Marcus wrote:

thanks for doing television,even though you said before you woulden't.You knowledge and handsome face,keeps me and friends of mine coming back!

posted on November 22, 2006 at 12:17 AM

max wrote:

I have such a crush on Tom!

posted on November 22, 2006 at 11:36 AM

patti wrote:

I was disappointed when otto left. When he said we have the lichees for nothing to marissa, I didn't see her respond and say, Well, we can't put them in the car." She was so slow to point the finger and waited for the right opportunity to hang him, when infact her lack of response was just as wrong as otto. She knew too, how come she stayed. What, because she said it after the fact and made herself look like she was being honorable? She was being a sneaky, calculating bitch. I mean, look at the weird, ugly faces she was making. She's ugly on the outside and on the inside as far as i'm concerned. She should have gotten the boot too. SHE KNEW ALL ABOUT THE LICHEES BEFORE THEY GOT ON THAT VAN!

posted on November 22, 2006 at 7:14 PM

HDQ wrote:

What a nice break from the insanity of the show. Thanks for a recipe we can play with ourselves over the holiday. You're a class act, Mr C.

posted on November 22, 2006 at 7:14 PM

mike hooper wrote:

I have noticed a couple of times when a chef plated a dish there was use of a round metal cilinder. I wanted to know the name of it and where someone might be able to purchase it. The other question I have is what is the green mixture that is sometimes used as a garnish in the deserts. thank you in advance for your time,
respectfully
Mike hooper

posted on November 22, 2006 at 8:41 PM

pat wrote:

re tonight's show:
Betty going off on Marcel is really getting old. it's so grammar school

posted on November 22, 2006 at 10:57 PM

aditi wrote:

Dear Chef Colicchio,

I usually leave my comments on Padma's blog but thought of directing them to you this time. I'm not sure if you guys read the comments to your blogs but I do wish you would. I love cooking and so I really like Top Chef. However a few things about the show have really started to bother me.

First of all, you guys seem to have favorites which upsets me quite a bit since judging should be impartial when it comes to food. Tonight's episode confirmed my worst fear...that you guys were trying to incite drama for television ratings by pitching Betty against Marcel. Cheap technique! For starters, Marcel is 24 and represents the young, dynamic chefs among us. He may be a little smug or even cocky but that can be attributed to his age. Why is a forty-four year old Betty fighting him and calling him selfish for reasons NOT apparent to your viewers???? WHY? WHY? WHY? I'm so very confused.

And you guys are running polls for Marcel's arrogance???!!! The guy got yelled at in the face by a 300 pound hulk who threatened to beat him to a pulp ("Your mother will not recognize your face!!!" Geez!). Give the guy a break. In the begining Marcel's 'molecular gastronomy" claims did annoy me but lately I think you are framing the wrong guy as the villain. At the dinner table twas blatant how Frank and Sam were putting Marcel's dish down simply becoz they don't like him!

You know, Chef, when I visit a restaurant, I don't care about the chef's personality or temperament...I do care about the cooking. So far only Elan and Cliff seem to be doing well in the kitchen department. Pls stop trying to add drama by potraying a 24 year old kid as this season's villain. It makes your show seem desperate for ratings.

Every Wednesday night, my friends and I watch the show together. Tonight we were all apalled by how Frank and Betty both screamed at Marcel. To top that you guys showed polls voting "Marcel's Arrogance" as the most annoying!

I just wish you guys would go back to being a reality show about COOKING and FOOD. Remember those???

By the way, to be fair, I did agree with your comment where you said nobody was trying to win, they were just trying not to lose.

-Aditi

posted on November 22, 2006 at 11:08 PM

Annie wrote:

I really don't think it is fair that we all think betty is so nice and marcel is so mean because i think in the recent two episodes, betty has been unjustly rude to marcel. there was absolutely no reason for her to bring him up when asked who to eliminate besides spite. she has really shown an ugly side, and i think marcel has been trying to compromise. i am not saying anyone should be perfect; i just think that our images of these two people have been skewed. Each has his/her faults and virtues.

posted on November 22, 2006 at 11:11 PM

Cassandra wrote:

Oh my gosh Tom...It utterly amazes me how many times you have to repeat yourself to this group of people. Outside of Sam, Cliff, Frank, and Ilan I don't see anyone who really has some passion. Actually, I have had more success cooking with children than some of these chefs. I am sorry you have to be placed in the position of Yard Supervisor at Elementry School Recess. Yeap.... that is about the maturity level of several of the chefs (Betty and Marcel).
I still think Michael is going to surprise us all. He has heart and is trying to impress. He rather reminds me of Dave in season one without the crying.
I did think Carlos should have gone home this week. He didn't do anything to earn a spot next week.
I can so relate to Elia's "chocolate meltdown." I have been in that position when something has to just relieve the tension in order to get the job done. As bad as this challenge turned out this week, I can imagine how bad it could have been without that little release and laughter.
Betty is coming across as a loaded cannon. She appears to be cracking under the pressure and for the sake of the rest of the show, I hope she caves next week so the others can get down to work and become worthy of the title Top Chef.
I do love this show. Ok I will admit I think you are pretty awesome too. If these first weeks are any indication of the rest of the show, you definitely have your work cut out for you.
Cassie

posted on November 22, 2006 at 11:12 PM

N Williams wrote:

I commend U on your patience and guidence. I caught the last few shows of last season and got hook. As a daughter of a chef, from Michigan, I really do not like to cook, but can..but don't. Probably because I spent so many years in the military and did not have to.
You have sparked my interest in cooking because you are about the food not how classy it is or not.

