Sandra j. Henry wrote:

I was glad to see Sara go...Ifelt she had been skating by for
some time now. Good luck to all the finalists!

Sincerely,
Sandra

posted on September 20, 2007 at 8:42 PM

Samera wrote:

Thanks Chef Colicchio again for a wonderful blog. I thought this episode was the best because it really tested the contestants with real-life time restraints as would occur in restaurants. I think Hung was exceptional and it didn't go unnoticed with me that he won both challenges. Plus, it was nice to see that his contestants acknowledged his skills as they watched him for the first (extra) 30 minutes he cookd as a prize for having won the Quick Fire. I think all of the episodes should be similar to this particular one which had challenges that truly showed who had technique, creativity, heart, etc. and then were able to create a phenomenal dish. Bravo Hung!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 8:56 PM

John Nelson, Jr. wrote:

Hi, Chef.

If you read my comments to Gail's blog, you will notice that I immediately follow Casey's dish description with the word "variant" (where in the US are you going to find roosters in an urban grocery store?).

Looking at Gail's serving of Sara's dish, to me it was not just pink, but had blood still flowing in the veins.

Hung's dish looked ready in just over the two hours that everyone else hade to use. To me, it was just the perfect challenge to showcase his technical prowess.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 8:58 PM

GetOverIt wrote:

Great blog as usual, Tom.

I knew that something was cut out of the final show after the Quickfire.

Now ALL of the Casey fans will stop crying like babies and see why Hung won the Quickfire instead of Casey. Close, but attention to detail was needed.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:02 PM

Juliette wrote:

Nice farewell notes to Sara. Re: the people who "hate" Hung.....I think you should blame the editors. Clearly Casey is getting the "sweetheart of TC" edit while everything that shows Hung as obnoxiously overly-confident is played up to the hilt.

Fortunately, many of ussee through all the manipulation. I like Casey, too, she's obviously got a great palate, talent, works hard, and always conducts herself in a professional manner. (Thanks for "representing" so nicely, Casey. It happens all too seldom on competitive reality tv. You clearly deserve top 2 and great opportunities after this).

But many of us love Hung--he can't be faulted, as you say, for realizing this is a competition. He doesn't sabotage anyone, helps beautifully when part of a (genuine) team, and his enthusiasm for cooking is infectious. Also, people may balk, but he DOES have a great backstory. I hope he wins.

Oh, and speaking of Hung...So, he finally wins an EC and what, exactly, is his prize, Tom? Casey got....a laptop in one EC...round trip tickets anywhere in the world in another.

And Hung got....got....got....???? It appears that he got absolutely NOTHING other than "Yep, you're final 4."

If true, that is So. Unfair.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:10 PM

Ellie Wymore wrote:

Tom, when I read the blogs this morning, nothing had been posted on yours, so I added this to Gail's. Now that there is a place to comment, I have copied it over to yours. I was bemused by all the comments about the fact that Casey's coq au vin was not traditional. You brought this up again and again during the show. I would never pretend I was a chef - just someone who likes to cook for friends and family. In my checkered past I have made coq au vin for dinner parties several times. After all of your comments last night (which were the ONLY negative comments made about Casey's dish, at least that were shown to viewers) I dragged out my 3 cookbooks from which I have taken my recipes. These include MASTERING THE ART OF FRENCH COOKING by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck. Each coq au vin recipe calls only for a 2 1/2 to 3 lb chicken. Nothing is said about a rooster in any of them. If this is the only acceptable way to prepare the dish, someone forgot to tell some of our greatest French chefs.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:12 PM

anakingirl11 wrote:

First of all, I love Top Chef. I loved the first two seasons very much. I think there was a lot of talent there. I have to say, I am a bit disappointed with Season 3. Again, maybe it's the editing but it seems to me that the talent of the chefs in season 3 is not up to par with either seasons 1 or 2.
Even last episode proved that even up to this point, chefs are making simple mistakes. I'm not a chef, hey, I'm not even a cook but at the level that the chefs are, I find it inexcusable to serve raw chicken or not season the fish with salt and pepper.
Going into the finale of season 2, any one of those chefs, could have been named Top Chef. This season, I honestly don't know. Hung may have great knife skills and can cook up some things but he has made many mistakes in the past shows and was on the bottom many times. Also, his manners in the kitchen are also questionable. Casey just recently began showing that she can cook. Where was she for most of the season? Brian and Dale are a big if. One minute they do well, another they mess up badly.
I'm just glad, I'm not making the decision here.
Good luck, Tom.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:16 PM

Sue wrote:

Tom--

I wanted to let you know that this has been by far the best and my most favorite panel of contestants since the Top Chef shows have been on. What makes it so is the commaraderie and team spirit that I see from all of the contestants. It demonstrates a maturity and a sense of professionalism that I believe needs to be a part of a Top Chef repertoire. With that said, I would like to comment on your comments of Hung. Yes, he is being honest about winning. However--and I will point out what you said to Tiffany in Season 1--a Top Chef not only has to prove themself with the food, but also whether or not they can work with those in their kitchen. From what I can see on the show, one can tell that Hung is definitely alienating himself from the rest of the group. So, I guess I am a little puzzled by your change in attitude from the Season 1 episode. There also have been other issues with Hung's being obtuese about the others--i.e. almost stabbing someone with a kitchen knife, not picking up seafood when he drops it, and breaking oil on the floor without even so much as an apology. These are all safety issues. I am someone who has worked in environments where in this day and age, safety is a major concern. I would think that a "Top Chef" is also someone who would also make safety a priority in their kitchen and shows concern to others when there is something of an unsafe nature. With this said, though I can understand your sentiments with Hung, I think he is lacking in areas that definitely needs some work to being a Top Chef. Putting Casey out because of a technicality of a title to her dish, in my opinion seemed a bit lame. In the beginning of your blog this week, you didn't say it was about the titles of what they made, but about the food. Again, why the change of heart and issue on something like this, but then ignoring issues concerning Hung? Hung seems like a nice guy and a very good chef, as have they all been good chefs (with bad days at work like how it is for us all). However, it would be great if you could be consistent on your views when it comes to the overall outcome. So far, from all the episodes I've watched, your own views on how it this is demonstates as such: a Top Chef is one is not only makes food above and beyond, but can maintain self discipline, rally other chefs into their court, follows safety guidelines in the kitchen, and demonstrates professionalism worthy of the title. Hung is great at the first point, but really needs some guidance as to the others. I hope in the overall finality in everything, these things will come through in the end.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:24 PM

dawn wrote:

Chef,
Thanks for explaining the difference between Casey's second place Le Cirque dish and Hung's winner. On tv it seemed that Casey should have won. Hung has been impressive, however a last minute slip up could overcook his goose.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:27 PM

Kathy&Ray wrote:

Watch your own video,every chef enjoyed CASYE'S DISHES MORE THAN hUNG'S.WATCH YOUR OWN TAPING WHEN ALL OF YOU ATE IT! IT WAS THE BEST FOR BOTH CHAN. 'IF YOU WATCH YOURSELFS!!!!!!SHE IS NOT MY FIRST CHOICE BUT SHE IS THE BEST FOR WHATS LEFT. i HAVE BEEN COOKING FOR 33 YRS.SO FAR I WOULD NOT EAT ANY OF YOUR DISHES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:37 PM

Louis wrote:

I do not ike Hung, but I don't understand why the otehr chefs expected him to tll them how he made that fish dish durng the quick fire. Why would he come and announce his technique to everyone when the challenge was to figure out how to re-create the dish. It wasn't a group challenge.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 9:40 PM

theresa wrote:

I agree with the Hung comments. If I were Hung, I'd be doing the exact same thing, because I'm competitive, I like to win and why would I help someone beat me. I'm not a bitch, but I would not dare share with my competitors any things that would give them an edge.

I love Dale and Brian and Tom. I was surprised at the chefs at Le Cirque's attitude. It was like Ratatoille (sp?). I thought that was soooo interesting. They were hostile almost!!!

I have learned to really respect chefs from this show. They are a passionate breed!!!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:02 PM

Danny wrote:

I was so bummed that Sara was eliminated. It would have been great to see her make it to the final four. She really won me over with the restaurant challenge. When she got eliminated, my heart went out to her. I really want to see her dream of being a master cheese maker come true.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:05 PM

Chris wrote:

This has clearly become a two chef race.

Dale makes far too many silly mistakes. Brian's skills and meal plans are second-rate.

A best of three between Casey & Hung would be better television then what we are going to see next.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:05 PM

pj wrote:

Excellent blog, Chef C. Regarding Hung's "in-to-win" mentality that you described in the last paragraph, do you find that--based on your experiences with Top Chef, Craft, or otherwise--most chefs from the higher demand haute cuisine restaurants share that mentality?

I noticed from the past few seasons that chefs from the more well-known of restaurants (Marcel from Robuchon, Hung to Guy Savoy, even Ilan to the extent of working with someone like Andy Nusser) are not only seemingly more gifted in cooking technique, but also possess an edge in being more cutthroat than other contestants. I was actually surprised that contestants like Lia (Jean Georges!) and Joey (des Artistes) were more tame. Regardless, I'm just wondering if such personalities are emblematic of chefs of those types of restaurants, or something else...

Either way, I'm looking forward to the finale, and am also interested to see how Season 4 will turn out. Pity that y'all haven't imported more contestants from abroad (would've loved to see a Fat Duck or El Bulli contestant hop across the pond to compete)! Bonne chance

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:15 PM

Janet wrote:

While it I do not dispute the decision to send Sara home, since it does seem her dish didn't work, I do dispute the assertion of one of the judges that he had never seen anything like her fricassee of chicken in his visits to Jamaica. Fricassee chicken, also called chicken brown stew, is very common in Jamaica, and her recipe looks like a pretty authentic rendition. Unlike other Jamaican dishes it is not highly seasoned. It seemed Sara was intimidated by the surroundings and the challenge which likely contributed to her failures in execution. All in all, as Sara said, she had a good run.

