The Next Food Network Star Whittled Down to Three

Last night the Next Food Network Star competition heated up with a “Throwdown” in the desert.

Our final four, Kelsey, Lisa, Aaron and Adam headed to Las Vegas.  Their challenge?  A “Throwdown” with guest Judge Paula Deen looking on.  They were split into twos and had 75 minutes to create their signature dish with a little Las Vegas inspiration and then create their own version of their competitor’s signature dish.  They had to do this in front of their panel of judges while bantering with their fellow competitors, the judges and an added interview with an entertainment reporter.

Lisa and Adam were paired and it really came down to a draw and you could just see the demise of Kelsey while she competed against Aaron.  Aaron was not only able to beat her at his own game, but to Kelsey’s sorrow, he topped her signature dish…this really didn’t surprise me.  Kelsey has talent, but needs to go and have some life experience.

What I have really been curious about is how they have come up with teams, etc… throughout this competition?  In some cases winners of other challenges were able to make these choices, but several times, including last night, it was announced who they would compete with one-on-one.  They should have drawn knives, straws or maybe in this case, poker chips or cards.

It looks like my prediction of an Aaron and Lisa showdown is close at hand.  Adam may surprise me, but there is no way Lisa doesn’t make it to the finals.  Whoever wins, I really don’t see a stand-out star.  I look forward to watching their final cooking segments and ultimately what show the Food Network creates for the winner.