1 00:00:01,503 --> 00:00:02,606 (RICHARD, V.O.) Previously on Next Level Chef... 2 00:00:02,706 --> 00:00:05,612 You'll be working with one of the oldest foods: noodles. 3 00:00:05,712 --> 00:00:07,949 Send noods please! Not those kind but send noods! 4 00:00:08,049 --> 00:00:09,987 Tongue is a protein! Holy crap. 5 00:00:10,087 --> 00:00:13,494 -Was it on my bingo card? No. -(YELLS) This is hard. 6 00:00:13,595 --> 00:00:15,231 I know they'll taste it and be like, "Wow!" 7 00:00:15,264 --> 00:00:17,000 "I don't even wanna taste the other dishes." 8 00:00:17,101 --> 00:00:19,105 (RICHARD) Danielle, Andy, Christian, 9 00:00:19,205 --> 00:00:21,242 -you're cooking for survival. -(GROWLING) Argh! 10 00:00:21,275 --> 00:00:22,979 Someone's going home today, dude. I wanna make sure 11 00:00:23,012 --> 00:00:24,550 we're not getting too cocky here. 12 00:00:24,650 --> 00:00:26,119 The dish I'm sending home... is the scallops. 13 00:00:26,219 --> 00:00:27,856 -Danielle. -(CLAPPING) 14 00:00:27,890 --> 00:00:30,160 (GORDON) And tonight we are celebrating 15 00:00:30,260 --> 00:00:33,535 -America's 250th birthday. -Happy birthday, America! 16 00:00:33,635 --> 00:00:36,339 We wanna taste that American spirit tonight. 17 00:00:36,372 --> 00:00:38,811 Two sips, you're gonna be on your (BLEEP)in' back! 18 00:00:38,844 --> 00:00:40,481 -What's this big spill? -(BLEEP) 19 00:00:40,582 --> 00:00:43,621 (CHANTING) USA! USA! 20 00:00:43,654 --> 00:00:46,126 Is that Richard Blais? I'm gonna (BLEEP)ing kill him! 21 00:00:46,159 --> 00:00:48,062 (HI-ENERGY ROCK MUSIC) 22 00:00:58,751 --> 00:01:01,088 (SOLEMN PATRIOTIC MUSIC) 23 00:01:06,567 --> 00:01:08,738 Welcome back, guys. Come on in! 24 00:01:08,771 --> 00:01:10,908 -(DARIAN) Back for more! -Whoo! 25 00:01:10,941 --> 00:01:13,547 -Right, all of you, listen up. -(EXCITING MUSIC BUILDS) 26 00:01:13,681 --> 00:01:16,787 We are celebrating something very special tonight 27 00:01:16,887 --> 00:01:19,259 because this year marks 28 00:01:19,292 --> 00:01:22,297 America's 250th birthday. How cool is that? 29 00:01:22,398 --> 00:01:25,304 (DARIAN and COLE) Wow. That's amazing. 30 00:01:25,437 --> 00:01:28,476 This Fourth of July we celebrate two and a half centuries 31 00:01:28,577 --> 00:01:30,949 of culture, innovation, and of course, 32 00:01:31,049 --> 00:01:33,319 -delicious food. -(DARIAN) Mmm! 33 00:01:33,453 --> 00:01:35,592 Andy, your favorite American classic. What would it be? 34 00:01:35,625 --> 00:01:37,194 -Oh, mac and cheese! -(GORDON) Love that. 35 00:01:37,294 --> 00:01:38,931 Cole, how about you? 36 00:01:39,065 --> 00:01:40,568 Some good old southern fried chicken! 37 00:01:40,602 --> 00:01:42,605 -Oof! -Connor, what's your favorite? 38 00:01:42,705 --> 00:01:45,043 -It's gotta be smoked barbecue. -Love that! 39 00:01:45,177 --> 00:01:46,914 (GORDON) Okay, ready for your next challenge? 40 00:01:47,014 --> 00:01:48,618 Now, to celebrate America, 41 00:01:48,718 --> 00:01:51,156 we are throwing a star-spangled cocktail party! 42 00:01:51,189 --> 00:01:53,561 -Ooh! -You'll all have 30 minutes 43 00:01:53,595 --> 00:01:56,567 to create a plate of Next Level appetizers 44 00:01:56,600 --> 00:02:00,608 worthy of toasting America's 250th birthday. 45 00:02:00,708 --> 00:02:02,779 Listen, all of the best dinner parties start 46 00:02:02,879 --> 00:02:05,918 with happy hour, right? Serving those incredible small plates 47 00:02:06,019 --> 00:02:08,958 packed with big flavor that set the tone for the evening. 48 00:02:08,991 --> 00:02:10,494 Think Nashville hot chicken bites, 49 00:02:10,595 --> 00:02:12,632 Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, 50 00:02:12,732 --> 00:02:15,605 and those incredible mini crab cakes. 51 00:02:15,705 --> 00:02:18,109 Today we're looking for elevated American classics. 52 00:02:18,209 --> 00:02:20,581 We wanna taste that American spirit. 53 00:02:20,615 --> 00:02:23,453 I love snacks. I love little tiny plates so... 54 00:02:23,486 --> 00:02:26,627 (CHUCKLES) ..I am ready to play! 55 00:02:26,760 --> 00:02:28,931 In this competition, as you know, right, 56 00:02:29,031 --> 00:02:31,737 your talent in the kitchen determines where you cook. 57 00:02:31,771 --> 00:02:34,475 And based on that last challenge, Cole and Darian 58 00:02:34,510 --> 00:02:36,847 you are headed to that top level! 59 00:02:36,980 --> 00:02:39,151 With me today! 60 00:02:39,251 --> 00:02:41,122 -Alright, let's go! Let's go! -Whoo! Let's get it. 61 00:02:41,256 --> 00:02:43,995 -I'm expecting fireworks. -Yes, chef. 62 00:02:44,128 --> 00:02:45,865 Gabrielle and Connor, you're cooking 63 00:02:45,998 --> 00:02:47,367 on the middle level with me today. 64 00:02:47,401 --> 00:02:48,771 -Let's do it. -Yes, chef. 65 00:02:48,804 --> 00:02:50,808 Christian and Andy, you're in the basement 66 00:02:50,841 --> 00:02:52,512 -with me today. -Honored. 67 00:02:52,646 --> 00:02:53,847 -(ANDY) Nice! -I believe in you. 68 00:02:53,948 --> 00:02:55,785 -Cole... -Hmm! 69 00:02:55,918 --> 00:02:59,125 ..you won the Time Token in the last challenge. 70 00:02:59,258 --> 00:03:01,396 You have to decide how you're going to use it 71 00:03:01,429 --> 00:03:03,233 to your best advantage. 72 00:03:03,266 --> 00:03:06,540 Are you going to take the ten seconds, 73 00:03:06,573 --> 00:03:08,176 use it for yourself at the platform 74 00:03:08,277 --> 00:03:10,548 so you can grab some extra ingredients? 75 00:03:10,648 --> 00:03:14,021 Or are you gonna take the ten seconds away 76 00:03:14,155 --> 00:03:16,425 from one of your fellow competitors? 77 00:03:16,560 --> 00:03:19,566 Any competitor on any floor. 78 00:03:19,700 --> 00:03:24,408 My mindset is like, "I have this Time Token 79 00:03:24,543 --> 00:03:27,516 and I'm wondering if I should choose violence." 80 00:03:27,616 --> 00:03:29,418 (LAUGHS) 81 00:03:29,519 --> 00:03:31,422 So, Cole, what's it gonna be? 82 00:03:31,556 --> 00:03:35,163 Chef, I thought long and hard about this all night... 83 00:03:35,197 --> 00:03:37,434 (TENSE MUSIC) 84 00:03:37,468 --> 00:03:40,140 ..but I'm gonna keep the ten seconds for myself. 85 00:03:40,240 --> 00:03:43,279 If I out-cook everyone, then I want it to be on my own merit, 86 00:03:43,312 --> 00:03:45,317 not because they felt like they had a leg down. 87 00:03:45,350 --> 00:03:47,856 Right, Cole and Darian, very best of luck. 88 00:03:47,889 --> 00:03:49,693 Head to the elevator. I'll see you shortly. 89 00:03:49,726 --> 00:03:51,162 -(BOTH) Thank you. -Let's go! 90 00:03:51,295 --> 00:03:53,066 Let's go, Cole. Let's go, Darian. 91 00:03:53,166 --> 00:03:54,970 (TENSE MUSIC BUILDS, ENDS) 92 00:03:55,004 --> 00:03:58,377 (PATRIOTIC MUSIC) 93 00:03:58,410 --> 00:04:00,648 -(COLE) Eh! Okay. -Right, where you wanting? 94 00:04:00,682 --> 00:04:02,819 -I wanna go right here. -Right. I'll go right here then. 95 00:04:02,952 --> 00:04:06,292 Okay. The final is in sight. This is like, you know, 96 00:04:06,392 --> 00:04:08,964 that last stretch of that 100-meter dash. 97 00:04:08,997 --> 00:04:11,002 It's like we're right here at the finish line. 98 00:04:11,102 --> 00:04:13,741 If I take any second to look back at somebody else, 99 00:04:13,841 --> 00:04:16,145 I could literally trip and fall over myself. 