And the Top Chef Isn’t …

Published on Wednesday, January 31, 2007, by The CHOW Editorial Team / Edit Post

Marcel Vigneron, Top Chef runner-up, addresses the Clippergate incident once and for all, expresses his disappointment that the drama took precedence over the food, and explains that, in the end, cooking is about giving love—and he’s got more love than Ilan. Plus, the down-low on the hair and the rapping.

Listen to other Top Chef podcasts:
The winner, Ilan Hall
Sam Talbot and Elia Aboumrad
Cliff Crooks
Michael Midgley
Betty Fraser
Mia Gaines
Frank Terzoli
Carlos Fernandez
Marisa Churchill and Josie Smith-Malave
Emily Sprissler
Otto Borsich
Suyai Steinhauer and Judge Tom Colicchio

For a full overview of this episode, check out TV.com.

ALLTop Chef
POST A COMMENT |119 Comments

COMMENT

  • It's an interesting thing, but the people who become the true movers and shakers in any field are nearly always those who are bullied and picked on by the mediocre herd who cannot think for themselves and are suspicious of anyone who can. Marcel remained focused and unruffled despite the adolescent spiteful gossiping that went on about him, and of which he was completely aware.He had to make his...+READ

    It's an interesting thing, but the people who become the true movers and shakers in any field are nearly always those who are bullied and picked on by the mediocre herd who cannot think for themselves and are suspicious of anyone who can. Marcel remained focused and unruffled despite the adolescent spiteful gossiping that went on about him, and of which he was completely aware.He had to make his final meal with the obvious ill-willed shoddy "cooperation" of the others...yet he produced, by the judges own admission, the best and most original meal. Watch, Marcel will be the great chef...the others are too small minded to do anything truly creative. You rule Marcel!-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel you rock.

    I take my hat off to you for continuing in that environment. It may have been the strategy of this group of bullies intimidated by your creativity and talent, to break you down but you just kept at it. Marcel should have won and with just a tiny bit more support surely would have. I just can't get my head around that the other dude won- I don't remember a thing he made except...+READ

    Marcel you rock.

    I take my hat off to you for continuing in that environment. It may have been the strategy of this group of bullies intimidated by your creativity and talent, to break you down but you just kept at it. Marcel should have won and with just a tiny bit more support surely would have. I just can't get my head around that the other dude won- I don't remember a thing he made except something for having prawns' heads fall off.. on the other hand Marcels dishes are memorable as beautiful and interesting works of art.

    It should be about the food and sure enough a little bit of drama helps, but what is wrong with these people! Abusive behaviour, pathetic immature old woman who can't shut her mouth and then the physical assault- while Ilan films on.

    I just can't be bothered watching topchef ever again after this.-COLLAPSE

  • I think Marcel is the only good thing that has happened to Top Chef.
    [SE LA RIFA!!!] ;D
    His dishes were so beautiful and fancy and he was such a great guy.
    AcidYen is SO WRONG!! what's wrong with society these days??
    [perro sucio!] I mean, can't you think 4 yourself?
    [love for Marcel from gdl!]
    Marcel is great. We hope that Marcel can make it big in that thing of the culinary world, he doesn't...+READ

    I think Marcel is the only good thing that has happened to Top Chef.
    [SE LA RIFA!!!] ;D
    His dishes were so beautiful and fancy and he was such a great guy.
    AcidYen is SO WRONG!! what's wrong with society these days??
    [perro sucio!] I mean, can't you think 4 yourself?
    [love for Marcel from gdl!]
    Marcel is great. We hope that Marcel can make it big in that thing of the culinary world, he doesn't need a hyper-dramatic reality show to teach us how great he cooks.
    Best wishes to Marcel! :]-COLLAPSE

  • Well that was the best way for the show to end. You don't cook as well as you think. Maybe this show will teach you that you shouldn't be a egotistic little kid. So be happy that you had an opportunity to be on the show, get a haircut, and tell your boyfriend I said hello.

  • Dear Lord..

    Marcel? Have fangirls? I'm... Surprised and yet ever so slightly disgusted... But, anyways, I'd like to address some issues that have been brought up here...

    ... Don't change Marcel's personality just so you can fawn over him and make him seem like the victim. He was an ass from the beginning of the season right to the end. He was NOT a little lamb getting attacked by the...+READ

    Dear Lord..

    Marcel? Have fangirls? I'm... Surprised and yet ever so slightly disgusted... But, anyways, I'd like to address some issues that have been brought up here...

    ... Don't change Marcel's personality just so you can fawn over him and make him seem like the victim. He was an ass from the beginning of the season right to the end. He was NOT a little lamb getting attacked by the others. Psh, far from it.

    I'll admit that I haven't recently watched season two, so I don't remember everything, but I can say that I remember Marcel with a very bad taste in my mouth-- Almost as bad as if I had tasted his foam.. (No.. No.. I'm kidding.. His foam probably tasted rather good..)

    I'm sad to see that some people here are putting the other contestants down. :| I mean really: If you had to work with Marcel, I'm sure you wouldn't be worshipping him like you are now.

    Ilan.. I'm sure he's a great chef. Until you actually taste his food, don't say that it sucks. Likewise, you can't say for sure that his food is awesome or Marcel's food is awesome, etc. Don't take the judges' words for it. :3

    I think I skipped around, but I said what I had to say. m ( _ _ ) m-COLLAPSE

  • Thanks for the info and will use that http----Got used to this banner

  • Hey, guys, you do know that there are other Top Chef forums and blogs where you can have general TC discussions, don't you? :)

    This is Marcel-related information I thought you'd all like to know. Marcel will be blogging for Season 3 on Bravo's TC website. Here's the link to his page (his first blog commentary has not posted yet--expect each week's to be posted on Friday afternoon, per this...+READ

    Hey, guys, you do know that there are other Top Chef forums and blogs where you can have general TC discussions, don't you? :)

    This is Marcel-related information I thought you'd all like to know. Marcel will be blogging for Season 3 on Bravo's TC website. Here's the link to his page (his first blog commentary has not posted yet--expect each week's to be posted on Friday afternoon, per this page): http://www.bravotv.com/blog/marcelvigneron/2007/06/coming_soon.php-COLLAPSE

  • If you're following the third season, here's CHOW's first podcast. http://www.chow.com/stories/10607

  • front runner not frontrunner

  • I agree with some of your two cents. I liked Tre and I liked Cliff. And poor Clay. He seems so sweet and he was overwhelmed by the venue. He said he could not get over his nerves. A sweet country lad.
    The food blew me away...Ughhh....Frog legs and snake and alligator and kangaroo a la mode. I had to remind myself that the bounty is reflecting the Florida environs but I was still swallowing...+READ

    I agree with some of your two cents. I liked Tre and I liked Cliff. And poor Clay. He seems so sweet and he was overwhelmed by the venue. He said he could not get over his nerves. A sweet country lad.
    The food blew me away...Ughhh....Frog legs and snake and alligator and kangaroo a la mode. I had to remind myself that the bounty is reflecting the Florida environs but I was still swallowing hard...Where did the kangaroo come from?
    I have always liked New Yorkers. The New York accent is wild and always colorful to say the least. But I wouldn't say rude.
    Tre and Hung will be the frontrunners they have winning confidence.
    I swore I would not watch another Top Chef but look at me.
    Help!-COLLAPSE

  • Top Chef 3 and the A$$h0les abound. It seems the casting team picked a whole new season of attitudes. Although I must admit some of them do look skillful. It seems that instead of just picking from write-ins they have gone to chefs and friends recommendations as noted by Tom C.

    Wow the guy from New York talking smack from the get go. Playing the stereotypical rude New Yorker which we are not....+READ

    Top Chef 3 and the A$$h0les abound. It seems the casting team picked a whole new season of attitudes. Although I must admit some of them do look skillful. It seems that instead of just picking from write-ins they have gone to chefs and friends recommendations as noted by Tom C.

    Wow the guy from New York talking smack from the get go. Playing the stereotypical rude New Yorker which we are not. Also what is with the southern sob story (Clay)? I really felt bad for that guy but he was so out of his element.

    We have already seen forshadowing of who will be the front runners Hung (unfortunately) and Tre. I like Tre for the simple reason I liked Cliff from the last season; he cooks very well and is not an asshole about it. Hung is already being setup as Marcel 2. Just my two (2) cents.-COLLAPSE

  • We love Marcel. He is my Top Chef #1.

  • Top Chef 3 tonight. New arguments. New outrages.

  • Get out of Dodge tjex.

  • How can I say non on the show like him? I'm not sure.. maybe we weren't watching the same show.

    Hostile intentions? I think you're reading a little too much into this.

    If he stood up for himself then it would be an other story, he just let them all walk all over him (not including the head shaving incident). I'll repeat it for the last time, a chef needs to lead a team. Marcel never showed that...+READ

    How can I say non on the show like him? I'm not sure.. maybe we weren't watching the same show.

    Hostile intentions? I think you're reading a little too much into this.

    If he stood up for himself then it would be an other story, he just let them all walk all over him (not including the head shaving incident). I'll repeat it for the last time, a chef needs to lead a team. Marcel never showed that we could.

