Richard Blais

Top Chef All Stars might have just saved the franchise. We were about ready to throw in the towel after suffering through fourteen miserable hours of the previous season in DC. Not even Angelo’s tears or Padma in all her post-baby glory could make that sh*t entertaining. But All Stars proved to be excellent television, and Wednesday’s crowning of Richard Blais as champion is sweet redemption for both him and everyone who has watched this show for the last three or four years.

We have been big fans of Richard ever since he came up short in his first season on Top Chef (Chicago), and he was kind enough to send us his Friday Fives a few months ago…and then we sat on it. Why? Because we knew the guy was gonna win this time around. Probably should have put some money on it in Vegas, but we’re not allowed back there anymore. Don’t ask.

Richard’s “Perfect For” Picks

Adventurous Eating

wd~50 (50 Clinton Street) – “One of the most creative restaurants in the world. Delicious eggs benedict and corned duck.”

Big Groups

Buddakhan (75 9th Avenue) – “Because my buddy Dale keeps it real son.”

Classic NYC Establishment

Barney Greengrass (541 Amsterdam Ave) – “Smoked fish with attitude.”

Hipsters

The Breslin (16 W. 29th Street) – “You can’t swing a single speed bicycle over your head without hitting black rimmed glasses.”

Drinks & Light Fare Before Going Out

Fatty ‘Cue (91 S. 6th St. – Brooklyn, NY 11211) – “The food is aggressive; it’s the perfect jump off to the night.”

Richard’s Twitter People

@jimmyfallon – He is a real genuine fellow.

@nickmangold – Center for the NY Jets, he posts great photos.

@tom_colicchio – He’s hilarious.

@offalchris – Chris Cosentino, always inspires…

@Gachatz – Grant Achatz, intrigues me as a chef and human.