100 00:04:16,246 --> 00:04:18,050 We came here together, Cole. Let's stay together. Alright? 101 00:04:18,183 --> 00:04:19,820 ♪ Let's stay together! 102 00:04:19,853 --> 00:04:22,090 I am trying to do everything in my power 103 00:04:22,190 --> 00:04:24,329 to make sure that I am in that top three. 104 00:04:24,362 --> 00:04:26,667 (SING-SONG) Alright! 105 00:04:26,767 --> 00:04:28,302 (TENSE MUSIC) 106 00:04:28,436 --> 00:04:29,371 (ELEVATOR PINGS) 107 00:04:32,211 --> 00:04:34,215 (SASSY ACCENT) I never been over here! 108 00:04:34,315 --> 00:04:36,218 -(CONNOR) Let's cook! -(ELEVATOR WHIRRING) 109 00:04:36,318 --> 00:04:38,489 -Do you wanna go first? -I would like to. 110 00:04:38,590 --> 00:04:40,193 -You gonna let me? -Yeah. 111 00:04:40,326 --> 00:04:43,399 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES) 112 00:04:48,009 --> 00:04:50,715 -(SHOCKED AND PROLONGED) Wow! -(CHRISTIAN CHUCKLING SMUGLY) 113 00:04:50,815 --> 00:04:53,086 Was that necessary? 114 00:04:53,219 --> 00:04:55,724 Are you... Are you proud of yourself? 115 00:04:55,758 --> 00:04:59,364 That was not a kind thing to do. 116 00:04:59,398 --> 00:05:01,435 Cramping legs. I-I think I pulled a muscle. 117 00:05:04,007 --> 00:05:06,913 Somethin' ain't right. Ooh. That's does hurt. 118 00:05:10,688 --> 00:05:13,492 (EXCITING MUSIC) 119 00:05:13,593 --> 00:05:15,698 -Andy, let's go, Andy. Let's go. -Let's go, Christian! 120 00:05:15,832 --> 00:05:17,267 (ANDY) A'right! 121 00:05:17,367 --> 00:05:18,871 You got this, dude. Let's go, Andy. 122 00:05:18,971 --> 00:05:21,375 Nyesha, look after her! 123 00:05:21,510 --> 00:05:23,112 -How you guys feeling? -I'm feeling ready, chef. 124 00:05:23,146 --> 00:05:24,683 -(CHRISTIAN) I'm good. -Amazing! 125 00:05:24,783 --> 00:05:26,386 -Setting the tone for the party. -That's right. 126 00:05:26,419 --> 00:05:28,524 -Keeping that festive energy? -Let's go. 127 00:05:28,657 --> 00:05:31,162 We worked much with small bites, big flavors. 128 00:05:31,196 --> 00:05:34,034 Yes, a hundred percent. Fourth of July - Independence Day - 129 00:05:34,067 --> 00:05:35,805 honestly, our favorite holiday. Me and my wife, yeah. 130 00:05:35,905 --> 00:05:37,408 -Nice inspiration point, right? -Yeah. 131 00:05:37,509 --> 00:05:39,111 Three perfect beautiful bites. 132 00:05:39,244 --> 00:05:40,748 -Woo-hoo! -(NYESHA) Yes! 133 00:05:40,782 --> 00:05:42,552 -I'm fired up! -Fireworks! Fireworks! 134 00:05:42,652 --> 00:05:44,288 (MUSIC: 'STAR-SPANGLED BANNER') 135 00:05:44,388 --> 00:05:45,959 -(GORDON) Good luck. -(CHANTING) USA! USA! 136 00:05:45,992 --> 00:05:47,428 Let's go, Connor! Come on! 137 00:05:47,529 --> 00:05:49,265 Let's talk about America! 138 00:05:49,365 --> 00:05:52,538 Uncle Sam, the Statue of Liberty, 139 00:05:52,638 --> 00:05:55,511 screaming Eagles, coast to coast, 140 00:05:55,545 --> 00:05:57,682 the shining seas, 141 00:05:57,783 --> 00:06:01,289 the bustling plains, the big cities, 142 00:06:01,389 --> 00:06:03,928 oceans, farmers. I just went through every page 143 00:06:03,961 --> 00:06:05,965 -of the US passport! -(MUSIC ENDS) 144 00:06:06,099 --> 00:06:07,802 You know what the challenge is. You guys are from 145 00:06:07,836 --> 00:06:09,806 -California and Florida. -Yes, chef. 146 00:06:09,906 --> 00:06:11,943 If you get the opportunity to sort of showcase 147 00:06:11,977 --> 00:06:13,847 -where you're from, even better. -Absolutely, chef. 148 00:06:13,881 --> 00:06:15,718 (SERIOUS MUSIC) 149 00:06:15,818 --> 00:06:18,390 -(GORDON) Let's go! -(COLE and DARIAN CHEERING) 150 00:06:18,423 --> 00:06:20,961 I have got the A-Team up here. Come on, man. 151 00:06:21,061 --> 00:06:23,066 -Appreciate you, chef. Thanks. -You good? Excellent. 152 00:06:23,166 --> 00:06:25,170 -So you have ten seconds. -Yeah. 153 00:06:25,303 --> 00:06:27,040 -All on your own. -Being up here, chef, 154 00:06:27,174 --> 00:06:28,845 I feel like we trip ourselves up 155 00:06:28,945 --> 00:06:30,814 because all the ingredients are still here 156 00:06:30,848 --> 00:06:32,718 so it's hard to see everything. 157 00:06:32,752 --> 00:06:34,956 So I really wanna take that ten to, like, see. 158 00:06:34,990 --> 00:06:38,730 It's a competition. Top six, top five, semi-final, finale. 159 00:06:38,864 --> 00:06:41,102 -You gotta get in there. -Yes, chef. 160 00:06:41,135 --> 00:06:44,709 Okay, so every cook is all about getting in that finale. 161 00:06:44,742 --> 00:06:48,216 Every day I'm getting closer and closer to that $250,000. 162 00:06:48,316 --> 00:06:50,486 Line up, please. Yes? Here we go. 163 00:06:50,588 --> 00:06:52,859 But for me, it's a mentorship for me. 164 00:06:52,959 --> 00:06:56,433 I wanna be a better leader, manager, a better chef. 165 00:06:56,466 --> 00:06:58,069 I need a mentorship. 166 00:06:58,103 --> 00:07:01,008 (CHANTING) USA! USA! 167 00:07:01,108 --> 00:07:03,079 (GORDON) Get ready, Cole. Platform's moving, guys. 168 00:07:03,112 --> 00:07:04,950 On your mark, get set... 169 00:07:05,050 --> 00:07:06,920 go, Cole! Go! 170 00:07:07,020 --> 00:07:08,624 -(TENSE MUSIC) -You've got lobster there. 171 00:07:08,758 --> 00:07:10,761 Chicken lollipops. Beautiful. 172 00:07:10,794 --> 00:07:12,632 I'm just gonna go with chicken lollipops. 173 00:07:12,665 --> 00:07:14,602 Immediately the first thing that came to mind 174 00:07:14,635 --> 00:07:16,874 is Southern Fried Chicken. Wings and a sauce - 175 00:07:16,974 --> 00:07:18,878 it's very American, very traditional. 176 00:07:18,911 --> 00:07:21,182 It's gonna give almost backyard barbecue vibes. 177 00:07:21,215 --> 00:07:22,752 (GORDON) Go, Darian. Let's go! 178 00:07:22,852 --> 00:07:24,890 Go, go, go, man. We got filet. 179 00:07:24,990 --> 00:07:27,896 Oh my goodness. There's so much to choose from. 180 00:07:28,029 --> 00:07:30,033 -(GORDON) You've got shrimp. -I grab shrimp... 181 00:07:30,166 --> 00:07:32,505 -Nah, I don't want no shrimp. -What did you get, bud? 182 00:07:32,605 --> 00:07:34,909 You know what? I see the filet. I'ma put... 183 00:07:35,009 --> 00:07:37,247 I'm gonna put it back. I'ma get the filet instead. 184 00:07:37,381 --> 00:07:39,653 I got the tenderloin instead. 185 00:07:39,686 --> 00:07:41,256 Gotta grab some ingredients, man. Grab some ingredients. 186 00:07:41,289 --> 00:07:43,059 Just grab something! 187 00:07:43,093 --> 00:07:45,130 (GORDON) Lettuce cups there as well. 188 00:07:45,163 --> 00:07:46,900 Lettuce, pistachio, bacon. 189 00:07:46,933 --> 00:07:49,772 (GORDON) Jalapeño, peanut butter. 190 00:07:49,806 --> 00:07:52,111 -What am I gonna do with this?! -(RICHARD) A patriotic dish. 191 00:07:52,244 --> 00:07:54,047 -(PLATFORM BLEEPS) -Go! 192 00:07:54,147 --> 00:07:56,118 Three beautiful plates. Proteins. You got lobster tail. 193 00:07:56,152 --> 00:07:58,156 (CONNOR) I'm grabbing lobster. 194 00:07:58,189 --> 00:08:00,928 Look for a base. Look for a base. You got empanada dough. 195 00:08:01,061 --> 00:08:03,534 I plan on making... almost the lobster donut. 196 00:08:03,634 --> 00:08:05,403 You know, we're taking 'em to Southern California, 197 00:08:05,504 --> 00:08:07,675 and we're taking 'em to the beach. 198 00:08:07,809 --> 00:08:10,814 I see shrimp, and I'm like, "That's exactly what I want." 199 00:08:10,914 --> 00:08:12,819 I wanted to make Maryland-style crab cakes, 200 00:08:12,852 --> 00:08:14,421 and now I am making shrimp cakes. 