The Tables Have Turned

Hello Top Chef fans!

What a sweet delight it is to be writing to you from the other side of the curtain. As you all know Season 1 was certainly filled with excitement, and I've been looking forward to getting to know the chefs from Season 2.

First of all I'd like to say to some of the contestants: Holy egos, Batman! I think it's easy to say you are better than Season 1 right off the bat, and also unnecessary. I find talent should speak for itsself. Also, need I remind you, you all have access to your recipes. The lack there of, under stress, is a torture you will never understand. Also few weeks into the competition, and few Judges' Table, will also help to make anyone humble. Now moving on...

I really liked the Quickfire. I actually thought it wasn't too chaotic, and it was a very playful medium. I also knew I wanted Amanda and Nelson to win. Amanda had me at pickled cherries. Pairing something acidic and fruity with an ice cream classic is always a great idea! Kudos. I also thought that the poached floating island was kind of brilliant. I'm a sucker for poached meringue though. On the other hand, the banana split with the vanilla bean garnish and fanned strawberry, I thought I was in a time warp and caught back in 1994.

You all know we had some strong personalities in Season 1, but something tells me these chefs have an ego and a bite to their tongue. I'm intrigued to say the least. Although it's a little premature, I already have a few favorites (this could change however). Off the bat, I really like Sally. I've had the pleasure of meeting her several times, and I know her to be not only a strong competitor, and strong woman but also a good and fair chef. I wish her the best. But I'm also really drawn to Chris. I mean this guy has an amazing background, and quite a resume, yet he still seems to be a solid team player, enigmatic and still pretty humble... reminds me of someone....Oh, and I already want to adopt Craig as my little brother. I'm not sure if it's his awkward demeanor, but I'm curious to see what comes from him next.

I loved the Elimination Challenge. Pastry is all about imagination and the whimsy, so what better than a fairytale? Team Red Riding Hood was my favorite, by far. What an elegant yet textural showpiece. Truly a work of art, and the flavor profiles and the textures of their desserts really spoke to me as well. They not only created beautiful food but it was interactive and had a flair to it.

This episode was a brilliant way to start off the competition, and put forth each chefs technique and personality. As this is far more enjoyable on this side of the table, I'm looking forward to watching next week's episode to see what unravels next.  

In the meantime follow me on Twitter @yigitpura or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/YigitPura

Until next week!

Yigit