The Melting Teapot

I’m not a fan of the regular Top Chef, with its manufactured feuds and emphasis on contests designed to bring the worse out of people.  However, last summer’s Top Chef Masters was a different type of reality cooking show.  In addition to the artistry of these great chefs, there was a sense of camaraderie and respect that prevailed even during intense competitions.  It was refreshing to watch, and I really enjoyed it.

I’m hoping that will continue to be the case with the new season that begins tonight, Wednesday April 7.

It should be even more fun this year because of the local connection. There are three Seattle chefs competing:  Maria Hines of Tilth Restaurant, Jerry Traunfeld of Poppy (previously at The Herb Farm), and “chef-in-the-hat” Thierry Rautureau of Rover’s.   These are incredible chefs who run a few of the most esteemed restaurants in the Pacific Northwest -- I'm excited to watch and cheer them on!

Foodies from around the country will recognize most of the chefs who will be competing, and you may even have eaten at a few of their restaurants.  See the full list and read the bios of chef-contestants and judges here: http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef-masters/season-2/bios


I’ve got the DVR set to record.  Do you?