201 00:08:14,555 --> 00:08:16,358 (RICHARD) Five seconds! 202 00:08:16,391 --> 00:08:19,966 Caviar? Absolutely. How did that get here? I need it. 203 00:08:19,999 --> 00:08:22,104 Grab it or I regret it! Grab it or I regret it! 204 00:08:22,204 --> 00:08:25,811 Leave that for the basement! Let's go, guys. 205 00:08:25,845 --> 00:08:28,182 (NYESHA) Go! Go-go-go! What's your protein? 206 00:08:28,216 --> 00:08:30,821 I see the ground pork. Maybe I wanna do a burger. 207 00:08:30,855 --> 00:08:33,126 You know, it's very American. 208 00:08:33,226 --> 00:08:36,800 I got little sausages. I got croissant dough. 209 00:08:36,833 --> 00:08:40,307 I'm immediately thinking... "Ah-hah! Pigs In A Blanket!" 210 00:08:40,407 --> 00:08:41,610 -(NYESHA) Chili. -Ooh! (BLEEP) My bad. 211 00:08:41,710 --> 00:08:43,948 You have lemon here. Citrus. 212 00:08:43,981 --> 00:08:45,852 -(PLATFORM WHIRRING) -Good job. Good job. 213 00:08:45,985 --> 00:08:49,191 Way to grab. America's toast! To 250! 214 00:08:49,224 --> 00:08:50,761 Yes, chef! 215 00:08:50,861 --> 00:08:52,865 Your 30 minutes starts right now. 216 00:08:52,899 --> 00:08:54,602 Alright, Andy. What did you grab? 217 00:08:54,736 --> 00:08:56,840 -Some beautiful ground pork... -Beautiful ground pork. 218 00:08:56,873 --> 00:08:58,978 ..so I'm gonna do a pastrami rub in there. 219 00:08:59,078 --> 00:09:02,151 So pastrami... meatball? What are we thinking? 220 00:09:02,251 --> 00:09:04,188 So I'll kind of do, like, a play on a burger with, uh, 221 00:09:04,288 --> 00:09:06,125 using this as my base, 222 00:09:06,159 --> 00:09:08,363 and do a cheesy potato on there as well, chef. 223 00:09:08,463 --> 00:09:09,799 -Okay. Classic Americana. -Yep. 224 00:09:09,933 --> 00:09:11,503 Love it. 225 00:09:11,603 --> 00:09:13,273 Chef, I'm making Pigs In A Blanket. 226 00:09:13,406 --> 00:09:15,744 -(NYESHA) Christian! -Breakfast Pigs In A Blanket. 227 00:09:15,778 --> 00:09:18,382 Breakfast Pigs In A Blanket. Elevated cocktail bite, right? 228 00:09:18,483 --> 00:09:20,621 Yes, chef! I got some croissant dough 229 00:09:20,754 --> 00:09:22,892 which I need to open up and find out how that works. 230 00:09:22,925 --> 00:09:25,163 Pigs In A Blanket is an American staple. 231 00:09:25,196 --> 00:09:29,138 I want like 100 of those at a backyard boogie. 232 00:09:29,171 --> 00:09:31,876 -(GRUNTS IN DISCOMFORT) (BLEEP) -Christian, why are you limping? 233 00:09:32,010 --> 00:09:34,048 From, uh... from running to the station. 234 00:09:34,148 --> 00:09:36,920 Christian, there's two chefs here. No need to run. 235 00:09:37,020 --> 00:09:39,224 (LAUGHS) It's a competition, chef! 236 00:09:39,258 --> 00:09:41,763 (TENSE MUSIC) 237 00:09:41,863 --> 00:09:44,736 (GORDON) Okay, toast to America. Celebrate that 250th birthday. 238 00:09:44,769 --> 00:09:48,176 (COLE) Alright, chef. Keep it cute. Keep it delicious. 239 00:09:48,209 --> 00:09:50,280 Right, Cole, what's the dish? What you doing? 240 00:09:50,313 --> 00:09:53,520 I am going to do a deep fried, double fried chicken lollipop... 241 00:09:53,621 --> 00:09:55,524 -Nice. -..um, And then I'm gonna make 242 00:09:55,624 --> 00:09:58,530 -a beautiful, like, peach... -Love that. 243 00:09:58,630 --> 00:10:00,433 -..and soy glaze to go on top. -Love that! 244 00:10:00,534 --> 00:10:04,341 (TENSE MUSIC) 245 00:10:04,375 --> 00:10:06,647 What the hell was I grabbing? 246 00:10:06,747 --> 00:10:08,651 You got a little filet. What are you thinking? 247 00:10:08,684 --> 00:10:10,687 So I'm gonna make, um... 248 00:10:10,787 --> 00:10:12,390 -(DRAMATIC THUD) -How are you gonna elevate this 249 00:10:12,525 --> 00:10:13,694 and lift this to the next level? 250 00:10:13,794 --> 00:10:15,664 I don't wanna be the guy, like, 251 00:10:15,797 --> 00:10:17,267 I don't know what's happening, you know what I mean? 252 00:10:17,301 --> 00:10:18,804 (TENSE MUSIC) 253 00:10:18,937 --> 00:10:21,209 American classic, like... 254 00:10:21,242 --> 00:10:22,845 what the (BLEEP) do I make with this?! 255 00:10:22,945 --> 00:10:25,283 You gotta get it together. (BLEEP) 256 00:10:31,563 --> 00:10:32,965 (TENSE MUSIC) 257 00:10:33,065 --> 00:10:34,602 How you gonna cook the beef? 258 00:10:34,702 --> 00:10:36,707 I know I didn't have the best grab. 259 00:10:36,807 --> 00:10:39,178 I have this much to work with. 260 00:10:39,211 --> 00:10:41,550 Um, salt and pepper. Hearts in the pan. Medium rare. 261 00:10:41,650 --> 00:10:43,452 -Yeah. -I'm gonna cube it up though. 262 00:10:43,554 --> 00:10:45,691 -Okay, you gonna cube up first? -First. 263 00:10:45,824 --> 00:10:48,096 Don't forget, this is a Fourth of July celebration... 264 00:10:48,129 --> 00:10:50,099 -Yes, chef. -..so I don't know if you wanna 265 00:10:50,132 --> 00:10:52,270 cook like little lettuce cups where you put the beef, 266 00:10:52,370 --> 00:10:54,576 the grape, the bacon, and then you lift up and eat. 267 00:10:54,609 --> 00:10:57,682 So it's a sort of... an amazing canapé. 268 00:10:57,715 --> 00:10:59,285 Don't fall behind. Get going now, okay? Yes? 269 00:10:59,318 --> 00:11:00,487 Yes, chef. 270 00:11:00,588 --> 00:11:03,459 (TENSE MUSIC) 271 00:11:03,560 --> 00:11:05,229 Alright, Connor, what did you get? 272 00:11:05,262 --> 00:11:07,602 I got the empanada dough. I got lobster, I have corn - 273 00:11:07,702 --> 00:11:10,106 everything for a chunky corn salsa. 274 00:11:10,239 --> 00:11:12,110 It's gonna be California-style cooking right here. 275 00:11:12,143 --> 00:11:14,114 It's almost like an open-face pupusa. 276 00:11:14,247 --> 00:11:16,218 How do you celebrate the Fourth, Connor? 277 00:11:16,251 --> 00:11:18,724 Man! At the beach! Manhattan Beach, California. 278 00:11:18,824 --> 00:11:20,460 Why did I know you were gonna say that?! 279 00:11:20,561 --> 00:11:21,730 You already know I'm in the ocean so-- 280 00:11:21,863 --> 00:11:23,099 Why did I know you were gonna say that?! 281 00:11:23,133 --> 00:11:26,271 Nothing beats fireworks over the pier, 282 00:11:26,305 --> 00:11:28,209 sitting at the ocean after a long beach day 283 00:11:28,342 --> 00:11:30,013 on the Fourth of July. 284 00:11:30,146 --> 00:11:32,150 -Cut up these, uh, knuckles. -Okay. 285 00:11:32,250 --> 00:11:33,887 -Sweetest part of the lobster. -Beautiful, chef. 286 00:11:34,021 --> 00:11:36,425 You're making a little lobster knuckle sandwich, you know? 287 00:11:36,559 --> 00:11:38,764 I got two older brothers. I'm used to a knuckle sandwich! 288 00:11:38,864 --> 00:11:40,768 -Let's do it for them, okay? -Let's do it. 289 00:11:40,801 --> 00:11:42,638 How do you like to celebrate the Fourth, Gabrielle? 290 00:11:42,739 --> 00:11:44,743 -Uh, we do crabs, yeah. -In Maryland? 291 00:11:44,876 --> 00:11:45,912 -In Florida! -In Florida? 292 00:11:46,012 --> 00:11:47,480 -Hell, yeah! -Okay, let's go! 293 00:11:47,582 --> 00:11:49,618 Being able to kind of, like, pay homage 294 00:11:49,719 --> 00:11:51,757 to my family roots and taking it back 295 00:11:51,890 --> 00:11:54,228 to, like, this Maryland-style crab cake, 296 00:11:54,328 --> 00:11:55,898 that's super cool for me. 297 00:11:55,998 --> 00:11:57,502 The key is making sure that we get 298 00:11:57,635 --> 00:11:59,337 a beautiful shape on these shrimp cakes. 