You R a gem.

Thank U

posted on November 23, 2006 at 4:36 AM

Kimmie wrote:

Tom, you are great to watch every week. I love your insight on the food and the madcap collection of cooks you get to babysit. My big hope is that the next Top Chef will be picked by you and the other judges and ONLY you and the other judges. If the producers of the show have their way then Michael will be the next Top Chef. Then the next thing you know there will be a show with wafer thin models wearing unflattering rags by Jeffrey and they will be dining on a Snickers bar glob with a Cheeto stuck in the top at "Mikey's Place". Yikes!

posted on November 23, 2006 at 5:20 AM

PeachPie wrote:

Sounds delicious!
Would be FAR tastier if I had a sexy chef like YOU cooking it for me. : )
Happy Thanksgiving, Chef Tom!

posted on November 23, 2006 at 8:28 AM

Kelly wrote:

This is the first time I've posted. I know that there is more to what's being shown and that Tom and Gail doesn't decide what is and isn't shown on the show. However, the producers need to show more cooking and comments and less drama. I believe that as viewers we don't know what's truly going on between Betty and Marcel and Frank and Marcel, but I feel sorry for Marcel. He's being shown as the immature chef who has some growing up to do, but I don't understand how he deserves the wrath of Betty and Frank in the last show. The rest of the chefs are mature enough to cook and not have Marcel get to them. That says something about their character. Lets get rid of Betty and Frank in the next 2 shows and we might be surprised what the level of cooking the judges will get.

posted on November 23, 2006 at 12:47 PM

ree wrote:

its mia and betty that need to go asap - i was sorry to see carlos go - betty has a big mouth - and mia is hypocritical - the only few you havve that have any class at all is cliff the rest need to go - especially ellia - by the way frank i think you broke the law by your threat to marcel the way it came across

posted on November 23, 2006 at 9:15 PM

Buddah wrote:

Elia seems to have a real problem with Mike and none at all with Marcel to the degree that her biases are quite obvious. No matter what Mike cooks, she hates it, even when the general consensus of both the judges and the other cooks is that Mike's dish is delicious. And no matter what Marcel does she loves it. She likes him, so to her he is never wrong and the only one who likes even his worst dishes (the over-garlic-ed one was a good example). Elia adores Marcel and the reason is pretty clear why: she knew him before this competition. It is simple loyalty. But why does she hate Mike? Her reaction to him seems irrational.

posted on November 24, 2006 at 5:50 AM

Patricia wrote:

I was really disappointed with the menu choices for the T'day dinner. Boring, boring, boring. C'mon guys, switch it up a little -- maybe spicy pumpkin soup with glazed walnuts to start. I liked Michael's idea for a lasagna, but Marcel's roulades could also have been good with better execution -- perhaps hot sausage in the stuffing mix and some sort of pastry holding it all together. Move the cranberries to dessert -- a cranberry/peach flan would be tasty.

It would be interesting to see the chefs try to execute dishes that we non-chefs come up with for a challenge. It's easy for me to say, try this; but a good chef would know what was actually possible.

posted on November 24, 2006 at 5:09 PM

Lisa wrote:

Well, ever since I received my Bon Apetit e-mail with Chef Tom's herb butter turkey and gravy recipe, I knew I'd be at least basing my Thanksgiving bird on that recipe! In the end, I didn't remember to shop for the fresh herbs and, quite frankly, was worried about tearing the turkey's skin while trying to spread the butter beneath it, so I omitted that from the turkey. But the rest of it (the adding chicken broth and a tbsp of butter every 30 min or so) made my turkey a truly wonderful success - dry breast meat? NOT EVEN CLOSE.

But here is the true beauty - I made the gravy base the night before and then the gravy the next day (albeit, I had to double to roux for the amount of gravy base/pan drippings/juices) - EVERYONE loved the gravy - very flavorful, and of course, zero lumps! Thanks so much, Chef Tom!!!

posted on November 25, 2006 at 2:53 PM

jean bennett wrote:

I am shocked at the people who comment and find anything redeeming about Marcel; he is a bitcher and a moaner, a whiner; in other words a real BMW
Cliff, now there is a class act and it seems like he can really cook given half a chance. Betty needs to find a range outside PBJ sandwiches ... and to keep her temper in check.

Top Chef, must have an ego or be relegated to sous chef.

jean bennett

posted on November 25, 2006 at 11:36 PM

mitchell smiley wrote:

Chef Tom, can you tell me if your chef's are made aware of any food allergies your guests might have. For instance, onions and cheese cause migraines for me. Makes life difficult because I love traditional hoiday recipes.

