Frank wrote:

Tom, your giving away the chef that will go away when you talk with them in the kitchen while they are cooking. You make some type of facial expression that tells the audience that you will not be liking what they are doing. The last 4 weeks we have been able to tell in advance who was going to be elimated by just watching your interaction with the chefs in the kitchen.

Just thought you might like to know this......

Lastly, CJ was the best chef and Hung the worst in the last six weeks, until CJ was wrongly eliminated, why is Hung still involved, I wouldn't eat his food if you were paying for it.....

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:10 PM

Judith Fetzer wrote:

This is my first time reading your blog, and I'm so relieved to find a more tender side to you, Tom! Not only do you express empathy with the poor contestants on the riverfront cooking trout, but you are so encourageing to each and every player in this competition.

I agree with you, for the record, on the Coq au Vin issue.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Marvina Panagos wrote:

Tom- In the past few years I've seen each of the Top Chef series. I've learned to appreciate your judgement and your tactful delivery to the contestants. Thanks for providing an educated and insightful opinion thoughout the competitions.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Ann wrote:

Padma seems like she knows nothing about food, does not like food and and her comments add nothing to the show. She needs to pack her Loius Vuitton and go...for good!

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:28 PM

Max B wrote:

Hey Tom, I tried to ask this on Watch What Happens but I wasn't accepted. Really wanted to know what is the best way to work your way into the culinary world and to run your own resturant without going to culinary school.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:35 PM

SJH wrote:

Good episode but liked last week's better. WHY? Last week's episode was straight up cooking, no gimmicks, no ridiculous limitations. I felt that the cook-over-a-sterno-while-balancing-on-a-tree-stump-by-the-river was rather silly at this point in the game. Fine, go with local trout. Just let them cook in some semblance of a real kitchen !!!
Hung actually seemed rather humble this episode- it's the first and only time we, the viewer, has heard him say that he wasn't 100% positive that his dish was fabulous. His monologue during JT actually made me a little verklempt.

Brain was the right choice to go- he hasn't produced anything outstanding in many episodes. Best of luck.

Good for Dale, but his language during the interviews are rather inappropriate and completely without class. I don't need to know that, while he hasn't cooked for a bunch of cowboys, he's slept with a few. Tacky, tacky, tacky.

I'm still rooting for Casey. although Hung would be fine also. Both of them are talented and will go far.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:41 PM

David Cook wrote:

Tom,
Thanks for your blog about the show. I think that you and the other Judges should be commended on the job that you all do. You fall under the scrutiny of a public that is sometimes not fully aware and are getting caught up in who they like or do not like. I have certainly caught myself questioning a decision or two. That is until I had the opportunity to watch the episode again and view why that result happened. It is usually very obvious and clear as to why the panel was led to their decision. I am a big fan of you all and hope that this show will continue for a while. It is a great release and inspires me to learn some cooking skills at the same time. Thanks again and keep up the excellent work.
Dave :)

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:44 PM

Dawne Orgeron wrote:

I am disgusted with Hung's contempt for the people who are in the contest with him, and everyone who judges him. He talks like everyone else is beneath him and unable to recognize that his cuisine is the best. The rest will succeed because they believe in other people and they know they cannot do it all alone. I really want to see Casey win, but even Dale just based on the principles of true integrity.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:45 PM

Aprill wrote:

I love this show and don't know much about cooking at all, but I really look forward to Wednesday evenings! I must say that out of all the contestants, Hung is so negative and rude. I wonder if that comes across to the judges. For example, tonight he was mad about the elk, said it was "boring." He also made fun of cowboys and cowgirls saying they eat beans, bean, beans. I am sure he would not be too happy if I asked him if all he ate was rice. Elk is definitely not a boring meat. Last year it was Marcel, this year it is Hung and they just get nastier every year - I hope Casey wins, she seems like the most gifted and talented - I mean look where she is in this competition and has learned on her own. Way to go Casey, I am from TX and she has definitely made TEXAS proud!

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:50 PM

D Gilmore wrote:

Chef,
For the love of food....please put Hung out of his misery ! Bless his heart, he could cook 20 times better if he took less time talking and trying to convince everyone how much better he is than everyone else. Don't get me wrong or many of the viewers, his food appears so good, we can actually taste it. He is a fantastic chef...but enough is enough. So, what is needed is to go ahead and tell him he is a top chef and let him go. He has pulled everything out of his chef's hat from his Father immigrating to his mother's kitchen to gain attention and sympathy. He does not realize he is a great cook/chef. Seeing how he is to continue, much luck to Hung and the rest of the Chefs. I still would have love to seen Tre make it to the final three. I decisions to let him go was premature.

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:52 PM

Dottie wrote:

Wow...what a show! It had everything and I loved learning so much about what makes these chefs tick - what is in their souls. I hate to see this season end - after that mess last season with Marcel, this season kicks butt. Great (and professional) chefs, interesting challenges, some drama (of course) but it was so much more about the FOOD! I must say it again -- wow!

posted on September 26, 2007 at 11:55 PM

Sharry Annabeth wrote:

I loved seeing the beautiful scenary in this episode! I too felt a bit sorry for the chefs, Dale especially seemed to be a fish out of water during the QF challenge. It seemed as though the break and the change of location worked well for the chefs. As always Dale made me laugh and tonight it was with his comment regarding his familiarity with cowboys. This season as been great!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:00 AM

barbie wrote:

the last 2 shows Gail looked gorgeous!!!as for today sorry to see brian go, it appeared his dish was liked better than hung's (and all his cousins and on and on)and better liked than casey's, even if her sauce complimented the elk....i was thinking hung had hung himself--or is he good TV---they all did a very nice job it had to be a tough choice---maybe the past offerings are considered under this type of circumstance....still love you all and look forward to next season...at this point its a toss....please anyone but hung......he is not well rounded as a team player as a leader as someone that cleans his mess or is careful----he can make work a dangerous place to be!!!!!!!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:03 AM

Mr. Subliminal wrote:

Congratulations to the final three! During the long season you have proven your merit (Tre is better than all three of you put together).

Elk, what a challenging and surprising choice of ingredient (softball for Casey). Never saw that coming! (Aniston-clone = ratings)

Based on the previous seasons, i'm expecting to see some familiar faces return to help in the finale (contractual obligation). Possibly Tre (shafted), Howie (abused and humiliated)... Who knows who will win in the finale? (whoever has Tre on their team)

Great job by the judges this year, don't let the haters get you down ( or try getting it right for a change). I know you have taken alot of heat this past year (obvious blunders). But it has been three seasons, three fair outcomes (one for three). This years winner will join the elusive ranks of Harold (genius) and Ilan (joke). You can hold your head high (bigger asterisk than Barry Bonds) Maybe prior to Season 4 you can have a "Tournament of Champions" (Harold, Sam, and Tre). This show has really perfected it's formula (Bowl Championship Series).

Riveting Television for sure made it to the screen (less interesting than the Rocco/Bourdain blog-war).

No wonder why NBC has embraced you over Project Runway (too gay for network).

Already looking forward to Season 4 and spending more time with Chef Tom (misguided and mean), Padma (making Mrs. Joel look qualified) and Ted Allen (only reason left to watch).

Cheers!! (shove it)

Sincerely,
Mr. Subliminal

joking aside... I actually don't have a problem with the final three, but the fact that they won't have to beat Tre to take the title makes this a fraud. And if you busted out the truth serum (Chef Tom first), I think the Final Three would admit to that.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:07 AM

rita baley wrote:

Of all the judges , you are my favorite! You give overviews of what we see that makes sense , and i really wish i coild cook like these top chefs. I have learned alot of new terms that i want to put into practice , and make family favorites.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:08 AM

Kate wrote:

Tom,

As always I love your insights and culinary tidbits!! I've learned so much from you and the show about what it's like to be a chef (rather than just a cook)! Keep the show on the air for a few years, and maybe I'll get my shot to wow you and your esteemed panel!!

I promise no middle of the road dishes here, I'll be in it to win it!!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:08 AM

Shelley wrote:

Thanks so much for the P.S. page, Tom. That kind of commentary really matters to your readers and fans. :)

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:11 AM

Lori B wrote:

Dear Chef Tom,

Some say you are tough , I say you are fair - and always rooting for the "cream to rise to the top " if you will- An analogy I will site is J Paul Getty starting from the bottom of the gas/oil industry and doing all the jobs from top to bottom ; you also have that moral authority. We, the viewing public can totally trust your judgements. Great insights. Lori
P.S. Love your hats . Your wife is a very lucky woman!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:11 AM

ss wrote:

Tom,

Just what does cooking with a SOUL or HEART mean to you? I am really perplexed by this criticism that has been labeled at Hung. Viewers can't taste the dishes so I would really appreciate you explaining how soul and heart is tangibly translated to the taste of a dish. Hung's technical proficiency has been displayed not only with outstanding knife and cooking skills but deep understanding of food and different cuisines.

Hung's competitors (all less technically proficient) have said that he's the best technician but that he has no soul or heart . When I heard this from CJ, Dale and Sara it seemed to me that since they couldn't match his technical skills they were trying to find something, anything to charge him with. I was shocked when watching tonight's ep. that Ripert and you seemed to make the same charge. I can understand if people said Hung was not creative, that he just copied dishes and recipes, was too repetitive, knew how to use a knife but not how to construct a dish, didn't know how to construct flavor profiles - these are tangible critcisms - but no soul and heart?

Does Hung need to cook an asian dish or a vietnamese dish to show that he has soul? Does he need to cook his grandma's noodle dish? Must ethnic chefs refer back to the cuisines of their native land to be considered cooking with heart?