299 00:11:59,437 --> 00:12:01,475 Are these too big? No, because they'll cook down, yeah? 300 00:12:01,577 --> 00:12:03,112 They'll cook down a little bit. I think no larger than that. 301 00:12:03,245 --> 00:12:05,150 Okay. 302 00:12:05,183 --> 00:12:06,786 (NYESHA) Guys, I love the smell down here. 303 00:12:06,920 --> 00:12:09,593 Very patriotic! 304 00:12:09,626 --> 00:12:12,532 Andy, what are you putting into your mixture? Pastrami flavors? 305 00:12:12,565 --> 00:12:14,068 -Pastrami flavor. -Amazing. 306 00:12:14,101 --> 00:12:15,938 Just make it really nice and juicy... 307 00:12:16,038 --> 00:12:18,309 -Beautiful. -..so it's moist. 308 00:12:18,409 --> 00:12:20,180 Alright, Christian, what are you working on? 309 00:12:20,213 --> 00:12:22,818 I'm working on my filling. A little cheese on there. 310 00:12:22,918 --> 00:12:24,789 How's the Fourth of July meaningful to you? 311 00:12:24,922 --> 00:12:26,926 (EXHALES SHARPLY) Honestly, it's, it's... 312 00:12:27,026 --> 00:12:29,330 actually really emotional 'cos, um, this is the holiday 313 00:12:29,464 --> 00:12:31,570 I proposed to my wife. Uh, in New York, first time in New York 314 00:12:31,670 --> 00:12:33,907 and I went in with a bang. 315 00:12:33,941 --> 00:12:36,713 I went to my homie's rooftop, and under the fireworks, 316 00:12:36,813 --> 00:12:39,451 I asked her to be the love of my life. 317 00:12:39,553 --> 00:12:41,055 (EXHALES SHARPLY) 318 00:12:41,155 --> 00:12:43,192 Emily... 319 00:12:43,226 --> 00:12:45,196 she's been proud of me since day one. 320 00:12:45,229 --> 00:12:47,000 (VOICE QUIVERING) She's been my number one supporter... 321 00:12:47,100 --> 00:12:49,706 in every cook, in my journey. 322 00:12:49,806 --> 00:12:52,945 She pushed me to... to join this competition 323 00:12:53,045 --> 00:12:55,383 and without her, I would definitely not be here today. 324 00:12:55,483 --> 00:12:57,354 -This whole thing is for her. -That's beautiful, 325 00:12:57,387 --> 00:12:59,224 and you can feel that emotion in the dish, right? 326 00:12:59,324 --> 00:13:01,094 -Thank you. Thank you, chef. -Very nice. 327 00:13:01,228 --> 00:13:03,132 A little brown seasoning here. 328 00:13:03,165 --> 00:13:03,933 Sexy. 329 00:13:05,971 --> 00:13:07,608 Something exciting 330 00:13:07,708 --> 00:13:10,113 to help celebrate the Fourth of July. 331 00:13:10,213 --> 00:13:11,816 Tell me about the dish. What are you doing? 332 00:13:11,849 --> 00:13:13,821 -Toasted pistachios. -Toasted pistachio. 333 00:13:13,854 --> 00:13:15,223 A little bit of bacon crumble as well. 334 00:13:15,323 --> 00:13:17,160 -Right? -Yes, chef. 335 00:13:17,260 --> 00:13:19,131 Focus on getting that beef done now, okay? 336 00:13:19,264 --> 00:13:21,135 -Yes, chef. -Cole, how are those lollipops? 337 00:13:21,168 --> 00:13:23,439 Chef, I'm dropping this chicken right now and these onion rings. 338 00:13:23,473 --> 00:13:25,443 (TRIUMPHANT MUSIC BUILDS, ENDS) 339 00:13:25,476 --> 00:13:27,247 (PLATFORM WHIRRING) 340 00:13:27,347 --> 00:13:29,686 (GORDON) Guys, here's a mid-round drop! Whoa! 341 00:13:29,719 --> 00:13:31,188 What's a birthday party without a toast? 342 00:13:31,321 --> 00:13:32,892 Literally! 343 00:13:32,992 --> 00:13:34,729 (GORDON) A wonderful cocktail 344 00:13:34,829 --> 00:13:36,866 to help celebrate the Fourth of July. 345 00:13:36,966 --> 00:13:39,738 I see that bourbon right there. I'm going after that. 346 00:13:39,772 --> 00:13:42,845 Peaches and bourbon. Chef's kiss. 347 00:13:42,878 --> 00:13:44,516 Match made in heaven. 348 00:13:44,549 --> 00:13:46,853 (GORDON) They should pair with your dish, okay? 349 00:13:46,887 --> 00:13:48,389 -Yes, chef. -(GORDON) Jamaican rum... 350 00:13:48,489 --> 00:13:50,895 something exciting. 351 00:13:50,995 --> 00:13:53,032 (RICHARD) The platform is on its way, 352 00:13:53,132 --> 00:13:55,604 and it's stocked with a full bar. 353 00:13:55,637 --> 00:13:57,307 Tequila, tequila, tequila - 354 00:13:57,407 --> 00:13:59,545 the platform's coming down. That's all I need. 355 00:13:59,678 --> 00:14:01,415 (RICHARD) Something that's gonna work with your dish. 356 00:14:01,550 --> 00:14:03,754 It's a lobster bomb. We're at the beach... 357 00:14:03,887 --> 00:14:05,423 -there's only one option! -Ten seconds left. 358 00:14:05,524 --> 00:14:07,694 This is like, "Do the most fun thing that 359 00:14:07,828 --> 00:14:11,268 you could possibly imagine that you genuinely want to have." 360 00:14:11,368 --> 00:14:13,406 (MUTTERS TO HERSELF) 361 00:14:13,439 --> 00:14:15,678 A daiquiri? Come on! Who doesn't want a daiquiri?! 362 00:14:15,778 --> 00:14:18,215 It's so fun. (CHEF'S KISS) 363 00:14:18,316 --> 00:14:20,052 -(GABRIELLE) Uh... -(RICHARD) Got it? 364 00:14:20,085 --> 00:14:22,490 -I... don't know about this! -Alright, well, let's see. 365 00:14:22,591 --> 00:14:24,796 (NYESHA) Guys, here comes the mid-round drop! 366 00:14:24,896 --> 00:14:27,935 Grab ingredients to make a cocktail or a mocktail 367 00:14:27,968 --> 00:14:30,006 to pair with your dish. 368 00:14:30,039 --> 00:14:33,045 (ANDY) Ooh! This is so nice. A mid-round cocktail? 369 00:14:33,079 --> 00:14:35,049 (NYESHA) Let's toast America! 370 00:14:35,183 --> 00:14:37,554 ♪ Happy birthday, America! 371 00:14:37,655 --> 00:14:40,026 (LAUGHS HEARTILY) 372 00:14:40,059 --> 00:14:42,731 Oh! That was fast. Agh! 373 00:14:42,764 --> 00:14:45,770 -(LAUGHS FRANTICALLY) -(CHRISTIAN) Ooh! What is that?! 374 00:14:45,804 --> 00:14:47,373 Come on. Let's go, guys. Let's go! 375 00:14:47,407 --> 00:14:50,815 (TENSE MUSIC) 376 00:14:50,848 --> 00:14:52,885 Hmm. I'm gonna brush my teeth with this! 377 00:14:52,918 --> 00:14:55,356 (NYESHA) What kind of booze did you grab? What's your spirit? 378 00:14:55,389 --> 00:14:57,093 I got Crème de Menthe but I thought I grabbed whiskey! 379 00:14:57,227 --> 00:14:58,864 So you grabbed ginger ale and Crème de Menthe? 380 00:14:58,964 --> 00:15:00,600 -Yeah. -I think you're gonna have to 381 00:15:00,634 --> 00:15:03,205 make your own beverage with this cucumber. 382 00:15:03,238 --> 00:15:04,976 -You can juice that. -Yes, chef. 383 00:15:05,076 --> 00:15:06,980 (TENSE MUSIC) 384 00:15:07,080 --> 00:15:09,217 (RICHARD) Whoo! It's a cocktail party! 385 00:15:09,250 --> 00:15:11,355 -(CHUCKLES) -So we're making..? 386 00:15:11,488 --> 00:15:13,359 It's a strawberry margarita with a grapefruit tuile, 387 00:15:13,493 --> 00:15:16,098 -some fresh mint. -Dude, you got all the ideas. 388 00:15:16,198 --> 00:15:17,935 You got all the ideas. Now you just gotta execute. 389 00:15:17,968 --> 00:15:19,638 -Now let's execute, baby! -You know what, 390 00:15:19,672 --> 00:15:21,509 I have everything to make a beautiful daiquiri. 391 00:15:21,609 --> 00:15:23,646 -Okay. Love it. Boom! Okay. -Yeah, yeah. 392 00:15:23,747 --> 00:15:26,886 Hey, a daiquiri in Florida, and a margarita in California?! 393 00:15:26,987 --> 00:15:28,857 Let's go! Come on! 394 00:15:28,957 --> 00:15:30,995 -(CONNOR) Come on! -Let's go! 395 00:15:31,128 --> 00:15:33,131 (RICHARD) And you have the empanada dough already cooking? 