I did not do a recap last week - too busy.  But let me just say that it was billed as a “shocking elimination” and when we saw Carla running around Target dazed and confused, we were both very worried that she would leave.  And, talented as Angelo is, I was not sad to see him leave.  It was very clear he screwed up - and well, I have a hard time rooting for him. But it was awesome to see a grilled cheese and tomato soup win the day.  We eat that constantly over here, although I’m sure it’s not nearly as tasty as Dale’s.

Speaking of Dale….we move on to this week’s episode.

First of all, what is up with Antonia forgetting to make two plates in the quickfire?  Is it the lack of sleep?  (because that Target challenge was MEAN…I hate when they make the chefs stay up all night)  Was it just nerves?  Antonia is typically solid, right on for each challenge, she would have been the last person I guessed to do something like that.  At least it wasn’t the elimination challenge, where she would have easily gone home for something like that.

And Mike Isabella blatantly ripping off Richard - and saying he was “inspired” by him.  That was rude, sneaky (and not in a good way), and, as my mother would say, “totally uncalled for”.  Mike I. does not have a whimsical bone in his body, he would never in a million years come up with a chicken oyster served in an oyster shell.  Tom hasn’t blogged this episode yet, I hope he does soon, and talks about that.  I guess it taught Richard not to share ideas.  What a sad lesson. 

Richard made fried mayonnaise.  FRIED MAYO, people.

Elimination - they all seemed off their game. I think the fatigue is hitting hard at this point.  and it was a hard challenge, 300 people is A LOT, and they didn’t have much time to cook.  (I’m surprised Marcel didn’t get picked last, I guess that white shrimp was too appealing.)  Richard and Fabio knocked it out of the ball park, and now Richard’s taking Fabio to Barbados with his family!  That is class.  I loved the “sorry, Mikey, this one’s mine.”

Does anyone else think Richard needs some anti-anxiety coping skills or meds or something?  The dude is CONSTANTLY worried - even when he wins.  Actually, especially when he wins.  Of course, it could be editing, they just show every time he says “I’m worried about this” so it’s not completely obvious he’s going to win.

Again, nail biting at judges table  - anyone but Carla! - the chant at our house.  Dale has been fabulous this season, and he will go far, but he knew this one was his downfall.  Not cooking your potatoes - problem.  I should have clued in that he was going when they showed the conversation with Angelo where he was saying Dale could win this thing.

When Dale was saying he’s grown a lot since last season, I will say that as a viewer who has never met him, I agree wholeheartedly. He has matured, both as a person and as a chef.  That is always gratifying to see. 

Getting down to the wire here -

Final 3: Richard, Antonia, and Carla (at least I hope - that would make a great finale)

Winner: Richard

Next to go: Tiffany.  Although I WISH I WISH Mike would just leave already.