Top Chef: Boston

Season 12 of American television series

Season of television series

Top Chef: Boston

Season 12
Hosted by| Padma Lakshmi
Judges| Tom Colicchio
Gail Simmons
Hugh Acheson
Richard Blais
No. of contestants| 16
Winner| Mei Lin
Runner-up| Gregory Gourdet
Location| Boston, Massachusetts
Finals venue| San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
No. of episodes| 15
Release
Original network| Bravo
Original release| October 15, 2014 (2014-10-15) –
February 11, 2015 (2015-02-11)
Season chronology

← Previous
New Orleans

Next →
California

List of episodes

Top Chef: Boston is the twelfth season of the American reality television series Top Chef. The season was formally announced on August 20, 2014, and premiered on October 15, 2014.[1][2] Filming for Season 12 took place from May through June 2014 in locations around Boston, Massachusetts, concluding with a finale in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato and the surrounding area.[2] Top Chef: Chicago finalist and Top Chef: All-Stars winner Richard Blais debuted as a recurring judge, joining Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons, Hugh Acheson, and host Padma Lakshmi on the judging panel.[1] Last Chance Kitchen also returned for its fourth season, beginning with a two-part redemption mid-season and continuing until the first part of the finale.[3] In the season finale, Mei Lin was declared the winner over runner-up Gregory Gourdet.[4] Unlike previous seasons, no Fan Favorite vote was held.

## Production

[edit]

According to reports by Deadline Hollywood, members of Boston's local Teamsters Union allegedly harassed and intimidated Lakshmi and other Top Chef staff during the production's June film shoot at the Steel & Rye restaurant in Milton, Massachusetts.[5] The Teamsters Local 25, upset that Bravo hired non-union personnel to drive cast and crew around Milton, protested the filming, threatening staff using racist, sexist, and homophobic language, and slashing the tires of several crew-owned vehicles.[5] While the network insisted the incident was isolated, sources for The Boston Globe reported that the threats did prompt Bravo to change the locations of some tapings.[6] Teamsters Local 25 later released a statement denying the allegations.[7] Four Teamsters were then indicted on charges of conspiracy to extort, attempted extortion, and aiding and abetting.[8] The trial began on August 1, 2017.[9] On August 15, 2017, a jury acquitted the four Teamsters of all charges.[10]

## Contestants

[edit]

Main article: List of Top Chef contestants

Sixteen chefs competed in Top Chef: Boston.[1][11]

Name  | Hometown  | Current Residence[a] | Age

|
|
|

Doug Adams  | Tyler, Texas | Portland, Oregon | 29
Stacy Cogswell  | Boston, Massachusetts | 33
Joy Crump  | Coatesville, Pennsylvania | Fredericksburg, Virginia | 46
Ron Eyester  | Long Island, New York | Atlanta, Georgia | 40
Gregory Gourdet | Queens, New York | Portland, Oregon | 39
Aaron Grissom  | Tacoma, Washington | North Hollywood, California | 27
Adam Harvey  | New York, New York | 29
Rebecca LaMalfa  | Chico, California | Chicago, Illinois | 32
Mei Lin | Dearborn, Michigan | Los Angeles, California | 28
Melissa King | Los Angeles, California | San Francisco, California | 30
George Pagonis  | Washington, D.C. | 31
Michael Patlazhan  | Brooklyn, New York | 31
Keriann Von Raesfeld  | San Jose, California | 28
James Rigato  | Howell, Michigan | White Lake, Michigan | 29
Katsuji Tanabe  | Mexico City, Mexico | Los Angeles, California | 33
Katie Weinner  | Rosemount, Minnesota | Salt Lake City, Utah | 35

Katsuji Tanabe returned to compete in Top Chef: Charleston.[12] Tanabe also appeared as a contestant on the first season of Top Chef México, the Mexican version of Top Chef from NBC Universo.[13] Gregory Gourdet and Melissa King returned for Top Chef: All-Stars L.A.[14]

## Contestant progress

[edit]

Episode #  | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 114 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15