396 00:15:33,232 --> 00:15:34,467 Just got it right now. It's going in. 397 00:15:34,602 --> 00:15:37,507 (TENSE MUSIC) 398 00:15:37,608 --> 00:15:40,280 Let's pull it in. Let's pick up the pace a little bit, okay? 399 00:15:40,380 --> 00:15:43,085 Let's execute! Come on, Gabby. 400 00:15:43,118 --> 00:15:45,389 (RICHARD) Fifteen minutes down. We're halfway through. 401 00:15:45,423 --> 00:15:47,561 I gotta revisit my, uh, cakes here. 402 00:15:47,662 --> 00:15:50,534 -What do you mean 'revisit'? -They need, uh, more breadcrumb. 403 00:15:50,634 --> 00:15:51,970 They need more breadcrumb? Okay. Got it. 404 00:15:52,003 --> 00:15:53,472 -These two. -We have breadcrumb? 405 00:15:53,506 --> 00:15:55,310 Yes, chef. Right here. 406 00:15:55,410 --> 00:15:58,448 I'm praying that this first batch works 407 00:15:58,549 --> 00:16:01,155 but I'm not gonna lie - I can see the crack coming down 408 00:16:01,288 --> 00:16:03,425 the middle and the side. 409 00:16:03,458 --> 00:16:06,766 It's not gonna maintain that round, plump shape. 410 00:16:06,866 --> 00:16:07,769 You do wanna be able to pick it up. 411 00:16:07,869 --> 00:16:09,138 Exactly. 412 00:16:09,238 --> 00:16:11,442 -(TENSE MUSIC) -(BLEEP) 413 00:16:11,543 --> 00:16:14,014 Exactly what I did not want to happen my shrimp cakes 414 00:16:14,047 --> 00:16:15,717 is currently happening. 415 00:16:15,751 --> 00:16:18,990 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES, ENDS) 416 00:16:24,434 --> 00:16:26,305 -You only need three. -(GABRIELLE) Yep. 417 00:16:26,405 --> 00:16:28,042 You gonna cook them right in this pan? 418 00:16:28,075 --> 00:16:30,312 Yep. I'm like starting from scratch at this point. 419 00:16:30,446 --> 00:16:32,183 Let's get these cakes done. Let's go! 420 00:16:32,283 --> 00:16:33,953 There is really no room for error. 421 00:16:34,053 --> 00:16:35,924 We gotta go. Gotta go. 422 00:16:35,957 --> 00:16:38,196 Ten minutes left! Ten minutes. 423 00:16:38,296 --> 00:16:40,233 Three perfect portions, okay? 424 00:16:40,333 --> 00:16:43,573 -(BOTH CHEFS) Yes, chef. -(CONNOR) Coming out the fryer. 425 00:16:43,606 --> 00:16:45,911 (RICHARD) Time to celebrate America! Let's go! 426 00:16:45,945 --> 00:16:48,316 -(UPBEAT ROCK MUSIC) -(CHANTING) USA! USA! 427 00:16:48,449 --> 00:16:50,520 -(CONNOR) Yes, sir! -USA! USA! 428 00:16:52,324 --> 00:16:53,894 Who the (BLEEP) is that?! 429 00:16:53,927 --> 00:16:57,166 USA! USA! 430 00:16:57,199 --> 00:16:59,471 -(DISTANT CHANTING CONTINUES) -Is that Richard Blais? 431 00:16:59,572 --> 00:17:01,943 Again, honestly, I'm gonna (BLEEP)ing kill him! 432 00:17:02,043 --> 00:17:04,114 -(DARIAN CHUCKLING) -I'm gonna kill him. 433 00:17:04,214 --> 00:17:06,553 I want you two staying up here in the top, okay? 434 00:17:06,653 --> 00:17:08,957 Yes, chef. 435 00:17:08,990 --> 00:17:10,694 You grew up in Jamaica, right? Which part? 436 00:17:10,794 --> 00:17:12,496 -Um, Clarendon. -I love that. 437 00:17:12,631 --> 00:17:15,336 -Country. -I love that. I have a dear 438 00:17:15,369 --> 00:17:17,207 friend there, you've probably heard of him, Usain Bolt? 439 00:17:17,240 --> 00:17:19,077 -Oh, really? -Yes. 440 00:17:19,211 --> 00:17:20,681 We played soccer multiple times. 441 00:17:20,714 --> 00:17:22,484 -No way?! -Do you play? 442 00:17:22,618 --> 00:17:24,354 I played soccer all my life till I got injured 443 00:17:24,387 --> 00:17:26,258 and I had to stop. I blew my knee out. 444 00:17:26,358 --> 00:17:28,362 -Wow. -I can't play it 445 00:17:28,496 --> 00:17:30,099 so I just, you know, turned to cooking, 446 00:17:30,233 --> 00:17:31,802 and I wanted to be a chef, and you were 447 00:17:31,902 --> 00:17:34,207 the first person I saw cooking, you know what I mean? 448 00:17:34,240 --> 00:17:35,845 And I'm like, you know what? I wanna be like you one day. 449 00:17:35,878 --> 00:17:37,247 -Love that. -Yeah. 450 00:17:37,280 --> 00:17:38,716 -I love that! -You inspired me 451 00:17:38,850 --> 00:17:40,486 to be me right now. 452 00:17:40,520 --> 00:17:42,792 I've been waiting for this moment for years 453 00:17:42,892 --> 00:17:45,731 just to chat with him, and we were just chatting and cooking. 454 00:17:45,764 --> 00:17:47,935 I'm like, "This is amazing." 455 00:17:47,969 --> 00:17:50,272 -What position do you play? -Um, defense. Last man, sweeper. 456 00:17:50,372 --> 00:17:51,876 Yeah, same here! Left-back. 457 00:17:51,976 --> 00:17:54,515 -Oh, really?! (LAUGHS) -Yes! 458 00:17:54,615 --> 00:17:56,620 -Left-footed? That's... -Naturally left-footed. 459 00:17:56,653 --> 00:17:58,656 ..you don't normally see those at all. 460 00:17:58,756 --> 00:18:00,860 -I'm telling you. -That's my guy right there. 461 00:18:00,961 --> 00:18:01,862 He's my guy for a reason, you know? 462 00:18:05,403 --> 00:18:07,941 I made four, to taste the ugly one. 463 00:18:07,974 --> 00:18:11,882 This is the ugly one. Those blankets are lookin' sexy! 464 00:18:11,983 --> 00:18:13,653 Guys, do not forget the cocktails! 465 00:18:13,686 --> 00:18:15,389 You do not wanna save it to the very end, right? 466 00:18:17,527 --> 00:18:19,531 (TENSE MUSIC) 467 00:18:19,565 --> 00:18:21,168 (NYESHA) Don't forget your plates as well, guys. 468 00:18:21,268 --> 00:18:22,972 (CHRISTIAN) Got it, chef. 469 00:18:23,005 --> 00:18:25,276 Is there a spoon? Like, a metal spoon? 470 00:18:25,410 --> 00:18:27,147 (CHUCKLES) In the basement?! 471 00:18:27,247 --> 00:18:30,053 (TENSE MUSIC) 472 00:18:30,153 --> 00:18:31,523 (WITH ACCENT) Money! 473 00:18:31,556 --> 00:18:33,159 The mocktail tastes so refreshing. 474 00:18:33,192 --> 00:18:34,394 I'm going up to the top! 475 00:18:36,766 --> 00:18:38,302 What's the sauce for your dish? 476 00:18:38,435 --> 00:18:40,306 -Um... -You have time to make 477 00:18:40,406 --> 00:18:42,678 a beautiful aioli. You shouldn't be ready already. 478 00:18:42,711 --> 00:18:44,715 -It has to be a statement piece. -One hundred percent. 479 00:18:44,815 --> 00:18:46,786 You're trying to secure your spot in Next Level Chef. 480 00:18:46,819 --> 00:18:48,890 I know you're on one leg but 481 00:18:48,991 --> 00:18:51,061 -sometimes it be like that, man! -This is a pirate show now. 482 00:18:51,194 --> 00:18:52,865 You know what I mean? Hit that with some acid. 483 00:18:52,998 --> 00:18:54,735 -I got the immersion blender. -Let's go! Let's go! 484 00:18:54,869 --> 00:18:56,405 At first I was like, it doesn't need a sauce 485 00:18:56,438 --> 00:18:58,308 because it's just so good. And then she says, 486 00:18:58,342 --> 00:19:00,045 "You got time. Make an aioli." I was like, "You're right," 487 00:19:00,179 --> 00:19:02,618 you're right, you're right. Damn right! 488 00:19:02,718 --> 00:19:06,325 Five minutes left, okay? Now we focus on, uh, executing. 489 00:19:06,458 --> 00:19:08,730 -What's going on, dude? -I got this (BLEEP) going. 490 00:19:08,830 --> 00:19:10,567 Don't have to work one-handed. What are we doing with those? 491 00:19:10,600 --> 00:19:11,936 I'm gonna cut them up. Gonna juice the limes in here. 492 00:19:12,069 --> 00:19:13,573 Okay. Let's go. Time's running out. 493 00:19:13,607 --> 00:19:15,076 You want the cocktail to be pretty. 494 00:19:15,209 --> 00:19:16,646 -Got you, chef. -Okay? 495 00:19:16,746 --> 00:19:18,249 You feel good about these cakes in here? 496 00:19:18,349 --> 00:19:19,886 -Yes, chef. -Golden brown. 