I hope you answer this question. I'm not sure that people realize that this type of criticism is actually an emotionally charged one for asians. It's a criticism that has been directed at technically skilled asians in other fields - it's an easy line of attack because lacking "soul" and "heart" is an easy charge to hurl but very hard to defend.

I'd also like to add that this type ...of yeah, your great technically BUT .. argument needlessly downgrades the importance of technical skills - especially in and industry where consistency is key.

You said in tonight's episode that Hung is the best technician in the group - Soltner in a recent interview said that the most important thing about being a chef is consistency and that more than being an artist a chef is a craftsman. I would have thought that once you found your most technically accomplished chef - the game was over.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:13 AM

Elizabeth wrote:

Hi Tom, I wanted to say thanks for taking the time after each episode to write your blog. I have learned so much more about the art of food after reading your explanations, sometimes watching an edited show can really confuse the viewer as to why a dish didn't work and the chef was eliminated (especially since we can't taste it!). I recently made a trip to Las Vegas where I REALLY wanted to dine at Craftsteak however it was a little out of budget :( but I WILL make it a point to experience it eventually so don't close anytime soon.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:17 AM

homsd wrote:

Padma says Brian's dish is her favorite, yet he is the one to go. I'm not surprised he was sent home as he obviously incurred the dislike of several judges. I can't help but think it was due to past efforts and the personal dislike of several judges rather than this episode's performance.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:18 AM

JC wrote:

Tom, according you and the other judges’ tonight, Casey had “ONE” component that worked —one! A sauce Casey has made previously. Gail said Casey’s dish was unmemorable! Casey had “THE MOST” experience cooking ELK, and she failed. Why, didn’t Casey go home tonight??? Thank goodness Huong made it through to the finals. All the judges’ agreed that Huong is the best chef technically. Tom and the other judges’, how ‘bout that Huong made a flawless ELK dish tonight—tender and juicy—that he had no prior experience cooking? I think Hung has been consistently underrated in this competition. Not only has Huong demonstrated the best technical skills, he has the best time- management skills, the best strategic skills he’s unafraid to work with challenges which he has admitted openly, unabashedly, were not his strong suit, yet he maintains a level head, he’s grace under fire and produces excellent outcomes consistently. Although, I’m not disturbed by the corn husker’s departure, Mr. Malarkey, I think two chef’s should have gone home tonight—Brian as well as Casey. As for Dale, I’m apathetic. In my estimation, Dale has done nothing remarkable to win the overall prize. What he’s been great at is his commentary. No chef has been more bewildered about where to find things in the kitchen, or baffled with how to operate an apparatus, or seeking someone’s help than Dale. Finally, I think Tre and Huong should have been the finalists. I’m confident no matter the outcome, Huong, in all aspects, is the brightest star remaining. You go Huong!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:19 AM

mary vaughn wrote:

Tom,
This is my first blog ever, but I felt compeled to comment on this episode. My favorite part of the show was watching your expression while the chefs were talking about why they should be Top Chef. It showed so much understanding as to why these young professionals are where they are. There is so much love and passion for what they do. I salute them all for putting themselves out there. Good luck to all of them!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:21 AM

Denese wrote:

Chef, I have wondered throughout this season why Hung has been on everyone's "hit list". Even Sirio seemed to not want to give him the Quick Fire but did.

While his personality may not shine through in the competition, he definitely is not as finger-quotes abrasive as Stephen (Season 1) and certainly not as "controversial" as Marcel (the REAL Season 2 Top Chef).

As demonstrated during Manhattan Project (and prior episodes), he has the culinary acumen and technique, and isn't that one of the most desired abilities of a Top Chef? Do we really think Casey could identify and execute at a 4 or 5 star level?

Tre would have been a worthy oponent for the finale, but let's really think about the Season 2 Top Chef and his "accomplishments" compared to Season 1 Top Chef Harold! We deserve an achiever to win Season 3!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:22 AM

Austin wrote:

pretty obvious who the final three would be. but why three? because they are all "so talented", as explained by chef tc? not quite my naive fans, it's all about ratings, period.

now, you appeal to the widest possible demograph:

1. women
2. gays
3. minorities

oh yeah, i forgot, it IS the Bravo netowrk! LOL

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:24 AM

g wrote:

At the judges' table, you asked Hung where was he in the elk dish he prepared. What does that mean? If you're a chef of Italian ancestry, all the food you prepare should have an Italian influence? If you're parents were born in China, you can't be a chef who prepares French food or Middle Eastern fare? Since when are chefs restricted to the cuisines that define their ethnic backgrounds? I think credit should be given to those who step out of their comfort zone and try things that aren't second nature. isn't that what a lot of great chefs do? Usually your comments are spot on. I sure don't agree with this one.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:24 AM

Andy B. wrote:

Insightful blog Chef Tom. I'm glad you cleared up for me why Casey's raw elk didn't knock her out of the competition, and why Brian was eliminated. Brian cooked a hodge podge of ingredients tto take the focus off his under braised elk, which would not fool such prominent chefs as you and Ripert. I guess Brian did what he had to do.
Nice win for Dale, he really needed it. He's been slumping lately and it's nice to see a chef change course (plan b) and do so well with the change. Hung continues to make mental mistakes. First in tthe Quick fire, dashing a certain win by forgetting the lemon juice, when he had plenty of time to add because he finish the challenge so early. In the elimination, showing his disdain for cooking Elk, effected his dish choices and ability.
Chef Tom, thanks for educating us at home the reasons for different cooking techniques, and what reactions occur with different proteins, seafood, carbs, etc.
Now on to the final: Hung, Dale, and Casey: The Immigrant, The Gay Guy, and The Lady. Sounds like a title for a T. V. series. My moneys on Hung. What ever happens, all three of these contestants are better than Ilan, the shameful winner of T.C.2.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:25 AM

Deborah R wrote:

You were right when you commented during the episode that this has been a great season. While we haven't been able to taste the food (and I would always trust your palate over my imaginings), we have been able to enjoy the chefs' creativity and camaraderie. Even Hung, who has taken hits from many of us for his unwillingness to accept criticism, demonstrated in this episode why the reports regarding the death of his soul have been greatly exaggerated. Is he cocky? Oh yeah. But he's as passionate as the other chefs about his work. Hearing their back stories was the highlight of this episode, and though you'll surely be criticized whatever you decide next week, this season I'll be satisfied no matter who wins.

And on the subject of criticism ...

I'm not surprised that people gripe about decisions that go against their favorites, but I am mystified by people who claim they "love" Top Chef, but gripe about the funky challenges that are the show's lifeblood. As someone who works in a creative field, I'm fascinated watching other creative people think on the fly and seeing how different individuals respond to wild challenges in completely different ways. No matter how bizarre the task, all the contestants manage to come up with something unique and indicative of who they are as chefs. These challenges set TC apart from other cooking competitions and they're the reason the show has been successful. If I wanted to see chefs being put through their paces in straightforward culinary-school assignments, I'd watch the Food Network. I'm sorry for the left-brained people who can't appreciate this show's quirky style. But I wish they'd simply find a program that suits their limited imaginations rather than lobbying to suck the heart out of this one.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:26 AM

Katherine D wrote:

Hi Tom, I always enjoy your comments about the dishes and why they do or don't succeed. But the thinly veiled dislike for Hung (and/or his dishes) is beyond old.

Specifically this week your criticism that he doesn't incorporate his Vietnamese hereitage into his cooking enough was a genuine WTF? moment. Hung has lived here many years (and not all chefs in Vietnam choose to cook "Vietnamese style" either.).is classically trained and has a style that is light, classic, and modern.

Whether he chooses to use Asian influences is as up to him as it is to you, Rocco, or any other chef. Would you have criticized Tre if he cooked with Latin flavors rather than African-American "soul"? That's just insulting. You owe Hung--and us, the audience--a definite apology for that one..

P.S. It's good to read in your blog that TC can give success to the deserving people like Harold, LeeAnne, Tre and others. But please, please! don't include Ilan in that list. He was a fairly one-note cook, but more to the point, he was an asshat of monumental proportions. His was a regrettable win, nothing more.

At least Dale, Casey and Hung have all shown themselves to bel excellent, versatile cooks--and also nice people. This time the final 3 really deserve to be there.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:27 AM

Heather wrote:

I was sad to see Brian go, this group truly seems more cohesive than the others. When the chefs were asked to give a reason why they should continue on to the finale I do believe Tom looked positively proud at some of the answers. It was good to see Dale pull forward and win.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:28 AM

Candice (not Candi) wrote:

I agree with you that Hung doesn't show who he is with his food. He's demonstrated - to me at least - to be nothing more than a robot, turning out food that--though executed perfectly--doesn't have his personal touch to it. or perhaps his personal touch is preparing things perfectly as if for a cookbook and photographer than for someone who needs to get a feel for who he really is as a chef. That said, I'm surprised he got to stick around. I suppose, since Brian blew it in this round, that you had no choice. Harumph.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:31 AM

ss wrote:

Following up on my previous e-mail:

Tom, I just read this in Gail's blog

"One conversation I wish our viewers would have seen more of was when Hung was confronted by the fact that although we know he is incredibly skilled as a cook, his food can convey an air of robotic perfection and a lack of what we called “soul.” His reaction was not only vehement but full of conviction. He waxed poetic for several minutes about his life growing up in the kitchen and how food has been a guiding force ever since he could reach the stove"

Tom, why did the judges need to be told about a chef's personal history to judge someone's food - is that where soul comes in? Shouldn't the food speak for itself?

