Top Chef: Episode 2, So Long Sandee

I guess the motto “Good guys finish last” is living strong in South Beach.  Sandee, another nice contestant had to, “Pack-up her knives and go”.  In fairness, she is also another contestant without any serious training.  She is impressive though.  Completely self-taught and moved from line cook to executive chef of Tantra in Miami.  She may not have won Top Chef, but I think that she represented well and will no doubt do great in her career.

I like this challenge.  The Quickfire challenge was to use citrus and I was amazed out how most put out so-so dishes.  One would think that citrus would be an easy call.  All that Florida Citrus looked incredible and there was a heavy hitter to impress:

I love this episode because both challenges are so straightforward. Norman Van Aken is a legend unto himself, part of what is known as “The Mango Gang,” a group of chefs who include Douglas Rodriguez, Alan Susser, and Mark Militello. These guys put South Florida on the map with their “New World” style, combining the flavors of the Caribbean, South and Central Americas, and Asian cuisine while incorporating Florida’s local ingredients. Norman’s is a restaurant that has been around for over 10 years, and in restaurant years, that is no small feat. (Lee Anne Wong’s Blog)

Hung and Tre were again up at the top with the Quickfire, but Hung saved himself from elimination.  I again was a bit surprised on how limited most of the chefs were on the main challenge.  An upscale BBQ.  Hey, I eat drumsticks at my BBQ, believe me, unless their is some exotic seasoning and gold leaf on those bad boys, drumsticks were not going to cut it.  I think that it is interesting to see who is just playing it safe.  Brian and Micah were great.  He is consistently taking risks and so far it is paying off.  I think Micah’s bad mood ended up being her best friend.  She needed a “whatever” attitude to drop the nerves and make some good food. 

So, what do you think?  Howie and Joey get a double elimination???  Either that or they are going to take down in the kitchen.  I believe Howie’s days are numbered and next week it will be bye-bye.  He has been in the bottom field twice and unless he is holding on to some culinary secrets his time is approaching.

Don’t miss Top Chef every Wednesday night at 10pm EST on Bravo.