497 00:19:20,019 --> 00:19:21,756 It doesn't need to be crazy brown, right? Beautiful. 498 00:19:21,856 --> 00:19:23,225 Just remember, we're putting caviar on top. 499 00:19:23,359 --> 00:19:25,129 -Yes, chef. -Okay, listen, 500 00:19:25,163 --> 00:19:27,902 I love it in here but the only thing missing is fireworks! 501 00:19:27,935 --> 00:19:29,337 You know what I mean? Let's keep up the pace. 502 00:19:29,437 --> 00:19:30,607 (CONNOR and GABRIELLE) Yes, chef. 503 00:19:30,640 --> 00:19:32,578 -(TENSE MUSIC) -The lobster's tasty? 504 00:19:32,611 --> 00:19:34,649 -Did you taste it? -(CONNOR) Tasted it. 505 00:19:34,749 --> 00:19:37,253 Your goal is to get out of this middle kitchen 506 00:19:37,353 --> 00:19:39,491 -and get to the top kitchen. -(GABRIELLE) Yes, chef. 507 00:19:39,525 --> 00:19:42,496 The cocktails should be done. Don't wait for the last second. 508 00:19:42,531 --> 00:19:44,234 -(PASSIONATELY) Oh, chef! -It's good? 509 00:19:44,367 --> 00:19:46,104 -That's (BLEEP)! -Okay, I love it. 510 00:19:46,237 --> 00:19:47,440 (RICHARD) Strawberry margaritas, let's go. 511 00:19:50,345 --> 00:19:52,216 What kind of cocktail are you thinking, Darian? 512 00:19:52,250 --> 00:19:54,121 A rum punch or something. That's what we drink, 513 00:19:54,154 --> 00:19:56,893 -back in Jamaica. -Yes! Jamaican rum. 514 00:19:56,993 --> 00:19:58,361 (DARIAN, CHUCKLING) Yeah! 515 00:19:58,395 --> 00:20:01,000 (TENSE MUSIC) 516 00:20:05,376 --> 00:20:07,247 Caramelized onion - it's not a flavor 517 00:20:07,347 --> 00:20:09,518 that you would normally put in a cocktail. 518 00:20:09,618 --> 00:20:11,355 And I think that's gonna pair really nicely 519 00:20:11,388 --> 00:20:13,694 with my chicken lollipops. 520 00:20:13,794 --> 00:20:16,098 Chef, can I get you to taste one of these wings? 521 00:20:16,131 --> 00:20:18,770 -that I have done. -Of course. 522 00:20:18,870 --> 00:20:20,941 Beautiful. They look great. 523 00:20:20,974 --> 00:20:22,812 They just started floating there. I love that. 524 00:20:22,845 --> 00:20:25,282 Yeah. Look. Cooked beautifully as well. 525 00:20:25,415 --> 00:20:29,825 Fried chicken just holds such a historical reverence 526 00:20:29,959 --> 00:20:33,465 in American history, black American history. 527 00:20:33,567 --> 00:20:35,036 I think that's what's really important 528 00:20:35,069 --> 00:20:37,808 for me to celebrate today. 529 00:20:37,841 --> 00:20:39,912 -I don't have anything green. -Doesn't matter. 530 00:20:39,945 --> 00:20:42,150 Honestly, it doesn't matter. Three and a half to go! 531 00:20:42,283 --> 00:20:44,121 We're plating in 90 seconds, guys, okay? 532 00:20:44,154 --> 00:20:45,389 (COLE and DARIAN) Yes, chef. 533 00:20:45,423 --> 00:20:47,694 (TENSE MUSIC) 534 00:20:47,728 --> 00:20:49,531 Make sure you're ready, okay? Organize yourself. 535 00:20:49,565 --> 00:20:51,001 I have the cocktail, and then I have my ice. 536 00:20:51,101 --> 00:20:53,606 -Get your garnishes ready. -Yep. Garnishes right here. 537 00:20:53,706 --> 00:20:55,577 Getting this aioli done, and I'm tasting it 538 00:20:55,610 --> 00:20:57,080 and it needs to be a little bit thicker. 539 00:20:57,180 --> 00:21:02,189 (TENSE MUSIC) 540 00:21:02,223 --> 00:21:03,927 (CHRISTIAN) Oh (BLEEP)! 541 00:21:04,027 --> 00:21:05,463 (DRAMATIC MUSIC) 542 00:21:05,564 --> 00:21:08,134 I mean... (BLEEP) 543 00:21:08,235 --> 00:21:11,875 ..ninety percent of my aioli is on the floor and on my leg. 544 00:21:11,976 --> 00:21:13,880 Adrenaline's kicking in, and the first thing I'm thinking is, 545 00:21:13,913 --> 00:21:15,717 "Is there still sauce left?" 546 00:21:15,751 --> 00:21:17,320 What's going on over here? What's this big spill? 547 00:21:17,420 --> 00:21:19,424 Um, the immersion blender tipped over. 548 00:21:19,457 --> 00:21:20,694 We're down to the line now. Only a few minutes left. 549 00:21:20,794 --> 00:21:21,962 (BLEEP) 550 00:21:28,910 --> 00:21:30,881 Christian, what's going on here? What's this big spill? 551 00:21:30,914 --> 00:21:32,517 Um, the immersion blender tipped over. 552 00:21:32,618 --> 00:21:34,956 -(BLEEP) -But I still have a sauce, chef. 553 00:21:35,056 --> 00:21:37,894 It's tough in the basement, huh? 554 00:21:37,928 --> 00:21:40,099 That's too salty. Yeah, you need to add more oil. 555 00:21:40,233 --> 00:21:41,870 Yes, chef. Oil and sweetness. 556 00:21:41,970 --> 00:21:44,341 (DRAMATIC MUSIC) 557 00:21:44,374 --> 00:21:46,746 Okay, guys, two minutes to go. Start plating. 558 00:21:46,779 --> 00:21:49,351 Make them look beautiful, okay? Celebration, remember? 559 00:21:49,384 --> 00:21:51,656 (DARIAN) Yes, chef. 560 00:21:51,756 --> 00:21:53,192 (RICHARD) Really beautiful plates. 561 00:21:53,225 --> 00:21:54,929 Man, this is a party I wanna go to! 562 00:21:55,029 --> 00:21:57,333 One minute left. You gotta get your cocktail 563 00:21:57,367 --> 00:21:59,905 and your dish over to the platform when it's here. 564 00:21:59,939 --> 00:22:02,778 Forty seconds, guys! Platform's comin' down! 565 00:22:02,811 --> 00:22:05,116 -(TENSE MUSIC BUILDS) -Dijon mustard on there? 566 00:22:05,149 --> 00:22:07,120 -Yes, chef. -Beautiful 567 00:22:07,253 --> 00:22:08,890 Come on. Platform's here. 568 00:22:08,990 --> 00:22:10,527 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES) 569 00:22:10,627 --> 00:22:12,597 Go, go, go! Don't forget your cocktail. 570 00:22:14,267 --> 00:22:15,402 (NYESHA) Andy? 571 00:22:15,503 --> 00:22:18,108 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES) 572 00:22:18,141 --> 00:22:19,578 (NYESHA) Now! Now! Now! Now! Now! 573 00:22:19,711 --> 00:22:21,114 (MUSIC ENDS) 574 00:22:21,214 --> 00:22:23,485 (BLEEP) 575 00:22:23,520 --> 00:22:26,525 Platform's here, Connor! Gabrielle, let's go! It's here! 576 00:22:26,625 --> 00:22:29,497 We gotta go! It's gonna go! It's moving, guys! 577 00:22:29,532 --> 00:22:32,437 Five seconds. You're gonna miss it. Let's go! Let's go! 578 00:22:32,538 --> 00:22:34,775 Got last looks on it? Last looks? Last looks? 579 00:22:34,808 --> 00:22:37,046 You got everything? Go! Go! Go! 580 00:22:37,079 --> 00:22:38,783 -(CONNOR LAUGHS IN FRUSTRATION) -What was it? 581 00:22:38,816 --> 00:22:40,987 -It's a lime wheel. -(TENSE MUSIC) 582 00:22:41,087 --> 00:22:43,526 (GORDON) Platform is coming now. Right, go. Cole, please, now go. 583 00:22:43,559 --> 00:22:45,930 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES) 584 00:22:45,964 --> 00:22:47,935 -Platform's here. We gotta go. -(COLE) Let's go! Let's go! 585 00:22:48,035 --> 00:22:49,304 Gotta go. Well done. 586 00:22:49,404 --> 00:22:51,441 (TENSE MUSIC) 587 00:22:51,542 --> 00:22:52,911 Over here. Beautiful. 588 00:22:54,380 --> 00:22:56,017 Beau-ti-ful! 589 00:22:56,117 --> 00:22:57,654 Well done! 590 00:22:57,687 --> 00:22:59,290 (DARIAN LAUGHS WITH RELIEF) 591 00:22:59,424 --> 00:23:00,526 (GORDON) Oh, man! 592 00:23:02,998 --> 00:23:04,433 (SUSPENSFUL MUSIC) 593 00:23:04,568 --> 00:23:05,637 (ELEVATOR PINGS) 594 00:23:10,312 --> 00:23:11,849 (GORDON) Mm! 595 00:23:11,982 --> 00:23:14,721 They look good! Oh, my goodness me. 596 00:23:14,855 --> 00:23:17,259 The highlight of our day is tasting 597 00:23:17,360 --> 00:23:19,865 and devouring these beautiful Fourth of July celebrations. 