Reactions to Top Chef Las Vegas Episode 13

And then there were four.

This week, it was off to Napa for the first part of the finale. As the episode opens, a newly curly-haired Jen met Kevin (somehow scruffier?) and the brothers Voltaggio (still emotionless, even when they're discussing emotions) at a train station in Napa Valley.

The episode was all about Napa: grapes, local foods, an oddly humble Michael Chiarello. And, of course, Padma's baby bump (and her bangs, which I can't get used to). After a Quickfire in which they team cooked on the Napa Wine Train (and Michael V. won a 3G Prius), they were tasked with cooking two dishes, one vegetarian, one featuring a local protein, for 150 guests. The catch: only use local ingredients. Not exactly the most miserable challenge they've faced. Napa during crush is local ingredient heaven.

From my sofa, it looked like all the food created was pretty fantastic, and the judges made it clear that nobody was going home for major mistakes. Kevin's brisket was a little "toothsome," Michael's egg was a tiny bit undercooked, and Jen's chevre mousse was unevenly salted, but this episode sorely lacked the major food disasters we've seen in past episodes.

Ultimately, Bryan won with his goat cheese ravioli with squash puree and fig-glazed short ribs. Jen, unfortunately, got PPYKAG'ed, for the oversalting and some scattered behavior in the kitchen.

A couple of observations:

• Kevin's beard has a Facebook page? I'd join. As a side note, I like the way they show the contestants talking about the effect of the show. It's more real than shows that pretend they're really living in the real, non-reality TV, world.
• Poor Jen still drives a 2000 Chevy Cavalier. I do not, however, feel sorry for her that she still listens to her high school mix tapes. I love high school mix tapes. And I would love to know what's on her tapes. I'll do a tape trade with you, Jen!
• Eric Ripert is proud of Jen. Thanks for the reminder that you have instant access to the hottest chef EVER. Chef-loving ladies (and some guys) all over the world are jealous of you, Jen.
• Padma's maternity gear: an off-the-shoulder hoodie at the QF and red hooker boots for the Elimination? Nice. In all seriousness, she looks fantastic. I couldn't help but wonder how pregnancy is affecting her taste buds, though. During my own time as a pregnant lass, I never could've judged a food competition, unless the contest was "best Mexican/Thai food" or "best cheap chocolate."
• The Michael-Kevin rivalry (technique vs. flavor) has got to be the mildest rivalry in the history of any show ever.
• Finally - HELLO, Gail's boobies!

They certainly are an impressive, professional crew (the contestants, not just the boobs). But what did you think? Foodie and fabulous or lacking in that reality TV drama we all know and love? Please leave a comment with your thoughts....