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Quickfire Challenge
Winner(s) | Aaron1
Adam1
Doug1
Keriann1 | James1 | Gregory | Katsuji | Gregory | Katie | N/A  | Gregory | George | Melissa1 | N/A  | Mei1 | Doug1 | Gregory1 | N/A
Contestant | Elimination Challenge Results
1  | Mei  | WIN  | HIGH  | IN  | IN  | IN  | HIGH  | HIGH  | LOW  | WIN  | WIN  | HIGH  | HIGH  | IN  | IN  | WINNER
2  | Gregory  | HIGH  | WIN  | WIN  | WIN  | WIN  | LOW  | LOW  | HIGH  | LOW  | HIGH  | LOW  | LOW  | HIGH  | WIN  | RUNNER-UP
3  | Doug  | HIGH  | IN  | IN  | IN  | WIN  | HIGH  | WIN  | WIN  | HIGH  | OUT  |  | WIN5 | OUT  |
4  | Melissa  | IN  | LOW  | HIGH  | IN  | LOW  | LOW  | HIGH  | LOW  | HIGH  | LOW  | WIN  | WIN  | OUT  |
5  | George  | OUT2 |  | HIGH3 | IN  | LOW  | LOW  | OUT  |
6  | Katsuji  | LOW  | HIGH  | LOW  | WIN  | WIN  | WIN  | LOW  | IN  | OUT  |
7  | Adam  | IN  | WIN  | IN  | IN  | IN  | IN  | HIGH  | OUT  |
8  | Katie  | LOW  | HIGH  | HIGH  | IN  | WIN  | IN  | LOW  | OUT3 |
9  | Keriann  | IN  | LOW  | LOW  | IN  | WIN  | IN  | OUT  |
10  | Stacy  | IN  | LOW  | IN  | IN  | LOW  | OUT  |
11  | Aaron  | IN  | LOW  | IN  | WIN  | OUT  |
12  | James  | IN  | IN  | IN  | OUT  |
Rebecca  | IN  | WIN  | IN  | OUT  |
14  | Ron  | IN  | LOW  | OUT  |
15  | Joy  | IN  | OUT  |
16  | Michael  | OUT  |

^Note 1 : The chef(s) did not receive immunity for winning the Quickfire Challenge.
^Note 2 : George lost the Sudden Death Quickfire Challenge and was eliminated.
^Note 3 : Katie lost the Sudden Death Quickfire Challenge against George. As a result, George was reinstated into the competition.
^Note 4 : There were no eliminations in Episode 11.
^Note 5 : Doug won Last Chance Kitchen and returned to the competition.

(WINNER) The chef won the season and was crowned "Top Chef".
(RUNNER-UP) The chef was a runner-up for the season.
(WIN) The chef won the Elimination Challenge.
(HIGH) The chef was selected as one of the top entries in the Elimination Challenge, but did not win.
(IN) The chef was not selected as one of the top or bottom entries in the Elimination Challenge and was safe.
(LOW) The chef was selected as one of the bottom entries in the Elimination Challenge, but was not eliminated.
(OUT) The chef lost the Elimination Challenge.

## Episodes

[edit]

Main article: List of Top Chef episodes

No.
overall| No. in
season| Title| Original release date| US viewers
(millions)

|
|
|
|

174| 1| "Sudden Death"| October 15, 2014 (2014-10-15)| 1.09[15]

Sudden Death Quickfire Challenge: The chefs, separated into four teams, competed in a mise en place relay race.

* Green Team: Aaron, Adam, Doug, Keriann
* Yellow Team: Katie, Rebecca, Ron, Stacy
* Blue Team: James, Katsuji, Mei, Michael
* Red Team: George, Gregory, Joy, Melissa
* Winner: Green Team
* Sudden Death Cook-off: George, the slowest member of the losing team, had to select another chef to compete against in a sudden death cook-off, using any of the mise en place ingredients. If George lost to his challenger, he would be eliminated from the competition. He chose to compete against Gregory.
* Winner: Gregory (Oysters with Yuzu & Ginger Mignonette, Mirin-Marinated Mackerel, Lobster with Coconut & Tomato Sauce)
* Eliminated: George (Pan-Seared Mackerel with Fennel Orange Kalamata Salad & Warmed Clams)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs served updated versions of their very first dishes.

* Winner: Mei (Congee with Caramelized Pork, Fish Sauce Caramel & Black Garlic Purée)
* Eliminated: Michael (Chilled Corn Soup with Pickled Cherries & Sriracha Caviar)

175| 2| "Boston's Bravest and Finest"| October 22, 2014 (2014-10-22)| 0.98[16]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs created surf and turf dishes in a challenge inspired by the phrase "one if by land, two if by sea," coined by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his 1860 poem "Paul Revere's Ride". While cooking, the chefs had to pay close attention to two signal lanterns. If one lantern turned on, they had to incorporate a "land ingredient"; if two lanterns turned on, they had to use a "sea ingredient". Instead of immunity, the winner received $5,000.

