Top Chef Masters Finale: Flavor vs. Boldness

Last night, Chris Cosentino ended up winning the 2012 edition of Top Chef Masters, defeating Kerry Heffernan. After 10 weeks and 12 chefs, Chris edged Kerry with his bold approach to the finale challenge. The chefs had to prepare a four-course meal inspired by four letters: a love letter, an apology, a thank-you letter, and a letter to themselves.

Even though Kerry seemed to have developed more flavor, the judges admired Chris' boldness. The chef known as the "gut man" ended up serving heart tartare and blood sausage, among other things, while Kerry took a more "finessed" approach. In the end, Chris was awarded the prize of $100,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson Research and the title of Top Chef Master.

I must admit I was surprised by Kerry's performance during the last weeks. He came as a true dark horse after several weak efforts during the first weeks, and ended up winning two of the last three Quickfires, and one of the last two Elimination Challenges. Chris, on the other hand, came hot out of the gate, winning the first Quickfire AND Elimination Challenges, and being in the top for the first four weeks. Chris was also the chef that won more challenges, winning three.

A couple of weeks ago, I was sure the finale would be Chris vs. Takashi. I'm still surprised that the Japanese was eliminated. He did a great job. On the other hand, what was up with Patricia's attitude? If that's how she is, and it wasn't a product of editing and script, then I'm glad she was ousted by Lorena. All in all, it was a solid season and I was glad with Chris winning.

(All pictures belong to Bravo)