I know this was in Gail's blog and not yours but since it came up at judges table and you are head judge I'm asking you. Also, quite frankly, you are the only permanent Top Chef judge whose opinion I respect and who I feel for sure would not lazily call on stereotypical criticism of an asian as creating "robotic perfection".

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:32 AM

what? wrote:

yeah. "Seafood chef" is ridiculous. Almost as bad as "pastry chef." How absurd!

Is this show one big commercial lick-fest?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:34 AM

Karin wrote:

Why would you assume that Casey knew the traditional method/ingredients for coq au vin prior to the challenge? She is obviously very smart, skilled, passionate, etc. But she is a 29 year old chef of an Asian/"fusion" restaurant in Dallas, Texas! She ALSO works constantly and has had no formal training. I'm quite sure her Grandmother called her dish "coq au vin" with no explanations, caveats, or apologies. If she has referenced the dish in a cookbook or 2, it is quite likely that they made no mention of roosters at all. If they did, it is likely that she didn't focus on that, as she doesn't seem to focus on the historic/cultural context of food and ingredients, instead highlighting flavors and her own personal experience. I don't eat chicken, but I love food history, live in New York City, and have frequented many good restaurants and I didn't know the technical definition of coq au vin. My goodness, Casey didn't even know how to pronounce the "vin", (she pronounced it "ven" on the show). She is plainly not a sophisticated chef, which is not a criticism at all; it just suggests that with more formal training she would absolutely unbeatable. By the way, I am still hoping for an acknowledgement of the fact that lobster is lower in cholesterol than any meat that appeared on that "healthy updates of old favorites show where you unfairly criticized Brian. Finally many of us also still want to know why Sara (alone of all of the chefs) received absolutely nothing for her awesome performance in the restaurant challenge.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:37 AM

evan wrote:

thanks chef am I the only one who finds it very hard to believe that hung would forget lemon juice especially since he had 5 minutes leftover to make sure the dish he is serving to Chef Ripert is perfect? also I don't think it was a good idea to give awards after elimination events because they act as indicators as to who will be runners-up. casey has won two prizes and dale just received one, hung not having any prizes so far indicates his chances are very good to be named top chef. I feel like this lessens the amount of suspense considerably. maybe im completely wrong and hung will leave empty handed but I doubt it. on another note I read that batali quote about ilan's copy of casa mono's tasting menu I wonder how much truth there is to that because if it is true they should forfeit his title and name marcel top chef. I guess it would be impossible to prove but it bothers me that he might have copied. thanks m looking forward to reading other peoples comments and hopefully some people will respond to my comments especially the thing about hung and the juice I don't believe he could be that forgetful peace

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:43 AM

Steve from Frogtown wrote:

Brian had his song and dance and I'm sad it took him so long to be eliminated. The guy didn't deserve to be there.

Dale is here because he knows how to talk. Kind of like that bad artist in art school who knows how to talk about his work eventhough it's crap. That's Dale ...

Casey .. did you see her smug face? Do you hear the over-compensation in her voice? COME ON PEOPLE ... she may have a great set of .... oh nevermind. She is here because she is talented, but homegirl is no Top Chef.

Hung is going to win. He is BY FAR the most qualified to be TOP CHEF. He has the drive, he has the heart, he has the skill. Everyone knows it which is why they all hate on him. Most people are just freaked out by him being totally honest. You see, the other people are saying what they know they are supposed to say. They don't mean it ... Hung is straight up and I respect him for it.

I wish the final 3 were Tre, Hung and Casey ........ Hung would still win, Tre would be second and Casey would go home crying in 3rd place, while drying her eyes on her big ole .... oh nevermind ....

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:46 AM

karen wrote:

i enjoyed reading your comments. I see you as a really intense professional who is extremely educated in your field. I have and still am learning alot in regardes to a field that has really sparked and interst in my life. I thank you for your expertize and knowledge that I would like to learn alot more about.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:46 AM

loretta wrote:

Hi,Yes Eric Ripert is a famous chef for the right reasons,but his favorite food is street food in Puerto Rico.He did a segment on Martha Stewart Show a few years ago.Its great food!So,all this intimidation effect is bogus. Good food is found everywhere.Hung,I hope doesnt win ,please! I think Dale is most deserving.He has wonderful dishes with a great deal of thought behind them.They look good.One can see the care and love he puts into his food as well as talent.I admire your honesty and sometimes your toughness with your critique.Cannot wait for the finale.Thanks

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:46 AM

Jeff wrote:

Great episode. Hung didn't disappoint with his typically crass remarks about his fellow contestants and his contempt for the cowfolk he was to cook for. What an utter tool. I was so happy when Eric Ripert totally PWNED his ass when he said Casey's dish was best and had SOUL. Hung totally had a constipated look on his face. Then true to form during the JT, he jumps up and down like a monkey and proclaims that his food has soul. Maybe it did, and Eric Ripert, greatest chef in the world, didn't see his concept. Yeah, that's it.

One bit of advice to monkeyboy: if you're going to be an ass on the show, don't tell the world you're the result of your mother's upbringing, because that only implies she raised an ass. Not exactly the tear-jerking, heart-warming angle you're trying to create.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:50 AM

Sandy wrote:

Tom,

I just want to say how pleased I have been with this season as far as the judges, the food, and the challenges. I kinda thought I missed all the drama until last week. Then I realized the food and the lifestyle and the stories are really quite enough. Now, going into the last show, there are three finalists I really enjoy watching, and I'll be happy no matter who wins. Even more importantly, the food won most of all.

I remember the end of last season, and I remember how you reacted to the fans. Whatever your hand in all of this season, it was good and worth it. OK, except Tre. But that's a small quibble.

Please keep Bourdain and Dispirito around for next year. They are part of the shift from personality to food that really helped everything click for me. Heck, between them there's enough personality for the whole series.

Bravo!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:56 AM

Sarit wrote:

Regarding your PS - I haven't read what the other comments were from last week but I am glad that I wasn't one of very few who was frustrated with Casey's non-win secondary to dish mislabeling... Thank you for the explanation, but I do believe that at the judges table she explained herself... but past being past, I'm glad she wasn't sent home today along with Brian - looked like a close one for her.
I would have loved to hear your take on Dale's sauce, there was little specifics to it's quality, and didn't show up well on screen.
Also, there is a lot of mention that Hung's food has no soul - no heart, or - I believe it was you who said it tastes "sterile" - that you like the taste of the chef's hands in your food... Not really sure what you meant by that, please elaborate on this at some time.
Thank you for doing this show, I enjoy very few things more than watching Top Chef!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:56 AM

dc bob wrote:

Colicchio was out of line when he said Hung hadn’t shown enough of his Vietnamese background in his cooking. Hung grew up in Massachusetts. He’s as American as Colicchio, and he has no more need to show his Vietnamese side than Colicchio does his Italian side. Colicchio would have had more sense than to make a similar remark to an African-American chef. He shouldn’t have made it to Hung either. And all this talk about Hung doesn't cook with soul--could you beat us over the head with that anymore? Who does cook with "soul"? Brian who spazzes out constantly. Give me a break.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 12:57 AM

julia wrote:

We don't see you in food....Could you insult Hung any further.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:02 AM

karlo wrote:

What was up with Tom saying that Hung should show his Vietnamese heritage in this episode? They were cooking for cowboys---if he had gone too Vietnamese, Tom would have complained that he wasn't cooking for his audience. What did Tom want? Elk pho?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:04 AM

Vijay wrote:

Tom, are you guys nuts? It cracked me up when you announced that due to "extra ordinary talent" 3 chefs are going to the finals this time. Granted, the contest turned out to be close in this episode and partly vindicated your collective decision to send 3 guys.
But if this season has lacked anything, it is culinary talent. Even my 6-yr old niece could tell that Casey and Hung were the real deal or close to being the real deal. And thats it. If there was ever a season where 3 chefs needed to go to the Finale it was season1. Lee Anne could have joined Harold and Tiffany. This season , one of the stronger chefs was sent home early(Tre). Apart from Hung, most others lack classical training/skills and Hung himself is cocky and his food is sometimes lacking in soul and he lacks maturity too. Execept for this episode it has been Hung vs Casey for the past few challenges. So I dont understand yet again, your collective decision to send 3 people to the Finale.
Dale has been medicore ,save for tonight. He has made quite a few solid goofs-last episode's poor execution, scenetd candle etc. etc. I did'nt think he merited a trip to the Finals, his one good performance in tonight's episode notwithstanding. But then Top Chef has never been consistent about anything and I guess this is another one of thosedesperate moves done to add some spice and flavor to what has been an insipid contest so far

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:06 AM

tom wrote:

Because Hung is Vietnamese, he should be cooking Vietnamese food? And if he did cook Vietnamese food, his dishes would have all of this "soul" I've been hearing about? I don't even know where to begin with that one...

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:07 AM

Jeannette wrote:

Thanks once more for the input. I'm glad you explained Casey's dish,from what you said initially when tasting her dish,it seem that it was not good. I also was quite surprised how well Dale
executed his dish and how he overcame the problem with his
goat cheese tart. He just took the advice given in previous episodes,if what they prepare is not good,do not serve it. It
showed great confidence and maturity. Hung's attitude is what I don't like,because he was cooking for cowboys it was "boring".
Also what he said in his final speech,about the soul of the food,it sounded like what Chef Ripert said to Casey in the quick fire,thus it did not feel truthful. Finally about Brian ,I always thought he was more showman than chef in most of the episodes so it was no surprise to me the judges final decision.
About Brian,in my honest opinion I think he was more showman than chef in most of the episodes. My wish is that Casey's becomes the first woman Top Chef. Looking forward to the final

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:09 AM

trish wrote:

Chef, you made me laugh when reading your explanation of Casey calling her dish Coq au Vin last week. I did get the impression you wouldn't have been so hard on her if not for sitting with that panel of impressive french chefs. I think I even alluded to that in one of my posts.

