This week, we were fortunate enough to get Jeff Houck back in the studio to join the old gang so we could rag on the new season on Top Chef.
This season we have 17 fresh faces, many of them with titles and accolades under their belts – not to mention all of the tattoos and piercings all over their bodies. During episode one, we meet the new cheftestants, get to see the new Vegas style twist to the show (winning $15k and/or immunity for every Quickfire Challenge), and learn that a seitan-filled chile relleno just doesn't cut it to stay on this show.
During episode two, the remaining 16 got to have a battle of the sexes challenge and cater for a bachelor/ette party. While the girls talked a big game, it turns out that they just couldn't stand up to what the guys dished out and another female got sent home.
Personally, I'm somewhat disappointed with the females this season, besides "Ceveech" (Jennifer C. – but she annoys me anyway). I wanted to see some more Jamies (last season) or Elias (season 2). Luckily, we have some really talented male chefs (3 from Atlanta) who are all executive chefs and sous chefs – with awards out the wazoo – who are rockin' it out every week.
Highlights: Todd English's sex appeal, the Gay List (we're up to 3 now), Rule #1 in Top Chef, the Cain and Abel of this season, and the chefs get all wet.
Check out season 4's Richard Blais' post on his thoughts about the episode and cast (he's totally blogging for us now).
Hear the hilarious podcast after the jump:
This article appears in Aug 26 – Sep 1, 2009.