    Believe what you will, I'm honestly not here to change your mind. 'nuff said, I'm out.-COLLAPSE

  • tjex...
    How can you say not one person liked Marcel? He behaved with dignity amidst the undignified behavior of the other contestants. Shall we call Ilan, Elia, Betty, Frank... Team players? Certainly they played with bad tempers, outbursts in public and on camera without a blush and they worked together well while they did so. Well for crying out loud...Clippergate was a good example of team...+READ

    tjex...
    How can you say not one person liked Marcel? He behaved with dignity amidst the undignified behavior of the other contestants. Shall we call Ilan, Elia, Betty, Frank... Team players? Certainly they played with bad tempers, outbursts in public and on camera without a blush and they worked together well while they did so. Well for crying out loud...Clippergate was a good example of team playing wasn't it. Snide remarks in interviews and so on. Group dynamics my foot...Well, yes that is how people tend to behave-join forces with petty tyrants. It lends some temporary power.
    I would not have any trepidation working with Marcel. I would be wary of working with many of the others and I think that includes you ,Lamentocubano and all those who exhibit such strangely hostile feelings.
    Must be jealousy for one who has higher gifts.-COLLAPSE

  • tjex, thank you. Your are a nice person. oh yes.

  • LOL tita39, we're going to have to get you a t-shirt with "Marcel rox my world" written all over it. :P

  • Marcel is a TOP CHEF. We all love Marcel . I will love to work with him.

  • Marcel as top chef is a joke in my opinion. Yes, he's a great cook, yes I would LOVE to eat at his restaurant if he ever opens one. But I will never work with him.

    Shelly, I understand group dynamics. But keep in mind that he put himself in that position. Not one single person stood up for him, even the judges didn't like him. Without him 'growing-up' and learning to play in a team, he'll have...+READ

    Marcel as top chef is a joke in my opinion. Yes, he's a great cook, yes I would LOVE to eat at his restaurant if he ever opens one. But I will never work with him.

    Shelly, I understand group dynamics. But keep in mind that he put himself in that position. Not one single person stood up for him, even the judges didn't like him. Without him 'growing-up' and learning to play in a team, he'll have the same problems again in any other group.

    A chef needs to earn the respect of his team, inspire them, lead with example. That person needs to function well in a group!-COLLAPSE

  • After watching 4 star all stars, I have come to the conclusion that the TOP CHEF 2 should be Marcel. Marcel won TOP CHEF 2. Marcel have real talent, he's creative and inventive.

    Why Ilan was crowned Top Chef 2. He's a boring chef and never takes risks. He can only cook spanish-style dishes. He can't cook anything else. The man can't cook! salty egg, dry duck meat with a raw egg on top?! Are...+READ

    After watching 4 star all stars, I have come to the conclusion that the TOP CHEF 2 should be Marcel. Marcel won TOP CHEF 2. Marcel have real talent, he's creative and inventive.

    Why Ilan was crowned Top Chef 2. He's a boring chef and never takes risks. He can only cook spanish-style dishes. He can't cook anything else. The man can't cook! salty egg, dry duck meat with a raw egg on top?! Are you kidding me?

    And Lamentocubano you have anger problems I see. The ignorant in my opinion is you. I'm sorry for you . That you don't speak spanish.

    In my book Marcel is THE TOP CHEF 2. YES MARCEL FOR PRESIDENT WOW.-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel for President!

  • WE ALL LOVE MARCEL!!

  • I LOVE MARCEL!

  • Marcel was and is the best on Top Chef 2. He is creative, inventive, and crafty. And he was the best sport of them all. Betty was retarded and opened her mouth too much, without anything constructive to say. Elia was brainwashed. Sam needs to find his way. And IIan should not be top chef. I hope his career is unsucessful. Most people like MARCEL better anyway.

  • Shelley says it well...

  • Lamentocubano and Mike...What's goin on with you two?

  • Lamentocubano-
    Oh, I don't think Marcel cares only for himself-I mean, from what I see it is just human nature. He is confident in his abilities. His signature is foam. Because I like the man I don't see snide but he certainly did get under a lot of people's skin. On the other hand many are his fans. So he seems to be one of those people that evokes passion one way or the other-Elan did not seem...+READ

    Lamentocubano-
    Oh, I don't think Marcel cares only for himself-I mean, from what I see it is just human nature. He is confident in his abilities. His signature is foam. Because I like the man I don't see snide but he certainly did get under a lot of people's skin. On the other hand many are his fans. So he seems to be one of those people that evokes passion one way or the other-Elan did not seem so confident but you know on the all stars show the tension of competition was absent. Marcel seemed very hyper compared to the rest and it wasn't going over very well note the expressions on the faces of Harold and Tiffany. In truth the whole gang appeared to be a bit tired. Frankly I don't know how anyone could put themselves through such a competition for love or money.-COLLAPSE

  • Mikeviixi,
    Union Square park anytime or day.

  • Manny, I am from the big city; you're from the sewer beneath it.

  • R. Jacob,
    Its not so much anger is that I have worked with guys like him before who only care for themselves, everyone else be damned. He is not a team player. Did you not hear his snide comments? Come on the whole "saffron foam" was a swipe at Elan followed up by his usual commentary. I just cannot believe this guy went to my Alma mater. What the hell was going on with Elan he seemed in...+READ

    R. Jacob,
    Its not so much anger is that I have worked with guys like him before who only care for themselves, everyone else be damned. He is not a team player. Did you not hear his snide comments? Come on the whole "saffron foam" was a swipe at Elan followed up by his usual commentary. I just cannot believe this guy went to my Alma mater. What the hell was going on with Elan he seemed in another world and lost?-COLLAPSE

  • Adorable.

  • I watched the 4 stars last night to see Marcel again. He's as cute as ever. This post board here is still seething...Really it is a bit much to be so angry about Marcel. I like cooking shows and it is all good fun. Lamentocubano you have got an anger problem but very typical of message boards...The only chef that got under my skin was Betty Fraser of Chef 2. She was very mean. I don't miss her....+READ

    I watched the 4 stars last night to see Marcel again. He's as cute as ever. This post board here is still seething...Really it is a bit much to be so angry about Marcel. I like cooking shows and it is all good fun. Lamentocubano you have got an anger problem but very typical of message boards...The only chef that got under my skin was Betty Fraser of Chef 2. She was very mean. I don't miss her. There was some low-down behavior from everyone but that makes for reality TV. The bullying of Marcel was unwarranted that's all there was to it. He's my favorite. He's got style. Besides being so doggone agorable.-COLLAPSE

  • Coming from Tucson AZ will be a long trip I suspect but if you ever make it up to the big city let me know.

  • No, sir, the ball is in yours.

  • Mikeviixi,
    So there you have it Mr. Cruz the ball is in your court.

  • Mikeviixi,
    I will give you a time and a place and you can meet me there. I work right near Union Square Park. You did not care to say if you are in New York or not. Then we can see if you bully words match your actions.

  • Lamentocubano, I only use a short, exacting vocabulary for those whom I regard as retarded. And, really, if you give me your address I can surely accommodate your needs.

  • Mikeviixi,
    As per your qualifications to discuss who can cook or not. Are you a chef yourself or a dilettante with an extremely limited vocabulary?

  • Shelley20,
    Thank you once again for having the time and talent to write something of intelligence in the way of an argument. I am not trying to fall into a MOB mentality but Marcel has a way of getting under your skin.

    Mikeviixi
    Since you persist on showing your ignorance displaying your lack of argumentative skills. I live in NYC so if you care to call me twit to my face let me know I will...+READ

    Shelley20,
    Thank you once again for having the time and talent to write something of intelligence in the way of an argument. I am not trying to fall into a MOB mentality but Marcel has a way of getting under your skin.

    Mikeviixi
    Since you persist on showing your ignorance displaying your lack of argumentative skills. I live in NYC so if you care to call me twit to my face let me know I will give you the opportunity to do so in person. Then we will see what talents I do or not have.

    It all about ratings so if it was really TOP CHEF, it would be about the FOOD not the "DRAMA". TOP CHEF 3 coming soon, wow what a stretch I see the cast is a clone of 2. Lets throw in a lesbian, a hispanic gay guy, one chick who thinks she is hot, and one African American to the other assorted casting standards.-COLLAPSE

  • Oh and to Lamentocubano: just one other thing. I really don't allow polls to think for me. I can make up my own mind and believe in my own judgements.