Can you suggest a substitute for onions when using recipes for dressing, salads, sauces, etc.

Thanks ... mitch

posted on November 26, 2006 at 12:24 AM

Decafmoka wrote:

well I just lost a huge post I typed because I didnt have an email? Didnt I give my email when I signed up for this site?? do I have to enter it every time I make a post? why? I dont want to post an email with every comment I make, the whole point is to talk HERE not to have people email their answers to me!

posted on November 27, 2006 at 6:50 PM

L Miller wrote:

I love this show with a passion! It actually makes me think about cooking again. I do not usually watch TV but I am addicted to Top Chef and Project Runway.

I am surprised at the quality of the chefs on this season's show. They do not compare at all with the first season's competitors. I agree with most that the only true chefs are Sam, Cliff and Ilan. Hopefully, the rest of the group will be gone shortly.

I could not believe the Thanksgiving dinner that was served. Horrors!!! I sure would not have been thankful for that dinner...it would have ruined my favorite holiday.

Tom, you are a pleasure to watch and the show would not be the same without you! Hopefully, next year the hostess will change.

posted on November 28, 2006 at 9:38 AM

E. Gay West wrote:

Cheif Colicchio,

I love the show and hope it runs for many seasnons. The contests on this episode are acting unprofessional and very ignorant about the creation of their assigned tasks. I'm just a good ole country cook and can turn out better dishes than I've seen them do, and as far as Michael, I wouldn't let him walk through my kitchen much less cook in it. He looks so unkempt and so blase' about the assigned task given. All are getting good at making excuses and blaming others for their mistakes. However, this keeps the show interesting and I look forward to seeing it on Wednesday night.

I'd like to be on the show long enough to see you and get an autrographed copy of your cook book,

An avid fan,

Gay West in SC

November 30-2006

posted on November 30, 2006 at 1:09 AM

Brian wrote:

I like the show, you make it great, your comments on the chef's, and the look on their faces make me laugh.

posted on December 3, 2006 at 1:18 AM

patti wrote:

Hi Tom, This is in regards to the panel of judge's making fun of MICHAEL'S stuffed thanksgiving shrimp. At least he tried to be innovative, and if anybody thinks it sounds ridiculuos to top a baked potato with shrimp???? I just watched Paula Deen make a twice baked potato with shrimp. (after the top chef episode) So, if Paula thought of it,it wasn't so far out there for MICHAEL to do it!!!!!
love the show,
Patti from Boston
December 4, 2006

posted on December 4, 2006 at 4:23 PM

Martha Avila wrote:

Hey Tom, Happy Holidays... Love the show. I am addicted. Really getting sick of Betty though. No need for her displays. Professionalism is not dead is it??? Not in my line of work it isn't. She needs to get over her Marcel obsession. Definately not attractive... Actually, everyone (except Elia) needs to get over their Marcel obsession. It's boring.... And I believe that Marcel is talented and should be given a chance. I would love it if he won!!! Cliff, Sam and Ilan are my other favorites. Very talented!!! Loved Anthony Bourdain on the Thanksgiving show. He is the best!!! When he asked you what kind of crack house you were running, I lost it... Great moment!!

posted on December 4, 2006 at 8:49 PM

paul Hydock wrote:

Way to go Tom !!You have a GREAT show ,and you make all the boys from Elizabeth proud !
Paul Hydock
St. Marys...class of 76

posted on December 5, 2006 at 7:34 PM

Paula wrote:

Perhaps some viewers tune in to Top Chef to see infantile histrionics (e.g., Betty vs. Marcel), but I'll bet most of us want to see more real cooking. I expect most if not all of this season's shows are in the can already, but I'd like to plead for more real cooking in the future. How about showing us a dish from start to finish, focusing on one chef? Hey, you could even start with the winner, then show how the dish was conceived and executed. Don't assume your audience is too stupid to go without the silly "suspense" of the usual format.

posted on December 6, 2006 at 3:51 PM

Lisa wrote:

I made Tom's turkey recipe for Thanksgiving. It tasted amazing, everyone made comments on what a difference the fresh herbs made. Their flavor can't be beat.
Thanks Tom!

posted on December 6, 2006 at 10:56 PM

lani wrote:

Thank you for a fun show.Having been a line cook for 20 plus, it's great to see all the diffrent people from all over with they'r own way to do things.

posted on December 11, 2006 at 5:39 PM

Maria wrote:

GOOD RIDDANCE FRANK

he hid among the others and the biggest turn off was when he threatened Marcel. In other reality shows he would have automatically been released. I love the show, and the the candidates, but the weak are being eliminated correctly, thank TC

posted on December 12, 2006 at 5:05 PM

karen wrote:

I agree that there is too much drama and not enough
showing us how to put things together to make a
good dish. I am sick of Betty and of people picking on
Marcel. Let's get on with the cooking!

posted on December 12, 2006 at 9:30 PM

Steve wrote:

Chef Tom,
My wife and I find that we have a strange obsession with your show; not one either of us would have thought we would enjoy watching together, but every Wednesday night, there we are watching the re-run marathon leading up to the new episode. We really enjoy it, thanks. Just a comment about the cast: we're pulling for Cliff (my favorite; no excuses, very professional , and obviously very talented) and Sam (my wife's favorite, though probably more for his looks; but I'll give him props for his apparent skills as well), but we agree with many of the previous comments - we think Marcel is unfairly being painted as a villain. I wouldn't be disappointed to see him win. Betty, on the other hand...
A request for some culinary advice: I'm intrigued by your herb butter turkey recipe and plan on trying it for Christmas while entertaining the in-laws; but, will it work with a stuffing in the main cavity? Some of the comments above seem to suggest that THE difference is in the fresh herbs in the cavity, but the in-laws won't be having an turkey without stuffing... (if not Tom, has anyone tried it with stuffing?)

posted on December 12, 2006 at 10:53 PM

Cheri Crothers wrote:

Hey Chef- love the show.
I started in my family's restaurant at 14 and have been cooking for 44 years. Love new techniques and all, but can these "artsy" people roast a good, basic chicken or make a yummy custard? Proof is in the eating and some of the stuff they have been producing doesn't tempt me in the least. Mia and Betty, depsite the hystronics, do some good stuff as does CLiff and Ilan. Sam is too superior and ungracious, Marcel is just plain unprofessional and full of himself. Gotta love Mike tho- he has heart and shows some decent technique- even if it is suited to the cave :) Perhaps he'll improve.
Would like to see you throw some non Italian , non-French European cuisine into the mix- enough of the Asian, Mexican, Fusion stuff.
Will keep watching and Thanks.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 12:02 AM

Smriti wrote:

Tom,

I would love to see an episode dedicated to all vegetarian cooking and recipes....would be great to see how good these contestants can do with vegetarian cooking.And would like to say... really like this show..keep the good work up.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 10:20 AM

Anne wrote:

Just thought I would let readers know, who may not look at MSN on the web, that there is a great and often funny article by Anthony Bourdain there today, on holiday entertaining. You can access it on MSN.com or at www.livetastefully.msn.com.
Looking forward with anticipation to tonight's Holiday Spirit show on Top Chef...wonder who will be the next to go?....

posted on December 13, 2006 at 1:41 PM

JJ wrote:

I am surprised that no one has cut Marcel's hair off as he sleeps.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 3:27 PM

Diane wrote:

Hi Tom:

I just looked through the brilliant but cancelled audition tape series, and there are a few candidates that look a heck of a lot more impressive than your current contestants. ONe of them was the guy with the cherries from Michigan who was turning out amazing looking dishes.

Will you be reconsidering some of these contestants if you do another season? I certainly hope that when you do a new season, you will choose more carefully. A few comfort food types are fine, but I want to see more professional behavior and I want to see food be the main subject, not someone's bad temper.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 7:59 PM

Professor Dave wrote:

People need to realize that what we see on television is a very edited and slanted view of all the footage shot. I believe that certain segments are included to show certian contestants one way or another. I believe that each one of the people on this show have big egos and believe that they have something special to offer. If they didn't, they wouldn't be on the show. I am not saying this is necessarily bad but that the producers want to shpae the show a certain way and they do.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 9:05 PM

Rachel wrote:

Why isn't more cooking shown? Is it just for tv potential that mostly drama is portrayed? Do the chefs have the same pantry to work with in the Kenmore Kitchen everytime? The firepit breakfast was very entertaining in that it got the seemingly more knowledgeable, more educated in the craft, "CHEFS" who were not flexible enough under very very trying circumstances. Oh well, may the best person win. I really appreciate the chefs who do not do the backbiting, throw under the bus kind of thing. It could be you the next time...
oh, and Tom, show us your egg technique over a firepit in front of the cameras, ok???

posted on December 13, 2006 at 9:21 PM

Kathy MacPherson wrote:

I have been watching Marcel and finally decided who he reminds me of. If anyone has seen the cartoon THE INCREDIBLES, his hair is the spitting image of SYNDROME, the wannabe superhero. CHeck it out and see for yourselves!!!!

posted on December 13, 2006 at 9:51 PM

karen wrote:

why are Michael & Betty still there....throw them off and
bring Mia back.......love the show

posted on December 13, 2006 at 11:01 PM

Roxane Williams wrote:

I knew that this episode would be the one where someone's temper would blow, and so it was Mia. Strange, but I felt this week that Mia would be the one to go rather than Mikey, who's been playing it safe all along. I'm really sorry to see Mia throw herself under the bus, because I think that Mikey was the one who was going home. Unfortunately, I'm afraid that while Mia told WAY too much about herself (feeling apologetic about her background), she saw a ceiling for the success she could achieve. Seeing that ceiling, I think she felt she couldn't go beyond or above it. It happens all of the time- we sabotage ourselves. No, I didn't think that she was going to end up Top Chef, because her culinary skills were too limited. I was waiting for Cliff to show his "true colors" and so he did tonight. After denying that he threw Mia "under the bus"- he later had to sheepishly admit that he had. How pathetic and cowardly of him. He was the only one with immunity, but he chose to create division rather than harmony. Elia bombed by taking too slow a pace and not preparing enough food up front- and that's where Mia's skill as a caterer would have proven most useful. How you can provide only FOUR dishes for all of those people is beyond me, no matter how good they were. As a former caterer myself, I knew that that was a disastrous choice. How Mikey got this far I do not know. As far as the winning team, I agree that Sam was chiefly responsible for the team's success. And while Marcel did try to steal Sam's thunder, there was a more diplomatic way of "exposing" Marcel's pathetic attempt. Sam, you came off as nasty as you have shown yourself previously. But, I found the end of the show unpleasant and sad and I won't be watching the repeat of this show. And for all of this, I'd STILL would rather work under Mikey! Not for his culinary skills, but simply because he's much more agreeable than anyone else so far. so far, I'm not seeing ANY Top Chef material, but for Mia, as much as I liked her, I would say that if you want to be Top Chef, it takes more ruthlessness than you currently have. And that's okay- I'v worked in enough restaurants to not need to work with yet another prima donna or monster chef. I'm sure that everyone there has plenty of skeletons in their closet but we're not going to hear about it. In any case, I wish Mia well. Good luck!

posted on December 13, 2006 at 11:12 PM

Karen wrote:

I have to say we are really enjoying the season. I manage and worked my way up from back of the house catering production to front of the house retail. My son has a gift for food that he is beginning to explore and we have some very good discussions over things that happen during the episodes. I was disappointed to see Mia go tonight but believe it was only a matter of time and think she would be a good one to come back as support if the need arises. I'm not going to get into the whole Betty/Marcel discussion except to say, you can't lead if you are not willing to listen and both of them have some problems with this. I look forward to the rest of the season.

posted on December 13, 2006 at 11:27 PM

vicky wrote:

Hi chef, i think you doing a great job on your show as well as gail and padma and because im just an old common person who dont eat fancy, i was just wondering if you would do a challenge were your chefs make a good ole homefashion meal. i know even as a chef you would have to like that as well, i mean like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, etc a good ole apple pie for dessert, not everything has to have a twist to it does it and i bet you would find that the guests would really love this as well, think about it, thanks for reading this and i hope youll give it a though

posted on December 14, 2006 at 3:58 AM

Shay wrote:

Well I have to say that Roxane Williams said it best a few comments up! It was defiently time for someone to blow up again and I never would have thought that Cliff and Mia would have been in the middle. I knew from the very first show Cliff was hidden something and that something was his true identity... a "Snake". The way he went about the whole thing was a true sign that his actions were about control and his undercover feelings for Elia and just plain out of line. So Mia good call on telling him to put his d#@k away because that's exactly what he was using to think with. I believe Cliff and Mia are both great chefs but in different worlds. Instead of trying to be the second in control and cutting Mikey & Mia at the knees teamwork was the key. You could have played this to your advantage just to see what the others had to offer. You guys could have won if you had listen or at least heard Mia's ideas. Cliff had nothing to lose and not even gaining Elia was an option. Because if she knows what's good for her she will walk away and not even think about looking his way. All I can say is Elia stay focused and think long term. You may win if you step up, play fair, use your head and not your emotions. Mikey no matter how good your heart is step up or go home to your wife you miss so much... I still love you though. Cliff once you burn a bridge most of the time you can't rebuild it. If you don't check yourself and your manhood you will have a hard time in the chef world and "karma is a beast". Mia keep your head up! Now knowing some of the life trips you have been through and still ticking is enough to Praise the Lord that you made it out. It was very big of you to walk away but think of it this way would Elia done the same for you... No! But also knowing just a little of your background I'm sure if you had of stayed Cliff my be in the hospital. (lol) Just remember you don't need a TV show to make you. Also there is no limits on life... only the ones YOU apply. TV shows like this usually are once in a life time. I'll miss you and Many Blessings. Sam stay "Beautiful" but watch Marcel he's a sly cat and those type of people it's easy for their sour spirits to jump off on you and then your not the "Eye-Candy" that can cook and charm the pants off anybody. Betty your cute and very funny so keep them laughing. Marcel sleep with one eye open cause I'm sure someone has plans of taming your hair.

posted on December 14, 2006 at 1:51 PM

paul wrote:

I continue to love the show, watch them over and over, keep up the good work everyone!

posted on December 14, 2006 at 8:31 PM

Lisa M.B. wrote:

I think all of these characters are contrasting, and it's interesting to watch. I wonder if these specific people were chosen because of their personality types? I wonder if there are any certified psychologists reading and posting on this blog board, too? haha It almost seems to me that these people are just qualified enough, but not exuberantly talented..obviously they were chosen for other means, but the mixture of characters are like components to a recipe in themselves - a recipe for disaster! There was a woman in the beginning with blonde hair and a long forehead who was interesting, and I wish they would've kept her, I would like to see what more she was capable of.

