Chef Alex Contra Todos

Seriously, each episode has someone on as a challenger who cooks something that in no universe imaginable would Alex have cooked, whether it's niche Mexican, authentic Asian, etc. So right away they no which one dish Alex DIDN'T make.

I'm an Alex Guarnaschelli fan to start with, and this is a fun showcase for her genius. Yes, it has some elements of other cooking competitions, but it's different enough to be interesting, e.g., contestants who are experts in certain cuisines competing against each other and Alex. Chef Adjepong makes a knowledgeable, well-spoken host, but it's hard to tear my eyes off him to look at the food. He's distractingly gorgeous. Alex maintains a nice balance between acknowledging her own talents and those of her guests. I'm hooked.

I do not agree with the grumpy naysayers who commented before me. Seems like no one wants to be nice anymore anyway but come on! There are always going to be similarities in cooking competitions. It's inevitable but this one has some refreshing elements and I do not believe it is"fixed"! There are also some fun, exciting new elements to this one so give it a watch!

Now we need a female version of Beat Bobby Flay. Nothing against Alex, but why do we need another Food Network retread? Why do we need yet another cooking competition? Here's an idea...go back to the ole days when Julia Child or Emeril Lagasse actually showed us how to cook. The Food Network has just become a parody of itself.

Alex's snark and food have always been a fun combination. Now three chefs get a chance to take advantage of her weaknesses by choosing ingredients, cooking times, and other factors as they attempt to beat her dishes for a cash prize.

Thus far the competitors are top-quality, with diverse cuisines and extensive experience. So it's nicely inspirational to watch, and usually mouth-watering.

The only drawback is that the judges likely know Alex's style very well, and it stands out from most of the competitors. But they also aren't judges known for cutting anyone a break, and their blind assessment of strengths and weakness of the dishes seems genuine enough.