  • No actually Tjex, I'm going on what I saw. I don't know if he's a great guy or not that's really irrelevant. The object of the show was to show your talents as a chef not to suck up to people. These reality shows teach us one thing. That when people are in competition and confined to a small group the worst usually comes out. Marcel's comments may have been snide to some but coming out of any of...+READ

    No actually Tjex, I'm going on what I saw. I don't know if he's a great guy or not that's really irrelevant. The object of the show was to show your talents as a chef not to suck up to people. These reality shows teach us one thing. That when people are in competition and confined to a small group the worst usually comes out. Marcel's comments may have been snide to some but coming out of any of the 'popular' chefs mouths they would have just been laughed off as a joke. I don't think anyone can look at how he was treated by the other contestants and not see that he was scapegoated for being a little odd. This is why I stated before that it is necesarry to act independently and not succumb to the poor behavior of the group just because it seems like the popular thing to do. Check out mob psychology: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mob_psychology
    Elia's constant prevarications were a perfect example. At first she defended Marcel then later, when pressured by others in the group she began to antagonize him. Not because he deserved it but because she simply succumbed to the pressures of the group. Ever heard of critical mass? If only one person does something it may not affect the larger group but after a few more people start engaging in the same behavior then it reaches the tipping point and everyone else begins to behave that way. Sorry for being so verbiose but I find that reality shows offer a facscinating perspective on the human condition.-COLLAPSE

  • @shelly20

    Maybe you should re-read my last post.

    And I could easily say that you're going on pure speculation by saying that he's a great guy. Works both ways ;)

  • Oh, and Lamentocubano, please remember the name of the show was "Top Chef" not "Top Chef Most Well Liked". I don't know about you, but when I watch t.v. I do it with my eyes open.

  • Hey lamentocubano, I'm not the one wearing my national origin on my sleeve you twit. BTW, if you want to knock out Bush, go right ahead but remember that's sedition and a punishable offense you no talent bimbo.

  • For Mikeviixi,
    First of all I don't have to go anywhere since I was born in this country. You have nothing more to say than make bigoted cultural comments, since that is probably as far as your argumentative skills go. As far as knocking out Castro, threatening to cause bodily harm to the leader of a sovereign nation could be construed as a crime. Why don't you talk about doing the same to...+READ

    For Mikeviixi,
    First of all I don't have to go anywhere since I was born in this country. You have nothing more to say than make bigoted cultural comments, since that is probably as far as your argumentative skills go. As far as knocking out Castro, threatening to cause bodily harm to the leader of a sovereign nation could be construed as a crime. Why don't you talk about doing the same to Bush?

    For Tita39,
    You can start by not being rude and posting your comments in Spanish which are not understood by all the forum readers. Once again because you cannot argue any point and are attacking me with expletives shows how ignorant you are. At least Shelley20 argued her point intelligently. Questioning my heritage does nothing to support your argument. Being from Puerto Rico please don't come and tell me what a Cuban should think or do.

    Shelley20,
    Maybe we did not see the same show but Marcel spent a lot of time making snide comments and then as a "supposed team member" bashing others when things did not work out well. The irrational hatred of Marcel is not "irrational" when it is shared by a large number of individuals. If you look at the POLL that bravo did on who is the most disliked, it was not Elan who won.-COLLAPSE

  • Hey, Lamentocubano, if you think you're such hotshit why don't you knock out Castro and swim back to your own fuckin' country.

  • lamentocubano, nobody saw marcel behaving disrespctfully to anyone on camera. what we did see was others disrespecting marcel. Now you can say that they editted out many parts, but then like tjex all you're going on is pure speculation. you can't imagine that someone did something then state it as a fact. secondly, your irrational hatred of Marcel is based on the same schoolyard bullying...+READ

    lamentocubano, nobody saw marcel behaving disrespctfully to anyone on camera. what we did see was others disrespecting marcel. Now you can say that they editted out many parts, but then like tjex all you're going on is pure speculation. you can't imagine that someone did something then state it as a fact. secondly, your irrational hatred of Marcel is based on the same schoolyard bullying mentality that brought the other chefs down. You have to learn to have a stronger mind and not follow along with what others are doing...even if you don't think it's popular. Marcel or anyone else for that matter did not deserve to be treated the way he was.-COLLAPSE

  • This for Lamentocubano , a la verdad que me das asco y una pena que eres supuestamente cubano. sucio.

    Marcel you are the TOP CHEF in my book. Your friend from Puerto Rico.

    Lamentocubano go and peel your tounge , basura , puerco, sucio. Your are the asshole. imbecil. shit eater.

  • It never ceases to amaze me at some of the comments written on these boards. I am just sorry that when Cliff was thrown off the show he didn't take a good swing at Marcel on the way out but then again assault and battery carries bigger consequences than a stupid reality TV show that caters only to ratings and is not about cooking. In the end Marcel got his ass kicked in cooking and in a club in...+READ

    It never ceases to amaze me at some of the comments written on these boards. I am just sorry that when Cliff was thrown off the show he didn't take a good swing at Marcel on the way out but then again assault and battery carries bigger consequences than a stupid reality TV show that caters only to ratings and is not about cooking. In the end Marcel got his ass kicked in cooking and in a club in Vegas. Yelling at Marcel would have been the least I would have done if he disrespected me in public. For all you Marcel fans out there keep rooting for the egotistical, self centered, self-centered asshole it only shows how even the worst qualities in humanity can be championed.

    Marcel, you can take your foams and stick them where the sun doesn't shine. There is a chef in Spain who is the top innovator in molecular microgastromony. Maybe you can go peel carrots for him for a few years.-COLLAPSE

  • I too would be calm if I were faced with ten angry knife wielding chefs ;)

    Okay, so editing might play a big part of how he's presented on screen. But that still doesn't explain how he managed to irritate every other contestant. Those moments weren't orchestrated just for the TV show. I'm sorry, I strongly believe he was at the time of the show, too immature to understand personal dynamics...+READ

    I too would be calm if I were faced with ten angry knife wielding chefs ;)

    Okay, so editing might play a big part of how he's presented on screen. But that still doesn't explain how he managed to irritate every other contestant. Those moments weren't orchestrated just for the TV show. I'm sorry, I strongly believe he was at the time of the show, too immature to understand personal dynamics with the other chefs.

    Put aside his personality and he's a fantastic chef.-COLLAPSE

  • tjex, Marcel was made a villain because his peers were intimidated by the fact that 1) He was much younger than many of them and 2) he already knew more than they did about his craft. In the begining when he thought they were normal he would casually make references about his techniques, they took it to mean that he was arrogant. Whenever he was bullied he was calm and showed great class instead...+READ

    tjex, Marcel was made a villain because his peers were intimidated by the fact that 1) He was much younger than many of them and 2) he already knew more than they did about his craft. In the begining when he thought they were normal he would casually make references about his techniques, they took it to mean that he was arrogant. Whenever he was bullied he was calm and showed great class instead of stooping to their level. I am glad he got as far as he did in the competition even though for me I think he should have won. Betty in particulary should reflect on her appalling behavior during the show. For someone so old you would think she would know better.-COLLAPSE

  • The guys was irritating as hell. If he was quiet and kept to himself he might have won the whole thing.

    This is TOP CHEF, not TOP COOK. He needs to be able to lead a team, if can't gain the respect of ANY of his staff then there he should no win.

  • Actually, I haven't seen beyond the Thanksgiving Challenge yet but since inadvertently seeing a spoiler about the win, I decided to follow up on the infamour Marcel incident -- not seen yet either. The only thing that surprises me about it is Elia's part in it, since she has been so far defending Marcel. Maybe I shouldn't be so surprised. She was surprisingly easily roped in by Marisa to do Otto...+READ

    Actually, I haven't seen beyond the Thanksgiving Challenge yet but since inadvertently seeing a spoiler about the win, I decided to follow up on the infamour Marcel incident -- not seen yet either. The only thing that surprises me about it is Elia's part in it, since she has been so far defending Marcel. Maybe I shouldn't be so surprised. She was surprisingly easily roped in by Marisa to do Otto down.

    I don't know what all the hooha is about Marcel's supposed arrogance and snobbishness. Fact is, Steven was 10 times worse in Season 1 and NONE of his teammates treated him half as badly. This was one sorry bunch of bullies. Betty's behavior shocked me, and I haven't seen the worst yet, it seems. She acted like one of those high school princesses who feel they have the power to annihilate anyone they like. She pushed and encouraged everyone else to be nasty to Marcel from the first episode, and I'm sure the poor guy's only sin was to indicate that 'self-taught' cooks weren't as good as professionally trained ones and had no hope of winning TOP CHEF. That's the only reason that would have turned her into a mean harpy, bent on destroying from the start. Her screaming, her fishwife insults, her bullying... Everything about her was abhorrent. I would never set foot in her so-called 'comfort food' restaurant. What, the other chefs prepare food to make you hurl? I'm positive if Ilan appeared to be the instigator, he was simply jumping on the chance offered by stupid Betty's animosity to derail a chef he was obviously scared of, talentwise. Bravo! shouldn't allow its contestants to behave in such a childish, mean, destructive way. I've watched many reality-TV talent shows and I've NEVER seen anything like Betty's behavior. The woman should be ashamed of herself.-COLLAPSE

  • Actually, I haven't seen beyond the Thanksgiving Challenge yet but since inadvertently seeing a spoiler about the win, I decided to follow up on the infamour Marcel incident -- not seen yet either. The only thing that surprises me about it is Elia's part in it, since she has been so far defending Marcel. Maybe I shouldn't be so surprised. She was surprisingly easily roped in by Marisa to do Otto...+READ

    Actually, I haven't seen beyond the Thanksgiving Challenge yet but since inadvertently seeing a spoiler about the win, I decided to follow up on the infamour Marcel incident -- not seen yet either. The only thing that surprises me about it is Elia's part in it, since she has been so far defending Marcel. Maybe I shouldn't be so surprised. She was surprisingly easily roped in by Marisa to do Otto down.