I've got to go on to say these finalist I find to be sickening for different reasons. I guess if the best had made it I wouldn't be feeling this way. The joy for me in this competition is gone. I'm just hanging on to see who wins. Whenever someone gets eliminated, it really doesn't matter.
Every time I look at Brian coming across my screen I ask myself, why the hell is he still there?

I'm wondering how Hung stood there for five minutes looking at his plate and never realized he forgot the lemon juice until it was time to serve it. WTH?

OH MY DAMN HUNG!!!!! You could have won the quickfire if not for your cockiness. We know you've got it all out over the others but always double check your work. Everyone makes mistakes.

I'm sure the cowboys and cowgirls don't have a high opinion of him after that baked bean remark he made. You want to talk about stereotyping. Sometimes it pays to think before you open your mouth. That didn't come across to well.

Now I'm wondering why three contestants are going to the finals? There's no fun in that. It's still a group as far as I'm concerned . I wanted to see two of them go head to head.
Two restaurant wars, three to the finals, what the hell else is going to happen? Oh that's right, it will be the end of the season.
The way this season went there could possibly be no season 4 for me.

It seemed Padma was the only one who thought Brian's dish was good tonight. It made her look a little ignorant about food but she played it off well.
I loved this guest judge because he clearly had his own opinions and it didn't matter if they fell in line with what the others thought.

I agree with Tom when he says Hung is the best technical cook. His food looks great too but of course I haven't tasted it.

I was so touched by the story Dale told about himself about why he should be TC. It actually brought tears to my eyes. I'm happy a show like this was there for him to help get him motivated again.
On the other hand, I did not like the way he looked at Hung when Hung was telling his story. I get the impression that Dale is a bit envious of Hung. In Hung's remarks he disputed much of the trash Dale has said about him like having no heart and soul.

I'm pleased Brian was sent home tonight. It wasn't soon enough for me. I love the way some of them stick together. Dale remarked how hard it was to see Brian go. He spoke about him like he was this great chef.

I should have heard those kind of remarks come out of the mouths of all of them when Tre was told to pack up. The man was loaded with talent.

Hung was the only one who said afterward he was sorry to see Tre go. Yet someone still tagged Hung as having no heart. Arrogance and confidence in yourself in no way implies that. It showed how competitive Hung is and that he is in no way threatened by the best. He appreciates and recognizes talent.

Howie said when he was eliminated he thought Tre was probably one of the best cooks of all the seasons. Kudos to Howie. If not for his viscious temper he wold have been quite likable.

These three that are left I could care less about but it is clear Hung is the best.
Let's see what happens.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:12 AM

sarah wrote:

Tom-is "'not cooking with soul' your code words for 'Hung-get back in the narrow box I've sterotyped you in to and start showing some Asian influence in your food'?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:14 AM

kandie wrote:

Tom: The food looked appetizing and sounded even better tonight, although Hung keeps getting a bad rap. The guy is obvious talented and always shows extreme passion about his cooking. This is a competetion right? Why are viewers worried about his personality? I truly hope he wins, since the person who should have definitely been here is not here (TREY!!!) Good to see Dale finally stepping up! Keep your head up Hung, you will go far, I don't see a person who is arrogant and bullheaded, I see confidence, and passion and determination. Go TREY for fan fav!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:23 AM

Quynh wrote:

I think that was harsh when you told Hung that you didn't see him in cooking. What did you mean by that?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:53 AM

Matt wrote:

I was amazed that the mid-episode poll (admittedly not a very scientific one) had something like 70% of viewers wanting to see Hung get eliminated. Do people like the show as a cooking competition or a personality contest? Okay, so you like the cute white chick with soulful flavors and no knife skills, the endearingly funny big gay chef, and the frenetic good-looking white guy more than the confident competetive vietnamese technician. How can you possibly think he should be eliminated though, and how could you possibly think not having him around could make for a better finale? Don't you want to see what he can do given complete freedom?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 1:55 AM

SImone wrote:

Good move on Dale and Plan B!! Love to see him and Casey be the last two. And from the looks of things -- 69% of the BravoTv Watching World agrees -- Hung -- outta here. Great, touching story of Immigrant Central, living in the kitchen, blah, blah, blah. Whatever.

HOW LOL was it when he finished SEVEN MINUTES early in the Quick fire challenge and forgot the key ingredient! How APROPOS is more like it . . . how to see more of his Ego Get in the Way and let TRUE TEAM PLAYERS win. He's all talk. And a short arrogant F___. Let him F___ up and be gone with his Equal in Ego and Lacking Social Skills, Marcel.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:02 AM

Jackie wrote:

I had difficulty when you (Tom) made a comment about Hung not being himself -pointing out that he was born in Vietnam and you see none of his personal history in his food. Are you implying that he should be cooking Vietnamese cuisine or some Asian fusion dishes? The type of food Hung cooks shouldn't be based on where he was born. He was raised in the U.S. He lives here. So why does he need to authenticate his food by his ethnicity?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:03 AM

Jacqui wrote:

I wanted to say that on last night's show, I noticed how fond you seemed of the Chefs. It's nice to see all the judges treat everyone with dignity and respect. It appears there really are some people who actually remember from whence they came and that's refreshing to see that in every show. I'm not new to the show, but I am new to the blogs and look forward to reading more of the same.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:07 AM

kundun wrote:

Chef Tom,

As much as I admire your culinary refinement and judgment, I have to take issue with your comments to Hung in this episode, which to me were borderline racist or ethnocetric. To claim that Hung can only show himself "in the food" by adding Asian (or more specifically Vietnamese) flavors to his dishes is an insult. It would be no different than telling Dale that his cooking should be more "flamboyent" or Casey that her dishes should be more "motherly" or "feminine." Whether or not Hung is Asian should have nothing to do with how or what kind of food he makes. If the judges can't leave their preconceptions about the contestants out of their deliberations, then maybe it is time to employ a blind tasting system, as other viewers have suggested.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:12 AM

Ed wrote:

Are you kidding me with your comments about not seeing enough Vietnamese in Hung's cooking?

I hear the Vietnamese are making a wonderful Elk Pho these days.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:16 AM

Jen Webb wrote:

I was so happy to see Rocky Mountain ingredients used in this episode. These native American ingredients seem to me are often ignored in haute cuisine because of the heavy reliance on European styles of cooking and European ingredients. Having grown up in Montana with a father that is a hunter and a mother that is obsessed with picking fresh huckleberries (she fights grizzly bears for them), Dale's dish looked absolutely amazing to me and brought back thoughts of home. Mom and I will have to try it out when I head back home. Oh and tell them to quit bellyaching about cooking fish on a stump over a camp stove. One of my favorite dishes and best childhood memories is my dad's instant grit fried rainbow trout caught minutes before hitting the pan on multiple camping trips in the backcountry. Try it the next time you're out in the wilderness- it's excellent. Oh Hung, yeah, cowboys eat MORE than baked beans, thank you.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:22 AM

Josh wrote:

From your close interaction with the participants of this season's show do you truly believe that you have the three most deserving contestants in the final three??? Has there been any more deserving participant cast to the wayside due to one bad outing, as I assuredly thought Tre would be there until the end.... Casey came on strong towards the end of the competition and started winning the competitions, but Dale's first win came in the final four, so was a competitor who put themselves more on the line earlier in the competition such as Tre, CJ or dare I say Howie more deserving of staying around due to the fact that they were willing to challenge the scope of their expertise in the spectrum of this competition??

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:25 AM

ely wrote:

I am royally ticked off at BravoTV. Following the invitation to log on and vote "live" part way through the broadcast, the first thing I see on the Bravo home page is a screaming banner that "cowboy" Malarkey was the one eliminated. You couldn't have waited until the show had aired on the west coast? The rest of the show was completely flat for me. Why ask us who should be eliminated when you have already announced the results? Why should we even bother to watch the show? What idiot is responsible for that snafu?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:25 AM

mg wrote:

tom, whoa here, the judging was so unfair this week, compared to so many other similar situations. Black and blue elk, but because it had a smoky tomato it was okay. Sarah went home. Dale's dish was a carnival, but Brian's used 'too many' ingredients. Sam's last year cumulative food prep didn't overcome his mediocre dish, but Casey's did. Brian who has seemed to me completely sincere, you call him on 'yes we have seen all your junky food' and all of the judges have an evil/happy smirk; while Hung totally contradicts himself-'loved the elk challenge', and spews weirdness, 'mom is so great', and you don't call him on that. You said it was tough, but you all seemed sooo happy to see Brian go. And Eric sure wanted Casey to win. Please look through the video and see the bias all over each judges face, -pro Casey/anti-Brian. I like all of the contestants, but the judging was lame.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:40 AM

Melody wrote:

Hey Tom...
Great show tonight. What a tough decision. I can't wait until the finale next week. This has been a great season--and that has surprised me. At the very beginning I didn't hold very high expectations of this season being as good as the other two seasons. Then when Tre was told to pack his knives I was really ticked (he's still my favorite and next time I'm in Dallas I'm going to his restaurant). And yet the same thought keeps coming back to me about the chefs of Season 3: they get along--at least for the most part. OK, so I know there are some issues with Hung, but compared to Marcel or Stephen and others, the issues with Hung and the other chefs is nothing! It's really pretty refreshing. It seems that so many of the chefs in Season 3 have become great friends. I love it!! And because of that I'm thinking I may like Season 3 best of all. Bravo, Bravo!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:43 AM

elaine wrote:

I was wondering how does Casey feel knowing that she tanked the group challenge with Howie and Joey om purpose?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:43 AM

Leanne wrote:

i think you are one of the main reasons i watch this show tom, you give great insight and you have the eye of an eagle and the taste buds of a .....really picky person....either way, my brother and i, both chefs, really admire you and we hope to open a resturant that will meet all of your standards!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:46 AM

wolfefan wrote:

Hi Tom -

Thanks for your good work on the show and for the time you take reading and responding to blog comments. You and others have criticized Hung for a lack of soul, with Dale going so far as to say Hung has no heart. How much of this is due to Hung's being a first generation immigrant from an Asian country? Different cultures channel emotion and soul in different ways. Is not Hung's obvous passion for the practice and development of his craft an expression of his soul, of who he is, as much as, say, Brian's attention to the people he is serving and his outgoing personality?