* Winner: James (Sautéed Mussels with Boar Bacon Broth, Sautéed Fiddlehead Ferns, Sauerkraut & Tosaka)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs, working in teams, served dishes for the men and women of Boston's police and fire departments. Survivor: Millennials vs. Gen X contestant Bret LaBelle appeared as one of the police officers. Instead of shopping for their own ingredients, each group cooked using a different set of mystery ingredients available in the kitchen; each set of ingredients was first-come, first-served. The chefs drew knives to determine the teams and order of service.

1. Red Team: Katie, Katsuji, Mei
2. Blue Team: Adam, Gregory, Rebecca
3. Grey Team: Doug, James
4. Yellow Team: Joy, Melissa, Ron
5. Green Team: Aaron, Keriann, Stacy

* Winner: Blue Team (Filet Mignon, Parsnip Purée, Pan-Seared Scallops & Marcona Vinaigrette)
* Eliminated: Joy (Maple & Vanilla Wood-Roasted Veal Chop with Vanilla-Scented Celery Root Purée & Citrus Kale Slaw)

176| 3| "The Curse of the Bambino"| October 29, 2014 (2014-10-29)| 1.05[17]

Sudden Death Quickfire Challenge: The chefs created a dish highlighting tea, in reference to the Boston Tea Party. The winner received immunity from elimination.

* Winner: Gregory (Tuna Crudo with Strawberry White Tea & Coconut)
* Sudden Death Cook-off: Aaron, who made the judges' least favorite dish, had to select another chef to compete against in a sudden death cook-off, using boiling water as their only heat source. If Aaron lost to his challenger, he would be eliminated from the competition. He chose to compete against Katie.
* Winner: Aaron (Cucumber, Carrot, Mint & Raw Peanuts Wrapped in Puréed Shrimp Noodle)

Elimination Challenge: Using classic ballpark snacks, such as popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, and cotton candy, as inspiration for their cooking, the chefs served fine dining dishes at Fenway Park.

* Winner: Gregory (Roasted Duck, Peanut Nam Prik Pao, Peanut Brittle, Crispy Shallots & Fresh Herb Salad)
* Eliminated: Ron (Popcorn Soup, Breaded Fish Croquette, Dill Pickled Celery & Sun Gold Tomatoes)

177| 4| "12 Chefs Walk Into a Bar..."| November 5, 2014 (2014-11-05)| 0.91[18]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs traveled to Cheers Beacon Hill to create tasty bar snacks. The winner received immunity from elimination.

* Winner: Katsuji (Mahi Mahi & Tuna Ceviche with Roasted Tomato & Jalapeño Salsa)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs, working in teams of their choosing, created a three-course Italian menu, including antipasto, pasta, and secondi. The team whose menu was ordered the most by the diners won the challenge; all other teams were eligible for a double elimination. During service, the chefs were informed that one guest, Emmy Rossum, had a gluten-free restriction, forcing those in charge of the pasta course to create an alternative dish.

* Purple Team: Aaron, Gregory, Katsuji
* Orange Team: Adam, Doug, Mei
* Grey Team: James, Keriann, Melissa
* Blue Team: Katie, Rebecca, Stacy
* Winner: Purple Team
* Eliminated: James (Chilled Wild Shrimp, Mussels & Clams with Arugula, Navel Orange & Capers) and Rebecca (Seared Scallop with Charred Fennel, Orange & Arugula)

178| 5| "It's War"| November 12, 2014 (2014-11-12)| 0.90[19]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs faced-off in head-to-head battles using Reynold kitchen products; each pair of competitors had to create the same dish using the same cooking method. Among the winners of each match-up (below in italics), the contestant with the best overall dish received $10,000.