    I don't know what all the hooha is about Marcel's supposed arrogance and snobbishness. Fact is, Steven was 10 times worse in Season 1 and NONE of his teammates treated him half as badly. This was one sorry bunch of bullies. Betty's behavior shocked me, and I haven't seen the worst yet, it seems. She acted like one of those high school princesses who feel they have the power to annihilate anyone they like. She pushed and encouraged everyone else to be nasty to Marcel from the first episode, and I'm sure the poor guy's only sin was to indicate that 'self-taught' cooks weren't as good as professionally trained ones and had no hope of winning TOP CHEF. That's the only reason that would have turned her into a mean harpy, bent on destroying from the start. Her screaming, her fishwife insults, her bullying... Everything about her was abhorrent. I would never set foot in her so-called 'comfort food' restaurant. What, the other chefs prepare food to make you hurl? I'm positive if Ilan appeared to be the instigator, he was simply jumping on the chance offered by stupid Betty's animosity to derail a chef he was obviously scared of, talentwise. Bravo! shouldn't allow its contestants to behave in such a childish, mean, destructive way. I've watched many reality-TV talent shows and I've NEVER seen anything like Betty's behavior. The woman should be ashamed of herself.-COLLAPSE

  • Oh come on, rudejude, the majority of the people know that Marcel should have been named the winner in Top Chef 2. Why call him a whiny twirp, there has been no interviews that I have seen that Marcel hasn't acted in a gracious manner. This boy will go far, mark my words. He has talent and a outstanding personality.

  • Marcel is a whiny twirp. He has not devloped his skills enough and took too many risks while in the competition. If he didn't try so hard, he would have succeeded with more of his creations.
    He also dropped the ball when he forgot the fish in the finale. I'm sorry, but that is reason enough to disqualify him. It was the other guy who suggested putting the dish out anyway, with the addition of sea...+READ

    Marcel is a whiny twirp. He has not devloped his skills enough and took too many risks while in the competition. If he didn't try so hard, he would have succeeded with more of his creations.
    He also dropped the ball when he forgot the fish in the finale. I'm sorry, but that is reason enough to disqualify him. It was the other guy who suggested putting the dish out anyway, with the addition of sea beans. Top Chefs do not leave their fish at other kitchens. Chefs are managers, and Marcel exhibited few leadership or managerial skills. In fact, he appeared quite retarded as far as relating to people goes.-COLLAPSE

  • Why do you still have EXTREMELY OLD NEWS pop up in the banner?

  • Marcel should have picked Mia instead of Mike. Mike was so not driven to help him win. He was glad to see Elan win. I bet if Marcel picked Mia, I think it would have gone the other way.

  • Marcel, you are the clear winner. I truly don't understand why they chose Ilan. Your dishes displayed far more innovation and interest. I also admired the way you handled yourself during the competition. It was obvious to me that your competitors were intimidated by your talent and felt the need to sabotage you. In the end they only sabotaged themselves. I am sure I will see a lot more of you in...+READ

    Marcel, you are the clear winner. I truly don't understand why they chose Ilan. Your dishes displayed far more innovation and interest. I also admired the way you handled yourself during the competition. It was obvious to me that your competitors were intimidated by your talent and felt the need to sabotage you. In the end they only sabotaged themselves. I am sure I will see a lot more of you in the future.You are so young and so talented! I also plan to dine at The Mansion when I visit Las Vegas this summer. Cheers to you Marcel, THE WINNER OF TOP CHEF.-COLLAPSE

  • For me, Marcel Vigneron is the undisputed Top Chef. He is the only one who attempted to do anything interesting or innovative.

    Ilan, Sam, Betty, Cliff, Elia and Frank were all a$$holes, especially that humpback reject Betty Fraser. And what I can't believe is that bastard Sam has the nerve to pick a fight with Marcel in public while shopping. Most amazing is that everybody else just stood...+READ

    For me, Marcel Vigneron is the undisputed Top Chef. He is the only one who attempted to do anything interesting or innovative.

    Ilan, Sam, Betty, Cliff, Elia and Frank were all a$$holes, especially that humpback reject Betty Fraser. And what I can't believe is that bastard Sam has the nerve to pick a fight with Marcel in public while shopping. Most amazing is that everybody else just stood there an watched.

    Top Chef, Season 2 is the only show I know that featured scumbags, except Marcel, who can cook. I'll be looking for those jerks in the sewers.-COLLAPSE

  • This is for rozz01. More arrogance and worse was Ilan. Do you took into consideration how all the other chefs felt about Marcel?

    Ilan was really manupulative, Ilan made the situation really, really worse and riled up the other chefs. Elia was cool on Marcel, not until Ilan stayed at her room because she was alone. (changing her mind). Ilan is always talking crap to everyone about Marcel.

    ...+READ

    This is for rozz01. More arrogance and worse was Ilan. Do you took into consideration how all the other chefs felt about Marcel?

    Ilan was really manupulative, Ilan made the situation really, really worse and riled up the other chefs. Elia was cool on Marcel, not until Ilan stayed at her room because she was alone. (changing her mind). Ilan is always talking crap to everyone about Marcel.

    Marcel at least he is genuinely honest, and never made such personal comments on anyone about their sex life. Marcel knows the food, the reactions and if Sam and Mike had not helped him loose, then he would be the winner. They were in charge of the refidgerated items.

    If you want Ilan food go to Spain or Puerto Rico. He just cooks authenitc spanish food that you can get going down the Ramblas at any corner restaurant. That is all. Ilan just played it safe and Marcel took some real changes and used his creativity to produce really beatiful and tasty food.

    Congratulations, Top Chef you just implied that a top chef is a person who has limited skill but can cook well one way and serve it up in a bunch of different shapes, and be a top chef. Ilan saffron maniak.

    Marcel, hope you read this, truly wish you all the best you are a real pro and an absolute gentleman. IN my book you are the Top Chef. Your friend from Puerto Rico.-COLLAPSE

  • Part of working in a kitchen is reeling in arrogance. I cant understand why people seem so surprised you lost when that was the only side I saw of you. Perhaps it was all in the way that it was filmed....

  • I agree with so many of the posts here - even to this day, I'm angry about the outcome of the final episode of Top Chef. (And it took me this long to figure out how to post. :)

    Marcel, you're a doll and it will be a pleasure to follow your career. I'm deeply sorry for what you had to endure on this show and a bit ashamed of Bravo for encouraging that kind of behavior from the other...+READ

    I agree with so many of the posts here - even to this day, I'm angry about the outcome of the final episode of Top Chef. (And it took me this long to figure out how to post. :)

    Marcel, you're a doll and it will be a pleasure to follow your career. I'm deeply sorry for what you had to endure on this show and a bit ashamed of Bravo for encouraging that kind of behavior from the other contestants. (By allowing it to continue and putting that side of the competition on air at all is the same as encouragement to me.) I don't think I can watch next year because of that. It's no longer a cooking show, but Desperate Chefs.
    Oh, and "Mostly Martha" is a beautiful film!
    à tout àl’heure-COLLAPSE

  • rjacob
    check your mail. thx for going out on a limb. look forward to the chat.
    k

  • oh what the heck...
    rabcka@hotmail.com

  • note to middlechef,
    If I gave you my email everyone in the post boards will know it...

  • note to middlechef
    I would be happy to inform you of "local inside scoop." I frequent the art galleries on the strip and I have my favorite restaurants at Bellagio and Flamingo. I have not yet eaten at In the Mansion but I will soon. I suspect I am a great deal older than you by what I glean from your writing style-nevertheless, ask away and I will tell you if I can!

  • Marcel for my book you are the TOP CHEF. I'm from Puerto Rico, San Juan, and I will like to have a copy of the book that you making. Send some copies to Puero Rico when is ready. A friend Tita.

