Two things are standing out to me this season, at least at this early stage (one's no spoiler, while the other one sorta is...be forewarned!)

First, I like how the winners and losers all get to watch the Judge's Table. It not only adds some (low-impact) drama, but I'd think it provides some good intel for the cheftestants - they can see directly what the judges like and don't, and they can see how their competitors' dishes are faring. It's a small tweak, but a good one, I think.

Second, (and here's where the spoiler comes in) being from the Portland area, I'm delighted to see how our two chefs are doing so far this season. One's holding his own, while the other is really distinguishing himself. Yay for the 5-0-3!

Regardless, it's nice to have the Mother Ship back on TV - even at its weakest, it's better than Top Chef Duels...