It'll be interesting to see what happens next.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:16 PM

Blake Carper wrote:

Great Blog Chef.

When are we going to see the masters take on the young turks in a Judges Vs. Contestants challenge?

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:23 PM

Jeff wrote:

Ridiculous. I cannot even believe the nitpicking over Casey's LABELING of her dish earned her a loss over Hung's POOR EXECUTION of the Pommes Dauphine. If Hung's dish tasted better, then fine. But I'm not convinced from all the comments (especially Jacque Torres') that his tasted better than Casey's, in which case her loss really undermines the show's integrity (once again).

And I can't believe you see Hung as being merely "honest". I know this is a competition, but are you trying to rise to Survivor levels of brutal cutthroatness? Do you even watch the show, Tom? Do you really want to reward behavior like his? Was Daniel Boulud as much of a weasel as Hung is?

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:27 PM

missycrump@alltel.net wrote:

I missed the show and had to go with rerun- but I agree it was about the food. Why did Sarah still insist her chicken was cooked- Does she not know cooked chicken? I agree she should have been sent packing- maybe sooner than now. Casey has grown on me- but I am still thinking Hung may come through. I am from the south so- you know- deep fried smothered in gravy is my pallates choice. This came close to my fav show but I did enjoy the frozen food episode- I have to cook and freeze alot for my family and I learned some tricks. On a personal note- TOM- I want to see a family pic. I have a great hubby that is devoted like you are (few men seem to be) and I think it is cool that you talk about your family- can we see them?

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:33 PM

jason wrote:

I really liked that episode and it was great to see the chefs that were assembled to judge. I was amazed how humble and charming every one of them were. It was great to see everyone try and recreate a dish that seems like the hardest task you can try. Hung was pretty amazing and I agree with him in not telling everyone how to win. Also amazing was how good casey was. Her and hung have taken this competition over. I just want to know who gets tre in the finale because that will be huge. In fact I think the chefs should be able to pick their crew out of anyone they know not just people from the show. Obviously it cuts down on the drama but it would show both chefs at their best.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:35 PM

missycrump@alltel.net wrote:

I tried this and it didnt work so I will try again- I agree this was a good episode- however, I liked the frozen food one better- I work 2 jobs and learned some tricks from this one. I am from the SOUTH and deep fried with lots of gravy is what we prefer with our chicken. But how did Sarah not know her chicken was under cooked and how many people has she killed trying to serve raw chicken???? At any rat4e- Casey has won me over but I think Hung might pull something out- he seems vreative enough. I asked before- can we see a pic of your family Chef Tom. I think it is really neat that you are a family man and happy at home. I have a wonderful hausband and 2 boys that I adore. Just like to see your family, but I understand the privacy you need as well. Keep cooking- and try a little gravy- YUM!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:40 PM

Rochelle wrote:

For the last 2 weeks I've been without cable and missing Top Chef has been killing me! I'm glad I can read about the show. I can't wait until this season is on DVD. Sorry to read that CJ was cut, I really liked his carefree attitude. Maybe just a little too laid back. But thank goodness Howie is gone....that guy was a ticking time bomb. And oh, yes I love Tom! What girl could ask for more....a nice looking bald man that can cook

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:44 PM

Marilyn wrote:

Great episode! Amazing to see inside Le Cirque, replicating a VIP recipe, and hear the opinions of some of the top chefs in the country. Unexpected finalists...but can't wait for the final!
PS I had a similar meal at The Common Grill in Chelsea, Michigan. White fish with thin potato slices that looked like fish scales...amazingly good! So, if you ever go to the Ann Arbor art fair or visit Univ of Michigan...stop by there, the food is awesome. Also Jeff Daniels has a local theater there (his home town)...and no, i'm not from Michigan.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:49 PM

Top_Chef_Fan wrote:

Tom, I would just like to comment that I've been pretty impressed by the prizes for the winners of the past elimination challenges (i.e. MacBook Pro and roundtrip business tix, etc). However, how come Hung didn't win any prize from last night's challenge, considering it's probably the most important challenge so far? In all fairness, having won both the quickfire and the elimination challenge, Hung deserves at least a free meal or some sort of prize.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:49 PM

Jenny wrote:

I love your blog. I agree that Sara should have gone home. I thought that Casey was treated a little unfairly---first by the judge in the quickfire. OK, to be called attractive is great! To tell a woman, "I want to vote for you because you are attractive, but I can't." Is Not Great! It belittles her effort and achievement! Also, in the elimination round, obviously she had the second best dish. That she "mis-named" it, most Americans would not care. And it goes against the first statement in the blog---that it's about the cooking. Love the Show! Go Casey!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:53 PM

haura wrote:

dear mr. colicchio -- thanks for the behind-the-scenes commentary. i love your show (my first season) and i don't blog. normally. i love cooking and i love the extra education i receive from the NBA All-stars of culinary skill and cuisine. you guys are the 0.x% of the population (the decision process could be much longer) and very few things are more important and pervasive than FOOD! as dale said, you can taste (as you say) soul, culture, current socioeconomic status, personality, upbringing, and the common human condition in food.

i wish tre were still here...but i think that casey and hung are right where they are supposed to be. hung needs to mature but that comes in any creative endeavor...music, fashion, art, gardens. he has (the most) skills. casey has an incredible palate, presentation and women's intuition. equivalent male level of testosterone?...time will tell.

it was a coin toss between sara and dale. maybe not that day, but it should've been between brian and sara. but i'm glad dale is still around. i have to say that had soul and skills but maybe not those ideally suited to top chef.

can you invite jacque pepin? and get rid of gail?

posted on September 20, 2007 at 10:54 PM

lon wrote:

Lest anyone annoint a winner now, let us remember that the inability to work as a team was one of the foils that snared Tiffany in season 1's finale and Marcel in season 2's finale.

There were certainly other issues as well. One suspects though that their abrasive personalities and desire to win at all costs hurt them in the kitchen during the final finale.

If Top Chef repeats its format of bringing former contestants back to assist the two final chefs in the last challenge - and there is no reason to suppose that won't happen - individual strengths may give way to team strengths. And the chef who can draw the most out of her/his team members may carry away the title.

Looking forward to the final finale in two weeks.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:00 PM

Ro wrote:

I wish I was more excited about any of these contestants....

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:01 PM

H. Nguyen wrote:

Is anyone here able to tell me when Hung has REFUSED to help a person? Keyword here is REFUSED. In the Plane episode, Hung was criticized for not helping CJ finish

prepping, but in the episode Hung plainly stated that he was not ASKED to help. A lot of sanctimonioius posters here cry out "Oh, but CJ shouldn't have needed to ask for

help!" First off, Hung is NOT a mind reader. Secondly, if you want help, ASK for it. Hung does not EXPECT people to help him -- a very common attitude among immigrants who

came to this country and overcame language, economic, and sociological barriers to succeed in a country rife with people who fault you for your ambition and drive (You can

peruse these comments for a perfect example). When he needed Casey to help him plate, he politely ASKED her. To everyone here who continues to get on their soapbox to

complain about Hung not cleaning up after himself or being a selfish jerk or for simply not being nice enough, I will politely ASK you all to GET OFF IT.

Now to one of the biggest whiners in Top Chef history, Dale. Two things I'd like to point out. In the plane episode he accused Hung of not being a "teamplayer" because he

didn't help CJ. Wake-up call Dale, that was an INDIVIDUAL challenge. Your criticism was completely inappropriate. I didn't hear you complain about Hung during Restaurant

Wars or the Yacht party. And your attempt to paint Hung as a selfish individual because he didn't help you cheat on the Le Circque Quickfire challenge shows what a

delusional whiner you've become in the late stages of this competition. Hung had to claw his way to get where he is -- as I'm sure many chefs here had to do -- and all of a

sudden he's supposed to reveal his hard-earned knowledge to you at the drop of a hat because you asked? How DARE Hung turn down your presumptuous request!

The Hung-haters on this forum remind me of the students in school who mock the immigrant kid for doing nothing but study hard; they jeer the kid for reminding the teacher

to assign homework. They ask for homework answers, and when the immigrant kid refuses, he becomes an object of ridicule. The uptight, self-righteous students, afforded

every opportunity in life, affronted by the hard working kid who was afforded none.

