Last night the final contestants for Top Chef, Tiffani and Harold, finally got to do what they’d been waiting for: show their skill in creating a multi-course meal of their choosing. Both did very well and impressed an all-star panel of judges. There were a few missteps, but you could see that Lorraine Bracco wanted to lick her plate clean on several occasions.
I was so hungry by the end of the episode I went upstairs to see what was in the pantry, and was so disappointed not to find any Kobe beef or artichoke risotto. I had to settle for a bowl of Lucky Charms. But that was OK, because it was a great night in reality TV. First, my favorite Taylor Hicks won American Idol, and then my favorite chef, Harold, won the title of Top Chef.
Harold deserved the title because of his consistent work all through the competition, and because he commanded the respect of his fellow chefs, something Tiffani never could manage. In fact, in the final challenge, four of the most recently voted-off chefs returned to form teams for Tiffani and Harold. Stephen and Dave (could there be a worse nightmare for poor, embattled Dave?) showed up to help Tiffani completely drunk, and they continued drinking through the whole competition. I’m surprised Stephen was upright by the end and Dave didn’t need a drool bucket. On the other hand, Lee Anne and Miguel looked genuinely happy to help Harold secure his title.
With his $100,000 winnings, Harold is going to open a restaurant in New York city. Apparently, it is already well underway, because it is supposed to open this Fall. I, for one, will be a customer whenever I’m in New York. I’ve watched a full season of Harold making wonderful food and watching other people eat it. Now it’s my turn to be Top Taster!