TV Guide

I’m sorry; I won’t be watching the first episode of “The Chopping Block” this evening on NBC. It’s yet another network attempt at boosting ratings by combining “reality” with “cut throat culinary”. From the clips there will be the requisite shots of the victims weeping, retching, tearing their hair, people publically excoriated by the evil fire breathing “chef”. As I take it, there are several couples competing to get a restaurant in NYC. NBC announces that the “world’s best chef” will be featured. Gimme a break. There is no such thing as a single chef being “world’s best”. What a load of crap. How gullible do they think we are? This time Marco Pierre White is featured.. A little research has revealed that he is indeed a respected chef, bringing a three star Michelin rating to England, but also carries the reputation as being one of those temperamental, pan throwing, screaming chefs so (in somebody's opinion)popular these days. He is shown to us slouching in an arm chair, making silly statements about dead things, and some unfathomable quote about inconsistency. Apparently he as a thing going with Gordon Ramsey (Hell’s kitchen) as to who can be the most abrasive chef. I’m tired of it.

To be sure, there are dictatorial chefs, (read “The Apprentice – My Life in the Kitchen” by Jacques Pépin), but most serious chefs aspire to put out a nice plate, not a résumé. Excuse me; shouldn’t it be about the food, not ME? It’s just another chapter in the unfortunate shift of attention from the food to the maker of the food. Yes, yes, you gotta make a living, but several people have accomplished that very nicely by relying on the quality of the food they prepare. Make it and they will eat.

I hardly ever watch the Food Channel anymore for just that reason. The most enjoyable shows are the “old ones”, with a youthful Bobby Flay (before the “Throwdown” craze overtook him), seemingly ageless Tyler Florence, and yes, Emeril as an exuberant and svelte, enthusiastic kid. I don’t ever recall seeing a single enjoyable show of dear Rachel. And even on the channel that should champion food above all else they are falling into more and more “competition” shows. Maybe they should consider changing the name to “The Chef Channel”. How ‘bout that?

DFD