598 00:23:19,999 --> 00:23:22,772 If I was at a party tonight, for the 250th, 599 00:23:22,872 --> 00:23:24,541 I'd be happy with any of these six plates. 600 00:23:24,575 --> 00:23:26,712 I mean, I'm truly blown away. 601 00:23:26,812 --> 00:23:28,716 Yeah, absolutely. They look very festive 602 00:23:28,750 --> 00:23:30,854 and perfect for cocktail hour. 603 00:23:30,987 --> 00:23:32,825 (GORDON) How about we start on top this time? 604 00:23:32,858 --> 00:23:34,962 -(RICHARD) Okay. -(GORDON) Please. First up, 605 00:23:34,995 --> 00:23:37,601 these are Chicken Lollipops marinated in buttermilk, 606 00:23:37,701 --> 00:23:40,472 done with spicy peach glaze. 607 00:23:40,507 --> 00:23:43,345 And the cocktail on this one is an Old Fashioned 608 00:23:43,445 --> 00:23:45,751 with a caramelized peach in there. 609 00:23:45,884 --> 00:23:47,253 Gonna have to do this proper here. 610 00:23:47,353 --> 00:23:49,958 (TENSE MUSIC) 611 00:23:55,102 --> 00:23:56,204 Ooh! Onion. 612 00:23:59,343 --> 00:24:01,348 There's onion in the cocktail, and... 613 00:24:01,481 --> 00:24:03,485 that sounds super weird 614 00:24:03,619 --> 00:24:05,356 but because the chicken wing is so sweet, 615 00:24:05,456 --> 00:24:07,326 it actually really, really works. 616 00:24:07,359 --> 00:24:09,297 Gives this nice little savory pop to it. 617 00:24:09,431 --> 00:24:12,538 And nothing's more American than a beautiful chicken wing. 618 00:24:12,638 --> 00:24:15,075 This is a fun expression of a cocktail bite. 619 00:24:15,108 --> 00:24:17,312 The glaze is delicious. 620 00:24:17,413 --> 00:24:19,016 It's tangy, it's sticky, and the chicken is cooked perfectly. 621 00:24:21,789 --> 00:24:24,160 Next up is a Filet Lettuce Cup 622 00:24:24,260 --> 00:24:26,565 with a sunchoke purée as a dip, 623 00:24:26,665 --> 00:24:28,837 served with a Caribbean Delight cocktail. 624 00:24:28,937 --> 00:24:32,109 (TENSE MUSIC) 625 00:24:40,292 --> 00:24:42,263 It's kind of difficult to eat, 626 00:24:42,363 --> 00:24:45,068 but the flavor is really beautiful. 627 00:24:45,102 --> 00:24:47,907 Yeah, the beef is cooked really, really well. 628 00:24:47,941 --> 00:24:50,647 You know, we're celebrating, uh, American classics. 629 00:24:50,680 --> 00:24:54,087 I'm not sure what the American classic is here. 630 00:24:54,187 --> 00:24:56,291 I mean, I've been in multiple restaurants across the States 631 00:24:56,425 --> 00:24:58,462 where lettuce cups are on the menu 632 00:24:58,563 --> 00:25:01,267 as a lovely little appetizer, and this thing... 633 00:25:01,367 --> 00:25:04,073 two sips, you're gonna be on your (BLEEP)ing back! 634 00:25:04,106 --> 00:25:06,679 -That is delicious! -It is delicious. 635 00:25:06,712 --> 00:25:08,583 Alright, let's, uh... let's bring the celebration 636 00:25:08,683 --> 00:25:11,287 to the middle floor. I'm gonna start off right here. 637 00:25:11,421 --> 00:25:15,963 This chef made a Lobster Pupusa 638 00:25:16,064 --> 00:25:18,569 with a corn salsa and a spicy aioli, 639 00:25:18,669 --> 00:25:20,573 and a strawberry margarita - 640 00:25:20,607 --> 00:25:23,045 celebrating classic California flavors here. 641 00:25:23,145 --> 00:25:26,585 (TENSE MUSIC) 642 00:25:26,719 --> 00:25:29,257 These are beautiful. The lobster is sweet. 643 00:25:29,290 --> 00:25:31,729 It's, uh, rich. It's regal. It's everything you want 644 00:25:31,829 --> 00:25:34,133 from an expensive cocktail party. Great job. 645 00:25:34,166 --> 00:25:36,037 These are, like, just these beautiful, pillowy 646 00:25:36,071 --> 00:25:38,442 savory donuts. 647 00:25:38,475 --> 00:25:40,680 I mean, this makes me wanna open up a... 648 00:25:40,713 --> 00:25:44,454 lobster... donut truck! 649 00:25:44,555 --> 00:25:46,726 Chef Blais! I'ma come knocking at your door. 650 00:25:46,859 --> 00:25:49,464 You might hear a beep-beep outside the door, 651 00:25:49,497 --> 00:25:51,234 and you're gonna see a big old lobster 652 00:25:51,268 --> 00:25:53,606 and a big old donut on top of that truck! 653 00:25:53,740 --> 00:25:57,146 Hop in the passenger and let's cook, baby! 654 00:25:57,246 --> 00:26:01,187 (RICHARD) Next up, we have a Maryland-inspired Shrimp Cake 655 00:26:01,287 --> 00:26:05,029 with tomato aioli and caviar, pickled radish. 656 00:26:05,162 --> 00:26:07,901 And then we have a Frozen Pineapple Daiquiri 657 00:26:08,001 --> 00:26:10,472 sort of celebrating Maryland and Florida. 658 00:26:10,507 --> 00:26:12,242 (TENSE MUSIC) 659 00:26:14,313 --> 00:26:16,519 It's hard to pick them up, no? 660 00:26:16,619 --> 00:26:18,088 Very hard. 661 00:26:18,222 --> 00:26:19,825 (TENSE MUSIC) 662 00:26:27,907 --> 00:26:29,343 It's not looking good for me. 663 00:26:34,320 --> 00:26:38,929 Wow. This is... sunshine in a... festive experience. 664 00:26:39,029 --> 00:26:41,935 I love the citrus notes. I would say just a little less breading 665 00:26:41,969 --> 00:26:44,174 whenever forming those patties. 666 00:26:44,207 --> 00:26:46,077 Yeah, it does need a touch more binding agent 667 00:26:46,177 --> 00:26:48,181 'cos you gotta pick them up and they crumble 668 00:26:48,214 --> 00:26:50,318 so it's not very practical but it's a really smart move. 669 00:26:50,419 --> 00:26:53,425 The caviar works beautifully. And the pineapple cocktail, 670 00:26:53,458 --> 00:26:56,197 it's the kinda thing I think I'd order with my wife by the pool. 671 00:26:56,331 --> 00:27:00,172 I feel like, unrealistically okay! (CHUCKLES) 672 00:27:00,206 --> 00:27:02,811 Like, send me out of here with a towel and, like, 673 00:27:02,945 --> 00:27:05,650 let me just lay out on the sand 674 00:27:05,684 --> 00:27:08,154 with my shrimp cake and my daiquiri. 675 00:27:08,254 --> 00:27:10,192 Alright, come down to 676 00:27:10,226 --> 00:27:13,465 the cocktail party (WITH ACCENT) in ze basement. 677 00:27:13,566 --> 00:27:16,705 First up, we have a Pastrami Pork Slider 678 00:27:16,805 --> 00:27:20,212 served with a crispy potato and a Parmesan crisp. 679 00:27:20,312 --> 00:27:22,951 The crostini is made from, actually, hot dog bun. 680 00:27:23,084 --> 00:27:26,458 The cocktail is an Apple Spiced Whiskey Sour. 681 00:27:26,559 --> 00:27:28,696 (TENSE MUSIC) 682 00:27:28,796 --> 00:27:31,234 I mean, I'll be honest, I'm a native New Yorker, um... 683 00:27:31,267 --> 00:27:33,304 and I don't really, you know, like this one too much. 684 00:27:35,142 --> 00:27:38,549 I love this one! 685 00:27:38,650 --> 00:27:41,722 This chef was really smart, that there's like two dry things 686 00:27:41,755 --> 00:27:43,324 so you can actually eat it like a sandwich, 687 00:27:43,458 --> 00:27:45,262 and it kind of holds together. 688 00:27:45,396 --> 00:27:47,601 (NYESHA) This chef cooked with a concept in mind, 689 00:27:47,734 --> 00:27:50,105 taking inspiration from a pastrami sandwich 690 00:27:50,205 --> 00:27:52,811 and broke it down into a fun small bite. Great job. 691 00:27:52,844 --> 00:27:55,149 (GORDON) Delicious. 692 00:27:55,249 --> 00:28:00,492 Lastly, we have a Nori-wrapped Pigs In A Blanket. 693 00:28:00,593 --> 00:28:03,833 Underneath - a pickled jalapeño aioli. 694 00:28:03,866 --> 00:28:07,373 And the cocktail is a Sparkling Cucumber Mojito, 695 00:28:07,406 --> 00:28:11,147 which happens to be spirit-free so it's a mocktail. 