I'd also be interested to hear you write about what "soul" means in cooking - not to the chef, but to me as the diner. I am sure it is a very intangible thing, but can you give those of us on the outside any reflection on what the soulfulness of food feels like to those of you with so highly developed palates?

Thanks again...

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:49 AM

Kevin wrote:

I was sad to see Brian go. He was a great chef with a great personality. But he lost fairly. I can't wait to see the finals and who ultimately becomes Top Chef. Great job with the judging as always.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 2:52 AM

george wrote:

your comments on hung baffle me. first you say it shouldn't matter whether folks are familiar with elk because it's just like any game and then you say he didn't seem to design his dish specifically for elk.

whatever.

i still hope hung wins and won't make any doomsday claims that "omg i won't ever watch your show again because you're so biased" but the judges have definitely used up a lot of the good will i think you rebuilt after last season's debacle.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:07 AM

Ryan Coleman wrote:

Hey Tom,

I have to say the bringing the show back to the western part of the US of A and making these talented chefs cook elk and trout was really cool. I know how I would cook it so more ideas never hurts.

Most of my experience is in the front of the house at a few private golf clubs in the southwest US (AZ,CO,UT). So i have to say that all the people on Top Chef are great and I would love to have the opportunity to try more of their food.

I just watched Brian get eliminated and think the Oceanaire (SP) is a great restaurant since i live in San Diego. I have been there many times, mostly for oysters, but all the food is great.

The one thing I would like to see is some sort of extension of time. I know how all chefs hate to have their food sit in the window but making them have an extension of time with like 30min left might be interesting. Knowing you all, this is probably an old idea but thought I would express my thoughts.

Last, one of my old friends should have an opportunity on your show. He tried a few years ago but got busy. Don McClellan studied at CIA and I know would at least add color to the next season.

Either way. Great Show. Keep up the good work. I will keep watching just to make up my own ideas....and thats what it is all about.

Thanks for your time,

Ryan

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:07 AM

Lisa P. wrote:

Another excellent show from Chef Tom and the panel of judges. It was nice to hear you compliment each finalist on their strengths. I think that they deserved a pat on the back for making it this far without cracking. I believe Brian will do well because he is such a crowd pleaser. I can't wait until next week! Bon apetit !

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:26 AM

kealoha wrote:

I loved the cowboy cook-off tonight! I think it really brings out a great competition when everyone cooks the same protein. It's exciting to watch the differences in approaches and how they bring everything to life. The last shows are the best because we get an in-depth look at what the chefs are actually doing.

I am so glad Hung is still in there! I think he gets a bad rap for being over-confident, but many people don't understand an emigrant work ethic. You can't just be as good as the next guy, you have to be the BEST. Hung has worked extremely hard to gain the skills he has and wants to make the most of the opportunity in this country. How can you blame him for that?

Thank you, Bravo, for giving the chefs an opportunity to tell their stories. Maybe people will now see why Hung is Hung and they'll cut him some slack on the hating!

I think the top 3 chefs are in the finale! Great job, judges (and producers)!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:26 AM

JenSings wrote:

Chef Tom:

I've talked some smack about your soul patch, hats, et.al., but I've put all my vitriol aside for this final post.

I really enjoyed this episode. I've grown to like these people. Yes, even Hung. In a way, he breaks my heart. There is precious little room in Hung's world for sloppy, time-wasting nonsense like fun and sentimentality...and yet, much as it is anathema to his entire being, he is not immune to such foibles. Was it really the smug, "arrogant" Hung I watched drop to the floor in relief of being chosen one of the final three? Was that Hung who spoke of food as though it were the crimson stuff of veins? Nevermind that you bring a near militaristic approach to cooking Hung...you also bring the soul of an artist.

Casey has aged noticably. The stress etched into her face is painful. I don't want Casey to worry so much. I admire this young woman who has refrained all season from dismissive commentary about her fellow competitors and has been one fine example of quiet capability. I would go out of my way to eat your food, Casey. Really, you've won already. Tiffany disgraced herself by claiming work that wasn't her own...Elia was a whiner...they were both two chips shy of a full bag. You are a professional and a fine talent, besides being a credit to your gender.

Dale finally showed his hand so that I now understand why he's been my season-long favorite. Great heart in that Mohawked monkey. Great food too, apparently.

Will you be surprised, Chef Tom, to know that I knew who was going by watching your face as they each articulated why they should stay? I haven't seen that sort of warmth coming from you since season 1, and I've missed it.

So, well done, Top Chef. Gail, I even didn't mind you this time. Whoever wins is fine by me....they've all won, the title's just a formality.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:39 AM

Alvin Armstrong wrote:

Chef,

I would just like to say that I love your humor in this passage. The show is amazing! I can't get enough.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:48 AM

Dave Mather wrote:

Think back to last season (or was it one?) "This is Top Chef, not Top Sommolier" Fast forward to season: "This is Top Chef, not Top Chuckwagon Cook." This episode should have aired in the second or third show. NOT the first step of the finals! As much as I respect the chuckwagon cook (I really do!), I thought the focus of this show was about the soon-to-be exalted restaurant chef. Chuck wagon cooks don't even use Michelin tires, yet alone winning a Michelin star!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:48 AM

Marcel'sFoam wrote:

Tom, I just wanted to plead with you to please be more open-minded and reward chefs more for being creative. It seems you always reward chef's for taking the safe route and don't reward a dish that might not be perfect but in which the chef at least tries to think out of the box. By doing this it seems clear to me that a really smart guy like Hung sees what you are doing and decides to play it safe and not show his full repotoire. why should he when a chef like Marcel tries to cook the way HE wants to and does things HE is passionate about and is repeatedly slammed for it and mocked for it and never rewarded for it, not by his fellow chefs or the judges. I just ask that you consider influencing other judges to reward someone for taking a leap and tell the contestants this too.. the chefs and us fans and you judges will all benefit from it. Take Hung's dish in the grocery store aisle challenge.. that he didn't win for his cereal creation is a real tragedy. His fellow chefs CHEERED him. And his judge said "WTF is this?". This is what you should be fighting against as a judge and you should be fighting for chefs willing to put their passion and creativity into their cooking and show their identity as a chef. Don't hammer down the nail that sticks out.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:55 AM

Bill wrote:

Long time -first time
this show is the best there is for reality tv - I truly feel that i learn soemthing every time I watch. The judges are great fun to watch and learn from

Tom I know you have addressed the issue of editing in several of your blogs as aprocess that often seem to leave out many of the real or complete reasons as to why a person was cut or another one

That being said the 'directed editing ' of this show ( and this ep in particular) really took away from my abiltiy to fully enjoy the show.
undercooked food has been a a killer for many axed contestants and the editing went out of its way to highlight this fualt in Casey's dish plus your dislike of her cal puree. i can see form you blog a mroe well orunded view of why you let Brina go but I guess that is the cruzx of my problem

Why do the TC producers feel they need to fool us with red herring editng. I would love to jsut hear the judges full opinions -not taken out of context comments so that we cna have a real chance at trying to guess who is leaving

I geuss my plea to you Tom is after so many ep's where you have had to defend a choice in the blog that you migth ask the TC folks to give us a more balanced view of the ep - or a least post some unedited judges table footage on the website for us diehards to exp

This show has built a loyal , diverse , and I think sophisticated fan base. We can handle the truth! - to crib from Jack N - let us try one of these 'close call' episodes without any blind alleys formt he editing tema.

i for oen woudl love to be a fly on the wall during one of these marathon debates on the merits of suaces. This is a show for foodies and pros so I feel that I migth not be alone in this request - and hey if no one clicks on it then I am wrong and Bravo cna take it down

Anyways - thanks for such a great show - I look forward to finally getting a reservation and KRAFT-anywhere :)

PS - I vote that the reunion show has a montage of all of the Tom C non verbal facial expressions when you observe the chefs or taste thier food - freakin cracks me up

posted on September 27, 2007 at 3:59 AM

Tone wrote:

I cook at a country club...thats bout all i have on the cooking thing ...that was just to butter ya up ... lol but i personally think casey is the most BEAutiful women ive ever seen n my life ....i im tellin u right now im gonna marry that girl one day lol

posted on September 27, 2007 at 4:17 AM

Robin wrote:

Hooray, Chef Tom,

This season of Top Chef, in which there is only one Chef (Hung)in the bunch is about to end, with its sales pitch for mediocrity, and political correctness, and "soul" and "love" versus technical skill, (so dry) and culinary expertise( what's that?).

