Season 3 of The Next Food Network Star: Episode 2 & 3

Nikki Shaw

 I just finished catching up on all my shows I DVR’d the past week, and watched episodes 2 & 3 of  The Next Food Network Star.  We got an even a stronger taste for who the week and ailing are and three of those got the boot.

Nikki, Tommy and Colombe were the next to go.  I think that none of these eliminations were a big surprise.  Nikki in person was much more vibrant, but whenever she went before the judges and the camera, she lost her personality.  I think that Nikki was a case of trying too hard.  She was working too hard on becoming a character instead of just being herself.  I think the fact that Tommy missed his family so much made him lose sight of the prize.  Everyone was missing someone, but you got keep the ”Eye of the Tiger” or it will get the better of you.  Colombe just never had much personality.  She is a beautiful woman, but I think all that yoga sucked the life blood out of her. She also had very little common sense.  Leaving a bag behind at the grocery store was unforgivable, she had to have realized that was some-one’s.  At least she tried to redeem her self by helping out Paul.

Colombe Jacobsen-Derstine 

For all three the kiss of death was ultimately the food.  Very few people would be able to handle how quick these contestants have to not only come up with something that will work for that particular challenge, they only have a limited time to execute the dish.  I believe that the challenges really help define those who really know food and these three obviously didn’t have the expertise to continue.

I was bummed that Rory won the Bon Appetite Challenge.  I admit that the ribs were a great choice to represent summer grilling and she presented the dish well, but her antics are getting annoying.  The plunging neck line at the Stadium Challenge was a little much.  Of course, that is Giada’s daily dress.  But also, when she catches things on fire, etc… it is impossible to believe that she has any clout in the kitchen.  I was hoping that Michael would have won that challenge.  His chicken dish was more unique and I like Michael.  I think that he just needs a little confidence boost.  If he doesn’t kick things into gear, he is heading for the chopping block.

Thomas Grella, Jr. 

Jag has really come around.  He is getting better and better on camera, and the guy can cook.  His Mexican Style Tempura Chile Chocolate Sauce looked incredible and the judges couldn’t get enough.  I will be shocked if he doesn’t make it to the final three.  Next week should be interesting, because I think that the pressure is getting to some of our contestants. 

I worry about some of my favorites, Amy and Aiden.  I think that pressure may be getting to them, and I think that Amy needs a little more help with her camera work.  I think next week we will be saying good-bye to Paul.  He is a great guy, but he reminds me of a chiquaqua loaded up on caffeine.  I think the…hmmm..let’s call it “energy” come off…hmm..awkward and makes you nervous just watching him.

Don’t miss the next episode of The Next Food Network Star, Sundays at 9pm EST.