So disappointed

I am so sad that Marcel didn't win! DEVASTATED!

But things happen and he didn't shine (I guess) to the judges compared to Ilan. What I appreciated was his spontenaeous creation of his menu. He had ideas but didn't bring any "food products" with him. He brought his chemical ingredients but no produce or protein or anything. He knew he'd just use whatever was there in Hawaii. Ilan did have an idea that he'd use those eels so his entire menu was not 'on the fly' but he rocked it in the judges eyes.

What I found irritating was that Ilan totally relied upon Elia. He knew that she was better technically than he was and he got her on the intricate pieces that required cooking. The fish was done right. The meat was fine. So was the outstanding reception of his food more based upon Elia's knowledge of the technical side of cooking these pieces? Or was it his ideas? Hmmm... I found it funny that Betty was a 'mess' in the kitchen. Typical Betty!

And if you go to the Bravo website, there's a clip where Marcel is writing up the "plan" for the meal that detailed everything out. He knew that would be needed and he prepared that information for his 'team'. Too bad the team didn't use it!

But I enjoyed this second season of Top Chef. Great, great, GREAT! Success to Ilan and Marcel...as well as Elia and Sam!