No doubt the message is about "soul" in the food, not about
the skill of preparation. We must find a way to overlook the onion incident, so we give Casey, the unskilled cook, the label of a chef with 'Soul". We must forget the dry chicken and rice dish with molasses and coffee mole (now that was a sauce wasn't it?) We must overlook the black and blue meat, so we must give the cook ,Casey, the admiration of creating a smoky soulful tomato sauce (huh). Since when did inedible meat find redemption with an enhancing sauce? In the restaurants I have eaten, many fine ones, a dish like that, goes back to the kitchen. And Casey needs to pay more dues.
Hung, had never cooked elk before, and yet you admitted it was the best cooked. So how come he didn't win the challenge, if his meat was the best cooked? What does that mean?

We have two carnivals of food in Dale and Brian's renditions of Elk with the Kitchen Sink. If Dale won, Brian should have remained. Brian was sent home because of the way he cooked his meat. Huh? At least his meat WAS cooked.

So we have one chef in the finals who served raw elk. Another who served carnival elk, and a third who cooked the elk just right.
See what I mean? There is only one Top Chef in the bunch.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 4:34 AM

Chris Stanifer wrote:

Chef Tom,

Great episode. Thank you for hosting it.

And, thank you, as well, for your clarification regarding Casey's "braised chicken". Having been an amateur food historian (and professional cook) for more years than I can recall, it really bothers me when people ascribe a classic name to a dish which..well...isn't.

Case in point, the "Coq au Vin". You're right. It didn't contain any old bird, much less a rooster. And, it wasn't given the time Coq au Vin deserves (and requires).

I know it sounds like we are all "picking nits" here, but the Kitchen has a language all it's own...and if everyone has their own definitions, then we will never be able to communicate our ideas effectively, and the guest will suffer for it. A brunoise is a brunoise, not a small dice or a mince. A julienne is a julienne, not a chiffonade or batonette. I'm sure you get my point.

Sure, the English language is dynamic and fluid... but "Kitchen Language" shouldn't be. There are traditions and tenets in a professional kitchen which must be upheld if those of us who work in them ever hope to know where we are going. Confusion in the kitchen is apparent in the dining room.

Now, where is that application for next season's show????

Cheers, and thanks for your time.

Chris

posted on September 27, 2007 at 4:36 AM

Bethany wrote:

I found that your comment to Hung about him being born in Vietnam and not seeing that in his food was so racist.
Maybe Casey, Brian and Dale should cook American style food since they were born here.
So maybe Padma should cook Indian cook.
Maybe you should cook Italian food.
See how your comment sounded somewhat racist?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 4:52 AM

James wrote:

I was also surprised by the finalists reaction to the quickfire and elimination challenges. In the two previous seasons, the challenges in the early rounds of the finals have all bore a connection to the locale (the Room Service Challenge in season 1 and the Luau Challenge in Season 2). On another note- I was dismayed to see that over 60% of those who voted in the "who would you like to see voted off" poll voted for Hung. I can only assume this is a judgement based purely on personality. Don't you people get it? This is a cooking comeptition. The judges themselves have said time and time again that "this is not a popularity contest" and in the end "it's all about the food". Obviously everyone is allowed a personal favorite. Further, I will be the first to admit that even the most talented chef needs to have a sense of camraderie in order to function as part of the kitchen unit. Steven's behavior in season 1 taught us that there is a line between having standards and elitism, one which separates talented cooks and top chefs. Tifanny (sp?) in season 1 showed us a similar line between between being competitive and cutthroat. Marcel's incessant needling in season 2 drew the line between friendly competition just plain childishness. I think we can all agree that these behaviors are more likely the result of young, insecure chefs dealing with the unfamiliar rigors of intense competition under the selective eye and within the hyperreality of "reality" tv. Despite his crowing, despite his indifference to helping his competitors, hung seems to be a decent guy. Like Anthony Bourdain noted in his last blog, I thought it was lame that Dale even asked hung for help n the Le Cirque challenge in NYC, and then labeled Hung as selfish in his cutaway. Give me a break. The kid is talented. The kid is a competitor. And while he may be the resident villain of Season 3, his behavior hardly merits the kind of reaction from viewers that the poll numbers suggested. He and Casey have consistently put together great and well recieved dishes throughout the competition, and if it is indeed "all about the food", they seem like the ones who most deserve to stay.

James

posted on September 27, 2007 at 4:57 AM

Micki Turney wrote:

hat amazes me about this group is the ability to think on their feet even after a balloon ride with champagne. I still think that Hung is too cocky-he always thinks he has the challenge "in the bag". I'm still rooting for Casey...

posted on September 27, 2007 at 5:12 AM

Michael M wrote:

Excellent blog Tom, and it was an excellent show. I have loved this whole season, much more maturity, and it seems much more talent among the chef's as well. I loved the camera shot of you as you listened to the chef's personal stories. You really seem like a good mentor to them.

I also just ate at wichcraft for the first time. it was wonderful.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 5:20 AM

Pat Hillegonds wrote:

As of the end of tonight's episode, I will not be dissapointed no matter which of the final contestants wins. I will only be disappointed that they cannot all be declared Top Chef, with not only the monetary, but also the publicity awards that designation bestows. I particularly found the ending of the show, where each of the contestants stated why he/she should go on to the finals, poignant and incredibly moving. Hung, surprisingly, had me in tears with the story of his family and the roots of his passion for food. All I can say is, they are all winners, and I hope to someday have the pleasure to taste their food.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 5:29 AM

Stacie wrote:

Season three has provided the best entertainment so far. The quality of the contestents is escalating. Last night's episode was great because it was so focused on the food. I will miss the blogs as much as the actual show when season three ends. A writer's voice is similar to the soul of a chef's cooking. We are fortunate that Tom has both!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 6:56 AM

Moses wrote:

Chef,

Hung is a classically trained French Chef from Massachusetts. It would be nice if you remembered that when you try to pigeon hole him as "Asian" and criticize him for not incorporating "Asian flavors" into his dishes. You'd look a heck of a lot less bigoted that way.

What's next, Dale's food isn't "Gay" enough? Casey's isn't "Womanish?" I mean, really, what you said was one of the most God-awful, bigoted things I've heard in years.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:19 AM

John wrote:

I thought this was a great episode and I love your blog Tom. However, maybe the pictures aren't revealing but they did not look like Brook trout (nor are Brook trout native to Colorado). In the pictures they look like rainbow trout which would make more sense for the region. Anyway, that is not important although i have found there are very suble differences between the species of trout. I thought the quickfire was great because every year I do the same thing on my annual fishing trip. To me nothing beats fresh caught trout, although I don't have a 20 minute time limit. I thought Casey nailed it, there is nothing quite like a bit of crispy fish skin. The elk too was a neat suprise. I love venison but like you said if it is not cooked perfectly, it can be horribly dry. Loved the challenge and agreed with the results. I am very much looking forward to seeing the finale. Can't wait.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:31 AM

lovethatfood wrote:

Has anyone else noticed that when Hung won the elimination challenge LAST week (before this final 4 episode), that he won NOTHING else. The week before Casey won a 17" laptop. This week Dale gets invited to Eric Ripert's restaurant and to the Aspen Food and Wine Festival. I thought that maybe just being guaranteed a Final 4 Berth WAS the reward, but Dale was guaranteed a final 3 berth. What was up with that?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:34 AM

Vicki wrote:

I really enjoy this show, the judges are great.
I hope Casey wins. She shows spunk. Everyone has been great.
I would like to meet some of the celebrity chefs that they have had on the show.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:35 AM

Darrell wrote:

Great Show! Excellent Job! My questions are:

1. How many calls have you fielded from Sam and Dave?

2. Why isn't Top Chef available on DVD?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:40 AM

Kathrine Loera wrote:

I really enjoyed last nights show, and am excited to see what happens next week. I was disappointed in Hung's attitude towards this weeks food choice, and his audience. But he is still my favorite contestant.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:50 AM

Arlene wrote:

This is the first season I've watched Top Chef and have enjoyed it immensely, however I personally think Padma doesn't add to the expertise of the chefs and panels on their take on food.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:56 AM

Julia wrote:

Casey and Brian were the least favorite chefs in this contest. Thank God for the producers they changed the game plan during the last minute, instead of sending two chefs home, they only sent one, saved the grace for Casey.

I am here to comparing Casey and Hung. Casey claimed she grew up in TX and cooked elks numerous times. Hung never cooked it, and the first time, he got every thing right even though there is some thing he over powered the spicies, but his dish still considers as good one. Hung has been very consistent, not Casey. Sara under cooked her chicken and not spiced her food enough got kicked out. Casey under cooked her elks, missed some spicies in her seasoning, stayed. One can see the bias here.

Brian could not do much of magic this time with limited time. Between Casey and Brian, if judges are fair, Casey should have packed knife.

I am glad Dale won this time. Dale has been a good cook and has been among judges favorite food many times. Poor guy, he just could not read the judges' mind. But this time, he won it on time to put him on the top!!!

Padma is such airheaded judge. She liked Brian's food, Brian got kicked out. Ha.... She is such a pretty doll without brain power. Tom you need to help her to get clue.