In short (a bit too late for that, huh?) - I like Sam because he's honest when he speaks to the camera(guy), but I'm not so sure I can say as much about his true motives. Cliff has a darker, more ruthless side than what he shows on the surface.. Sam and cliff are the sharks in this fish tank, I suppose! Marcel is good in his own way - he is inventive, and fearless, and I saw how he tried to make amends with Betty by helping her out..if that was for his own benefit, who knows? And Betty is a grown woman - I haven't seen a mature woman make so many excuses for herself! It's almost like a wicked indulgence, isn't it? Anyway, she may be experienced in some ways (catering to large groups), but that doesn't necessarily equate to talent. Elia is the girl I am going for because she is my girl! Genuine, simple, a little crazy...and while she doesn't seem to be as experienced or as cut throat as some of the other contestants, she is focused, and has a peculiar illuminating "energy" about her; she isn't at all what I thought she was going to be like when I first saw her. I like how she concentrates on flavors, and what appeals to her, rather than trying to shoot to please everyone else. Ilan would be my #2 choice because he has talent, confidence, and ability oozing from every pore of his being - and while he's intelligent, he's a bit too snooty and an 'I'll-avoid-this-mischevious-misadventure-so-I'll-be-the-angel-later' type for me. Sam comes in third place, and it's not for his looks! .... Well, maybe just a little because of his looks...damn, well, a girl can't really lie, now can she?? The boy has appeal! :D

posted on December 14, 2006 at 9:29 PM

Margeaux wrote:

Will Top Chef Season 1 ever come out on DVD with behind the scene extras and casting clips? I missed several Season 1 episodes and hope Bravo TV will do us, your loyal viewers, a favor. I Love the Show and also think Harold was the best Chef in Season 1. What is all the talk about cancelling Top Chef? It would be a major mistake. Holdiay Blessings to you and yours. Take Care! A Loyal Fan.

posted on December 23, 2006 at 1:04 AM

SC wrote:

This is my 1st trip to the website. After watching the audition tapes, I'm convinced that even a 65 yr old great gramma like myself could make it onto Top Chef, if I could make a tape silly or disgusting enough.
Cannot believe you would choose the type of person (Michael) that would potty mouth a tape. This years competitors appear to have no cooking talent, no morals, & no reason to be in a Chef contest.

posted on December 27, 2006 at 7:52 AM

Saundra wrote:

I just finished watching the previous season's reruns, Tiffany and Harold I was still pulling for LeeAnn)...and they were so much more professional and classy than the goof troup you have on now...yes, I'm still watching and will continue until the end, but it has nothing to do with culniary artistry...Mike???Puleeze..he should have been gone after the phallic snickerdoodles...what an insult! The show is just mind candy at this point. Saundra

posted on December 28, 2006 at 4:55 PM

marie wrote:

Hi Tom,
I feel disgusted of people bashing Marcel. If they read "Get to know Marcel" he accomplished a lot at the age of 24. He won the Master Chef and was hired on the spot. He is 24 yrs. old, very knowledgeable,always have a good presentation of his food, neat and works hard to win this competition.The big mouth Betty started screaming at Marcel during that firemen episode, when marcel tried to do what she did to him she got so mad , well she started it. Then , Sam " the Instigator"gladly told Frank that Marcel threw his stuffs on the floor, actually Marcel put his stuffs in Frank's bag and put it on the floor so marcel have some place to do his cooking. Because of Sam, Frank was screaming at Marcel. Betty blamed Marcel when she was in the chopping block, what Marcel and Elia did was helping her but again she yelled at him. That last episode, Marcel didn't steal Sam's thunder, Marcel just wanted the juges to know that he contributed a lot of cooking in the Orange team , in fact, Marcel gave some ideas to sam and told him what he was planning to cook. Ilan and betty made Marcel bad in front of the judges. Then this coming episode, I wonder what Sam and Ilan are yelling at Marcel. Poor Marcel.....I hope he's strong enough and ignore their bashing. Ilan is quiet, perhaps no leadership and he's Sam shadow.like to belittle Marcel . Sam is untidy , he should present himself neat and clean looking person.He was in the chopping block several times that means his food was not good all the time.. Cliff is a snake, Betty is good for comfort food and vulgar, Elia can cook but not consistent , poor leadership, Oh Michael, what can I say, he stay in the background to avoid the bashing of the other contestants. I deeply wish that Marcel will win as The Top Chef.

posted on December 28, 2006 at 8:01 PM

Tim Romero wrote:

Ok well so far with this season im not as impressed i like the first one better although i have to give credits to all the chefs if you guys wanna really mix it up in one of the seasons....Throw out for a 3 month deal over the summer where u have Teenagers 14-17 compete and get a shot at working in a major resturant. it would be intresting and alot better for your ratings to mix it up that much

posted on December 29, 2006 at 11:09 PM

julie wrote:

not sure why Marcel keeps getting a bad rap. Betty had no reason to throw a hissie fit at Marcel. He didn't burn that nasty pumpkin brulee, Betty did! He also had every right to be upset in the episode where they fed the firefighters. He is an odd duck with a big ego, but who on the show doesn't have an abundance of confidence. One who I could not stand was Emily. She was just too good for anyone and I'm glad she screwed up with the oversalted dish. I miss Katie as host. I get tired of seeing the new gal change outfits 6 times per show

posted on December 31, 2006 at 7:41 PM

Gigi wrote:

Betty is obnoxious and I was glad to see her sent packing. The woman is 44 years old and acts like a 7th grader, trying to get everyone on her side against Marcel. He seems like a decent guy, kind of obnoxious at times but probably because he's immature. The other two guys who keep picking on him are getting on my nerves, esp. the one who dissed his dessert.

posted on January 4, 2007 at 8:20 AM

Jill Rivetti wrote:

Are you all watching the same show I'm watching? I'm not going to try to defend Cliff and Sam, and I'll give you that Betty was a drama queen, but Marcel? ! Come on! The guy is a snake! He wouldn't last a minute in Tom's childhood town. And Tom, if you're reading this, you know what I'm talking about.

posted on January 5, 2007 at 10:54 PM

terry lee wrote:

You took a perfectly good show and ruined it this year? Why try to fix it when it wasn't broken? You've got to get Katie Joel back-there are too many problems with her replacement to list, i.e. no credibility, comes across as a dumb trophy wife, too flirty at times , has shown alot of favortism to betty, her clothes are so inappropriate-Katie was a dream-perfect in every way for the show, as are you and Gail. You lost alot of credibility when betty wasn't canned for cheating-also the women this year were all emotional messes, Elia got her stuff under wraps, but the others-what did you do go to a mental ward and pick up betty? her cooking skills are at the level of an aunt who read a cookbook and cooks with alot of grease to make it taste good, but that aside she crossed over the line because she had so many personality problems and ruined the show-you lost alot of viewers because of her-she is repulvise physcially and emotionally-she needs to hide her overweight out of shape body and how could she be as cruel as she was to poor marcel--you have to have people that we are willing to invite into our homes-she doesn't come anywhere near cutting it-maybe mtv's reality show if they get a group of women with extreme emotional problem, and repressed anger and completely out of touch of how repulsive they are -she is like the gross fat old aunt that nobody wants to see but you have to invite her to thanksgiving dinner anyway-she comes half dress grossly hanging out of her clother with her grotesque cleavage, her grosss and fat body falling out of her too tight clothes and always kissing everybody and talking way too much-she always brings greasy comfort food-that's betty to a t. You've got to have women who really can cook-none this season-elia really can only do simple dishes well =none of them come near last seasons. PLEASE FIX IT FOR NEXT SEASON.

posted on January 8, 2007 at 6:38 AM

Ali wrote:

Hi Tom!

First of all I gotta say that you are a HOT man. Im 24 and I think you are a very attractive man but overall I think you are a great person. You seem and portray to be a very fair, sincere, honest, and down to earth person. Many people like the way you are and we hope you keep being that way; those are great virtues to have. I have more sympathy for Marcel now and Im actually starting to like him more, the guy is young and of course us young people can be immature at times. I don't have a high opinion of Betty or Ilan like used to have before. I used to like both them before, but now I have totally lost respect for both of them. Ilan is a very likeable guy but to come out of nowhere and talk trash about someone to OTHERS or insult someone just shows that he is not someone cool as one might of thought. He is sort of like a backstabber and someone who has no respect for others so thats definitely a -10. Betty, she is the one who got really annoying at the end and Im sure others agree too!!! Glad she is out, she deserves it for talking too much trash and being unfair to Marcel; she should have focused more on her food and not pick on a 24 year old. She "seems" to be a nice lady but I have lost respect for her. If you dont like someone IGNORE them or just go away!!!! What's so hard about that?????? But I can't deny the fact that it brings more ratings and attracts more viewers b/c of the drama. I personally LOVE the show! Otherwise I think all of us would be complaining if the chefs were all TOO boring. Congratulations and keep it up!!!

posted on January 8, 2007 at 3:31 PM

Laura wrote:

I guess that Tom has a fan club of guys. I think the penguin look is back in style.

posted on January 9, 2007 at 2:52 AM

Kath S wrote:

I just want to say Michael's Envy dish was Brilliant! Whichever way you analyze it it fit! Bravo Michael - Having your tooth pulled out opened a door for your wisdom!

posted on January 9, 2007 at 10:41 PM

Lana Fox wrote:

What is a Confi? What is a chinwah? (did I spell that right?) What is a China calf? these are terms I have never heard of b-4.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 4:58 PM

derrek wrote:

Tom, i'd just like to say. i love top chef. i really loved the first season and i thought the second season would be better...
however i was dissapointed to find more drama than cooking, more screaming than creating and I have to say: Tom or Bravo, Gale or whoever makes all the decisions...worst decision EVER kicking off the fan favorite and keeping the biggest douche. You lost a huge fan. Tom, please take your name and image off of the show. I promise to never watch again.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:13 PM

kenneth Mc wrote:

ha chef tom love the show every week. tonight was good but really way let sam go?I was thinking all along sam was going to be the next top chef, it would be great to see that but the show must go on.

posted on January 24, 2007 at 11:45 PM

kim Sunday wrote:

R y'all going to recognize guys, who can motivate guys (oh, and, oh, girls), WHO CAN ACTUALLY cook!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 5:28 AM

Carlo Colbi wrote:

Last night, chef tom turned this into "top Cook" rather than "Top Chef". anyone can cook... but a chef needs to lead people, a chef IS concerned with kitchen etiquette and behavior..Marcel could not lead a child into a candy store! I will not watch the finale because I am not interested in the personal war between the finalists... The show is NOT about being a top chef anymore...

posted on January 25, 2007 at 7:22 AM

Louise wrote:

Marcel's arrogance put him in the spotlight for "undesirable characters we love to hate", nonetheless, he proved his talent for innovation and though we may all love Sam, i think the judges chose Elan & Marcel correctly for final competition. -Good luck to both of you!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 2:29 PM

Mr. Peligro wrote:

WTF? This show has finally showed it true colors, and guess what people it has nothing, absolutely NOTHING to do about cooking and what it really takes to be "TOP Chef" and what do these two words mean now? "Jack Shit"....this show should be called "TOP SHAM" This show is a complete SHAM without a doubt. It's not enough that we sit through and watch the so called panel of judges, this of course is excluding the legitimate chef that shows up and puts his or hers two cents in, is a testament of mediocrity at its best! My god people! What the hell are you guys thinking....I simply do not get it, this show was supposed to be better than any other cooking competition show out there, but you lost your way, let me give you a little hint here the competition is about.....are you ready.....here it comes....Pssst the secret password is.......FOOD!!!

posted on January 25, 2007 at 8:36 PM

ellen wrote:

Top Chef show should be stopping because it is very bag show. This show gives people a message:" as a chef, it is okay that you are not respected people, you can be a top chef even if you are not team worker!" I am watching Jan 28 show. When Judge Tom is told Marcel was not respect other chef, Chef Tom said he is only care food. What kind of Judge he is! You can be top chef even if you are bad person! I think Judge Tom Colicchio should be fired and this show must stop. I am not going to watching it again.

posted on January 28, 2007 at 10:58 PM

Susan Leo wrote:

Dear Tom,
I think you are a wonderful judge of food! Your opinion is always articulated fairly and wisely! As for my feelings about this episode of chefs, I am deeply disappointed with their hostile drama against Marcel who in my opinion has always expressed his passion for cooking and how the show should not be about anything else. I am also appauled and shocked at Ilan's threat against Marcel implying the use of his knives at the tail end of the last show leaving Marcel with a look of being a victim! Like Cliff, I feel a threat of ANY KIND should not be tolerated by the high professional ethics of the show and I am shocked no comment by the producers was made about that verbal incident. I agree the choice of a Top Chef is all about the cooking, but I also believe it involves a set of ethical standards as seen by the professional Top Chef judges chosen to be on the show. I guess in the end, it will come down to (as Gail stated) Spanish, Spanish. Spanish or culinary creativity! I love this show, but I am sad at the lack of human respect towards one another that I have witnessed during this episode of people!

posted on January 29, 2007 at 9:59 AM

Lola wrote:

Dear Chef - Not sure how serving undercooked chicken gets you to the Top Chef Finale - Perhaps you should start watching "Hell's Kitchen"

posted on January 29, 2007 at 10:42 AM

Heeson wrote:

Dear Chef-
ok first of all...I don't understand why marcel did not win. u guys were talking about a chef that was already prepared for 'now' and was 'ahead'...pretty sure Ilan doesn't know how to cook anything else besides spanish dishes...If there was a challenge between Ilan and Marcel to cook the best tasting/presented spanish dish Marcel would still have won, because he is more creative and smarter about ingredients with food...The fact that the other contestants did not like Marcel was their problem. What did Marcel ever do to them but beat them in a challenge. They are all jealous and want to be like Marcel. I'm not saying that Marcel was my favorite chef...personally my favorite was Sam, but thats not the issue...the issue is why everyone hates Marcel...I hope Marcel excels further than Ilan.

posted on January 31, 2007 at 11:40 PM

claymidia success with zithromax wrote:

levaquin with biaxin
[url=http://forums.allaboutjazz.com/member.php?u=25355 ]buy levaquin[/url]

aciphex levaquin

posted on February 7, 2008 at 10:15 PM

rocco siffredi picture wrote:

My mind is like a fog. Oh well. My life's been really dull today. Eh. Today was a total loss. I've more or less been doing nothing , but I guess it doesn't bother me.

posted on June 5, 2008 at 6:35 AM

Bruce Goldberg wrote:

Tom,
Love your cooking tips, they helped a lot for our Thanksgiving dinner; However, I have to say that I was extremely disappointed with the pie I ordered from wichcraft. You seem to be such a critic of the chefs dishes on the show yet your own apple crumb pie form wich craft was more crummy than apple...can you spare an apple? it was 3/4 crumb and a tiny layer of apples. so dry a gallon of milk was needed to get it down! On the other hand your pumpkin pie was totally delish!
Consistancy!? I suggest your re check the quality of food that you charge so much for!

posted on December 8, 2008 at 9:03 AM