Top Chef Masters: Episode One (series premiere) - open thread

I wonder if Tom is going to going to play too.

I would have loved to see them all battle it out, all at once, but still... fun and entertaining. I like how they are bringing in chefs who have been judges. Won't be tore up if I miss one, but then again, it is on my DVR list... and what else is there to watch this summer?

I don't see it as a "lite" version of Top Chef so much as just a different version. The dorm room cook off was an instant classic! Keller was so impressive and I look forward to seeing him later in the series. There's a lot off confidence in this kitchen (as opposed to regular Top Chef) but not the arrogance I expected. These guys are pros and they act like it.

I enjoyed seeing the master chefs put in the same situations as the regular competitors on Top Chef. I was not crazy about the host -- perhaps they could have given us some background on her especially because she gave her opinion on the food at times. Who is she and why is she there? Anyway, I will continue watching and enjoying this summer series.

I agree with Joe.. i thought they were going to be in a house and compete like the regular contestants.. that would have been great. I cant expect the greatest chefs in the world to take a couple months off their busy schedules.. oh well.. i know i wont be sad if i miss a show thats for sure..

its just a better version of food networks "chopped".. (slightly better)

This show was good, but let's face it, Top Chef Masters is no Top Chef. It's just impossible to develop any sort of relationship with the contestants in that short a period of time. If you like cooking shows you will like it, but like I said, it's no Top Chef.
http://www.joeonthetube.com

Maybe Tom's staying out of it so as not to make any enemies.

I could not believe what they pulled off cooking in a dorm room with a hot plate, microwave and toaster-oven

I thought the show was fantastic... It's great that Top Chef can get some well-known talent to compete and go through the paces themselves. Chef Keller was nervous just about the shopping, since he doesn't do it himself anymore!

I'll definitely keep watching, even despite Kelly Choi as the host. (Out of respect for the Masters they should have had Tom host it himself.)

-MJT

Best summer show out there! I really enjoyed seeing these well-established, professional chefs put in Top Chef competitive challenges! Cooking in dorm rooms? Awesome.

Agree that it should be a good summer series.

Kelly Choi has hosted a couple local NYC shows. She is hot.