At the Table with

When the Cooking Channel launched a couple of months ago, we were rather critical of lineup, but since then, a handful of shows have not only proven to be the best on the network, but might be our favorite new food programs, period.

Here's three Cooking Channel shows that you should take the time to check out:

1. 'Unique Eats.'
Kind of like 'The Best Thing I Ever Ate,' 'Unique Eats' is a terrific show about food from a foodie's point of view. In this case, specific places in a particular area are chosen for the unique fare they serve, and then the experts tell viewers why it's so special. The focus on interesting shops, bakeries, restaurants and eateries is excellent, but what makes the show so compelling is that the people going on and on about these locales are recognizable foodies from other networks and channels.