The Bear
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This years star-packed episode, Forever, is slightly different.
TheresGrant Achatz, whose Alinea, in some ways, set the standard for Chicago fine dining.
TheresKevin Boehm, whoseBoka groupowns some of the best chef-driven restaurants in the country.
Theres Milk BarsChristina Tosiand ElskesAnna Posey, and Noma pastry chef turned taqueria ownerRosio Sanchezand molecular gastronomy pioneerWylie Dufresne.
(Would Anthony Bourdain likeThe Bear?
Id like to think so.)
Can you even call yourself a great chef if your food is good but your attitude is bad?
Not that Carmy heard or absorbed any of that.
Never turns it off.
I dont think he sleeps.
I dont think he eats.
Dont think he loves.
Hates black pepper for some reason.
And, finally, that Chef Joel McHale is getting up.
McHale pretends not to know him, calling him Ragazzo.
You were an okay chef when you started with me, the elder chef says.
You left an excellent chef, so youre welcome.
Can only stammer back something about ulcers and panic attacks and nightmares.
Thats what McHale thinks, full stop, and its what hes passed down to Carmy.
The elder chef walks away, unchanged, and Carmy cries.
Or would it be the right decision for Carmy?
(For the last time,its not romantic!)
Thats what Carmy should do, too, but he clearly doesnt know it yet.
Thats evident when theTribunes Bear review is out.
Small Bites
Whenever I see Wylie Dufresne, I think ofMitch Hedbergs bit about restaurant waiting lists.
(Who can eat at a time like this?
People are missing!)
In 2024, could you even be a toxic chef?
Would people come work for you?
Wouldnt your nightmare reputation land you a local Eater expose faster than you could say fire agnolotti?
Industry professionals, I need your thoughts here.
How did Carmy go from working at the Beef to working at the French Laundry?
Was there another stop in a Chicago restaurant I cant remember or a star-making stint in culinary school?
you could make Grant AchatzsHot Potato Cold Potatoyourself at home.
In terms of the chefs acting skills, I thoughtLivingstondid the best.
(4)James Laidis the best party song of all time.
(5) A whole keg for a party of about 12 people?
Never change, Chicago.
Thats it for me this season!
Thanks, everyone, for reading, and lets all meet back here next summer for season four.