Keep working hard Hung and you'll reach your goal.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:08 PM

Hyperboliz wrote:

Tom - Where are your minions? I know, on ABs blog being sycophantic groupies de jour. But your take on the contest is helpful to the non-professional, the simple 'home cook' like me. I LOVE the PBS cooking shows and for years have watched them with my little girl in my lap. She loves to watch the pros and we often decide to make a simple version of what Jacques, Ming, of Lidia pull off so seamlessly. But Tom, Please - admit the flagrant presence of gender bias on TC. Casey's dish, '...tasted the best...' yet Hung won. Hung, his royal highness who had the temerity to whine about having to plate on his own. Enlighten me please, isn't plating like the artist signing his work? In my profession (medicine), I don't allow an 'assistants' to place my important sutures or excise lesions off my patients. That's MY job. But maybe the kitchen heirarchy is different. Anyway I am a huge fan of the show and just read your "Think Like a Chef". Most enjoyable. Though there is no way I can attempt much of what's in the book, it was gratifying to me (a Jersey girl) to read of your youthful cavortings in your family swim club (Birchwood?) as you sweltered in the snack bar. I live in on the Chesapeake in VA now and must bemoan the fact that I have Never seen RAMPS here - though am most anxious to try them. Know that your books have helped boost courage in the kitchen and lessen fear of unfamiliar edibles. I must note one apprehension, however, of raw and squiggling items on the plate: since I cut stuff off folks all day I like well cooked protein. Otherwise it's just too damn reminiscent of my day job. I suspect others too, cringe at too much raw, pink jiggly stuff in their entree. (BTW - didn't GAIL schkeeve Sara's 'raw' chicken? Seems a bit hypocritical. Only SOME proteins are allowed to be undercooked, not all? Shunning all food-borne pathogens, always!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:17 PM

Ariana wrote:

Thanks Chef Tom for the great overview. And thanks to Bravo for giving us an absolutely top notch cooking competition - this is the best of reality tv. I wish all the episodes were like last night's. With that said, I must say I hope Hung doesn't win. When you asked Dale and Sara during the elimination judges table what food means to them - Dale's answer was absolutely right on, a chef needs to have his heart and soul in his food. Hung just doesn't seem to have either. You don't get the sense that he cooks from this deep rooted passion. From what I have since learned about Andre Soultner from these blogs, a "top chef" like Mr Soultner is committed to the profession of feeding people. Hung tries to feed you, and if he fails in that manner (as he has in many exercises) he thinks it's because you're an idiot. And Hung also fails to garner the respect of the rest of the kitchen. So, if I can't have Tre back in the finals, then I think Casey should win. P.S. Do us all a favor and use the same group from FCI in NY to pick your next season's contestants - we need the best of the best, and this season's group just did not add up to 1 or even 2. Thanks

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:20 PM

Tori wrote:

Yes, I am a Hung Hater, but not only because of his arrogance. Nothing that he has prepared during this competition look like something I would serve were I to own my own restaurant. I understand he has the technical ability, but it takes more than just technique to make a GOOD chef. A good chef understands that there are people out there going to eat this dish. To denigrate those people just because they disagree with you (as he has several times after Judge's Table) is not a quality I would look for in a Top Chef.
Thanks for such a great show! Go Casey!!!!!!

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:20 PM

brooklyn wrote:

I agree wholeheartedly -- this was the best episode yet. The "what-can-I-do-with-50-cents-and-a-vending-machine?" quick-fires may be entertaining, but I often wonder what it has to do with picking a top chef. So it was great to see chef's being challenged to demonstrate superior cooking techniques. Please, as you consider challenges for next season, can we have fewer gimmicks and more tests of the chefs' skill in the kitchen with conventional ingredients, conceptualizing and executing good food?

In discussing this with my viewing co-conspiritor, he suggests that the crazy challenges are designed to make the show accessible to a broader audience. It's hard to argue against inclusiveness, but I'm going to. For me, the integrity of the show -- the mission of choosing a Top Chef -- is lost of the challenges are mainly silly.

Similarly the trouble of getting rid of one of the best chefs of the group so early. The angst that was felt by all upon Tre's departure poses a dilema for the show, I think. I was one viewer who was up in arms when I saw this result. But upon watching the rerun, I understand the judges' decision: on that day, Tre did not perform well. Therefore, according to the stated rules, Tre had to go. Nonetheless, I, like you, was troubled. He was one of the best chefs! How much does the competition suffer if the rules demand that the best chefs be damned by one bad day? I understand your analogy about the playoffs; but I think it misses the mark a bit. In the finals, the two competitors enjoy an even playing field. But running up to the finals, it's about your overall record. (Consider the Yankees this season.) Keeping in mind season-long performance ensures to the degree possible that the best contestants make it into the finals.

Food for thought from someone who is a big, big fan of the show, and who also was terribly disappointed by last season. I am hoping that the winner this time is a good representative for the Title, as in Season One, and not just lucky, as in Season Two.

Cheers.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:33 PM

foodie wrote:

God, I love you Tom. I want to have your baby.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:39 PM

Jeff wrote:

I think this episode was definitely the Hung-at-home show, and definitely saw him as the winner in both events: the comment that made the show in the quickfire that helped me past Casey not winning was that Hung's was the best copy of the dish (paraphrase).

But I have to wonder when Hung's attitude is going to cap his ability in the kitchen. All I really see is someone with skills and knowledge but, as Dale put it, no heart. Top Line Cook maybe. Top Chef?

I don't think so. As I commented in Ted's blog, someone needs to give Hung Daniel Boulud's book Letters to a Young Chef with all the appropriate passages highlighted.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:42 PM

Dolores wrote:

To tell you the truth, I'm not really sure why you guys went to Miami in the first place. Outside of some gorgeous sunset/Miami Beach shots, you might as well have stayed in Newark. Outside of Howie's disasterous Sandwich Cubano, you never got a feel that you were eating in Miami, with its crazy mix of Cuban, Caribbean, Florida Tropical cuisine. Where were the mangoes? Who makes a vanilla shake when you could make a mamey shake? I thought for sure you would do an episode showcasing our wonderful and varied tropical fruit, for example, or even the local seafood. Why do a cooking show in Miami and not COOK Miami? It just doesn't make sense.

That said, I thought this was the best episode as well. No gimmicks. Just. good. food. Bravo! An incredibly impressive group of chefs/judges and every single one charming and a gentleman--when you have real credentials, I guess you don't need to make snarky, snide, and ultimately unhelpful comments. Yes, I am making a reference to the infamous "restaurant wars" episode. That still rankles.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:43 PM

missy wrote:

You seemed stuck on that old rooster thing when talking about Casey's coq au vin. You said and Padma did as well in her blog it should have been called chicken something or other.

I noticed in one of the responses to Gail's blog it stated their cookbooks chicken was called for. This was in either two or three books by reputable chefs. I was confused having never prepared this dish so I looked it up. Here's what I found.

It does say older roosters are traditionally used because they contain a lot of connective tissue which creates a richer broth when cooked.

Right below that fact it states that standard recipes call for chicken. It seems Casey had every right to call it coq au vin.

I wonder if you were so adamant about it because you were there with french chefs.

posted on September 20, 2007 at 11:48 PM

Deborah R wrote:

Excellent episode--especially since last week's was one of my least favorite. And thanks for the French cuisine primer. I feel less guilty spending so much time on these blogs if I can at least say I've learned something.

Of the final four, I'd like to see Casey prevail because she's demonstrated technical skill, imagination, chutzpah, teamwork--and the ability to acknowledge her mistakes. But I don't see any villains in this group (nice change from last season)--including Hung. His technical skill is unquestionable and I suspect a lot of his bad-boy behavior is mugging for the camera. My only problem with Hung is that he can't accept or even tolerate criticism. Though at least he didn't accuse the great Chef Soltner of having a flawed palate or failing to understand his vision (as he has with other guest judges), he still found it impossible to gracefully acknowledge that his potatoes weren't up to par. Once again, it was someone else's fault. To be honest, I feel sorry for him. Even if he wins TC, his fragile ego will keep him from going as far as he should as a chef. You can't improve if you can't see room for improvement.

As for Dale and Brian: I'm not sure why there are so many Brian-haters out there. He seems like a nice guy and a good chef. It must be some kind of weird Tre backlash. But Dale is my sentimental favorite. And considering that this entire episode went badly for him, I'm glad you'd already decided on a final foursome. Apparently Dale didn't learn from the yacht challenge that doing one thing well trumps doing two things so-so. As Marcel warned, if you want to win TC, stay away from duos. And though I appreciate the camaraderie of this season's cast (and much prefer it to last season's incessant squabbling), Dale was carrying it a bit far when he asked Hung how to prepare the quickfire dish. A group collaboration would kind of defeat the purpose of that challenge. But he's still fun to watch and I hope he has a good showing in the finale.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:11 AM

Diane wrote:

What a wonderful quick-fire! I felt for Sara, the kitchen folks appeared daunting, & when she was cooking during their shift, I can empathize. But, Tom's right - she was late cooking the fish, & the excuse of being thicker, was...hmmm...an excuse.

I'm liking Hung more as the series continues - whereas on season 2, Marcel was more annoying as the series evolved. (I do wonder, are the personalities somewhat planted? Maybe they take a Myers-Briggs take so as to get a rounded community of INTJ, INFJ, ENFJ...).

I tried the quick-fire tonight - I'm going to need to invest in a madeliene....