  • rjacob -
    looking back, it's pretty funny - i was SOOOO disturbed after clippergate. i posted EVERYWHERE of the travesty. i still feel really strongly about marcel's skill and gifts. i would love to go to the mansion and totally hope to scope it out first. vegas is one of my favorite places in the world and would dig some inside local scoop on my next trip if you wouldn't mind being helpful....+READ

    rjacob -
    looking back, it's pretty funny - i was SOOOO disturbed after clippergate. i posted EVERYWHERE of the travesty. i still feel really strongly about marcel's skill and gifts. i would love to go to the mansion and totally hope to scope it out first. vegas is one of my favorite places in the world and would dig some inside local scoop on my next trip if you wouldn't mind being helpful. anywhere i can contact you (email address?)-COLLAPSE

  • note to middlechef,
    I so agree with you. I normally do not watch much T.V. and just happened to tune in to Top Chef 2 thinking a cooking show would be a nice safe venue. I was quickly drawn into the dynamics. I dreamnt of chefs and recipes believe it or not for several weeks and even worried myself sick should Marcel lose! I guess I must admit that I too lost days of my life after clippergate-I...+READ

    note to middlechef,
    I so agree with you. I normally do not watch much T.V. and just happened to tune in to Top Chef 2 thinking a cooking show would be a nice safe venue. I was quickly drawn into the dynamics. I dreamnt of chefs and recipes believe it or not for several weeks and even worried myself sick should Marcel lose! I guess I must admit that I too lost days of my life after clippergate-I am laughing as I type this because I can't believe myself. I am sure you will not be disappointed with the cuisine of In The Mansion where Marcel works. Be sure to ask if he is in the kitchen and send your best wishes to him.-COLLAPSE

  • note to rjacob,
    i agree that these shows are really gripping. this is the first time i've ever been so obsessed with a tv show, like i lost about 4 days of my life after the clippergate episode. i'm a hard core marcel fan. i want to try his restaurant when i visit your city in september. i agree that i am totally tenacious with my opinion here. i am usually not that way - unless i feel super...+READ

    note to rjacob,
    i agree that these shows are really gripping. this is the first time i've ever been so obsessed with a tv show, like i lost about 4 days of my life after the clippergate episode. i'm a hard core marcel fan. i want to try his restaurant when i visit your city in september. i agree that i am totally tenacious with my opinion here. i am usually not that way - unless i feel super super strongly about something, yes i will get on a soapbox! i like to live a little higher than some of the pettiness here. but i will admit to being sucked in. some power, huh?-COLLAPSE

  • Does anyone think perhaps that reality shows are geared to bring out the darker emotions of the viewers? I think so and I am ashamed actually that I have posted any negative comments including calling the post boarders dumb and mean. I enjoyed the cooking show and Marcel since he is a local-I live in Las Vegas. But I am going to stay away from reality shows and chatrooms since I am obviously...+READ

    Does anyone think perhaps that reality shows are geared to bring out the darker emotions of the viewers? I think so and I am ashamed actually that I have posted any negative comments including calling the post boarders dumb and mean. I enjoyed the cooking show and Marcel since he is a local-I live in Las Vegas. But I am going to stay away from reality shows and chatrooms since I am obviously emotionally led-in to views.
    Turn off the T.V. folks and the Computer! Save yourselves!-COLLAPSE

  • fooddude,

    re: your mechanic/oil parable -
    instead of oil, imagine your story was about pineapple. then make the mechanic marcel. finally, make the people asking questions the judges. they asked - he answered.

    forgive the person their PUH-LEEZE and we'll overlook u posting the same message 18 times.
    once was more than enough for everyone..

  • I think these post boards are very much the same as live peer chat rooms. Dumb and mean.

  • usually in life if lots of people dislike one person, it's that person who's the problem. this is a rare instance, i think, where there just happened to be lots of crappy people all in one place, and they were the problem. all the "good guys" made me sick--elia, betty, sam, ilan, ugh.

  • Hmmmm...

    If I met a mechanic who started to rant on about why I should use one brand of oil vs another, I probably wouldn't say to him, "You imply your superiority in knowing much more about cars than the rest of us. Whatever, man."

    On a side note, holy multiple-posts...

  • to the fooddude-
    you imply your superiority in knowing much more about food than the rest of us. whatever - fooddude.
    there are many categories and tastes for food from all over the world. pretentious portrayal of substandard American culinary status is, well......irritating. don't get me wrong. i respect regional cuisine. if you have wonderful fresh produce from your area, please include the...+READ

    to the fooddude-
    you imply your superiority in knowing much more about food than the rest of us. whatever - fooddude.
    there are many categories and tastes for food from all over the world. pretentious portrayal of substandard American culinary status is, well......irritating. don't get me wrong. i respect regional cuisine. if you have wonderful fresh produce from your area, please include the bounty of the local vegetable cart. i am certain mexico city has its share of regional offerings. my point in all of this is: and please please listen - i found it offensive to hear elia complaining about the way americans approach food. just generally, her demeanor and her integrity in particular was stripped away toward the end of the show. she was stubborn and everyone else was wrong and she was right. people were cheating because she lost. now this country has substandard food integrity. my point is, please don't lap up all the gravy of the gifts you've been given as part of being on AMERICAN TV and Top Chef exposure, take an enviable job at a wonderful kitchen in Las Vegas, and then go into a "we're-too-commercial-and-all-about-the-dollar" tirade. don't settle for less elia. please move to whatever gastronomically superior and appreciative country you want.
    THAT'S ALL, fooddude.
    and, NYPROF -
    elia can go back to mexico city and enjoy the heightened culinary culture there since she is unappreciative of what she's found here.-COLLAPSE

  • Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less. Name dropping...haha you've got to be kidding me. I'VE WORKED WITH KELLER COLICCHIO DUCASSE OMG I'M THE BESTEST!!!!
    ...+READ

    Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less. Name dropping...haha you've got to be kidding me. I'VE WORKED WITH KELLER COLICCHIO DUCASSE OMG I'M THE BESTEST!!!!

    I never said I don't appreciate molecular gastronomy. Read the post. It has its place. Wiley didn't go on national TV and make an ass out of himself to get where he is. He did it the hard way like every other talented and respectable chef out there.

    I don't side with any of the contestants for the record. Spanish, molecular, new American, I don't care what the schtick is, it's all been done. Marcel isn't pushing any boundaries, neither is Ilan, noone on the show is.

    I have eaten overseas dufus. It is culinary superiority because it's a different system. The masses, the majority of the populations in other countries traditionally would never make the same sacrifices to the palate that Americans do on a daily basis. Now, on a board like chowhound where we have some enlightened souls, this seems like heresy. And things are changing, There is fast food overseas. Note I said traditionally.
    There is a demand in other countries for less bullshit food, and more honest, extremely high quality food. Get over it, I'm not trashing America, no need to be defensive here. We're doing well for where we are. This is a cultural thing. This is about popular demand. The pride in this country is so out of control that people are unwilling to explore the possibility that yes, some other countries just might be doing certain things better than we are.

    For some reason, I'm reminded of the lovely phrase, "You're in America, speak American."-COLLAPSE

  • Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less.

    I never said I don't appreciate molecular gastronomy. Read the post. It has its place. Wiley didn't go on...+READ

    Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less.

    I never said I don't appreciate molecular gastronomy. Read the post. It has its place. Wiley didn't go on national TV and make an ass out of himself to get where he is. He did it the hard way like every other talented and respectable chef out there.

    I don't side with any of the contestants for the record. Spanish, molecular, new American, I don't care what the schtick is, it's all been done. Marcel isn't pushing any boundaries, neither is Ilan, noone on the show is.

    I have eaten overseas dufus. It is culinary superiority because it's a different system. The masses, the majority of the populations in other countries traditionally would never make the same sacrifices to the palate that Americans do on a daily basis. Now, on a board like chowhound where we have some enlightened souls, this seems like heresy. And things are changing, There is fast food overseas. Note I said traditionally.
    There is a demand in other countries for less bullshit food, and more honest, extremely high quality food. Get over it, I'm not trashing America, no need to be defensive here. We're doing well for where we are. This is a cultural thing. This is about popular demand. The pride in this country is so out of control that people are unwilling to explore the possibility that yes, some other countries just might be doing certain things better than we are.

    For some reason, I'm reminded of the lovely phrase, "You're in America, speak American."-COLLAPSE

  • Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less.

    I never said I don't appreciate molecular gastronomy. Read the post. It has its place. Wiley didn't go on...+READ

    Anyone who types out "PUHLEZE" doesn't deserve a reply....or an opinion that they expect to be taken seriously.

    Are you people insane? Or just 14?

    Complain all you what about me for christ's sakes. Guys like me are the ones cooking your mung on a Friday night. I could care less.

    I never said I don't appreciate molecular gastronomy. Read the post. It has its place. Wiley didn't go on national TV and make an ass out of himself to get where he is. He did it the hard way like every other talented and respectable chef out there.

    I don't side with any of the contestants for the record. Spanish, molecular, new American, I don't care what the schtick is, it's all been done. Marcel isn't pushing any boundaries, neither is Ilan, noone on the show is.

    I have eaten overseas dufus. It is culinary superiority because it's a different system. The masses, the majority of the populations in other countries traditionally would never make the same sacrifices to the palate that Americans do on a daily basis. Now, on a board like chowhound where we have some enlightened souls, this seems like heresy. And things are changing, There is fast food overseas. Note I said traditionally.
    There is a demand in other countries for less bullshit food, and more honest, extremely high quality food. Get over it, I'm not trashing America, no need to be defensive here. We're doing well for where we are. This is a cultural thing. This is about popular demand. The pride in this country is so out of control that people are unwilling to explore the possibility that yes, some other countries just might be doing certain things better than we are.

    For some reason, I'm reminded of the lovely phrase, "You're in America, speak American."-COLLAPSE

  • middlechef,
    The fact that you don't think Mexico City is a food city shows how little you know about food.

  • middlechef,
    The fact that you don't think Mexico City is a food city shows how little you know about food.

