On Jun 12, 2:14*pm, "Default User" > wrote:
> Bravo (US Cable channel) started a variation of the Top Chef show. This
> features established chefs competing for charity. It has a different
> format initially. It starts with a small group which goes through the
> Quick Fire/Elimination Challenge, one of which will move on to compete
> further.
>
> Most of the usual hosts are not participating, so no chef Tom or Padma.
>
> The first show had a Quick Fire dessert challenge, with Girl Scouts
> judging. Then a three-course dinner prepared in dorm rooms using hot
> plate, microwave, and toaster oven.
>
> Kind of gimmicky. The only chef I recognized of the first group was
> Hubert Keller. He has a PBS show. I'm pretty sure I spotted Rick
> Bayless in previews.
>
> Brian
>
> --
> Day 130 of the "no grouchy usenet posts" project

I think there's a thread on rec.food.cooking - I recognized Tim Love
from Texas in the first show, and in the previews, I spotted Bayless
along with Fabio from last season's "Top Chef" - at bravotv.com, Fabio
is preparing the winning Keller dish on a little video - still funny.
("This is how not to get pepper in your face.")

I liked the first show - the pros don't have to be cut-throat and
nasty because they've already made a success out of their careers.
They were good-natured and funny while watching Girl Scouts judge
their desserts ("She's a keeper; the red-head, OUT!")

And I like the format - 4 chefs each week for 6 weeks, with a showdown
of the 6 winners at the end.

N.