* Smoked Salmon: Aaron vs. Katsuji
* Steamed Mussels: Adam vs. Doug
* Trout en Papillote: Keriann vs. Stacy
* Smoked BBQ: Katie vs. Melissa
* Steamed Dumplings: Gregory vs. Mei
* Winner: Gregory (Steamed Shrimp Dumpling with Ginger & Herbs)

Elimination Challenge: The winners of the Quickfire Challenge took on the losers in a "culinary war". Once again, the chefs competed in head-to-head matches, each named after critical battles from the American Revolutionary War. The winner of each match-up (below in italics) earned their team a point. The first team to score three points won the challenge.

* Red Team: Aaron, Adam, Mei, Melissa, Stacy
* Blue Team: Doug, Gregory, Katie, Katsuji, Keriann
* Battle of Lexington/Concord: Adam vs. Doug
* Battle of Bunker Hill: Melissa vs. Katsuji
* Battle of Trenton: Mei vs. Gregory
* Battles of Saratoga: Stacy vs. Keriann
* Battle of Yorktown: Aaron vs. Katie
* Winner: Blue Team
* Eliminated: Aaron (Pork Meatball & Scallop Noodles)

179| 6| "The First Thanksgiving"| November 19, 2014 (2014-11-19)| 0.95[20]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs created dishes highlighting cranberries. Prior to the challenge, the contestants traveled to a cranberry bog to harvest fresh cranberries. The first four chefs to fill their crates were able to select from a pantry of high-quality ingredients during the Quickfire, while the remaining contestants were forced to use low-quality ingredients.

* Winner: Katie (Cranberry Borscht with Crème Fraîche, Charred Brussels Sprout & Pancetta)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs served a traditional Thanksgiving meal at the Plimoth Plantation, using only the ingredients and cookware that were available during the "First Thanksgiving".

* Winner: Katsuji (Roasted Butternut Squash with Poached Lobster, Chestnuts & Ancho Chile Butter)
* Eliminated: Stacy (Ramp-Smoked Clams with Butternut Squash, Lobsters & Ramps)

180| 7| "Restaurant Wars"| December 3, 2014 (2014-12-03)| 0.96[21]

Elimination Challenge: The chefs, working in two teams, had 24 hours to create a pop-up restaurant and execute a multi-course dinner service. Each chef was responsible for at least one dish on their team's menu. One member from the losing team was eligible for elimination.

* 4 Pigs: Adam, Doug, Mei, Melissa
* First Course: Salt-Baked Clams, Ramps, Bacon & Sunflower Seeds (Adam); Chicken Liver Toast with Plum Purée (Mei)
* Second Course: Braised Pork Shoulder, Baked Beans, Pickled Red Onion & Mustard Seeds (Doug); Seared Scallops & Radish Salad with Grapefruit (Melissa); Fried Brussels Sprouts with Anchovy-Olive Vinaigrette (Mei)
* Third Course: Buttermilk Biscuit Cobbler, Apples, Mixed Berries & Cardamom Cream (Melissa)
* Magellan: Gregory, Katie, Katsuji, Keriann
* First Course: Roasted Beets, Sri Lankan Curry, Toasted Coconut & Pickled Cauliflower (Katie); Hamachi Sashimi, Roasted Poblano, Blistered Tomato, Citrus-Habanero Salsa & Garlic Chips (Katsuji); Dry Pozole, Chili, Dungeness Crab & Chicharrones (Katsuji)
* Second Course: Seared Haddock, Spiced Tomato, Garam Masala & Pickled Mushrooms (Gregory); Hoisin-Glazed Pork Tenderloin, Bay Scallops, Broccolini & Xo Sauce (Gregory)
* Third Course: Vanilla Crêpe, Burnt Banana Mousse, Macerated Cherries with Ginger & Pistachio (Keriann)
* Winning Team: 4 Pigs
* Winner: Doug
* Eliminated: Keriann

181| 8| "Clean Up in Aisle 2!"| December 10, 2014 (2014-12-10)| 0.98[22]

Sudden Death Quickfire Challenge: The chefs had to put their own spin on clam chowder.

* Winner: Gregory (Razor Clam & Sweet Potato Chowder with Bacon, Dashi & Coconut Milk Broth)
* Sudden Death Cook-off: Katie, who made the judges' least favorite dish, had to compete against one of the previously eliminated contestants (selected by vote) in a sudden death cook-off, using rabbit in their dishes. If Katie lost to her challenger, she would be eliminated from the competition and her opponent would take her place. The eliminated chefs voted for George to compete in the cook-off.
* Winner: George (Roasted Rabbit Loin, Barley Risotto, Glazed Carrots & Mustard Rabbit Jus)
* Eliminated: Katie (Braised Rabbit Leg with Moroccan Tomato Sauce)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs catered a tasting event for 75 Top Chef fans and foodies. Instead of doing their own shopping, as per usual, the judges shopped for the contestants' ingredients. A draw of knives determined which judge the chefs would obtain their ingredients from: Tom shopped for Mei, Padma shopped for George and Gregory, Gail shopped for Katsuji and Melissa, and Richard shopped for Adam and Doug.