  • fooddude,
    your note with culinary name dropping makes you sound a little pretentious yourself, to the reader/listener. if i didn't like you, i might start complaining about you. this is the very reason people dissed marcel. i don't doubt you know some food. you don't appreciate molecular gastronomy, but you say you respect wily. he started somewhere with his brave new ideas. now that he's...+READ

    fooddude,
    your note with culinary name dropping makes you sound a little pretentious yourself, to the reader/listener. if i didn't like you, i might start complaining about you. this is the very reason people dissed marcel. i don't doubt you know some food. you don't appreciate molecular gastronomy, but you say you respect wily. he started somewhere with his brave new ideas. now that he's established, it's ok to jump on the love bandwagon. which seems typical. i applaud marcel for getting in there and trying some signature things of his own. people remember his style and efforts. ilan=spanish re-runs.
    my advice to you people finding americans lack the culinary sophistication of the other countries you mention - go eat there. and please, go work there. i'm sure there are lovely ingredients that are fresh, whatever. that's not culinary superiority. that's geography.
    which makes me think elia is a sellout, working in vegas below her standards. i hope being on tv all season didn't put her out. poor thing.-COLLAPSE

  • Excuse me fooddude37 but I believe we all have our own rights to defend whomever we see fit. It is not YOUR place to tell us who we can or cannot or should or shouldn't defend or like. I hate ilan he's a snake. A creep and a lowlife. I Love Marcel and not just for his cooking so stuff it.
    And PUHLEZE will ilans friends and family stop messing with these boards and shit. Look up about 4 or 5...+READ

    Excuse me fooddude37 but I believe we all have our own rights to defend whomever we see fit. It is not YOUR place to tell us who we can or cannot or should or shouldn't defend or like. I hate ilan he's a snake. A creep and a lowlife. I Love Marcel and not just for his cooking so stuff it.
    And PUHLEZE will ilans friends and family stop messing with these boards and shit. Look up about 4 or 5 messages. There are 6 or 7 posts right in a row, not from fans of Marcels or even enemies of Marcels, but people who seem to know him through ilans/bettys/ or sams friends or family. It's pathetic. People can't even come on and say who they like here or why. Jump off people jump off.
    Kudos to You Marcel. You Rock and F*ck em if they don't like it.-COLLAPSE

  • Look, I work in a kitchen. I've worked with the Marcels of the world. Nobody likes them on camera, and guess what? Nobody likes them behind the line.

    All that progressive molecular gastronomy crap has its place, usually in the hands of the chef, not a line cook. Marcel is the quintessential annoying overopinionated pompous "arteest".

    Foams, gelees, encapsulated vinaigrettes, meat glue,...+READ

    Look, I work in a kitchen. I've worked with the Marcels of the world. Nobody likes them on camera, and guess what? Nobody likes them behind the line.

    All that progressive molecular gastronomy crap has its place, usually in the hands of the chef, not a line cook. Marcel is the quintessential annoying overopinionated pompous "arteest".

    Foams, gelees, encapsulated vinaigrettes, meat glue, it all has its place. I worked with a guy who worked for Wily Dufresne for some time. He quit because he wanted to get back to real food, a sentiment that many chefs and myself happen to share. (Not a slam against Wiley, he's a pioneer.)

    To hear Marcel say that the other contestants were perhaps a little jealous of him explains everything. Dude, you're a freakin cook. Keep your head down, shut your mouth, and plate.

    I'm not saying Ilan deserved top chef. This show isn't about who is most qualified to be the best chef. It's an elimination challenge and guess what, great chefs have off days. There's a healthy dose of chance, luck, and producer interference at play here.

    If anyone honestly believes that any of these contestants are to be taken seriously, save for a very select few, in the real world of restaurants and cooking, they're completely deluded. This is a gussied up game show and it pains me to hear people discussing these contestants as genuine chefs.

    Oh, and I would wholeheartedly agree with Elia's statement. American regional cuisine is relatively new. We do not have the history that other cultures do, nor the refinement. We're doing pretty well. We don't hold a candle to Mediterranean countries. If you could even find the premium ingredients available in Italy, Spain, France, and Turkey, the markup would be so unbelievable that no restaurant would be able to afford to sell it. *IF* you could even find them. Oh, but that beautiful imported Italian branzino for two at your local Osteria? I can give you a 99.99% assurance that it's farmed. Try finding wild Turbot. You can barely find it in Europe anymore. We have some decent stuff here.

    Stop defending Marcel. You like him, fine, noone needs a special note written to them if they happen to have their own justified opinion that this guy sucks.

    And about American restaurants being out for money:

    Any restaurant out there that utilizes completely local products, that cooks locally, with a certain heritage, a certain instinctual love for the food, that pays little regard to presentation but more to soul-satisfying flavor, is NOT making that much. Fancy presentations and conceptual food is an extremely common ploy to make up for farmed seafood, IBP meat, nonlocal produce that's been shipping for days on end. You show me an American restaurant that doesn't refrigerate their produce, doesn't store their fish on ice, serves local meat and game (the goddamned USDA won't even allow this) that serves locally made wine at a low markup, that charges non-fine-dining prices. Seriously, because I'd like to make a reservation there. We have a ways to go. There's a reason you can still eat exceptionally well in Europe (and Mexico City) for a fraction of the price that it would cost here.-COLLAPSE

  • Special note to NYprof:
    Re: immature - Marcel was not the one shaving his head after he tried to gang rape the one the group disliked the most. He is a TOP CHEF. Remember, Ilan is the LINE COOK. Remember Ilan remade recipes memorized from his kitchen. To be a chef you have to CREATE. And by that I mean something a little better than chicken livers in chocolate EWWWWW. The "professionals" working...+READ

    Special note to NYprof:
    Re: immature - Marcel was not the one shaving his head after he tried to gang rape the one the group disliked the most. He is a TOP CHEF. Remember, Ilan is the LINE COOK. Remember Ilan remade recipes memorized from his kitchen. To be a chef you have to CREATE. And by that I mean something a little better than chicken livers in chocolate EWWWWW. The "professionals" working with Marcel in the kitchen were his competition. They weren't able to get along with him. Elia was until she started "dating" Ilan. Poison flows downhill.
    Elia was fun to watch in the beginning. Also remember that her a** was out of there until Mia flung HERSELF "under the bus" to save Elia. But her whining and stupid head-shaving incident, then accusing Marcel of cheating did her "fans" in. What really stung my behind was listening to her podcast and hearing her talk about how Americans don't appreciate food as much as she has seen in other countries. She said it seems that Americans are in it so much more for the money than for the art. I would like to point out that she hails from the fine dining capital of MEXICO CITY. She is now enjoying I think a heightened lifestyle in Las Vegas vs. Mexico perhaps. My advice to her is to please go and appreciate food much cheaper somewhere else. We'd rather give your job in Vegas to a GRATEFUL CHEF. So, go home, Elia. You are far too refined for the likes of us AMERICANS.-COLLAPSE

  • Special note to msfood:
    Many of us do not view Marcel as pretentious. He is quite educated and knowledgable about his craft. So, pardon him when he is on camera and explaining the ingredients as well as the hows and whys. The judges took this information FROM EVERY CONTESTANT into consideration. They may be dumber than you and I however. I know my vomit containing a chicken liver plastered with...+READ

    Special note to msfood:
    Many of us do not view Marcel as pretentious. He is quite educated and knowledgable about his craft. So, pardon him when he is on camera and explaining the ingredients as well as the hows and whys. The judges took this information FROM EVERY CONTESTANT into consideration. They may be dumber than you and I however. I know my vomit containing a chicken liver plastered with chocolate would need no explanation at all.
    As an adult, you would realize that all individuals have a different style and relate well to certain people types. I happen to love rap and try to meet people on their level when I can. It's cool Marcel writes poetry/rap and showed a little insight into himself and his personality. I'm sure Ilan could do the same - if he HAD ONE. :{-COLLAPSE

  • No question a director and producers frame these reality shows so there's a protagonist and antagonist, and Marcel was chosen to be this season's villan. Didn't listen to the interview, but I have no doubt he's not that bad a guy, but quite honestly I don't really appreciate the kind of cooking that he prides himself in. Seems like he values appearance over taste, style over substance. Check out...+READ

    No question a director and producers frame these reality shows so there's a protagonist and antagonist, and Marcel was chosen to be this season's villan. Didn't listen to the interview, but I have no doubt he's not that bad a guy, but quite honestly I don't really appreciate the kind of cooking that he prides himself in. Seems like he values appearance over taste, style over substance. Check out the guy's hairdoo - speaks volumes to how he preps food. I'm sure both these guys will run their own restaurants, probably sooner rather than later, and I'd rather eat at IIan's.-COLLAPSE

  • No question a director and producers frame these reality shows so there's a protagonist and antagonist, and Marcel was chosen to be this season's villan. Didn't listen to the interview, but I have no doubt he's not that bad a guy, but quite honestly I don't really appreciate the kind of cooking that he prides himself in. Seems like he values appearance over taste, style over substance. Check out...+READ

    No question a director and producers frame these reality shows so there's a protagonist and antagonist, and Marcel was chosen to be this season's villan. Didn't listen to the interview, but I have no doubt he's not that bad a guy, but quite honestly I don't really appreciate the kind of cooking that he prides himself in. Seems like he values appearance over taste, style over substance. Check out the guy's hairdoo - speaks volumes to how he preps food. I'm sure both these guys will run their own restaurants, probably sooner rather than later, and I'd rather eat at IIan's.-COLLAPSE

  • Great interview. I have to admit that early on if someone handed me a "Marcel Sucks!" t-shirt, I would've worn it around town. But as the series went on and I saw everything that was happening to him behind the scenes, I started to feel for the guy. His interview comments were pointed without being overly disparaging to any of the other contestant...when he had every right to.