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:20 AM

Dorothy Warren wrote:

I am totally hooked on Top Chef and have watched all 3 seasons including watching every re-run of every episode over and over. In large part, I have agreed with the majority of your decisions, but going back to season 2, Marcel over Sam???? Give me a big break - no way. Season 3, CJ should have hit the road way sooner than Tre. I do, in fact, believe he picked Tre to be executive chef to keep himself off the hot seat, and Anthony Bourdain was riight on for questioning and pegging CJ for his not having Tre's back in that episode. Dale cannot out-cook Tre either. Obviously, these are just my opinions and don't mean anything to anyone except me. My other opinion is that the first 2 seasons were much more exciting and had chefs that were of a much higher cabiler than the group you picked for the 3rd season. I hope you pick the 4th season chefs who have the same skill level as the first 2 seasons.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:26 AM

M wrote:

Your critique of this episode was spot on. Thanks giving Sara the credit she deserves for being a team player and for giving Hung the credit he deserves for being true to himself even if it puts him out of favor with the fans. I think he is a phenomenal chef, but I truly believe that Casey should come out on top.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:30 AM

Rob H wrote:

Great blog entry, Tom! I feel so happy to learn more about the subtleties of cooking by reading what you (and others) say and by watching Top Chef. I think Hung is a very nice guy, frankly. He knows how to laugh (at himself, too!) and he can be a good team player. But he also seems to have amazing skills and a fantastic imagination; he has a right to be proud. Maybe the one big difference between Hung and Casey is that Casey seems to have a naturally refined palate, something akin to a musician who has perfect pitch. But that's purely an intuitive response to what I've seen on the show and doesn't diminish my awe for Hung's personal commitment, confidence in himself, and technical skill.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:38 AM

Josseline wrote:

Brien should be long gone...but for the grace that others keep making mistakes and he survives by default. If Sara had cooked her chicken and Dale had used his sauce...I think Brien would be gone.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:40 AM

Sara wrote:

will the chefs visit your restaurant? i think this show does an excellent job of highlighting important kitchens, and certainly yours, master tom, is on that list.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:46 AM

Justin Dickinson wrote:

Chef, another well written, informative blog. I know you tell the contestants in the beginning that you aren't their mentor, but a judge. I say you can't help but be both.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:50 AM

Andy B. wrote:

Good show and good blog chef Tom. I want you to know chef that I like you and your role on Top Chef. I also enjoy your blog very much. The winner in both challenges tonight clearly was Hung. Casey did very well to come in second. Hung's precision and ttechnique was perfect. His dishes looked like they came from the finest establishments. I'll take your word for it about the taste. Hung no doubt came to win. The only thing that would stop him from winning the title of Top Chef would be Hung. The others can say what they want about him, or make faces on how he acts. He didn't come to make friends. I like his spirit, and hopes he wins. Casey has surprise me with her cooking ability. Especially after her onion chopping meltdown. She might make the finals, but I think Dale will, despite his recent lapses. Brian puzzles me. It seems he has nine lives and has survived at others expense more then once. He truly is the wildcard. Sarah actually went further than more experienced, and better contestants. Her time was up.
On to Aspen for the finals. At stake is the title and prestige of Top Chef. Top Chef 3 to be exact. Anyone of the four: Dale, Hung, Casey, and Brian, can claim the title. Will Casey be the 1st female Top Chef?. Will the biggest longshot, Brian win?. Will the 1st openly Gay person, Dale win?. Or will the heavy favorite, Hung win. Who will be in the final two?. Makes for great drama right! All we need is the plot!. The outline!. The Filler!. The story!.
THE COOKING THE VICTORY stay tuned WATCH WHAT HAPPENS!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:57 AM

Attorney Illinois wrote:

Chef -- you may have your history wrong. I believe it's a myth that Catherine De Medici is responsible for introducing gastronomy to France. Although it's a great story to imagine her trooping over to France with a slew of chefs in her retinue, I think this may be the equivalent of an urban myth. That being said, I prefer the story to the fact that the French did it, more or less, themselves.

Love the show. Good job.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:58 AM

Lee wrote:

Hung is obviously a very talented chef but he is so arrogant and doesn't take criticism very well. I wonder if Hung would have been as bullied as Marcel if he were on season 2. I think Hung is harder to take than Marcel. Too bad for Marcel he wasn't on season 3 which seems like a nicer cast than his own. I couldn't watch all the season 2 episodes because the ganging up on Marcel was too much. This season is more about the food.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:03 AM

Donna A. wrote:

Bravo Chef Colicchio!
Thank you for another Top Season of Top Chef . The Emmy is coming - I'm sure of it!!
I agree that this episode's the best to date, and for me, as inspiring to watch as it must have been to be there in person. The FCI panel of judges and Sirio Macciano elevated the show to new levels. It was lovely to watch their precise, unaffected and honest critique.

I hope Hung wins. His focus, passion, and skill will take him everywhere. I've always loved Dale's comedic commentary, but his latest quips to tarnish Hung's image are not flattering.

Can't wait for next week's episode...LOVE!!!Eric Ripert!
Thanks again!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:13 AM

Carol wrote:

I have to wonder why Dale wasn't the one to go. Didn't he count wrong on the plane? Did I hear right? Did he forgot to put the sauce on the plate? I think those are major errors..I wouldn't want him catering for me...I'd worry...

Otherwise, I'm a new watcher...I love Top Chef!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:14 AM

Sarah Farmer Earll wrote:

Tom,
thanks for your always professional comments. It's great to see how the contestants have really worked well together this year, for the most part, as opposed to the petty back-biting we've seen in the past. Sara had a lot to do with that, I think, showing that it is possible to be both nurturing and competitive. She even managed to bring Howie around. Her positive attitude will be missed.

This season has been filled with surprises, I'm looking forward to a challenging and interesting finale!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:20 AM

Julie Schwab wrote:

It is not only our right, but our responsibility to question our leaders.

That being said, it was with great excitement and expectation that I entered Chef Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak. At 5:00 p.m. on a Saturday the three of us were immediately seated. We ordered a round of drinks and water. Fifteen minutes later the water arrived and the fun stopped there.

There was no menu to speak rather a list of the foods offered which could have been fine had the staff been able to describe the day’s preparation with any detail or enthusiasm. The pork chop was inedible. It was so tough my friend literally could not cut into it and it required a good deal of discussion with the staff before a replacement was offered. The short ribs were no better than Continental’s Business/First Class which given a recent Top Chef episode one might think this is a compliment, it is not. As for the cold seafood platter, well, you can’t really mess that up, yet, again, the staff was completely inept at describing the cute little dipping sauces.

Had this meal gone the Judge’s Table there no doubt would have been much of Chef Colicchio’s classic eye rolling. This experience has made me wonder if my respect for Chef Colicchio is completely delusional and is there something seriously wrong in my thinking that there is some reality to this Reality TV show or was it just an off night for the staff? I’m not sure at this point. Will I stop watching Top Chef? Heck, no it’s still great entertainment, but in the end I must quote Chef Anthony Bourdain and ask Chef Colicchio, “What kind of crack house are you running?”

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:21 AM

Samuel wrote:

On the elimination challenge, Hung's dish had by far the highest degree of difficulty. It was like Brian was playing chopsticks (though he played it well) while Hung was playing Beethoven's 5th Piano Concerto. No comparison. Hung wins hands down.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:34 AM

Grace Luu wrote:

I just wanted to say that this was one of the best episode ever. I may not be a fan of Hung, but he definitely proved that he has such excellent skills as a Chef. Thanks Tom for making this show so exciting and enjoyable to watch!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:43 AM

VespaGirl wrote:

I thought this was a great episode and I was relieved to see a real challenge and not something that teetered on the impossible. This was indeed about the food and execution. I was also relieved to hear the total and complete lack of harsh criticism at judges' table. The past few weeks offered a lot of harsh, highly critical and demeaning criticism. The uses of the words disgusting, a trainwreck, etc., seemed brutal. I know the premise of the show isn't to hold hands and make nice, but it seemed exceedingly crunchy from the previous two seasons. Just an observation.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:50 AM

coy wrote:

The Chef's this season are more friendlier to each other. There were some drama as usual but not as bad as the previous two shows. All of these guys went there to compete and of course each one would like to win. Dale should never ask his competitor on what to do during the challenge for he is not even sure if he will be given a truthful answer. I was just disappointed when Hung doesn't want to answer Dale's question...why should he give you an easy access for something that they were there to work for and win a challenge. You are all hungry for the win so prove yourself that you deserve it without any excuses. Accept each one's weakness and strength. Let them be who they are. May the best inspired chef win.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:03 AM

ERIC wrote:

Tom,
Excellent assessment of the last episode,well written,too.You summarized the show with astute commentary on the personalities and psychology as well as providing this neophyte with technical information which is always welcome.
Having been to art school and trained in traditional drawing and painting,I can not imagine executing a life drawing or portrait,given certain time restraints, only to have it critiqued by a group of the finest artists and professors.Or of a still life-basic forms and direct lighting.
Being given a "basic" challenge of a still life of box forms and being told to properly model and render it with tone,volume and composition would be similar to this challenge-straight up execution and knowledge.No excuses,no frills,no surprises or proverbial monkey wrenches.What a challenge!
I am glad to watch the show evolve culminating to this episode.I am not familiar with any one of the chefs but simply understanding whom they were in it's context was something I could certainly respect while identifying and empathizing with the 5 remaining chefs.
It certainly is nice to see them cook for the likes of not only you ,or say Bourdain or a few other noteworthy chefs from this season,as opposed to that catering challenge on the ship for some chic,modish dilettantes.
Seems like it may come down to the classically trained,ambitious perfectionist Hung to the intuitively gifted, "blue collar" Casey.Looking forward to it.

I had the pleasure of dining at Craft in Los Angeles last week and absolutely loved it.The entire experience was marvelous.The staff was excellent as well.I told everyone about it and look forward to returning this weekend.
Best- Eric.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:04 AM

Don Kretzer wrote:

Alright everyone just wanted to let all of you know I have really enjoyed this show. I've always liked to cook and all of you are great. Know answer a question for me please....I've heard throughout the show about alot of different spices. How can a 46 year old man learn to cook with spices he's never heard of and wouldn't even know where to start....Ladies amd Gentlemen great show. Thank You very much and GOD BLESS all of you..Don

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:29 AM

Susanne wrote:

Great comments. I think this season is the best so far - i have been so impressed with the caliber of chefs - they are all holding their own. I think the need to have a 'bad guy' is tired. Hung may not have tact... but it is always fun to watch someone who enjoys what they do. Kind of the reason grumpy Bourdain is welcomed all over the globe.
Great season - I hope the producers take note!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:42 AM

Aaron wrote:

I think you are being overly critical about the Coq a Vin "mislabeling". If you ordered the dish in a restaurant, you might have a legitimate complaint. However, you knew that you were eating chicken and not rooster. Therefore, what does it matter whether Casey called it Coq a Vin or Green Eggs and Ham?

