'Top Chef: D.C.' - 'Capitol Grill' Recap
by Audrey Fine, posted Jul 1st 2010 7:31AM
(S07E03) "A lot of people are starting to throw each other under the bus already," said Arnold at the outset of this episode, and, with the yelling and jockeying for position this week, there's no doubt that we're in store for a vicious, super-competitive season.The day kicked off with the contestants walking into the kitchen to find host Padma Lakshmi and judge Gail Simmons lying in wait with pastry legend Johnny Iuzzini by their sides. (Simmons and Iuzzini, Executive Pastry Chef at Jean Georges, are the hosts of Bravo's upcoming 'Top Chef: Just Desserts.')
Although the groans weren't quite audible, several chefs squirmed as it dawned on them that the Quick Fire Challenge would involve making a dessert. And, sure enough, they were charged with creating a good old American pie -- something that the majority (even resident know-it-all Angelo) had never attempted before.
Ultimately, after sampling sweet and savory offerings as varied as curried apple, whiskey and date pie (Stephen) and a white chocolate, tapioca and chèvre pie (Alex), the judges gave immunity to Kenny for his Bananas Foster with currants and Chinese five-spice. "I feel like I'm starting to get into a groove where I can really shine," said Kenny as if his nemesis, Angelo, was within earshot. "And, once I get into a groove, it's over."
Next, in keeping this season's patriotic themes, the Elimination Challenge was a twist on the American summer picnic with the contestants having to prepare a traditional cookout for the interns of Capitol Hill (insert Monica Lewinsky joke here).
After a whirlwind day of snatching up rib racks, flank steaks and Chilean sea bass at Whole Foods the chefs had a tense three hours of prep. Next morning each chef, armed with his very own grill, took to the gardens at George Washington's Mount Vernon estate ready to feed 150 hungry interns and wow the judging quartet. This week the judges were joined by 'Top Chef: Masters' contestant/grill meister Jonathan Waxman, who came in as a sub for Eric Ripert.
Who impressed? Ed, whose tuna loin sandwich was a "bold choice" according to Waxman. Arnold, whose sesame lamb meatball was "full-flavored" enough to impress Tom Colicchio. Amanda, whose ribs and grilled asparagus were appreciated by all. And, Angelo whose Vietnamese lettuce wrap was "nice and crisp."
In the end it was Arnold who claimed victory while Tim, Stephen, Tracey and Kevin's dishes underwhelmed the critics, with Tracey getting the boot.
What did you think of the elimination? Share your thoughts and watch the full episode below!

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