was the one thing I would have gone with. I agree that Sam's dish looked aweful. I would not have eaten it. Thank you for your insight on what is happening behind the scenes. I love watching you week after week. Keep up the good work.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:15 PM

Katy D wrote:

As usuall we enjoy your insightful comments. This was
by far the best episode this season and THANK THE
Powers-----Frank is gone! Now if you would just get rid of Betty, we could begin to enjoy the competitions!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:22 PM

Frankie the bull wrote:

Tom thanks for the fair words and your kind hopes. Have a merry Christmas with your family and your still invited to my house anytime.
The bull Has Spoken

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:30 PM

KEVIN MAC wrote:

Good episode.....bottom 3 deserved to be there. They fell apart in the challenge. The girls all steppd up to it and deserved their win. Marcel should have won the spitfire becaues he did exactly what the challenge asked for(just like Thanksgiving). Frank,who appears to be a bit more talented than some of the others(provided mushrooms aren't involved) fell apart, his omlette looked awful and was apparently overcooked, sorry but that is inexcusable. Everyone on this board seems to be jumping on Michael. who's laid back attitude doesn't seem to work well under pressure. He showed some smarts by buying the cooked chicken at the market aware that he may not have been able to cook anything, that was thinking. I'm sure left to his own devices he can cook his ass off. He just doesn't seems to fit into the Duck Confit Balsamic Glaze Reduction yada yada world.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:41 PM

Astrid wrote:

Hi Tom, and everyone,

Didn't I say that the rubber was going to meet the road? At first, I thought, "MAN. Cooking blind is pretty brutal." But I was so encouraged to see that the majority of the chefs stepped up and managed to put out a good dish.

I was surprised that Cliff and Sam struggled at first, but then I considered that their specialties are food that I have trouble pronouncing correctly the first time, and it made sense. I thought Sam was about to pack his knives when I got a good look at those eggs. I think his looked the worst. However, I think he made a valid point about his gamble versus Elia's. Both rolled the dice. I think both Cliff and Sam struggled, but they both have done enough thus far to live another day. I hate that Frank had to be the "sacrificial lamb," but I think he may have been on borrower time anyway.

Betty saved face by sharing eggs, but I'll still watch to see when she leaves...hopefully sooner than later.

I still like Mikey. I think he should stay on the bull for as long as he can until he gets thrown off!

The preview for next week looks VERY interesting! Looks like Cliff and Elia will butt heads. I am waiting for the Ilan/Marcel showdown too...that's almost inevitable, IMO. Let's hope either one doesn't get too ugly.

Drama or no, TC is NOW my favorite show on TV. I'll keep watching to see how it all turns/turned out!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:53 PM

Dave wrote:

Tom,
What is your definition of an entree?? My family and I were appalled as we watched thinking Marcel's watermelon steak was a desert and should not have won. He is a putz and should have gone home long ago. I can't beleive all the people on your blog that are defending him. As for the elimination challenge what a joke!! How could they be expected to prepare a meal when they had no idea what the cooking conditions were going to be? Then to judge them when luck had more to do with the outcome than anything else. Mike's store cooked chiken breakfast taco's are the perfect example of what a joke this challenge was. He didn't even bring his eggs for cripes sake.

On a lighter note we loved you and the show.

Dave

posted on December 7, 2006 at 4:55 PM

Sharla wrote:

I agree with the others who said the chefs should have been told at the very least that they'd be cooking over an open fire. I understand the need for them to be able to think on their feet, but it seems to me that a curveball here and there is far preferable to a constant diet of them.

These folks need to have a challenge soon in which they are required to demonstrate their leadership skills. The only time where I've really seen marks of a good leader was when Ilan and Michael were working together, and somehow Ilan managed to bring a good performance out of Michael. I don't think Michael's a bad chef (couldn't be terrible or he wouldn't have made it onto this show with no more experience than he has), but he's inexperienced and perhaps needs someone to help him focus and develop confidence in his own ideas. Ilan did that, and then on top of it in the interview he was willing to give Michael a substantial amount of credit for their success.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:16 PM

Lan Nguyen wrote:

i loved this challenge! its tough but i love it. I am a breakfast fan but i dont know about cooking it on the open flame at the beach. I was happy to see Marcel won the quick fire challenge, its seem like every one picking on him, the bottom line is i thought the judges make the right choice to let frank go

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:19 PM

Hates Drama Queens wrote:

