Top Chef: Eli Packs His Knives and Leaves
This was the last “Top Chef” challenge in Las Vegas. The Quick Fire Challenge was to create a version of chef Gavin Kaysen’s dish that combined a protein in a protein in a protein. When Padma tasted Jennifer’s dish, she told her “Welcome back” and Jen ended up winning the challenge. She got the advantage of 30 extra minutes in the Elimination Challenge.
The Elimination Challenge was to create a regal presentation platter with one protein and two garnishes. The could chose lamb or salmon as their protein and would be cooking for 12 special guests, including Thomas Keller. Oh yeah, and the winner got $30,000 and a chance to compete in the 2011 Bocuse d’Or.
The judges felt Kevin’s dish was good, but elementary. Michael said he used Mediterranean flavors, but Tom called him out on that. Alex Stratta found a small bone in the fish – never a good sign. The judges liked Bryan’s plating, including his garlic chip, but they felt his lamb was undercooked. Eli also served up undercooked lamb. Padma liked his nice, distinct flavors. Traci Des Jardin said Jen’s flavors were nice, but not well thought out. Padma, however, found her plate the most visually intriguing.
My man Kevin was named the winner, so chalk one up for simplicity. Eli was told to pack his knives and go.
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