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:42 AM

Rene wrote:

I wouldn't call myself a Hung hater as Hung seems to have softened a bit. He doesn't seem as arrogant as he did early on. But I seriously don't understand why everyone was so gaga over him from the beginning when he hadn't won a single challenge until last week.

He has never led a team challenge yet everyone went on about how fierce and competitive he was. What good is being fierce about your food if you always take the back seat when its time to lead? He Almost won the 1st challenge but after that, he was either in the middle or on the bottom. He has shown creativity at times and a willingness to have fun which is good but is that ALL there is to being a TC?

I wouldnt call myself a Hung hater because his creativity alone earns him a shot at the title. I have more of an issue with Brian being there when he's cooked seafood sausage and the oyster and watermelon dish twice. Seems that far too many people flew under the radar, if TC is apparently about so many different qualities.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 5:08 AM

Marie wrote:

Great episode! A lot of people are taking exception to Hung winning the QF challenge because the chef who was judging the fish dish said in the final edit he liked Casey's best of any. I watched the show two times in a row and believe that sentence was cut short for dramatic effect. It seems very possible he was saying it was the best of any of the other four. Most reality shows are full of manipulated dialog. Enjoy with a grain of salt!!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 5:26 AM

Joe M. wrote:

Tom,

In reading Mr. Bourdains blog, he commented on how some bloggers think Casey is getting by on ger looks. I am sure you agree that she isn't as she appears to be a fine chef. As I commented on the other blog, I think it was highly disrespetful for the old guy in the quickfire to say he would have liked to have given Casey the win because she's attractive. From someone of his reputation and stature, that comment only magnifies the stereotype and was wrong. I was hoping Mr. Bouradin after comment on some bloggers making snide comments about her skating by on her looks that he would have also condemn that comment. In the content the old guy was judging it was out of line.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 6:07 AM

PeachPie wrote:

FANTASTIC EPISODE!!!!!!!!!!

WOW. I don't even know what else to say. Just fantastic! It was everything a viewer could hope for.

I wish there were more like these.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 6:49 AM

Ron Mueller wrote:

Just a quick comment to say how very much I have enjoyed Tom's blogs. I am not much on reality shows but I watch Top Chef regularly because I not only enjoy watching the chefs but I am learning from them as well.
What take this show a step further is Bravo's website and specifically, Tom's blog. There is only so much we can see in 44 minutes (sans advertisement). Tom is able to fill in the gaps that are sometimes lost in editing (I think the editors do a great job of capturing the spirit of the show) and it help us to understand the nuances of the dish and why one was selected over another.
Tonight's case-in-point was Hung and Casey's dishes. From the edit, it appeared that Casey was the winner with better tasting food although Hung's execution and visual presentation was superior. However, Tom's blog goes into greater detail and although Casey made a very good dish, we do learn that there were some fatal flaws that kept the dish from winning top honors.
One one last note, I did hear the guest judge say that he would be honored to have Hung work in his kitchen. I felt that was one of the greatest compliments I have heard on Top Chef, especially coming from someone so well respected.
Keep up the good work Tom, we all appreciate you!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 7:46 AM

Billy Tant wrote:

Tom I think your evaluations of the remaining chefs is dead on. I personally think that Hung is the one who will be chosen for the "TOP CHEF" title. Although he is reserved and somewaht of a loner he has the desire, pride, and focus of a true chef. His love of food and the techniques used to prepare them are a great combination.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:01 AM

Frank wrote:

I'm sorry but it really bothers me that someone without knife skills could win Top Chef.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:20 AM

Susan wrote:

Tom,

As a TC fan I'd like to make a plea for more challenges like these in seasons to come. I'm a home cook who loves to read about/watch professional chefs in action, and this episode was interesting because of the lack of product placement - if you couldn't hack it, you were gone, and to me that is what TC should be all about. (I did take some issue with the hair-splitting on Casey's coq au vin, though - though not impossible to get, old roosters aren't exactly available at every local butcher, so some allowance should have been made. Then again, classical cuisine is classical cuisine . . . either way, it looked really good!)

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:25 AM

tammy wrote:

Even though I agree with chef Tom on some points, I really cant say I wouldnt have sent Brian's dish back if it had been served to me, it really looked just nasty. But I guess I have to respect there decision but please tell me one thing what has Dale(as lovable and nice as he may be) cooked that was so special that he should have gotten to final 4? I keep trying to remember if he has won anything besides a quick fire. Am not a hung hater but really dont like his attitude and if he had his own resturant who would he think would eat there, he is always talking about evryone wrong but him and etc...Casey has been steady through the whole competion, but it is anyone's game. Still i will miss sara.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:42 AM

John wrote:

Tom,

Love your comments, you add some insight to the hours of "cut" material we don't get to see. I agree that Casey calling her dish Coq au Vin was a mislable but I must tell you that many a home cook (including myself) has made "Coq au Vin" similarly. hard for me to find an old rooster around Akron, Ohio (although some of the chicken I have used could probably pass for one). I thought this was one of the best challenges in the three seasons of the show. To start with three base ingredients that all of us have had to deal with was truly a treat. I am really looking forward to the finale. I found it interesting that you called sous vide "idiot proof". Would that mean hung played it safe? Interesting can't wait to see how this ends up.

Thanks

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:47 AM

LisaB wrote:

I am such a fan of how you handle the responsiblility of being head judge on Top Chef. You do it with grace, style and class. Your comments are well thought out and on point. You explain things in a way that make sense, and you always give helpful information.

Well done and thank you. I really enjoy your work.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:48 AM

rob o'neill wrote:

I have been watching this show for since it first aired. I have yet to see a dish that made me hungry or want to make it.

I have watched cooking shows so inspiring that they made me want to get up and go shopping and start cooking. If I see another sea bass dish I'll barf. Where's classics? the lamb? the duck? a goose would be fab.
All these people do is make the regular stuff and decorate it with anchovie pesto banana sause. Where's the real chefs that can cook real food? The next series should be all blind tastes and let the food rule rather than be a lame personality show.Make the judges guess who cooked it.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 8:57 AM

Joan B wrote:

Thank you Chef Tom for your fair and always intelligent participation. I agree with you, this was one of the very best shows yet - it was all about the food and the cooking, and the contestants were able to show their stuff and shine (or not). I am pleased with the final four and look forward to the finale!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:18 AM

marianne wrote:

I realize you are ready to start filming Season 4. Could TC consider a no-seafood challenge? While Chicago is on Lake Michigan, where yes we do have fish, it is also famous for its midwest meat. This season was too much seafood. Even the burger challenge only had 1 or 2 contestants using beef.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:18 AM

Jo-Ann wrote:

Hi Chef Tom!

I agree with everything you said. I really like Dale, but would have understood if he had been sent home. I try very hard to seperate the person from the cooking. Not an easy task. Sara was very off her game in this weeks episode. She was so intimidated in that kitchen and seemed to have lost her confidence completly. The one thing I ws pleasantly suprised by, was how down to earth those highly respected and elite judges were. I thought they were thoughful and very pleasant. Just goes to prove that you do not have to lose your people skills completly to be a great success.

Looking forward to the big finale!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:24 AM

Marie wrote:

Tom, as usual, your comments are straight-forward and give us great insight into the real world of cooking. By giving us background of all the respected chefs who judged this episode, it makes us really appreciate the difference in the contestants' skills.

This season, Top Chef has far surpassed the first two seasons. I feel the first season brought us many talented cooks with varied personalities. The show was new and Bravo was learning what worked or didn't work. Luckily, the last two standing contestants were each viable, deserving winners.

Season two, I feel, was a disappointment. The collection of cooks seemed sub-par and we can only hope that their poor behavior was magnified by the tv cameras. If they were there to show professionalism, they dismally failed. To my judgement, the winner was a juvenile whiner who got lucky.

This season, I understand that the contestants were nominated by other chefs. We were offered a group of professional cooks who show respect to not only their craft, but each other. I wish Bravo would continue this selection process each season. To watch them congratulate each other for coveted wins or wish good luck to the eliminated chefs is such a great change from the jealousies of past seasons.

I think in this new world of Reality TV, we have enough shows that showcase people for no other reason than they can behave badly for their 15 minutes of fame. They have no apparent skills that got them to the shows other than their personalities promise to be volatile and offer ratings to the stations.

Bravo has turned Reality TV into true contests of people who have varied skills to which we can all relate. Top Chef is at the top of this list.

Please continue in the coming seasons of Top Chef to bring us contestants who show that you don't have to be the loudest to win, but the most skilled.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:35 AM

missycrump wrote:

Hey- I enjoyed this episode- but I got more info from the frozen food epi. I am a working mom and it was neat to learn how to freeze effectively. I think Casey is leading but Hung is a close 2nd. I am from the SOUTH so my taste for chicken is deep fried with lots of gravy!!!!! How did Sarah NOT know her chicken wasnt cooked????

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:43 AM

Linda W. wrote:

Chef Tom, you're picking nits regarding coq au vin meaning an old rooster. Even Julia Child used hens. Perhaps not as young as the bird Casey used, but come on - do any restaurants really source "old roosters" for their coq au vin?

