I was AWOL for two weeks, so let me just weigh in with my final thoughts and an ill-fated prediction.
Michael Chiarello: I don’t care if he’s a huge dick—though I think some of his dickishness derives from his insecurity at having spent most of the last ten years out of the trenches, pursuing a career as a celebrity chef—he’s obviously capable of cranking out really delicious food so long as he doesn’t get pushed too far outside his comfort zone (and, honestly, Rick Bayless is no different. Every last dish has been Italian and Mexican from those two). He’s got chops, but he’s outmatched. Total stars for the competition: 79½.
Rick Bayless: This guy is so gosh darn nice, I want to be his best friend. More than any other Masters chef, I want to check out his restaurant. I just need some reason to pass through Chicago someday. Total stars for the competition: 86.
Hubert Keller: He seems to be some kind of Jedi Master. Last week he cranked out 18 dishes to the other chef’s 4 or 5, without breaking a sweat, and earned a perfect 15 star rating from the critics. And he’s just so jolly. Has he ever once even fleetingly betrayed a negative emotion? Total stars for the competition: 83.
Prediction: My heart is with Chef Bayless, but I’m guessing Chef Keller, based partly on his preternatural Cool and based partly on a hunch.
Procrastiblog 
Just jump on a plane and come to Chicago, already. Topolobampo is serving Rick’s Top Chef finale meal for the next month:
http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/food/1727830,CST-NWS-baylessmenu21.article
Topo is probably the best restaurant I’ve been to in Chicago.
Comment by Andy — August 21, 2009 @ 12:20 pm
Can I crash on your couch?
Comment by Chris — August 21, 2009 @ 12:23 pm
Of course.
Comment by Andy — August 21, 2009 @ 1:08 pm