* Winner: Doug (Chorizo-Marinated Mussels with Sweet Pepper & Cauliflower Relish)
* Eliminated: Adam (Flash-Marinated Shrimp, Mushroom Conserva, Peppadew Peppers, Herbs & Aioli)

182| 9| "Big Sausage"| December 17, 2014 (2014-12-17)| 0.98[23]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs prepared sausage dishes. The winner received immunity from elimination.

* Winner: George (Pork and Veal Sausage Patty with Sunny-Side Up Egg & Potato Hash)

Elimination Challenge: Each chef had to create a dish inspired by a famous New England literary work.

* Doug: "Bring me the sunset in a cup" by Emily Dickinson
* George: One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
* Gregory: "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe
* Katsuji: Carrie by Stephen King
* Mei: Walden by Henry David Thoreau
* Melissa: The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne
* Winner: Mei (Roasted Vegetables, Charred Onion Soil, Tom Kha Snow, Radish & Carrot Top Vinaigrette)
* Eliminated: Katsuji (Fabada with White Beans, Chorizo, Jamón Serrano, Short Rib, Veal Osso Buco, Red Beet Purée & Hot Sauce)

183| 10| "For Julia & Jacques"| January 7, 2015 (2015-01-07)| 1.02[24]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs created ramen dishes using only ingredients available from college students' dorm rooms. Instead of immunity, the winner received $5,000.

* Winner: Melissa (Mac & Cheese Carbonara with Roast Chicken & Frito Crumb Topping)

Elimination Challenge: The contestants tested their skills in French cuisine by preparing dishes in tribute to Julia Child.

* Winner: Mei (Duck À L'Orange with Turnip Purée, Orange Purée & Glazed Vegetables)
* Eliminated: Doug (Roasted Foie Gras with Roasted Peaches, Sweet & Sour Onions & Hazelnuts)

184| 11| "Sous Your Daddy!"| January 14, 2015 (2015-01-14)| 1.09[25]

Elimination Challenge: Each chef was responsible for creating two dishes, one appetizer and one entrée, utilizing local seafood. The chefs' family members joined the challenge, serving as their sous chefs. The contestants were not allowed to touch the appetizers, leaving solely their loved ones responsible for executing those dishes. While the chefs were not in danger of elimination, as an added incentive, the winner was guaranteed entry into the finals.

* Winner: Melissa (Egg Custard with Shiitake Mushrooms, Clams & Lobster; Butter-Poached Lobster with Onion Soubise & Pea Purée)

185| 12| "The Final Battle of Bean Town"| January 21, 2015 (2015-01-21)| 0.99[26]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs made dishes highlighting beans. Instead of immunity, the winner earned a trip to Napa, California.

* Winner: Mei (Black Beans & Corn with Chipotle Peppers, Bacon, Poached Eggs & Pinto Bean Foam)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs created innovative dishes that pushed their own culinary boundaries. The winner received $10,000.

* Winner: Melissa (Seared Duck Breast with Farro, Walnut Miso & Pickled Cherries)
* Eliminated: George (Charred Octopus, Yellow Split Pea Purée, Green Apple & Harissa)

186| 13| "Getting Prickly In Mexico"| January 28, 2015 (2015-01-28)| 1.11[27]

Quickfire Challenge: After arriving in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, the chefs prepared dishes highlighting xoconostle. The winner was given first choice of sous chefs during the Elimination Challenge.

* Winner: Doug (Xoconostle & Tomatillo Stew with Roasted Peppers & Pepitas)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs created dishes inspired by an artist's piece of work.

* Winner: Doug (Brisket Texas Red with Tomatillo & Masa Cake)
* Eliminated: Melissa (Smoked Eggplant Ravioli with Shrimp, Chorizo & Cotija)

187| 14| "Holy Escamoly!"| February 4, 2015 (2015-02-04)| 0.89[28]

Quickfire Challenge: The chefs created sweet and savory dishes using Mexican chocolate. The winner was given first choice of sous chef during the Elimination Challenge.

