This week on Top Chef 3 the wannabes got to sip cocktails using Bombay Sapphire Gin during the quick-fire challenge. They had to create appetizers that would mesh well with the drinks. Dale was thrilled because he consulted in mixology somewhere. Ooohhh, I’m so excited for him.

He did something with foie gras and so did Casey. Her usage was apparently better so she won the quick fire, immunity and the distaste of her peers. Later on, the chefs were told that they would have to prepare a four-course dinner in teams of three. Each chef would have to prepare a similar dish of three during their particular course for a total of twelve dishes served in four courses.

You’d think that would be a lot of food, but not with the portion sizes of gourmet meals. Each team also got only $150.00 which doesn’t buy a lot.

For the first course, Brian, Hung and Lia decided to work with shrimp. (Note: It was a touch decision for the judges, but Lia ended up winning the challenge.)

The second course was tuna. Casey, Howie and Joe had the distinct displeasure of trying to put something together. They did not get along and it showed. The third course was beef. Tre, CJ and Sarah Nguyen did something with beef. It was tasty, but not the best work of the night. Finally, Dale, who defected from Howie and Casey’s team, took charge of Sara M. and Camille. They decided to do dessert despite the fact that none of them was proficient in pastry or baking. He hoped they’d get points for taking a risk and for sticking with a true ‘tasting menu.’

They decided to make some pineapple disasters. No one enjoyed them. Camille was sacrificed at the elimination altar despite the fact that Casey should’ve gone home. Her tuna tartare was horrific according to the judges. They made her feel so guilty for having elimination that she cried. However, she didn’t waive the elimination nor did the judges lift it to send her home.

Camille, for her part, put up a brave front considering. She told all the chefs they were very talented and hugs were hard all around.

How uplifting!