I think the egg sharing is the first we've seen this season of what last seasons chefs did regularly: work together. Remember the wedding? Maybe a low point for the food, but getting the meal out there was the priority, not standing back refusing to touch anything but "your" dish. I wondered if we would ever see these guys consider anything but the competition.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:29 PM

Cheepa Bruhe wrote:

I keep seeing the Thanksgiving episode where Tom tells Betty that custard with burnt sugar is not a creme brule. Unless he's talking about flavors--- what IS a creme brule other than custard with burnt sugar or a carmalized coating on top?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:45 PM

Debbi wrote:

I couldn't put my finger on what was bothering me about last night's show until I read JOSIE's comment and she said it best. It's that whiny, blame-everybody-else, passive-agressive Sam. He's starting to really get on my nerves. Watch some of the episodes again (and again) & there he is, lurking in the background, the INSTIGATOR, Sam.

Three things are really bothering me about this season. (Not counting the fact that the chefs were on a different level last season.)

The first is the Lychee episode. Lycheegate. As soon as Otto told Mia, she became instantly as culpable as he. They should have gone right back into the grocery & returned the stupid lychees. Neither of them did...both guilty. The end. BUT, I am not saying the result should have been Otto's departure.

The second was Betty & the recipie change. Bettygate. What an idiot. How could she have possibly thought she could actually CHANGE the recipie. Then, why bother to have the nutritionist there? Everyone else was being so very careful about working with their nutritionist. So, then, did she "cheat"? I believed her explanation. But, she did break the rules. So, should she be sent home for that? And, OMG, she FORGOT meringues had to sit in the oven overnight. Even I know that! I don't think I can make an impartial decision regarding Betty because she really gets on my nerves. Can you imagine Lee Ann acting like Betty? I just can't understand where her anger (hate) towards Marcel stems from. I thought her face was gong to explode when she was yelling at him. Poor Marcel. I could go on & on, but...

The third thing is the Frank issue. Frankgate. No, Chef Tom, I'm not buying the "away from my environment" explanation. They're a bunch of babies. They should have known what they were getting into when they signed on. Anyway, Frank's behavior was a bit much, don't you think? The way he threatened Marcel...it was way over the top. Uncalled for, actually. Over a toothbrush? Whoa! Hold on, buddy. Marcel had to clear the cooking area. Where was he supposed to put the stuff? Where was he supposed to cook? The clock was ticking all the time. Furthermore, he didn't "throw" the stuff, he "put" the stuff. Can you imagine how Marcel's MOTHER must have felt? Tied in with Problem Number Three is Sam's passive-agressive behavior. That's when I first started to notice something a little creepy about Sam. I couldn't believe my ears when I heard him getting Frank all riled up. It wasn't the first time Sam had snitched. But the fact that he did it AGAIN is what makes it creepy. Sam is definitely one of the better chefs this season, so, for me, he is the perfect example about making it about the food & not the personalties or the drama.

Stealing, cheating, violence, extreme anger, trouble-making...all behavior which never should be tolerated in ANY environment, let alone as winning the title of Top Chef!

All that being said, I am still looking forward to the next episode. I LOVE the show. Chef Tom, you are the sexiest man alive & I can't wait to dine in one of your restaurants. Gail & Padma are great, too. You are all honest & fair & exhibit only the highest integrity.

PEACE

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:47 PM

Donna wrote:

that show with the thanksgiving dinner being prepared betty and the other woman and carlos were fooling around that is why nothing was to taste, Also betty has a big mouth and digusting mouth with the works she has used on the show.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:54 PM

michelle wrote:

Glad to see Sam nor Cliff was eliminated. Unsure if I agree w/the choice of Elia's dish as the top one. Since none of us can taste the dishes, guess we must rely on the various judges pallate. I must take exception to your excuses as to why some of the contestants are having or sometimes have problems concerning their culinary imagaination/cooking skills. As a military retiree I (as well as many other military personnel) were forced to endure weeks, months, and longer with little sleep, stuck in close living quarters with people we may or may not have known very well, did not have contact with our spouses/children/or other support groups, had minimal contact w/the outside world, etc. We managed without losing our sense of self or snapping at each other. At least these people have a decent place to call home w/good food AND alcohol to ease some of the disconnect. Creating culinary delights is their JOB. Why make excuses for them and why do they all whine so much?

posted on December 7, 2006 at 5:54 PM

Barbara wrote:

I was glad to see Elia win one this week. I think it will be the needed push to get her creative juices going. Remember that we only see part of what is going on. Because of editing we dont see all. Im also hoping that our under-dog, Micheal, will overcome his brain freeze and show us something really special. Mia mentioned he went to a culinary school so Mike, show us really what you know!!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 6:00 PM

Jose wrote:

If I were to be served a pale Tortilla Española I would return it: probably the eggs inside are not completelly cooked. But other than that m, I think you (Tom) hit it on the spot.
Sometimes when I am seeing the participants , I get the sad feeling that that they are so uptight in being a "Chef" that they forget to enjoy cooking. It is that joy of cooking or in cooking that I miss most in this group..specially in some of the best trained of the cooks: Sam is an Example...he has a great culinary eeducation, great experience and yet he seems so rigid sometimes, that he shows no joy in what he is doing...pride yes, joy no.

Shame...

posted on December 7, 2006 at 6:14 PM

Pam wrote:

To: HDQ (who posted his/her comments on the previous week's blog)

Don't worry HDQ about doing without Kathy Z's rantings about Betty, because, there's plenty of others who feel the same way!

I'd say the majority of the viewers rant... and rightly so!

And, your comment about her doing comfort food... please!!! I don't think there's been a show yet that she doesn't reminded us all that.... "I do comfort food... that's what I do... comfort food." She uses it as a reason for doing well & an excuse for doing badly... that is when she's not blame someone else for her own failure... or claiming not to understand the rules!

And... I think this week's show played right into her hand! What is more comfort food than breakfast... however & where ever it's cooked!

I think you, HDQ, are under cutesy Betty's spell... just like a certain few on the show.

RANT ON!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 6:35 PM

LanDa wrote:

aloha..last nite on Top Chef..was so awesome and getting very intresting..da chefs is getting good and very Ono..that mean very good..but more..i think Betty did a great job on her breakfast cook..also good when they share eggs..that is really good and friendly..thanks!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 6:55 PM

PeachPie wrote:

Thank you for this thoughtful post. Your part on the show, and your communication with us, the fans, is invaluable.

Yes....we sometimes get a little "rabid", don't we....lol. Mostly (I would hope), it's out of love for the show.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:03 PM

Kevin wrote:

Hi Tom, great blog as usual. It's no doubt what a stressful situation these chefs are in, and now I have a new respect for chefs like you and some of last season's contestants who have been able to exercise restraint and patience in difficult situations. It seems that this season's contestants have all lashed out or treated others disrespectfully, except for Cliff. I think he did a good job keeping the focus on the food, and having the foresight and intelligence to stay above the fray.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:10 PM

CWE wrote:

Chef Tom,
First off, I've recently started watching Top Chef this season and now I am absolutely addicted to the show. I'm a senior in high school and not to "toot my own horn" as you would say but I'm also the valedictorian of my class. I've always been fascinated with physical fitness, nutrition, and food so do you think I would maybe be able to combine these into opening a restaurant that pushes healthy cuisine and exercise after I graduate college, or should I attempt something else? Some people I know seem to think I am selling myself short with this idea.

Thanks for reading.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:34 PM

ann wrote:

I disagree with a previous poster in that I think Mike should be given credit for picking the baked chicken. The challenge was to create a filling, yummy breakfast. Not knowing if he'd have any appliances to use at all, I think the baked chicken was a great choice. I think he is listening to the challenges better.
I love Ilan, Elia, Cliff, and Marcel. Agree that Mia's specialty is down-home cooking (remember the sushi challenge) and I think that the variety she brings is great. I am going to try raw corn :)
Sam, your inner self is not as lovely as your outer self! Trust in your own abilities and quit throwing jabs at everyone else.
Betty acts like she did get some sleep this episode but she's had too many outbursts for me to believe she's sweet -- "bus driver" Betty LOL
Very much looking forward to the chefs making multi-course meals. I enjoyed the quickfire and firegrill challenges and I like the new challenge concepts we're seeing this season.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 7:54 PM

saucier wrote:

So, you don't make the challenges. Right?
Right.
So OBVIOUSLY the producers make the challenges.
So obviously the producers DO steer the direction of the show to be more focused on conflict and drama than food.
Otherwise they'd be competing on the things that top chefs really DO every week, and not prancing around in dumpsters, beaches, and vending machine corridors.
This show needs more actual food people and fewer TV PEOPLE involved.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:01 PM

Doreen wrote:

Tom...Tom...Tom...
Why keep Sam when he so blatantly lost?

oh, and does anyone else think the entry by "Frank" ~12-18 down is the Frank that got canned on this episode?