* Winner: Gregory (Seared Lamb with White Chocolate Ancho Sauce & Green Chorizo Vinaigrette; Baby Carrots with Turmeric, Dark Chocolate & Ginger)

Elimination Challenge: The chefs worked together to prepare a six-course meal highlighting six different Mexican ingredients: avocado, escamoles, guava, huitlacoche, poblano, and queso fresco. Each contestant was responsible for two dishes.

* Winner: Gregory (Chilled Guava Soup with Bay Scallops, Habanero & Roasted Guava; Pork & Poblano Stew with Tomatillos)
* Eliminated: Doug (Tortilla Español with Escamoles & Escamol Aioli; Smoked Queso Fresco with Spiced Honey, Squash Chips & Charred Pickles)

188| 15| "Mano a Mano"| February 11, 2015 (2015-02-11)| 0.96[29]

Elimination Challenge: The finalists, with the assistance of two sous chefs of their choosing (Melissa & Rebecca for Mei, and Doug & George for Gregory) had to cook the best four-course meal of their lives.

* Mei:
* First Course: Octopus with Fish Sauce Vinaigrette, Avocado-Coconut Purée & Herbs
* Second Course: Congee with Carnitas, Scallion Purée, Hot Sauce, Peanuts & Egg Yolk
* Third Course: Duck with Braised Lettuce, Kimchi Jicama & Huitlacoche
* Fourth Course: Strawberry Lime Curd with Toasted Yogurt, Milk Crumble & Yogurt-Lime Ice
* Gregory:
* First Course: Grilled Octopus with Prickly Pear, Xoconostle, Passion Fruit & Cashew Milk
* Second Course: Shrimp Broth with Green Chorizo, Pickled Nopales & Crispy Shrimp Heads
* Third Course: Striped Bass with Roasted Carrots, Radish, Pineapple & Tomatillo
* Fourth Course: Red Mole with Short Ribs & Agave Sweet Potato
* Winner: Mei
* Runner-up: Gregory

## Last Chance Kitchen

[edit]

Main article: Top Chef § Last Chance Kitchen

No.  | Title  | Original air date

|
|

1| "Redemption Royal"| December 10, 2014 (2014-12-10)

Challenge: The chefs transformed the dishes that sent them home into winning dishes.

* Aaron: Nori & Soy Pork Sausage, Seared Scallop, Hon Dashi Pickled Vegetables & Lemon Ginger Syrup
* James: Ponzu Marinated Clams, Shaved Vegetable Herb & Citrus Salad
* Joy: Roasted Veal with Celery Root Purée, Bacon Studded Kale & Pickled Vegetable Vinaigrette
* Keriann: Vanilla Crêpe, Burnt Banana & White Chocolate Mousse, Marinated Berries, Salty Sweet Fritter & Caramel Sauce
* Rebecca: Seared Scallops with Fennel Garlic Purée, Wilted Fennel & Crispy Shallots
* Ron: Haddock with Bay Scallop & Corn Purée, Tomato Corn Salad & Fried Capers
* Stacy: Butternut Squash & Bacon Soup with Brown Butter Poached Lobster Tail & Fried Clams
* Winner: Rebecca
* Eliminated: Aaron, James, Joy, Keriann, Ron, Stacy

2| "Dry and Slimy"| December 10, 2014 (2014-12-10)

Challenge: The chefs created dishes using dry and slimy ingredients.

* Rebecca: Warm Octopus & Confit Potato Salad, Toasted Pepitas & Pickled Red Onions
* Adam: Salt Baked Oyster, White Miso Glaçage, Pickled Morels & Nori
* Katie: Pancetta & Mascarpone Stuffed Morels with Tomatillo, Cranberry & Pepita Salad with Miso Vinaigrette
* Winners: Adam, Katie
* Eliminated: Rebecca

3| "The Kitchen Sink"| December 17, 2014 (2014-12-17)

Challenge: Each chef had to create a cohesive dish using 20 or more ingredients.

