I have DISH network and Im very happy with it.

My friend has DIRECT TV and she's very happy with it. We seem to get
about the same basic programming and I pay a lot more, but she has a
basic "package" while I have the "150 package" plus HBO and Cinemax. I
think the basic package is about the same price.

Im not too keen on the TV cooks you listed, either....but I like Bobby
Flay, Tyler Florence, Mario, Guy Fiere and Paula Dean. Ive learned
quite a lot from Alton what'shisname, too.

Good luck!

PS---whichever company you choose, consider adding HBO to your package.
They seem to have the first run of movies, plus GREAT stuff produced by
HBO--TRUE BLOOD, ROME, DEADWOOD BIG LOVE and OZ are worth the 10 bucks
a month even if there were NO movies.