Other than that - excellent show. For TC4, *please* concentrate more on just preparing the food without any tricks or gimmicks such as limiting them to $10 or shopping out of a vending machine. Those of us that love the show want to see the imaginative food preparation with real food we'd actually use!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 9:53 AM

Gay wrote:

Andre Soltner said "If I were to choose a cook for my kitchen I would pick Hung....
It's over. Hung should be the top chef.
Dale, Brian and the Paula Deen clone just do not have what it takes.
By the way I do love Paula Deen who is the first to say that she is not a Top Chef.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:09 AM

Spelling Police wrote:

It's "Coq Au Vin", not "Coq a Vin", which would mean Rooster At Wine. Your definition would carry a lot more weight if you'd spelled it right. I love this show, regardless!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:15 AM

Gord wrote:

You don't have to have a nasty attitude like Hung to be a good chef. To whine and beotch that no one helped him plate, when HE HAD AN EXTRA 30 MINUTES and as you said, had a nearly idiot proof boil-n-serve meal, shows his lack of maturity. Why should anyone help him, especially since he has rarely showed any compassion for his fellow team members. It's a competition, get over it. ha ha and finally, hung, please don't win TC for all the emigrants... most emigrants are humble and don't turn up their nose to comfort foods you have said you don't eat/do. That's your problem. fried chicken skin is just as bad as fried chicken that you had a snooty reaction to earlier.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:18 AM

ddn wrote:

The problem with Hung. You know, truly I don't mind if someone is out to win a competition. They're ALL out to win the competition, some of them do it more gracefully than others. Hung does not represent what top chef is, IMHO. A top chef is a leader, they know how to motivate their team, they help out wherever it is needed (whether it is cleaning a clogged drain, helping to plate, or just giving some positive motivation). Hung has none of that, he's a selfish, self-serving, ego driven know-it-all.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:29 AM

erlmlw wrote:

Tom you say you are against snobby names but you are really harping on this CAV requires a rooster point which to me smack of snobbery. There are lots of recipes for CAV that use chicken, recipes from really good chefs (online you can find many). Do most NY restaurants that serve the dish use rooster? I am tempted to call around, I suspect chicken is more common at even the most authentic restaurants. Who can find a rooster these days? I think the key to a good CAV is an old bird, not a rooster, that will create good sauce. Between a young rooster and an old chicken, I will take the latter.
The sad thing -- and this is why your post was so ironic -- was that all you are really saying is that Casey's FRENCH grandmother did not know what CAV is. And you are doing under the guise of being against pretention. plz . ..

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:29 AM

julia wrote:

Chef Tom you are spinning....I don't see any Hung haters out there. You and others at Top Chef are trying to create a Hung Hater club so that when you send him home either next week or the week after people will be happy when Casey wins. This last competition shows that the final two should be Hung and Casey with Hung winning it all.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:34 AM

Alex wrote:

I really liked this episode too. It made me see a lot about their personalities too, which I think are equally important to the food. Hung in particular. I know many people probably dislike him. He's not perfect. He shouldn't be. Hung isn't a bad person he just lacks people skills. I think he's kinda lonely and he's opened up more since the show started. The man actually smiles and laughs, he wasn't doing that in the beginning. I think he's understanding now that it's not just for fun anymore and I think he's finally living up to his ego. I used to act the same way during high school. He just needs to be around more people.

I thought the quick fire was awesome. I think it scared the majority of the chefs too. People have a difficult time doing simple things. Everything nowadays needs to be complicated and crazy. The elimination challenge was great as well. I really enjoyed the whole episode.

I have a slight problem though. This is the second time Dale has left something off the plate/forgotten a dish. Howie did the same thing in the first episode. In the first season, Dave was sent home for forgetting an order. Why weren't Howie and Dale sent home too? What's fair for one, is fair for all.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:34 AM

FanFare wrote:

Dear Tom,

I, for one, agree with your opinion that this episode was the best (perhaps of all 3 seasons) for the reasons you stated so eloquently above. It was a pleasure to see you giddy as a school boy when you introduced the culinary luminaries that would judge the elimination challenge. Your reportage this time smacked of the old school Tom as well. You were more circumspect and revealing and warmhearted. Thank you for that glimpse into that side of yourself!

I have actually grown to really respect Hung over the course of the season. His skills are undeniable and fascinating to watch. I could watch him chop or dice for hours. However, he is so quick, he makes mincemeat of everything in minutes. In addition, he cooks with joy and a big smile on his face. The fact that he did not want to share cooking tips (in the QF) with Dale should not have been unexpected. If Dale did not understand how to cook the fish at that point in the game, why was he there? All of the cooks should have refined cooking techniques to earn the title of Top Chef.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:39 AM

C wrote:

I have really enjoyed this season of Top Chef. It's nice to see the chefs getting along after last year's pettiness and bickering. I must say as the child of immigrant parents, I understand where Hung is coming from. His drive and focus are really impressive, even though he could tone it down a little. When you come from a background where nothing is given to you, you have to work very hard to reach your goals. It looks like a lot of the other chefs have also worked their way up the ladder in this manner, and I have a lot of respect for them. I was so disppointed last season with the childish behavior on the show, that I almost didn't turn on Top Chef this summer. I am so glad I did! I was watching a rerun from last season the other day and was struck by the difference in quality of character between those contestants and this group. Congratulations are due to those who are casting this show. Keep up the good work! Pressure brings out the true colors of the contestants and that's what is making this season so much fun to watch.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:39 AM

Valerie wrote:

Is it possible that we can get a recipe from this weeks quickfire challenge...I'd really like the white fish wrapped in potato and placed on a bed of creamed leeks? I've checked the website already and didn't find it....that dish lookes incredibly good and i'd love to try it. Thanks in Advance, Aspiring Diva of the Kitchen!!!! Valerie

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:40 AM

FrenchFry wrote:

Dear Tom C.,

Welcome back to us with your earthy comments. This episode is definitely my favorite to date. It was a pleasure to see these very special judges and hear their opinions on the cooking triumphs (or failures) and why.

The QF was very interesting. Hung looked so relaxed while he chop- chopped and nailed the fish dish beautifully. I found Dale's comments to be reminiscent of whiney Dave of S-1 - doing the blame game on Hung (as Dave did of Tiffany). Although I liked his sweet personality, Dale sounded sanctimonious. Just because he took risks did not entitle him to be exalted. His risks needed to pay off - not fail. Instead of criticizing Hung for not sharing cooking tips or helping others; Dale needs to pay attention to his own plates.

I was sad to see Sara go. She had a unique style and was the only chef to harness Howie's hardheadedness so well. However, she seemed frazzled in QF and the elimination and had a really bad day. Brian's green topped shepard's pie look awful. It was like British Pub Grub masquerading as Haute cuisine. It is good to hear that it was actually tasty and therefore well received. It is just that Brian has skated by for many weeks (without cooking a thing!).

Both of Casey's dishes looked wonderful. Did Le Cirque's owner pass her over because she was a beautiful woman? It was hard to tell if he actually did prefer Hung's plate.

btw: Hung won both the QF AND the Elimination Challenges. Why didn't he receive a prize for this feat (or even a nice bottle of French wine)? Wasn't that accomplishment remarkable enough to be highlighted in a more substantial way?
Just wondering...

Thanks again for your fabulous blog and expressing warmer thoughts this time out.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 10:56 AM

Susie wrote:

I really enjoy reading what other people think of the show and the blogs from Tom. He seems to be a thoughtful and intelligent person. I will plan on visiting one of his restaurants soon. I am sorry to see Sara go, but it seemed that there were lots of problems with her dish. I was also wondering why Sara didn't receive any prize for winning the restaurant wars. That doesn't seem fair to me when other people have won plane tickets and computers. There should be some sort of prize for winning each elimination challenge. I miss seeing Gail Simmons every week. I'm not impressed with Ted Allen -- sometimes he seems to be talking about nothing just to get the camera focused on him. Padma needs to take voice lessons -- I find her really annoying to listen to, and it's always annoying when a prize to a contestant is a book written by one of the judges -- talk about blantant self-promotion!! Congrats to Bravo for broadcasting this show. My husband keeps wondering why I watch it -- he says "you can't taste the food, so how do you know who should win?" I love watching the show for the drama between the contestants. You see the best and worst of everyone when there's a lot at stake. Keep up the good work and definitely keep up posting Tom's blogs. I really enjoy reading them and everyone else's feedback.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:03 AM

kroo wrote:

actually--i certainly don't bash Hung for his desire to win. With his questions on how Hung did the dish, Dale looked like a cheater trying to crib answers from the smartest student in a class...

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:08 AM

Erin wrote:

Great comments Chef. A perfect summary. And I think the judges made the right choice on who should pack their knives and go. Sara's execution was poor, and although Dale's dish didn't succeed, he gave it a shot and tried to do something out of the box (for him), pulling out all the stops to get to the final round. I was a little disappointed by the judges' choice for the win. It was made very clear that part of Hung's dish was a failure and yet everyone loved the taste and presentation of Casey's. Seriously think about it: would you rather have a great dish all the way around that is slightly mislabeled or a dish that is labeled correctly where 1/2 the dish isn't up to par?
I think the most important thing for the judges to remember in the finals is that while Hung has the technique and there's no doubt he's a talented chef, in a real restaurant setting, no chef works alone ... and who'd want to work with him? My vote is for Casey. She's been consistently good ... she still has some things to learn (the first thing she should do is she wins the $100,000 is take a knife class!) but she'd be a delight to work for and I'd be one of the first to call for a reservation if she opens up her own place!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:11 AM

Michelle Martinez wrote:

Married to an Englishman whose national dishes could not be simpler, I have learned to cook his way. Instead of littering my food with all sorts of herbs and seasonings and using a dozen ingredients, I now cook with the basics and make sure that I cook them well. Less is truly more if done right. I thought the 3 modest ingredients challenge was an excellent, not to mention appropriate, challenge for these cheftestants. All sorts of dishes started spilling out of my thoughts as soon as the challenge was explained. Best episode to date.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:39 AM

Hillside wrote:

Hi, Tom,

Great episode, two exciting challenges. More common sense its-all-about-the-food challenges for TC4, please.