* Adam: Peruvian Ceviche, Summer Vegetable "Leche de Tigre"
* Katie: Indian Tomato "Stew" with Yogurt Herb Sauce & Seared Spiced Eggplant
* Katsuji: Pescado Encacahuatado Mole with Nuts, Dry Fruits & Chiles
* Winners: Adam, Katsuji
* Eliminated: Katie

4| "Liverwurst Nightmare"| January 7, 2015 (2015-01-07)

Challenge: Each chef created a dish featuring liver.

* Adam: Beef Liver "Alla Nonna", Onions, Peppers & Roasted Portobello Mushroom Caps
* Katsuji: Higado Encebollado Goat Liver & Onions
* Doug: Seared Pork Liver with Onions & Chimichurri
* Winners: Adam, Doug
* Eliminated: Katsuji

5| "Crudité Redux"| January 14, 2015 (2015-01-14)

Challenge: The chefs prepared dishes using produce from crudité platters.

* Adam: "White Pie Cannelloni" with Ranch Pancetta & Agrodolce Raisins
* Doug: Seared Pork Loin, Spiced Cauliflower, Red Pepper Ranch & Ranch Pickled Vegetables
* Winner: Doug
* Eliminated: Adam

6| "The Last Chance Kitchen Finals"| January 21, 2015 (2015-01-21)

Challenge: The chefs created Mexican-inspired dishes featuring clams.

* Doug: Clams with Charred Pineapple Butter, Tomatillo, Tomatoes & Pickled Red Onion
* George: Steamed Clams with Serrano & Tomatillo Salsa Verde
* Winner: Doug
* Eliminated: George

## References

[edit]

Notes

1. ^ The contestants' city and state of residence during time of filming.

Footnotes

1. ^ a b c The Dish (August 20, 2014). "First Look at Top Chef Season 12!". Bravo. Retrieved August 20, 2014.
2. ^ a b Goldstein, Meredith (August 20, 2014). "'Top Chef' Boston season revealed". The Boston Globe. Retrieved August 20, 2014.
3. ^ "Top Chef Season 12 Cast Info". Bravo. August 20, 2014. Retrieved August 20, 2014.
4. ^ "Top Chef Winner Revealed: Did Mei Lin or Gregory Gourdet Win?". Us Weekly. February 12, 2015. Retrieved March 10, 2017.
5. ^ a b Robb, David (August 20, 2014). "'Top Chef' Host Padma Lakshmi And Crew Flambéed By Boston Teamsters". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved August 21, 2014.
6. ^ Shanahan, Mark; Goldstein, Meredith (August 21, 2014). "Source confirms 'Top Chef' harassment by local Teamsters". The Boston Globe. Retrieved August 21, 2014.
7. ^ Scalese, Roberto (August 21, 2014). "UPDATED: What the Hell Went on Between Boston's Teamsters and the 'Top Chef' Crew?". Boston.com. Retrieved August 22, 2014.
8. ^ Stout, Matt; Planas, Antonio; Sweet, Laurel (October 1, 2015). "Feds hammer Teamsters in 'Top Chef' extortion rap". Boston Herald. Retrieved October 1, 2015.
9. ^ Robb, David (August 1, 2017). "'Top Chef' Teamsters Trial: Producer Details Taunts & Slurs But Says Show Contestant Was 'Escalating Situation'". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved August 1, 2017.
10. ^ Robb, David (August 15, 2017). "'Top Chef' Trial: Boston Teamsters Acquitted In Extortion Case". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved August 15, 2017.
11. ^ "Cast & Info - Top Chef Season 12". Bravo. Archived from the original on October 21, 2014. Retrieved March 31, 2025.
12. ^ Spence, Shay (October 20, 2016). "Top Chef Is Bringing Back 8 Fan Favorite Contestants — See Who Made the Cut". People. Retrieved March 10, 2017.
13. ^ Chavez, Stephen (February 5, 2016). "Local Chef Katsuji Tanabe of Mexikosher Competes in Upcoming "Top Chef Mexico" on NBC Universo". LatinoFoodie. Retrieved January 11, 2020.
14. ^ Huff, Lauren (December 12, 2019). "Unpack your knives: Top Chef announces all-star lineup for season 17". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved December 12, 2019.
15. ^ Bibel, Sara (October 16, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night, 'South Park', 'Teen Mom 2', Baseball, 'Impact Wrestling' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on October 18, 2014. Retrieved October 21, 2014.
16. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (October 23, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Tops Night + 'Key & Peele', 'Melissa & Joey' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on October 25, 2014. Retrieved October 25, 2014.
17. ^ Bibel, Sara (October 30, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night, 'South Park', 'Key & Peele', 'Ghost Hunters', 'Top Chef' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on November 1, 2014. Retrieved October 31, 2014.
18. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (November 6, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story: Freak Show' Tops Night + 'South Park', NBA Basketball, 'Key & Peele' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on November 8, 2014. Retrieved November 6, 2014.
19. ^ Bibel, Sara (November 13, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night, 'South Park', 'American Pickers', 'Key & Peele', 'Top Chef' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on November 15, 2014. Retrieved November 14, 2014.
20. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (November 20, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Tops Night + NBA Basketball, 'Duck Dynasty', 'South Park' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on November 22, 2014. Retrieved November 21, 2014.
21. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (December 4, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Tops Night + 'South Park', College Basketball, 'Duck Dynasty' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on December 15, 2014. Retrieved December 4, 2014.
22. ^ Bibel, Sara (December 11, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night,'South Park', 'Duck Dynasty', 'Melissa & Joey' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on December 19, 2014. Retrieved December 17, 2014.
23. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (December 18, 2014). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Tops Night + 'The Daily Show', 'The Colbert Report', 'Mob Wives' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on December 21, 2014. Retrieved December 21, 2014.
24. ^ Bibel, Sara (January 9, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night, 'Duck Dynasty', 'Wahlburgers', 'Mob Wives', 'Little Women LA' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on January 10, 2015. Retrieved January 14, 2015.
25. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (January 16, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night + 'The Game', 'Duck Dynasty', 'Workaholics' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on January 17, 2015. Retrieved January 19, 2015.
26. ^ Bibel, Sara (January 22, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'American Horror Story' Wins Night, 'Duck Dynasty', 'The Game', 'Broad City','Melissa & Joey' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on January 23, 2015. Retrieved January 24, 2015.
27. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (January 29, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'Duck Dynasty' Tops Night + 'The Game', 'Wahlburgers', 'Conan', 'The Americans' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on January 30, 2015. Retrieved February 5, 2015.
28. ^ Bibel, Sara (February 5, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'Duck Dynasty' Wins Night, 'Snooki & J Woww', 'Broad City', 'The Americans' & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on February 6, 2015. Retrieved February 5, 2015.
29. ^ Kondolojy, Amanda (February 12, 2015). "Wednesday Cable Ratings: 'Duck Dynasty' Tops Night + 'The Game', 'Wahlburgers' NBA Basketball & More". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on February 13, 2015. Retrieved February 12, 2015.

