Top Chef: Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

As my loyal readers know, I watch many reality television competitions shows. With the start of each new season, I like to pick my winner during the first episode. I just like to see if I can spot the champion during the first round. A few weeks ago after the premiere of Bravo's Top Chef, I called Jennifer as my winner. Well, this week it seems, her stock may be dropping.

Chef Charlie Palmer was the guest judge during this week's episode. He invited the contestants to cook for his event called "Pigs and Pinot" (my vegetarianism had me slightly gagging). Not only was there pressure to impress the Chef and his guests, but BOTH the Voltaggio brothers had worked for Charlie Palmer in the past and were determined to show their mentor who much they've grown, even if it was at the other's expense.

Although the Voltaggio brother smackdown was highly entertaining (and kind of hot), it was not the only drama. Robin, the oldest remaining contestant, griped for the entire hour about how she's been ousted by the "cool kids." Wah wah, cry me a river. Cook great food and they'll get off your back!

This week Eli won the quick fire challenge and all of sudden popped onto my radar as a potential contender. Kevin won the elimination challenge (for what seems like the 100th time) and made me begin to question my pick of Jennifer as the ultimate Top Chef. It seems Kevin's stock is rising.

Ash was eliminated this episode (finally!). I don't think he has ever been in the top three. I was thrilled to see him go and also wished he could pack Laurin up with him. I had forgotten she was even still around until the camera cut to a shot of her during prep time.

Now with only 8 chefs remaining the show is about to get fun. All the chefs are exhausted, but it has whittled down to some of the most fierce competitors and if you want to stick around, you have to keep stepping up your game. Unpack your knives and go get it!

Need more Top Chef dish? Check out the blogs, including thoughts from past season's contestants, video recaps and an interview with the eliminated chef.

 

Molly Galler

Welcome to Pop.Bop.Shop. My name is Molly. I’m a foodie, fashionista, pop culture addict and serious travel junkie. I’m a lifelong Bostonian obsessed with frozen confections, outdoor patios, Mindy Kaling, reality television, awards shows, tropical vacations, snail mail and my birthday.

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