I have this image of a barely-out-of-puberty gorgeous high school kid from Elizabeth taking over the family kitchen to educate himself by cooking his way through a French cookbook. Forgive me if you've done this already, but how about a coming-of-age article or book?

Love you Tom!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:47 AM

Mark wrote:

In my opinion, Hung is a very likable guy. But he's like everyone else I can think of: he has good points and bad points.

Hung can be a jackass sometimes, like when he leaves a mess for other people to clean up or when he denies that he has done something ("If I didn't notice myself doing it, then I couldn't have done it") or when he's unsympathetic to other people such as Mica, who in his opinion was using the fact that she missed her daughter as an excuse for being upset about what happened in the competition. And of course, he can't accept criticism because he thinks he's perfect. You have to wonder, who does he think is?

On the other hand, his good points outweigh his shortcomings. From what I've seen, he is very friendly and helpful most of the time. I'm sure he would be very helpful to anyone who asked for his help as long as it was OUTSIDE of competition. From what we've seen on the show, he really IS a team player when he is actually ON A TEAM. He does everything he can to help his team win, and he never throws anyone under the bus (or over the bus). But when he's NOT ON A TEAM, that makes all the difference. If you're NOT ON A TEAM, then there's no need to act like you are. There was no reason, for example, for him to tell the other contestants how he prepared his dish in the Quick Fire when they found out that his dish was successful. In the middle of a competition, why should he give away his advantage? Some of the other contestants such as Dale believe that all of the contestants should be helping each other even while they're competing, but that is sort of a sissy way to approach a competition. It appears that fear of being eliminated is more important than winning. It certainly makes Dale a nice guy, but it won't necessarily make him a winner. In a competition like this, there is only one final winner, and Hung's approach is just as valid as Dale's. The fact that Hung is honest and forthright about his attitude just goes to show that he has a great deal of integrity, unlike other contestants we've seen who have acted like duplicitous weasels. Hung is a much better person than they are.

Unlike other contestants, Hung never asks to have it both ways. For example, he doesn't refuse to help others and then turn around and complain if other contestants don't help him. He doesn't pretend to be a team player and then stab his teammates in the back. He doesn't try to sabotage his opponents; all he wants to do is go head to head with them and be judged on his own merits. He doesn't try to bully and intimidate his opponents; he treats everyone with respect.

To all of the people who hate Hung and think he is a bad person: one wonders what your standard of comparison is. Maybe you should get around more and try to be a little more objective.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:53 AM

sarah m wrote:

Tom: After watchig this weeks episode I went to every cook book I could find, and for every receipe for Coq-au-vin the first ingredient was Chicken (not an old rooster but chicken).

There for as I understand you all of those books, good housekeeping etc are wrong. lighten up please how many people can get hold of an old rooster!!!!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:54 AM

moon wrote:

Tom, Thank you for all of the insight and knowledge that you bring to this show.

It seems Hung's technique out weighs his bed attitude, but in the end it seems the top chef is also someone who others want to work with.

In the end I think it will be whether or not Hungs temperment out stages his obviously very skilled cooking.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 11:56 AM

Loretta wrote:

Tom, as usual your comments and observations are always well received by all us bloggers; however, are we not "splitting hairs" on the Casey Coq a Vin issue???? Yes, I am sure it is a very "specific" title for a very "specific" dish; however, have you considered the fact that maybe Casey's french grandma called it that (even though it was not the TRUE classic french term)? Hey my very Italian New York grandma (and the rest of my loud, crazy Italian family for that matter) called spaghetti sauce "GRAVY"........technically, this is not gravy. (I am sure if I ordered my pasta with gravy in a restaurant, Lord knows what I would get!!).

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:11 PM

Lisa wrote:

I don't particularly like Hung and I agree that there was no need to show others how to make the dish in quickfire since it was a challenge. But I what makes me dislike him is he will not take responsibility for his mistakes. When the judges questioned him after the elimination challenge he basically tried to blame it on all the others for not helping him plate. Excuse me, didn't he, just last week, refuse to help? Karma is a b*tch.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:13 PM

Jimmy wrote:

I am glad some people can see the light through the producer's intricate editing of phrases in the show. Chef Colicchio already mentioned that the exectution (most notably the potato wrap) was clearly in Hung's favor. Also to note, the challenge was to make the best COPY (so plating, execution are just as important). The comment about Casey's being the best, you have no idea in what context that comment was made. If he was comparing to everyone except Hung, or if he was comparing to a single aspect of the dish. What I do know is that Hung's dish only needed one word..."bravo", and that should be enough. This is a very famous and respected chef, and to question his integrity through some edited clips and sound bites is NOT RIGHT.
On to the elimination...the comment about Hung's pomme dauphine was that it was heavier than it was supposed to be. If Hung called it a "potato puff" or something it wouldn't have gotten that criticism. But if viewers will recall, it was not left on the dish. They all ate it up! So the flavor must have been good. He took a risk becuase the last time he played around with it was 8 years ago. Again, for those questioning Chef Soltner's integrity, who so many people look up to, go read Lee Ann's blog. She (yes a woman) calls him her hero. She knows him personally for many years, worked with him many years in the kitchen, and would be the best (out of these people) to judge his character. She agreed that Hung won...leave it at that and stop bashing all these chef's integrity.

It amazes me how some of these viewers are so sure of the taste, texture, plating, and execution of the dish through little edited clips seen through the TV.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 12:28 PM

Elaine wrote:

Hello Tom: This episode was very eduational for me. I am learning so much and was glad to see this was about preparing real food with basic ingredients. Bravo! One thing I have to say, You said Casey's coq au viin was incorrectly named because it isn't made with a chicken. I'm not even close to being a chef nor am I a country gal, but did you mean to say it can't be made with a hen as hens and roosters are both chickens?

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:17 PM

Bob R wrote:

Just one correction - or possibly question - since I already posted a comment on another of the show's blogs. According to Leanne's blog, the contestants DID in fact have to create the leek sauce accompanying the fish. She noted that Dale was the only one who washed the leeks before cooking them. I think that as much as any place was where the seasoning issue came into play.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:22 PM

bethnor wrote:

being ethnic vietnamese, i am glad to see hung "representing," and would be pleased to see either him or casey win the final spot.

that being said, i really don't understand all this vitriol against casey. if i really had to choose a restaurant from the two, i would easily pick one from her. why? if you didn't like a dish, i think she would do something to fix it. if you didn't like something that hung put out, he would just make like there was something wrong with you.

imho.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 1:25 PM

Christine wrote:

It's interesting that Hung used the sous vide technique, which is actually illegal to use in New York City restaurants, per a March 2006 "temporary" ban by the city Department of Health. (Exceptions were made for restaurants that follow HAACP guidelines in their use of the equipment.) I would love to have seen this made an issue in the show, which would provide a powerful platform for a discussion of laws around the country regulating what we may and may not eat (foie gras, trans fats, raw milk, etc.)

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:13 PM

Jersey wrote:

Hello, Chef Tom:
2 things:

1) In response to Julie Shwab's post about her less than fantastic experience at Craftsteak -- You never should have went if you were expecting the same old standard menus as most restaurants. The whole idea behind all of Mr. Colicchio's places are that you order a bunch of things and create your own delicious meals. Everything is simply prepared so that the natural flavors of the things selected, shine.

I had an amazing dinner at Craft Dallas. Everything from our roasted foie gras and hamachi appetizers to our kobe NY strip and braised short rib entrees to our roatsed asparagus, roasted fingerlings, and chanterelle risotto side dishes to our chocolate tart and beignet deserts, was ridiculously good. AND the portions. Mr. C is an Italian from New Jersey -- and we know how to feed people. Absolutely fantastic, Chef. The best compliment I can give you is that I left happy. Very happy.

2) Hung is a wonderful competitor and seems like a wonderful chef. His passion and drive are two traits lacking in young people today. I really respect his intensity and his stanadrds.

Casey, on the other hand, has done quite a job of fooling people on these boards. Sure, she is a good cook. But she is constantly trying to be the center of attention, she is constantly dramatic, she is constantly listing her accomplishments, she is constantly annoying.

And I think people are really insulting Jennifer Aniston when they compare Casey to her.

Excellent show. Excellent series. Sexiest Head Judge alive. I'm looking at you, Mr. Colicchio.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:28 PM

Mary F. Andrews wrote:

I totally agree with everything Chef Tom C. wrote in his Blog. I trust what he says about the taste of the food. Although Brians food looked a bit unappetizing, no doubt it tasted very good. Chef Tom's comments about Casey's Coq au vin were right on, it was pretentious. Alas poor Dale, forgetting the sauce to tie the duo together. I liked Sara but I agree that she seemed lost in the kitchen on this challenge. As for Hung's dish, when you get such positive feedback from The Top Chefs of the world, then most likely, you are Top Chef material. I also agree that Hung is at least honest about his desire to be Top Chef and to me, honesty is a good quality. If the past three seasons of Top Chef were a body; Season One would be the head, but Season Three would be the Heart and the Brain. (Do not wish to comment on Season Two).

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:29 PM

JustWoman wrote:

Season 1 was fantastic. Seaon 2 was dissaponting towards the end. Season 3, kinda like shooting pool with a rope. Casey calling a chicken dish "coq au vin" to me is not so different from Marcel calling a chunk of watermelon a "steak".