## External links

[edit]

* Official website

* v
* t
* e

Top Chef

Seasons|

* 1: San Francisco
* 2: Los Angeles
* 3: Miami
* 4: Chicago
* 5: New York
* 6: Las Vegas
* 7: D.C.
* 8: All-Stars
* 9: Texas
* 10: Seattle
* 11: New Orleans
* 12: Boston
* 13: California
* 14: Charleston
* 15: Colorado
* 16: Kentucky
* 17: All-Stars L.A.
* 18: Portland
* 19: Houston
* 20: World All-Stars
* 21: Wisconsin
* 22: Destination Canada

Winners|

* Harold Dieterle
* Ilan Hall
* Hung Huynh
* Stephanie Izard
* Michael Voltaggio
* Richard Blais
* Paul Qui
* Kristen Kish
* Mei Lin
* Jeremy Ford
* Brooke Williamson
* Melissa King
* Gabe Erales
* Buddha Lo

Spin-offs|

* Top Chef Masters
* 1
* 2
* 3
* 4
* 5
* Top Chef: Just Desserts
* 1
* 2
* Life After Top Chef
* Top Chef Duels
* Top Chef Junior
* Top Chef Amateurs
* Top Chef Family Style
* Top Chef VIP
* 1
* 2
* 3
* 4

International versions|

* Brasil
* 1
* 2
* 3
* 4
* Canada
* 1
* 2
* 3
* 4
* 5
* 6
* 7
* 8
* 9
* 10
* 11
* MENA version
* Romanian version
* Spain
* Suomi
* Thailand
* 1
* 2
* 3
* 4

Related|

* Contestants
* Episodes

*[No.]: Number
*[v]: View this template
*[t]: Discuss this template
*[e]: Edit this template