Now it's going to be interesting to see who will be crowned as top chef. Hung is a Top Chef, but Casey will win.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 7:58 AM

Gail wrote:

Boring.
Before this episode started we bet that the elimination would be anything that Casey would know very well how to do. Bingo.
We laughed when her elk was so raw we thought it might scream when bitten into. Once again she was given a pass. Bingo.
Just give her the money and get this over with. Just please next season remember season one and try to get some integrity back.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:07 AM

lynn wrote:

Last nights show wasn't really a big surprise..Brian's cooking has been good but going up against Hung and Casey..well..
Eric's comments in both the quick fire and final elimination were the saving grace of the show. Gail is so critical its starting to look questionable.
When Casey's dish was being reviewed, her tone was almost harsh, it was a welcome relief to hear Eric "I completely disagree with you"-boy did that change the tone rather quickly! The loudest critics on Top Chef are not the visiting chefs but Gail and Ted Allen..sorry but so what?
To hear Hung's life story..finally .. you saw the emotion.
Man, I can't wait until season 4!! Every show, this novice home cook learns something new. But, what the hell is a balsamic reduction????

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:23 AM

Pam wrote:

Tom, you are by far the most intimidating of all the judges,and I apprieciate that,the chef I work for is the same. I hate to be sexist,cause I'm usually not, but I so want to see Casey win,miostly because she is a kick ass female chef,who actually surprised me through out this series. I have watched,with passion,all three Top Chef seasons,and this one is by far the best. I do think you guys made a mistake with Tre, but he will go far wherever he is now.
Last nights episode was for sure a nail biter,and I was scared for my girl!!!Good job by Dale,but you can't be Top Chef when you dont even know what a mandolin is,let alone how to use one-c'mon!! Being technically proficant is one thing,and this is a compitition,but Hung is just an all around ass.And the immigrant thing is real old.I'm sorry to see Brian go,but you guys made the right desicion last night.Go Casey Go!!!!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:23 AM

julia wrote:

Do you really think the viewers don't see what Top Chef is doing...first the guest judge tells Casey he can see her "soul" then you tell Hung, who lives to cook that "we don't see you in food". Please....the good thing is all three deserve to be in the finals and unlike last year whoever wins it won't be tainted.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:23 AM

Beth wrote:

Awesome blog, Tom!

My husband and I were hanging on last night - it wasn't necessarily obvious who would be sent packing. This season has definitely had a more even playing field than the first two...there were people who you just knew wouldn't make it past half-way. Not that they weren't good - there were just others who through their own experiences, etc., who you knew had more skills, techniques, experiences that would take them further.

This season has been riddled with splitting hairs over terms/definitions. We've noticed you seemed to be in the kitchen a little more this season than in the other seasons. We've taken that to mean that judging has just become that much harder and the time in the kitchen has been an added benefit at judges table. I don't envy the judges positions at all!!

After the careful editing of last night's episode, it seemed apparent that Brian would be the one going home. Like has been said, the sideshow antics couldn't save the dish. I agreed with Eric that if Brian's going to have a cheese, shouldn't he know better which of the two cheeses would go best with his dish and gone with that instead of giving the client a choice? Yeah, chef's with your all's experience are probably going to have a decent idea which, if either, to choose based on what he's serving - but the other 45-60 people probably aren't going to have a clue and will go with whichever one they like best, if either! (I don't like blue cheese so I would have just passed on it.)

Tough decision, but -in the end- the right one.

Can't wait to see the finale, and even more, can't wait for season 4!!!

Thanks for all you do, and keep the blogs coming!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:31 AM

Trish in NoCal wrote:

Tom,

If you take anything away from this season, please, please see if you can influence how the show is edited. The forum at Television Without Pity especially has been extremely disappointed with how each week's elimination has been 'telegraphed' during the episode just by the choices of talking head segments. And personally, I would enjoy seeing more of what goes on at the judging table. Since we can't taste the dishes, we can only rely what you say about them - and usually, what we get isn't enough to really get an understanding of how and why you've reached certain conclusions. It's only after I've come and read your blogs for each episode that your choices make sense (which made your absence from blogging for most of the season very frustrating, since I wanted to hear more from you). Last night's judging table would have benefited greatly from the addition of some of the statements that I read in your blog and Gail's. There must be some way to get those opinions across for your viewers, even if they need to be added later as voice-overs.

I'm looking forward to next week's finale, and I want to congratulate all of you on an excellent season, even though at times I wished the chefs hadn't repeated ingredients so often; it seemed like there were an awful lot of dishes that utilized cauliflower or shrimp!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:34 AM

Sara wrote:

Well said, Tom, on all your points (regarding both the Season Finale Part I and your postscript that addresses last weeks' episode). Yet another reason your blog is such a useful tool when watching Top Chef.

I am very pleased that three chefs will be participating in the final cooking challenge. Although this season certainly did have its share of drama, it seems as though the friendships forged while the chefs lived together in Miami were genuine. I believe the remaining chefs each have the focus, drive and voice (yes, critics, even Hung!) that deserves to be heard in a final challenge. I don't envy the judges having to choose the Top Chef from this talented group!

Thank you for serving us viewers another wonderful season of Top Chef. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long for Season Four!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:43 AM

Ava Gacser wrote:

Hung clearly has a split personality. Half the time he acts cocky and arrogant, finishing both the Quickfire and Elimination challenges early and hanging around watching his competitors frantically rush to finish. (OK, I'll throw him a bone here. I'm not sure I would help out at this point, either. God forbid you're actually helpful and the other person wins!)

Then other times Hung utters comments about his humble childhood in Vietnam, and how his father came to the U.S. and worked hard to bring the rest of the family over. (Of course he said most of these things to the judges in an attempt to sway their votes.)

In the end, last night's episode was a perfect example of how we simply don't know the real Hung. Hung's food is "technically perfect," judge Tom Colicchio pointed out, but "we don't see you in the food at all." Isn't that the whole point of being a chef?

I'm not going to argue that Hung doesn't belong in the final three (all of whom are competing for the title in next week's finale). But once again, it's come down to what's more important: technical perfection or the heart, soul and personality behind each dish.

Read more by visiting my blog by clicking on my name.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:52 AM

Lisa wrote:

I will have to admit I had no idea this show was even on the air until yesterday afternoon and Bravo was playing some repeats. I am so addicted now that it was impossible to tear myself away.
I was a little put off by the discussion about the chicken. I understand that if it's a duck then call it a duck but if grandma makes it and calls it steak then it is a steak...:)
Truly a GREAT show !!!!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:57 AM

donna wrote:

I think it's great this season to see the majority of the chefs act more cohesive as a group and have a genuine respect for each other instead of all the drama of the previous season. The focus really seems to be about the food. Another great season!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 8:58 AM

Jeff wrote:

I think Casey will win, but am I the only one tired of her constant harping on being a women in the kitchen and how hard it is. WAAAAHHHH! I'm Casey, I'm a woman, it's so hard to be a chef WAAAAHHH! Please, the first ten times were enough. It's almost as bad as listening to Laura on Project Runway harp on being a mom and pregnant. Everyone has challenges to deal with. You don't hear CJ constantly complain WAAAAHHH! I'm CJ, I'm freakishly tall one-nut no-talent hack WAAAHHHH!! You don't hear Dale constantly complain WAAAHHHH! I'm Dale, I'm a pointy-headed gay left-my-brain-at-home-today and Hung won't tell me how to cook WAAAHHHH! Somebody please tell Casey she's not the only person with challenges in her life. Go Hung!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:03 AM

K wrote:

No Tony? Bummer.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:17 AM

Chris wrote:

Chef Tom,

Brilliant summary of last evening's "semi-final" and I'm really looking forward to next weeks finale.

I'm continually amazed at the creativity exhibited by the chef's on TopChef... but, I do have a question for you. Hypothetically, if you DO have in mind a "favorite" and /he doesn't blow you away, do or would you take into account the body of work they've presented thus far?

One other quick thing... I LOVE the expressions on your face the camera cathes when you pop in the kitchen and learn what the chef's are planning to serve; sometimes you seem thrilled...other times you seem to be wondering, "what in hell are you thinking?!"

Keep up the great work and don't worry about your spelling... you eat food, you don't spell it!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:22 AM

Shannon wrote:

Tom,

I love your blog, and I love Top Chef. So far this was my favorite challenge. Ihave felt that over the season, there aren't that many "wow" dishe being served. I was glad to see such harsh words for Hung, that i think were abosolutely true. He is a great skilled chef, but he doesn't seem to be showing himeself in his food. I was also glad to see the Dale take his first win! It will be interesing to see who is going to be the winner!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:25 AM

Jami wrote:

The show last night was very good. This season has been refreshing,,,the chefs seem so talented and focused.
I look forward to the finale.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:27 AM

Jo-Ann wrote:

Hi Chef Tom!

I was so happy to read your blog and see that you mentioned Dale's story. I felt the same way last night when he told of the last year of his life. I was very touched. He was truly sincere. He is a chef again! TC changed his life whether he wins or not. Agree with all your comments regarding the challenges. I enjoy when you add a little something about yourself in your blog. When you wrote of how you feel about Aspen. You have a big fan club out the Chef Tom, and we do enjoy those tidbits.

Thank you!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:34 AM

Ted wrote:

Chef,
I feel your comments were spot on.
I realize, that Thursday morning quarterbacking is easy, but I feel, if Brian would have smoked a roast, injecting it with a spicy brine, and then marinading it with apple juice while cooking then thinly sliced it, the dish would have been more towards the target clientel, and been great to eat. I am sorry cheese and elk in my book, just do not go together.
I have wached all three seasons of Top Chef, and every year, it amazes me of the talent that is out there, but goes unnoticed. and shows like Bravo's Top Chef, give people an avenue to show that talent.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:35 AM

Donna wrote:

Hi Tom,

Love the blog... thanks for explaining the Coq au Vin mix up. I know nothing about French cooking but in reading the comments on the blogs I was confused. I think the main reason people were complaining was that the way the show was edited, which I know you have no say so, it sounded like Casey would have won had she not named the dish Coq au Vin.