Seriously, Sam's dish looked horrid. At least you could recognize some of the ingredients in Frank's. And what did Marcel make, besides an idiot of himself trying to talk "surfer" to the athletes?

Okay, I still love the show, but starting to really wonder if it's about food or who's the least annoying.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:18 PM

litelytatted wrote:

First -- I don't think Michael is that bad -- young, inexperienced and he had said before he was missing his wife. Also if these guys knew who the judge was then they should have know he was a campion surfer --- major hint there if they had looked and thought. As to the beach scene hasn't anyone watch the british version... they ahd to cook as a team at an army bivowak (?)!! whatever was there (and they did not know in advance) was what they cooked with.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:35 PM

judy crayton wrote:

Yaaaa for Marcel and Elia. Glad to see their success this episode. They have integrity and good hearts ... it's fun to see them on top.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:36 PM

kc wrote:

I'm with ceejay! I had the exact same thought, which is that I would love to see Chef Tom take on one of these challenges. he'd go down in flames.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:40 PM

Danny M wrote:

Overall this was a fun episode to watch...

-I'm glad Mikey's still in it. Everyone seems to be high on taste, and I think that's where Mike shines at. Sure, he's not as refined as Ilan or Elia (His QF dish shows that he has some potential at presentation if he focused), but he's shown improvement since the disater with TGIF. So many people on the board were ragging on him about buying pre-cooked chicken and forgetting the eggs. About the chicken, I though that was very smart of him. He seemed clueless until he saw the chicken. As for the eggs, he did get lucky that Betty (who won some respect back), Sam and I think Cliff as well gave him some eggs. And it was nice of them. I'm sure Mike would have done the same. And hey, everyone forgets something sometimes. Heck, Albert Einstein had to be reminded to zip up his pants sometimes. I doubt Mike will win (My money's on Ilan), but he's the dark-horse favorite by far.

-Sam and Frank should have both gone home . Not only did Sam turned that bagel black, those eggs reminded me of vomit. Frank, I don't know why when he finally learned about where he was cooking at he was still dead set on making the quiche. I do give him credit for at least saving a dish, but those eggs looked awful (though not as bad as Sam's). Both of them whined about the challenge, but everyone else seemed to adapt pretty well.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:41 PM

Colleen wrote:

I am no chef, but even I was yelling Frittata at the television. Can you imagine how amazing it would have been and over an open fire it would have cooked beautifully. I felt bad for Sam, who hasn't experienced grey eggs. UGH. but he should have poached them and put the pesto on in place of a hollandaise. And then there really would have been a toad in the hole. Oh, well we all have food disasters. YEA Elia.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:43 PM

K. Felton wrote:

Cliff is the Juggernaut, he was the only Chef with sand in his food and his dish still tasted better than Frank's!
Any time a Chef can feed you a bowl of dirt and you like it, he's okay with me!!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:44 PM

Barbara Leeds wrote:

Although I know that editing can portray these chefs in ways that add interest via conflict, Betty's tirades a deplorable. Who does Miss Comfort Food think she is? Soup and grilled cheese? She's rude to the others far beyond the level of provcation that they may provide. Her manipulation and blame for her shortcomings is equal to that of seventh grade girls.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 8:53 PM

Andrea wrote:

I guess I really can't "flame" anybody on this beach challenge as it was blatantly unfair. Expecting people to cook at the drop of a hat is one thing, but not telling them what sort of equipment they were to have available is just making them play Russian Roulette....hopefully they simply bought stuff they could manage over an open fire. I guess Elia's waffle thing did look like it was the best (although strange), but I would never get around to making it. However I did download Michael's and Frank's dishes. And therefore I did disagree wholeheartedly with Frank's elimination. I think that to penalize him for resorting to a scrambled egg dish was grossly unfair - since he obviously came up with something spur of the moment when he realized he could not cook a quiche on a open flame. Eliminating him because his scramble didn't match his cannolli/strawberry accompaniment was unfair, especially since you acknowledge that this item was good. I must admit I was really shocked when folks gave Michael some eggs - very generous of them - considering he is competition. This resulted in me thinking he had one of the best dishes on the beach. Back to Frank - he also created one of the best dishes on this episodes Quickfire. As far as I'm concerned he, Michael and Elia should have been judges choices on that (although I think Elia is an underhanded b**ch). I certainly didn't agree with the judge's choice that Michael was in the bottom on that one made any sense at all. Although I couldn't tell how it tasted, it looked charming and refreshing. I absolutely could not figure out how the judge selected Marcel as winner of Quickfire...I mean...who the hell even understood what that was he made??? This was kind of a strange show. Although I still believe this group generally lacks ANY talent, they at least all seemed to step up to the plate despite being completely BLINDSIDED by the beach nonsense. And another thing - I'm getting sick and tired of all these bloggers beating up on Betty and Frank for beating up on Marcel. It seems as though everyone thinks age and size puts Betty and Frank automatically in the wrong. Kind of the same thing as parents always blaming the oldest kid in the family because "you're the oldest". Marcel is an ADULT just like Betty and Frank are and he reminds me of the bratty younger sibling who tortures the older kids to death...then goes screaming "Mommy! Mommy!" when he finally gets slugged. He deserves everything he gets. He starts it...he's got no reason to complain when someone else FINISHES it. I don't like Betty, but that doesn't make MARCEL right (even if he did help her with her "creme brulee") and Frank is STILL a gentleman as far as I'm concerned. The cameras show us what they want to show us...just because we saw Frank's toothbrush still in his toiletry bag does NOT mean it was still in his toiletry bag at the time Frank decided to demand some respect.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 9:14 PM

savorybaker wrote:

Let them rest. I want to see what they can do when they are ready to cook. Getting a bit tired of all the whining and excuses when it doesn't go as they expected. GIVE them some sleep. Maybe you Judges will eat better.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 9:40 PM

Pam wrote:

Just like Otto's "free" lychees and Betty's altered cookie recipe, isn't "begging" free eggs from the other competitors considered CHEATING?

If this challenge followed normal practice, I'm sure they were all give certain guidelines as to how much they were allowed to spend buying their ingredients. And, if you are so negligent as to leave behind your main ingredient, then, you are definitely NOT Top Chef material!

And, if my memory serves me correctly, it seems there was a female chef sent home last season because she forgot one of her ingredients - I believe she was paired with Harold for that challenge, and she took the fall.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:24 PM

amy d wrote:

I just wanted to say that this was a very interesting show.....sorry to see Frank go........but thats part of the program.......Glad to see the girls shine.they are all magnificent chefs...and I am glad that you have taken into consideration the factors of people and their attitudes..God Bless them for being away from all ther families and support........i wonder how many others would have lasted as long as they have......GREAT JOB to all the Chefs. Thanks again for explaining to us all the sacrifices the chefs go through. Maybe it will give a better understanding to some of the viewers.........stress in itself is awful but add all the rest and my heart goes out to all the chefs........keep up the good work !!

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:33 PM

Nate wrote:

I think what really seems to be missing this season is there is no one to root for. Season One had talented chefs but who seemed like good people for the most part. There was more of a team ethic -- the most touching moment was when Leann and Miguel came back to help Harold in the final competition and they kept referring to him as "Chef" because you knew they had so much respect for him and he for them. When Betty started the egg drive for Mikey last night, yeah, it was generous, but it felt more like "Let's make ourselves look good and get some brownie points with the viewers." (and that goes for all, not just Betty). There's really no one in Season Two that I'm hoping will win ... and there's no one I'd be upset about if they got the order to pack knives.

It's been 12 years since I've worked in a restaurant (front of the house) but the thing I miss most is the team spirit ... the best places I worked ran like clockwork and everybody pitched in. I saw that spirit last season eptiomized in various episodes by Dave, Leann, Miguel and Harold. Season Two is just a bunch of whiny prima donnas who think they're the next Gordon Ramsay.

posted on December 7, 2006 at 10:51 PM

Patrick wrote:

Isn't it obvious to the entire viewing audience who is going to win this? Mia!!!! Ugh!!! What leads to me that conclusion is although she hasn't won any elimation or individual challenges her food has been consistently good and each time quite a few people felt she deserved the win she didn't get it. I think this gives us all the insight into the winner this year than anything else. She gets hosed all season and then Ka Blam she wins the whole darned show. Taking bets here! lol

posted on December 7, 2006 at 11:10 PM

Jason wrote:

Frank deserved to go when he threatened Marcel. It is no excuse to say that is just "the way it is" in the business. Absurd. Threatening a colleague is grounds for termination in the real world. It was disgraceful when Frank did it. That being said, he did not deserve to go this time around. Sam did.

Sam's eggs looked vile. I would have sent them back in a restaurant. Further, I am glad that others have seen Sam for what he is -- a troublemaker and complainer