As always editing plays a huge role how the contestants are perceived. Mike Isabella is sure shaping up to be one of the "villains" of this season.

I'm amazed at the talent and work experience of the contestants this season. Right now I'm rooting for my hometown contestant Mattin and Jennifer C (having been the sous chef at Ripert's Le Bernadin means she's got serious chops). Michael Voltaggio also seems interesting. His sous chef in LA is/was Marcel from season 2.

I'm also looking forward to the episode they teased at the end where the challenge seems to take place at L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon and Robuchon himself is there along with Boulud and Keller.