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:36 PM

Greg wrote:

What would have happened if one of the chefs decided to cook a really simple, comfort meal? If the judges had been served a simple, but well seasoned roasted chicken with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and carmelized onions, would the chef have been ousted because the meal was too simple? I am always suprised at what viewers and judges alike remember and forget. Both Casey and Sara had been mentioned as being in the top two or three of many quick fire challenges, yet their recent exhibition of good cooking is discussed at length as being a fluke. Hung has fried skin at least three times, yet this time it was a very difficult thing to pull off. Dale is always pushing the envelop...exhibiting "balls" as he likes to say...so his choice of a duet should be a suprise. Bourdain commented that it was old hat from the 90's; watch the last two seasons...you'll see a lot of duets. The most common complaint in these blogs is the inconsistency of the judges.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:40 PM

Joel wrote:

I'm going to have to take issue with your problem of people naming dishes. I think it is too bad that you allowed that to cloud your judgement and miss what might have been more important. Please consider being a little open minded, after all isn't all this fine dining stuff a bit pretentious? And isn't that why we like it? Otherwise, we just as well go to a truck stop or all you can eat buffet.

I think we can agree that creating a good braise in a short period of time would be difficult and judging from the reaction of everyone when eating Casey's braise, it was a success. As a matter of fact, judging from their reaction, every part of Casey's dish was a success.

Compare that with what Hung created. Yes, it turned out well but most everyone agrees that a Sous Vide is a pretty safe bet, so where is the challenge? Where is the risk taking? I suggest that there is none and watching the series, Hung is an excellent chef, but Hung seems to blow it when he goes out on a limb and does well when playing it safe.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:48 PM

Megan wrote:

To quote you in another context, the Coc Au Vin drama is "overblown". This obsession reminds me of another Chef I know who focuses on one nit picky detail to make everyone else in the room think that he knows that degree of detail about everything else. I am sure it was intimidating to be judging with all these other great chefs, but you are the only one with a Coc compulsion. Now we know that Casey with a cute sincere smile should have cocked her head and said - "well..... here's my Poulet Au Vin hahaha I couldn't find a decent Coc anywhere" Yah, in front of those Chefs. Give me a break.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 2:49 PM

Hoel wrote:

Great season Tom. Much better than last. I think it's going to be Hung vs Casey, at least I hope so. No repeat of last years debacle. Brian reminds me a lot of Ilan - a talented line cook with a limted range who is better at competing than he is at cooking and is too young and immature to really be a chef. Dale is Dave all over again. All heart and big mistakes. Hung vs Casey is a terrific matchup because you have classically trained vs self taught. I really hope it comes down to those two. I also hope the finale is as focused on the cooking as this last show was and is not gimmicked up. It should be clear by now that people watch this show to watch the contestants COOK! Keep up the great work!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:00 PM

Maureen wrote:

Chef Tom,

I have been waiting all season for challenges like these...where you get to see the cheftestants create something without all the gimmicks, ridiculous constraints and product placement. Reminiscient of Season 1 for me. And maybe my memories are fogged with time, but I think there were some excellent plates regualrly put out the first season which just hasn't happened since then.
I just want to watch talented people put it out there and this show was IT! This is what I want to watch - people cooking. I don't care about any of the crap that happens back at the hotel, I would rather see more footage of the kitchen work and actual preparations. Maybe there could be more of this in Season 4. Less of the interviews and more kitchen would also be good.
In any case, this was a fantastic episode and thank you for putting together this show and blogging (and getting all the other bloggers - AB and Rocco are my favorites)

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:23 PM

KatD wrote:

A Question for Tom, because I'm genuinely wondering.

How many US restaurants (or French restaurants in the US, if you prefer), actually use rooster, not chicken, for their coq au vin?

I'd really like to know, since my guess is "very few, if any."

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:26 PM

Robert wrote:

Chef Tom,

Yes, I admit it, I am a "Hung hater". Hung just rubs me the wrong way, although it is not for the reason that you may think. I am all for honesty, but if you are going to be a "all for me" type personality you had better be able to handle what comes with it. I other words, don't complain when no one volunteers to help you plate. You made your bed....so lie in it! Most of all, don't whine and pule to the judges that no one helped you plate, so my presentation was off. If you decide to be an overly competitive jerk, expect to be treated as such!

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:32 PM

Tiffany wrote:

When do you start casting for the next season? my botfriend would blow all of these chefs out of the water. What is it with your contestants last season Marcell did not cook his chicken all the way threw and now sara did the same thing. Come on people this is Top Chef if you dont know when you chicken is done its better for all that you find a new career. Last I would just like to add that I have watched both of the first two seasons, and rooted for Harold and Ilan the winners!.This season once again I am rooting for the one that I find to be the most creative, talented, and fast. Go Hung!!!!!! p.s.: don't get me wrong casey and brian are both talented and creative, but Hung seems to have that something extra.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:39 PM

Marue wrote:

As a huge fan of Top Chef, I watch reruns any time they are shown. One thing I don't understand is why anyone WANTS to have a "villain" for each season. Why can't we just accept each chef for who they appear to be, since we really don't know their true personalities. I think any non-showbiz person would not totally be their normal self if put on national television.

When I read blog's that bash Hung, I just do not understand. He is a skilled cook, apparently this is recognized in the cooking community, since he holds a position in a highly respected kitchen.

Top Chef is a competition. He is competing. On solo challenges, he does his work, cleans after himself and waits to be judged.

People say "he doesn't help others". Well, in the group challenges, he certainly pulls more than his own weight. In the Restaurant Wars, Sara told the other contestants that Hung was always behind her "what can I do, do you need help?". During the quickfire challengeg, when Sara started chopping onions, who was right there wiping off the mess from Howie's oyster shucking?

Hung might be a bit cocky, but can he be faulted for that? He might mellow with age, he might not. His remark about him representing immigrants and wanting them to know hard work will pay off tells me so much about this young man.

Dale whining that Hung wouldn't give him a clue as to pull off the duplication challenge was ridiculous. He is competing against him, why would he expect anything other than the answer he received. Hung was gracious in his denial of that question.

If Hung is one of the last two standing, I am hoping that the helpers he gets s realize how skilled he is and give the proper backup that he deserves. Even if you don't like someone's personality, you should not sabotage their chance at winning. I feel this was done in both previous seasons.

I think Hung or Casey deserve the title of Top Chef and wish them both well. But, it bothers me that the probable editing of the show slants us away from Hung.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 3:50 PM

Janet wrote:

How I wished that Sara could have made it to the final four! While I don't think she has the "chops" to win as "Top Chef" I would have loved to imagine Howie squirming and choking on his own words, as the woman he said he "...wouldn't hire to work in my kitchen," or "hire...to work as my dishwasher" surpassed him to make it into the final Four at Aspen...

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:20 PM

Southpaw wrote:

Tom: Dale needs to go. Can't believe he actually asked Hung about his technical skills during the Quickfire....not a spelling test, Dale! Sort of cheating. Didn't like that at all. Not a fan of Hung, but he's stepping up. I see him and Casey as the final 2. Looking forward to next week! I still dig your navyblue chef's jacket, too! '-)

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:23 PM

julie larsen wrote:

please put the show on itunes...its the only way i can watch it!! i live overseas and the only show i look forward to getting.
thanks! Julie

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:27 PM

Kevin wrote:

I just want to know in what world the rooster you are talking about is not a chicken? The male bird we call a chicken is known as a rooster and the female is known as a hen. If you are going to make a huge deal over and over about using the correct terminonlogy, then why don't you set an example and do so yourself?

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:37 PM

Joel wrote:

Linda said: "Other than that - excellent show. For TC4, *please* concentrate more on just preparing the food without any tricks or gimmicks such as limiting them to $10 or shopping out of a vending machine."

Oh God YES. The silly gimics are so irritating. How about serious progressive challenges.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:44 PM

red rooster wrote:

Hung will win the competition. he is the best one out of the remaining chefs. I thought sara would make it to the final 4 but she just didnt have enough experience. She will be making some great cheeses, and i for one cant wait to taste them

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:44 PM

ngoc wrote:

i think both casey and hung are great but it seems like hung should be top chef. i don't think hung is being a jerk, i just think that he is being honest. it seems that he is just a straight forward guy that's all. you can see that he has a passion for food, he's into it, and take risk in his dishes. plus, everyone is different, some people speaks their minds, other don't. but you don't really know what the one that's not speaking up are really thinking. they might as be as arrogrant as the one that speaks out. i think now is between casey and hung. i like hung confident and honesty. also, hung didn't get anything for winning the challenge except, "congratulations hung". that's great. anyways, Hung all the way! :)

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:45 PM

JenniferNYC wrote:

Thanks Chef for the great blog. It truly sheds light on what goes on behind the scenes. I'm rooting for Hung, he has shown skills beyond anyone we've seen in the past 3 seasons and that alone should win him the title. He does need to be more creative though, Hung is relying too heavily on remaking classics.

One QUESTION:
Why does Casey win a laptop for creating an appetizer for a bunch of fashionistas and 2 plane tix for creating a airline meal, while Sara gets NOTHING For wining the infamous Resto Wars and Hung gets NOTHING for winning amongst a panel of esteemed judges!?! That is just plain UNFAIR...either you award all winners prizes or NO ONE.

posted on September 21, 2007 at 4:55 PM

Lee wrote:

Had to comment on this one.
Of all the purported villains in the 3 TC seasons, Hung is nothing. As Tom C. says, Hung is there to win the competition and has never made any secret of it. However, what he has not done as others seem to have done in previous seasons is