Among the handful of shows I watch regularly, Top Chef at the moment ranks at the top. This season has been great but from the start it has been Richard’s to loose. He sets the bar for his fellow chefs. Despite strong competition I’d be surprised if he didn’t win.

Lisa was never a stand out in my mind but her performance at the judges table in episode 10 revealed her true colors calling Andrew out on his use of ingredients which were in conflict with the rules. It was a desperate act from someone who knows they’re chances are slim. Resorting to tactics instead of good food to win is not the sign of a Top Chef.

Andrew may be a weirdo but I liked him and I think he can cook. More importantly though, week after week he showed a passion and zeal for his craft that went unmatched. I’ll miss Andrew going forward and I’m eager to see Lisa hang.

Episode 11 saw Dale hang for being a poor leader and a bad team player. I think it could have easily been Lisa though. She is smug and seems flabbergasted at criticism from the judges. Bourdain hated her Laksa. Why she thought that was a good idea when Tony was judging shows her lack of thoughtfulness. I’m projecting her to be kicked off tonight.

Spike has to know he is also skating a fine line. If he can pull off something really special he’ll make it another week. If he’s out of tricks, he’s done. I’d be very surprised to see Stephanie, Richard or Antonia off tonight.

Update: Had a strange feeling earlier today that Antonia could be the one to go…

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 28th, 2008 at 7:31 am and is filed under Etc, Food and Recipes.