    The only thing...+READ

    Great interview. I have to admit that early on if someone handed me a "Marcel Sucks!" t-shirt, I would've worn it around town. But as the series went on and I saw everything that was happening to him behind the scenes, I started to feel for the guy. His interview comments were pointed without being overly disparaging to any of the other contestant...when he had every right to.

    The only thing that bothered me about the interview, and it's not even against him personally, but what is it about the 20-something's and their flagrant use of the word LIKE? My younger brother is around his age and does the same thing. It like drives me nuts.-COLLAPSE

  • Wow. I feel like I was watching a different show from most of you. Marcel was immature. This seems like it wouldn't matter for cooking, but the show is called "Top Chef" not "Top Cook." Part of a chef's job is managing the kitchen and people working in the kitchen. He totally failed at that. He lost the fish, and his sous-chefs were clearly not inspired to help him win. Part of the reason he...+READ

    Wow. I feel like I was watching a different show from most of you. Marcel was immature. This seems like it wouldn't matter for cooking, but the show is called "Top Chef" not "Top Cook." Part of a chef's job is managing the kitchen and people working in the kitchen. He totally failed at that. He lost the fish, and his sous-chefs were clearly not inspired to help him win. Part of the reason he alienated his co-contestants was that he was completely selfish in the kitchen. It doesn't matter if you think he'd be great to work with. The professionals who actually cooked with him thought he was selfish, and their opinion counts more than yours because it's based on experience.

    It's also strange to me how nasty viewers have been about Elia. I thinks she's pretty cool. She has opinions and she states them.-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel totally sucks. Yes, his food was original, but he's so god damned pretentious. He says for him it was all about the food, but I think that the food got lost in all his foams, gelees and explanations. To me, food is good if it needs no explanation. If the explanation is supposed to enhance the diner's experience of the food, then obviously the food isn't enough on it's own.

    Additionally,...+READ

    Marcel totally sucks. Yes, his food was original, but he's so god damned pretentious. He says for him it was all about the food, but I think that the food got lost in all his foams, gelees and explanations. To me, food is good if it needs no explanation. If the explanation is supposed to enhance the diner's experience of the food, then obviously the food isn't enough on it's own.

    Additionally, his personality was awful. His rapping? The facades he puts on when he's with different kinds of people...remember him trying to be all down with the surfers...puhlease, could he be a bigger loser?-COLLAPSE

  • Bad news for Marcel. He's learned a major lesson about competition: it's never about the thing you're competing over. It's about the judges. Always. And what, exactly, is the competition? Is it about the food ("A chef has to be a leader") or being a leader ("This is a cooking show. Nothing was cooked!") or what? And this isn't a competition, it's TV. And TV wants a hero, a bad guy, a fool, a...+READ

    Bad news for Marcel. He's learned a major lesson about competition: it's never about the thing you're competing over. It's about the judges. Always. And what, exactly, is the competition? Is it about the food ("A chef has to be a leader") or being a leader ("This is a cooking show. Nothing was cooked!") or what? And this isn't a competition, it's TV. And TV wants a hero, a bad guy, a fool, a joke-butt, a red herring, and one person left standing (usually the one most loved or hated.)

    You want a show that's about the food? Try Iron Chef next time. Meanwhile, go with knives, and remember: "He who laughs last laughs best." Or, as my dad used to say: "He who laughs last, laughs."-COLLAPSE

  • marcel is really cool and I'm really glad that he was on the show. I really dig his style and I think he will be an amazing celebrity chef one day. he has style, charisma, maturity, and his food looks incredible; I'm sure that it tastes even better. go marcel! I hope I will be lucky enough to eat one of your dishes one day.

  • Oh, BTW I will NOT be listening to tedious Ilan's
    interview. That he would have anything worth
    listening to that somebody else hasn't said
    does not make it worth the time.

  • Aloha Marcel! I am sorry you didn't win. Your
    grace and dignity began to grow on me toward the
    end of the series. I can't believe that weasel Ilan
    had an unlimited budget in a farmer's market with
    the bounty of our state and brought CANNED EELS!
    Geezus Criminy! Couldn't he possibly figure out any of
    his tedious overly done Spanish recipes plagiarized from his employer with our bounty? Well...+READ

    Aloha Marcel! I am sorry you didn't win. Your
    grace and dignity began to grow on me toward the
    end of the series. I can't believe that weasel Ilan
    had an unlimited budget in a farmer's market with
    the bounty of our state and brought CANNED EELS!
    Geezus Criminy! Couldn't he possibly figure out any of
    his tedious overly done Spanish recipes plagiarized from his employer with our bounty? Well apparently
    not, it's too bad. We cheer you on and wish you lots
    of success! A hui hou and maybe you'll come to Hawaii again and we could maybe enjoy your food!-COLLAPSE

  • :-)

  • After listening to this podcast, I was happy and satisfied. It is great to hear that Marcel retains his enthusiasm for food and moving forward with culinary ideas and a professional approach toward his gift/craft. Interesting to hear the twist on Clippergate. However, I think we all lost respect for the other four after that episode, no matter what order the hijinx fell. I think you are totally...+READ

    After listening to this podcast, I was happy and satisfied. It is great to hear that Marcel retains his enthusiasm for food and moving forward with culinary ideas and a professional approach toward his gift/craft. Interesting to hear the twist on Clippergate. However, I think we all lost respect for the other four after that episode, no matter what order the hijinx fell. I think you are totally cutting edge and just so extremely GIFTED. I know you will go far. I had been pulling for you for many episodes now, and of course was disappointed during the finale to have Ilan (ew) win the title. You know what? Nobody really seems too happy to have Ilan as TOP CHEF. Kind of like a deflated balloon, that victory. I am thrilled that people all around you are giving you words of encouragement and love. Your gift, craft and total passion for food is so evident. You are articulate, kind, professional, and have a kick-a** sense of humor! Plus I dig that you are a hiphop fan. ME TOO!
    You are a true winner here, Marcel. I am sure the exposure will only highlight your skills and open many doors for you. We plan to visit your restaurant soon! Keep up the incredible passion for your craft, dude. You're our TOP CHEF!-COLLAPSE

  • Regardless of how the "Top Chef" was edited, Marcel still comes out as a cutting edge chef who is innovative, imaginative and who has integrity. Even though his menu was not what he wanted in the final challenge, he clearly took risks and created something that was amazing. Throughout the show, Marcel held up under a lot of pressure and kept his cool and I am not sure how many of us would have...+READ

    Regardless of how the "Top Chef" was edited, Marcel still comes out as a cutting edge chef who is innovative, imaginative and who has integrity. Even though his menu was not what he wanted in the final challenge, he clearly took risks and created something that was amazing. Throughout the show, Marcel held up under a lot of pressure and kept his cool and I am not sure how many of us would have been able to do that. He really intimidated the other contestants. I see only the most incredible things for Marcel's future and wish him great success. Top Chef was great because it let us all know what a great chef was in Marcel. Bravo!-COLLAPSE

  • MARCEL is TOP CHEF! It certainly doesn't take a sold out show like BRAVOTV's "Top Chef" to decide otherwise. From the sound of opinions across the Internet beginning with BRAVOTV's own site to CHOW.com Marcel is the true class act and most innovative "CHEF." Ilan is a line cook who thinks people are stupid and can't think for themselves. Unlike those on the show that Ilan was able to manipulate,...+READ

    MARCEL is TOP CHEF! It certainly doesn't take a sold out show like BRAVOTV's "Top Chef" to decide otherwise. From the sound of opinions across the Internet beginning with BRAVOTV's own site to CHOW.com Marcel is the true class act and most innovative "CHEF." Ilan is a line cook who thinks people are stupid and can't think for themselves. Unlike those on the show that Ilan was able to manipulate, most can make choices based on what's fair and right without being bullied.

    Bullies act as they do based on deep-seeded inadequacies and insecurities. Ilan will feel good about himself for a brief moment in time. Marcel will feel good about himself for a lifetime. A real "winner" isn't defined by what others think, rather by doing the right thing even in the face of difficulty; even when it seems that everyone else may be against you.

