Just when I started to convince myself that the producers of Top Chef were out of touch with what the fans wanted, they turn around and announce an All-Star season. That's right, I said season, not a single episode as a build-up to another season, but a bonafide fight to the finish between 18 of the most talented chefs the show has ever seen.
Ok, well not the MOST talented, because this season features a cast of almost-champions. But that's the beauty of it. I know I am not the only one whose heart broke for Carla as she saw her opportunity slip away right before her eyes during the Season 5 finale. And who didn't feel a lump in their own throat when Richard admitted he choked during the Season 4 finale.
Don't get me wrong, I thought Season 7 worked and the challenges were cool, but it didn't hold a flame to Season 6. It felt too scripted and it felt like the chefs were cast to fill a template, or prix-fixe menu if you will, that has worked in years past (A handful of James Beard award winners, throw in a witty sous-chef or two, and mix in a couple of chefs who stood no chance from the beginning). I mean seriously, where were the seemingly super-talented chefs down the stretch (I'm looking at you John Somerville and Kenny Gilbert). What made Season 6 so great was the fact that you could predict the final-six cheftestants from Episode #1 and they didn't disappoint.
Well this season is all about redemption and the cast will have one more chance to prove to the judges that they indeed have what it takes to be named Top Chef. Look for some classic challenges, heated judging tables, and most importantly, some stand-out food.
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