Hung was in his eliment last week, this week not so much. I loved that Dale finally came into his own. I've been rooting for him all through the show.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:38 AM

Marcy S wrote:

Brian had a good point in his exit video (which was otherwise just a tad bitter): he said the show should be called "Top Dish," since each week's winner is based on that night's dish, not on all the factors that go into making a chef great. It seems like the judges actually do take other things into account, but they never admit it. Why not include qualities like the ability to lead, to work with others, to think on your feet, to work the crowd? and let winning and losing be based on more than just one dish? As I said, I think the judges do this to a certain extent already--almost everyone I've talked to since last week was sure Brian would be leaving next, given his overall skills as compared to the others.

Whatever...I just loooove this show! And the blog analysis the morning after. Keep it up.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:47 AM

sn wrote:

Tom: I normally like your comments on the show; however, i felt that your remark about Hung's ethnicity and that you don't see that in his food is inappropriate. Do you believe that because he is Vietnamese that he needs to add that element to his cooking? Perhaps your remarks were edited out of context, but I have not heard you make that remark to the African-American contestants nor do I think you would because it would be obviously racist and draw controversy. Furthermore, the setting of the elimination challenge would not have been appropriate for Hung to serve Asian food. Vietnamese food to a bunch of cowboys? Clearly, the challenge was designed to benefit Casey based on her Texas background. Would you have created a Vietnamese challenge here- no, because hung would have an obvious benefit? I hope I am wrong, but I sense that the sending three to the finals is a smokescreen so that there won't be a direct comparison between Casey and Hung therefore setting up a win for Casey- your first female top chef. Additionally, stating that the talent level is so high here on this season is crazy- compare season one where all four of the finalists could easily have been the winner or even season 2 where each person in the final four went to culinary school and had experience at top restaurants. Finally, i am sick of the soul remark; I wish the tastings were blind.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:50 AM

Bob Doria wrote:

Having watched this challenge from the beginning, I agree that Hung is the most technical of the chefs. However, he cooks like it is a pure science with no art. He has not taken many chances with his dishes, but chooses to stay classical. He is very talented, but I think he needs to lighten up.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 9:59 AM

Lauri wrote:

Thanks, Chef, for clarifying the issue with Casey's dish last week. I was disappointed for her, but I'm happy to see her in the final 3. BTW, I don't cook even a little bit (trust me, nobody wants that), but I just looove this show. Keep up the great work!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:04 AM

TC wrote:

I really enjoyed last nights show. I think all of the chefs did a fine job and they all put out fine work. However I'm still a little stung by a Tre hangover and how this show operates. I've watched every season and despite the claims of a challenge to challenge elimination, that doesn't seem to be the case. Last night, besides a sauce, Casey pretty much was panned for not having a strong meal, you said you didn't get her side dishes and that her meat was way too rare. So basically all she did right was a sauce. Brian on the other hand had, from what we heard, a great tasting meal but it was all over the place with ingredients. If this was an earlier episode I think Casey would have been gone but I have a hard time believing her recent wins didn't factor in to the decision. Especially seeing the round about reasons why she stayed now. I also think Dale, despite this win, hasn't done much to distinguish himself this whole season and has flown under the radar. Despite his cockiness I am now almost forced to cheer for Hung because he has been strong throughout and held to his style. I look forward to the finale but think in future season that Top Chef go away from being Middle of the Road Chef that Flew Under the Radar and for judges to take someomes full body of work into effect to give viewers a real final Top Chef. I could then understand Casey being left while not wondering why you woul dget rid of Tre. Maybe last year when Sam got screwed and we had to hear excuses, things would have been different.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:06 AM

Beth wrote:

What a great episode! It was satisfying to watch Hung finish early in the quickfire then screw it all up by forgetting the lemon juice. He is so cocky that it's hard to like him. I can't believe that he tried to tell the judges that he had so much "soul" in his food and that he "loved" the challenge...whatever! He will say anything to win. If anything, it's been stated that Hung's food does NOT have soul. Just because you have good technical skills, that does not necessarily make you a top chef--anywhere. I can't wait to watch him lose and watch Casey win! Also, Hung, you're an immigrant, we get it. Stop looking for sympathy (or whatever) and just cook your food. The same goes for Dale and his gay-ness. Lose some of that crap in the editing room please!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:08 AM

Laura wrote:

Tom, I loved your expressions last night as the chefs were explaining why they should go onto Part 2 of the finale. You had a proud look on your face and it warmed my heart. I don't know if that look was sarcastic, but I'm going to pretend that the only thing you were thinking is that these chefs have come a long way! I enjoyed last night's episode. The thing that really got to me was when Hung sat there and said that he was not excited about Elk, when it was just him, sitting there, talking to the camera, but when you asked him about it at Judge's table, he said something along the lines of, "Oh yeah, I'm really excited about Elk!" That's not an exact quote, but you get my gist. He is two faced. He is a kiss-@#$...and that makes me wish he wasn't there! Dale was awesome. It was cool that he shared his background with you. It made me like him more. It would be nice if it was Casey, Brian and Dale at the finale, but you people obviously taste the dishes made for you. So who knows, Brian's dish could've tasted like crap! It just gets to me that you guys keep saying that you don't see Hung in his dishes. Eric Ripert even said that SOUL is very important in the food that you prepare. Does Hung even have a soul?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:12 AM

Bets wrote:

Eric Ripert touched on it, and you alluded to it when you spoke to Hung-how do you decide whether a dish is cooked with soul? I think Hung has such a strong classical background very little of his personality actually comes thru-the Serrat cereal sunrise and the ice cream challenge gave an idea of how he thinks, but how do you define soulful food?

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:16 AM

Sue wrote:

Haha Tom, I love your comments. Especially the end comment - Trust me, I ate it. Yes People - they actually EAT the food whereas we at home only get a glimpse of their snippets and overly-edited comments. But I really love your approach this time around. Sometimes being too defensive will encourage more cristism and defiance. People are weird. But obviously a whole slew of the best judges in the world ought to know better!

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:16 AM

bob wrote:

Doesn't "ahi" generally refer specifically to yellowfin tuna? I've always interpreted the term "Ahi tuna" as meaning "Yellowfin, not bluefin, blackfin, or big eye."

I'm sure many restaurants have served bluefin as Ahi, but to me if it says Ahi, I expect yellowfin.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:18 AM

Christine wrote:

Tom - Thanks for asking each chef to speak from the heart about what cooking and food means to them. I could see, at least if editing didn't enhance the situation, that you and the other judges were moved by the comments made by the contestants. Mostly, I was delighted to see Hung - a passionate chef who receives a lot of unfair criticism from posters on this site - share his experience. I see him in all of the food he cooks - controlled, respectful of tradition yet willing to have fun and take risks, but never forgetting the prize.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:19 AM

PamK wrote:

Tom,
At the begininng of this season you looked a bit tired and somewhat strained--was that a forced smile? After watching last nights Finale Part 1 and reading this blog, I'm hoping that you are re-energized. Your writing certainly makes it sound that way. The entire episode start to finish was truly engaging. Each contestant is unique and each demonstrated he or she is a very strong chef. Also, the editing and music for the show are awesome and were on-target last night.
Thank you for staying engaging. And, please, no more fake smiles--they don't suit you.
PK

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:20 AM

Ben Lee wrote:

What a wonderful, wonderful series, particularly Cycle 3, where almost every single chef is a talent and so professional. I have watched every episode since Cycle 1, and the challenges get better and better and more and more pertinent (I'm sure part of this is a credit to Lee Ann). This program is so unlike other "cooking" series, one of which features a certain British chef, where most of the chefs look like they shouldn't be allowed to wield sharp instruments. My compliments to everyone involved. I think Hung is a great talent, maybe just a bit immature (there is such a thing as wanting to win too much). Ultimately, cooking for people, whether in a four-star restaurant or a soup kitchen, is a noble profession and a team endeavor. I would like to think that even in a competition, contestant chefs should have no problem helping a fellow chef get a few things on a plate. Finally, I really want to see the Season 1 versus Season 2 episode again, where the Season 3 chefs were judges. It would be interesting to see their comments then and match them up with their performance during Cycle 3.
Thanks for a great series,
Ben in New York City

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:24 AM

jennifer wrote:

Last night's show was the tensest yet. I really had no idea who was going to get the boot until Brian was told to vamoose. Sheesh! And now with three in the finals, I really believe that anything can happen. I'm hoping that Casey wins. Her skills seem so rock solid and she's often so innovative and in tuned to what she's trying to accomplish with a dish. Barring Casey winning, I'd be happy if Dale took the crown. Hung...there's nothing I can say about him that hasn't already been said.

posted on September 27, 2007 at 10:25 AM

vic wrote:

Hi Tom!

I'm not much of a blogger or a fan of TV in general. However, I will say, I am hooked on this program. Season Two was a bit of a disappointment as the producers seem to focus on the drama and not the food. It's good to see the focus back on the food! :)
I'm a happy (and somewhat good) home cook and this show has inspired me to broaden my horizons, improve my skills and test my own abilities. Thanks for the inspiration! The contestants are a focused, professional group, which makes them a pleasure to watch. I wish them all the best. Go