    Marcel, you're a WINNER!-COLLAPSE

  • To Dearest Marcel,

    I feel that you need to be told how myself and several people I know felt while watching this season of Top Chef. I could not believe how Bravo seemed to throw the door wide open for aggression and intimidation. The time Frank got in your face and threatened you they should have made an example of him right then and there. Unfortunately they didn't so everyone felt justified...+READ

    To Dearest Marcel,

    I feel that you need to be told how myself and several people I know felt while watching this season of Top Chef. I could not believe how Bravo seemed to throw the door wide open for aggression and intimidation. The time Frank got in your face and threatened you they should have made an example of him right then and there. Unfortunately they didn't so everyone felt justified acting the way they did. You ARE NOT EGOTISTICAL, you were the most mature person in the whole show. I was very happy to see you not taking the bait that every single idiot on the show was thowing at you. It shows that you really are a gentleman even under some very bad situations.
    Your passion for and knowledge of cooking really scared them and I am glad that you stayed a class act.
    Totally unrelated I LOVE YOUR KABUKI HAIR!!! Keep it, keep it, keep it forever even if you have to do the old man "comb-up". :)

    OXOXOX,
    Miss Bridgie-COLLAPSE

  • i have no doubt in my mind that marcel will be more successful than ilan.. and i also truly belive by seeing the posts here and in other webstes taht marcel is the people's champ

  • I am listening to the interview and it is great. Marcel is so gracious and well spoken and until the finale, they never showed that side of him. They never let him talk like in the Chow interview. Great interviewers too! He should be angrier about Clippergate. He is being too nice about it. The editing is such a sham. Would someone mind explaining how the clippergate nite actually went? I wasnt...+READ

    I am listening to the interview and it is great. Marcel is so gracious and well spoken and until the finale, they never showed that side of him. They never let him talk like in the Chow interview. Great interviewers too! He should be angrier about Clippergate. He is being too nice about it. The editing is such a sham. Would someone mind explaining how the clippergate nite actually went? I wasnt sure what he meant about it being reversed.. They attacked him early and then shaved their heads after to make it look like it was a group thing and not an assault on Marcel???
    It's such a credit to the intelligence of people here at Chowhounds that everyone can see through the editing. Marcel might be the first person portrayed as the villian on reality TV, that the viewers actually see through the editing as the hero. I wish they would do Top Chef like Big Brother, where we can watch what really happens 24/7. It's human nature to think that when a whole group of people are against one person, that they must have done something, especially when its edited to try and make you think that way, and its just great that so many of us clearly didnt fall for it and saw Marcel in a good light. If anyone here watched Big Brother, it was like that with Janelle, for 2 seasons even, that people were cruel and wanted her out and she did nothing to eliclit it at all, and it took 24/7 feeds for people to see her true nature. It really stinks that TV resorts to faulty editing to make what they think is the show that we want to watch, and we can't just get great cooking and truth of character which is all we really want-COLLAPSE

  • From my experience, if you behave in an unsympathetic manner while working in a kitchen, it can be your ruin. While this was a competition, a little sympathy could have been a redeeming quality for Marcel.

  • i have not read anything until after the show and am SO happy to see everyone so in sync with what me and hubby have been feeling. We are just so cringing to see Ilan talk about how gentle and soulful he is... Yeah, very gently screaming for Cliff to shove his face in the rug with his arms practically forced out of their sockets..And Betty and Elia..its just shocking the hypocrisy of these woman...+READ

    i have not read anything until after the show and am SO happy to see everyone so in sync with what me and hubby have been feeling. We are just so cringing to see Ilan talk about how gentle and soulful he is... Yeah, very gently screaming for Cliff to shove his face in the rug with his arms practically forced out of their sockets..And Betty and Elia..its just shocking the hypocrisy of these woman acting like they are all peace and love etc and they support this horrible bully.
    I have one major question and apologize if it has already been addressed... But on the finale when Sam took credit for Marcel's recipe and the sea beans...Did that possibly contribute to Marcel's loss? Did they feel that their favorite dish was actually not his creation and mark him down??? Because when I rewound and saw that Marcel had thought up all the incredients INCLUDING the seabeans, the day before they even were in the kitchen and Sam lied through his teeth..All he did was suggest to do it without the fish..
    So if that lie affected Marcel's loss then he should sue or something..-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel should have won, Ilan is a dick and a bully and should not have won. Even though he had a foam obsession I'm sure he had good intentions, and he displayed an immense amount of creativity!

  • Marcel, you are a class act, and have a ton of fans :) I also loved seeing you on The View today!

    I think we'll be hearing more from you (and maybe, maybe Sam) in the future...as far as Ilan...Ilan who?

  • Marcel, thanks for retaining your dignity during the show and having to work with these misfits. I wish you all the best and look forward to eating at your restaurant(s) one day.

    Congratulations for giving us an insight as to what young talented chefs go up against.

    Look forward to seeing more of you in the future!

  • Agree. Excellent interview. I've no doubt Marcel will be a great success someday.

  • Joyce and Meredith,

    Thank you so much for this wonderful interview with Marcel, asking the right questions and letting him fully speak at length. I had a great time listening to it.

    With all his remarkable skills and attitude, Marcel will be a great success in all areas of his life. I look forward to following his career.

    Best wishes, Marcel, and thanks for being someone worthy of...+READ

    Joyce and Meredith,

    Thank you so much for this wonderful interview with Marcel, asking the right questions and letting him fully speak at length. I had a great time listening to it.

    With all his remarkable skills and attitude, Marcel will be a great success in all areas of his life. I look forward to following his career.

    Best wishes, Marcel, and thanks for being someone worthy of admiration and respect during the overdramatization of season 2 of Top Chef.-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel,
    In my book you are the Top Chef, you handled yourself with a dignity, that Betty, Ilan, Elian and Sam could never do or understand. Like you said its just a television show, but what you don't know is that people like me who saw how you where treated by Ilan and his cohorts, would never vote him as top anything.
    Hold your head high and know that you are the Top Chef to a lot of...+READ

    Marcel,
    In my book you are the Top Chef, you handled yourself with a dignity, that Betty, Ilan, Elian and Sam could never do or understand. Like you said its just a television show, but what you don't know is that people like me who saw how you where treated by Ilan and his cohorts, would never vote him as top anything.
    Hold your head high and know that you are the Top Chef to a lot of viewers.
    I personally will never watch bravo again, it was shameful, but I would like to see you and your talent again on television. I hope this has opened doors for you. I will certainly visit the Mansion in Las Vegas, just because they had the good sense to hire you. Good luck in the future and I hope to see your star shine.-COLLAPSE

  • Marcel,

    Terrific interview. :)) And I don't blame you for having some mood enhancers last night on the podcast. I'd have to be sloshed to be able to sit next to ilan for even 5 minutes. And I didn't think you were obnoxious at all. What to hell does everyone expect? You to kiss ilans and andys ass? NO WAY!!!
    Kudos to you for prevailing through everything. You are smart, funny, good looking,...+READ

    Marcel,

    Terrific interview. :)) And I don't blame you for having some mood enhancers last night on the podcast. I'd have to be sloshed to be able to sit next to ilan for even 5 minutes. And I didn't think you were obnoxious at all. What to hell does everyone expect? You to kiss ilans and andys ass? NO WAY!!!
    Kudos to you for prevailing through everything. You are smart, funny, good looking, mature and totally AWESOME!! I hope you get everything you ever want in life. :)))

    ps, I don't know which interviewer said you should have cooked ilan but that was freakin hysterical. :))-COLLAPSE

  • Last night Top Chef finale proved one thing, every dog has it's day. I am pretty sure that the producers were aware of Marcels behavior and staged the final program to have Marcel pay the price for not being a team player. Oh yes, the food matters but you are only as good as the people behind you. Marcel was forced to choose from a group of people who hated him and liked Ilan. Sam said he wanted...+READ

    Last night Top Chef finale proved one thing, every dog has it's day. I am pretty sure that the producers were aware of Marcels behavior and staged the final program to have Marcel pay the price for not being a team player. Oh yes, the food matters but you are only as good as the people behind you. Marcel was forced to choose from a group of people who hated him and liked Ilan. Sam said he wanted to work with Marcel to learn his chemical cooking methods. You know that he was totally against these and Marcels cooking methods, why would he want to work with and learn from him? I know, because he wanted to make sure Marcel would lose. Was it an accident that some food was left behind? Probably not. It was payback. I am sure the group had some big private discussions before they were sent out to be "chosen".

    Marcel was a little creep and in the end he needed the people who he screwed in the prior episodes.

    The end, hopefully a lesson learned.-COLLAPSE

  • I think you were set up. i don't think you had a chance with those two helping you

  • I look forward to hearing about Marcel in the future.
    Truly the only TopChef on the show.

  • Marcel was the best thing about Top Chef Season 2 - fascinating and inspiring.

  • I think you were a better person than me. I doubt that I would have stayed calm with those jerks.

  • Marcel you should of won, you had to put up with so much crap from them all, and then have Betty and that witch Elia come back yuck, yuck.I hated that Ilan wins and I won't watch next season, too much bullying and back stabbing and meanest, and lies, and them picking Ilan who was the worst, then all he does is Spanish, and more Spanish, and his dessert of fruit, it looked good but I could of made...+READ

    Marcel you should of won, you had to put up with so much crap from them all, and then have Betty and that witch Elia come back yuck, yuck.I hated that Ilan wins and I won't watch next season, too much bullying and back stabbing and meanest, and lies, and them picking Ilan who was the worst, then all he does is Spanish, and more Spanish, and his dessert of fruit, it looked good but I could of made that! Boring! Hope he sees how much he wasn't liked and how mean and nasty he was, he doesn't deserve to be Top Chef.-COLLAPSE