Storybook Vacations

Tonight on the Top Chef season five finale, many viewers were left surprised by Hosea’s victory.  Not that I actually wanted Stefan to win (frozen carpaccio, anyone?), and as wonderful as Carla is in her soulfulness she wasn’t qualified, but I expected him to do so.  But Hosea wowed the judge’s with his last supper and emerged the next, Top Chef.

Top Chef New York was unique in its innovative new episodes and challenges.  The staple of celebrity guest judges was both expected and welcome, but the true draw was the top-notch group of chefs and their incredible and sometimes awful dishes.  Equally interesting was Ariyan who was an assault on one’s senses and generally not a good chef.

Top Chef has been a welcome addition to Bravo these past five seasons, and I’ll be curious to see what new concept they create for season 6.  Europe? Hawaii? South America? Any of these venues could add elements of intrigue to the next season.

Watch what happens.

Brian Bravo, new york, Season 5 Finale, Top Chef

I love Top Chef New York.  As an amateur chef and foodie, it’s enjoyable to watch these culinary kings battle it out each week.  The food, the drama, the Padma.  Each moment is exciting to watch.

This week on Top Chef New York, Fabio said arivadeci to the show effectively destroying “Team Europe” as Tom Colicchio put it, in part I of the season finae.  But that’s ok, because as much as I liked Fabio, he didn’t rise to the occasion and was often not in the top three.

Top Chef has been a refreshing break from other reality shows as it has a soul and keeps you glued to your seat.

As for next week?  I predict that Stefan or Hosea will win.  Carla is a great chef, but she’s unlikely to overpower her male counterparts.  She needs more time to develop as a chef.

Catch Top Chef New York every Wednesday at 10pm EST on Bravo. Watch what happens!

Brian Bravo, Cooking, Dining, Top Chef, Top Chef New York