696 00:28:11,280 --> 00:28:14,387 I really love the mocktail 'cos I'm a mocktail guy myself, 697 00:28:14,420 --> 00:28:16,358 and I love the concept of this. This is a party to me, 698 00:28:16,491 --> 00:28:18,294 especially growing up. 699 00:28:18,394 --> 00:28:20,499 The dough is cooked really, really well. 700 00:28:20,600 --> 00:28:22,236 My concern is the sauce is broken. 701 00:28:22,370 --> 00:28:23,907 (TENSE MUSIC) 702 00:28:24,007 --> 00:28:26,110 I like the little pork sausages, 703 00:28:26,144 --> 00:28:29,150 and then they're sat in this pool of sauce. 704 00:28:29,250 --> 00:28:31,287 I would have begged for that sauce to go on the side 705 00:28:31,387 --> 00:28:33,993 so the pastry doesn't go soggy and wet. 706 00:28:34,026 --> 00:28:36,097 We're at this point where minor things make the difference 707 00:28:36,130 --> 00:28:37,601 and... 708 00:28:37,634 --> 00:28:39,370 I should have known better. 709 00:28:42,644 --> 00:28:44,948 We have a lot to discuss. 710 00:28:45,049 --> 00:28:47,286 Uh, please don't touch the cocktails. 711 00:28:47,320 --> 00:28:49,525 We'll be back in a moment. Shall we? 712 00:28:49,558 --> 00:28:50,927 Wow. 713 00:28:51,027 --> 00:28:53,298 (CHEFS CHAT INDISTINCTLY) 714 00:28:53,331 --> 00:28:55,202 -(RICHARD, GORDON) What a party. -(NYESHA) Right? 715 00:28:55,302 --> 00:28:57,306 We have to sort of break up the party now, 716 00:28:57,406 --> 00:28:58,943 -and dig into the tough part. -Yeah, let's start with the top. 717 00:28:59,043 --> 00:29:01,180 -Okay. -Chicken wings. I mean, 718 00:29:01,314 --> 00:29:04,320 the heat in the dredge, the caramelized canned peaches. 719 00:29:04,453 --> 00:29:06,324 You generally think of wings as a bar food but 720 00:29:06,424 --> 00:29:08,095 -this is a way to elevate them. -Exactly. 721 00:29:08,195 --> 00:29:10,498 I mean, the Lobster Pupusa... 722 00:29:10,600 --> 00:29:12,937 Beautiful. Who doesn't want lobster at a cocktail party?! 723 00:29:13,071 --> 00:29:15,409 And a strawberry marg? Say less! 724 00:29:15,510 --> 00:29:17,246 That Pastrami Pork Slider, 725 00:29:17,346 --> 00:29:19,083 for me, it just made sense all the way through. 726 00:29:19,217 --> 00:29:21,354 There's an architecture about it. 727 00:29:21,387 --> 00:29:23,225 You sort of make your own little sandwich. Super, super smart. 728 00:29:23,325 --> 00:29:26,364 Those little sandwiches are so cute. Sliders. 729 00:29:26,464 --> 00:29:29,403 Um, the beautiful fillet of beef, uh, lettuce cups. 730 00:29:29,436 --> 00:29:31,508 A little challenging to eat. 731 00:29:31,609 --> 00:29:34,380 I was a little bit disappointed with the, uh, shrimp cakes. 732 00:29:34,480 --> 00:29:37,219 -Yeah. Yours fell apart. -Yeah, just, it crumbled. 733 00:29:37,352 --> 00:29:39,958 -Yeah. Definitely. -(GORDON) Such a shame. 734 00:29:40,092 --> 00:29:41,962 The little Pigs In A Blanket. 735 00:29:42,062 --> 00:29:44,367 (RICHARD) I think it was the best idea managed the worst. 736 00:29:44,467 --> 00:29:46,671 Yeah, you don't sit them in the sauce underneath. 737 00:29:46,772 --> 00:29:48,976 -(NYESHA) No. Definitely not. -My croissant dough was wet! 738 00:29:49,077 --> 00:29:50,111 -Same. -Like someone spilt water on it. 739 00:29:50,245 --> 00:29:52,751 You need that dipping moment. 740 00:29:52,851 --> 00:29:54,521 We're all in agreement. The Pigs In A Blanket 741 00:29:54,621 --> 00:29:56,525 is one of my least favorites as well, so that's one. 742 00:29:56,658 --> 00:29:59,665 To me, it might be... the beef or I guess the shrimp. 743 00:29:59,698 --> 00:30:02,135 Yeah, both of those dishes were definitely hard to enjoy. 744 00:30:02,235 --> 00:30:04,273 I think... I think, I would prefer 745 00:30:04,373 --> 00:30:06,712 the shrimp cake to the beef lettuce wrap. 746 00:30:06,746 --> 00:30:08,750 -I couldn't eat the shrimp cake! -I know! 747 00:30:08,850 --> 00:30:10,987 I couldn't pick it up off the plate, I'm sorry! 748 00:30:11,087 --> 00:30:13,593 This thing has to be elevated. 749 00:30:13,693 --> 00:30:15,328 Nyesha, you're the deciding vote. 750 00:30:15,362 --> 00:30:18,067 (DRAMATIC MUSIC) 751 00:30:24,581 --> 00:30:25,783 (TENSE MUSIC) 752 00:30:25,883 --> 00:30:28,154 (DARIAN, QUIETLY) Let's go. 753 00:30:28,288 --> 00:30:30,527 Okay, guys, the three of us agree 754 00:30:30,560 --> 00:30:34,300 that there were two appetizers that were standouts today. 755 00:30:34,333 --> 00:30:35,636 And those two dishes were cooked by... 756 00:30:39,511 --> 00:30:41,782 ..Connor. 757 00:30:41,883 --> 00:30:43,753 -Thank you, chefs. -Good job, my boy. 758 00:30:43,886 --> 00:30:45,221 And... 759 00:30:46,859 --> 00:30:47,761 ..Cole! 760 00:30:47,794 --> 00:30:49,497 (BLEEP) 761 00:30:49,631 --> 00:30:51,535 (NYESHA) Congratulations! 762 00:30:51,635 --> 00:30:54,875 Top five? (SCREAMS) Let's go! 763 00:30:54,908 --> 00:30:57,179 (GROANS WITH DELIGHT) 764 00:30:57,212 --> 00:31:01,922 Okay, now we have to figure out who to award the Time Token to. 765 00:31:01,955 --> 00:31:04,193 We are getting close to the end of this thing, 766 00:31:04,293 --> 00:31:06,231 and every advantage I can get, I will take. 767 00:31:06,331 --> 00:31:09,905 Please give me that Time Token! 768 00:31:09,938 --> 00:31:11,875 (RICHARD) The winner of the Time Token tonight is... 769 00:31:11,909 --> 00:31:13,478 (TENSE MUSIC) 770 00:31:13,512 --> 00:31:15,315 ..Connor. 771 00:31:15,449 --> 00:31:16,618 -(CHEFS APPLAUDING) -Come on up, dude. 772 00:31:16,652 --> 00:31:19,423 Thank you, chefs! 773 00:31:19,456 --> 00:31:21,461 Well deserved, bro. Good job, chef. 774 00:31:21,562 --> 00:31:24,601 It was a blast with you in there, chef. Thank you. 775 00:31:24,634 --> 00:31:27,807 -There it is, baby! -(DARIAN) You deserved it, man. 776 00:31:27,907 --> 00:31:30,245 I'ma stick that in the pocket for safekeeping. 777 00:31:30,345 --> 00:31:33,351 See who I'll use it on next week! 778 00:31:33,385 --> 00:31:37,660 Okay, um... two dishes that, uh, fell a tad short 779 00:31:37,760 --> 00:31:40,432 of the mark tonight, that will head into the elimination, 780 00:31:40,533 --> 00:31:42,435 those were cooked by... 781 00:31:42,469 --> 00:31:43,940 (TENSE MUSIC) 782 00:31:44,040 --> 00:31:45,175 ..Christian... 783 00:31:50,586 --> 00:31:52,022 ..and Gabrielle. 784 00:31:56,197 --> 00:31:58,869 For tonight's elimination cook-off, 785 00:31:58,969 --> 00:32:01,140 each of you are going to create your take 786 00:32:01,240 --> 00:32:02,710 on America's favorite dish. 787 00:32:04,982 --> 00:32:06,183 The burger. 788 00:32:08,889 --> 00:32:12,129 Execute a stunning burger and fries 789 00:32:12,263 --> 00:32:16,705 that can hold its own in a high-end restaurant, 790 00:32:16,838 --> 00:32:20,111 and that really celebrates America. 791 00:32:20,212 --> 00:32:23,519 Both of you will have 25 minutes to cook your elevated burger 792 00:32:23,653 --> 00:32:26,725 and save yourself in this competition, understood? 793 00:32:26,859 --> 00:32:28,662 -Yes, chef. -Yes, chef. 794 00:32:28,762 --> 00:32:30,533 (GORDON) Right, all of you, head to the elevator. 795 00:32:30,566 --> 00:32:32,737 I'll see you in that top kitchen shortly. 796 00:32:32,838 --> 00:32:34,440 -Well done, guys. -Thank you, chef. 797 00:32:34,541 --> 00:32:35,843 Good luck, Christian. Good luck, Gabrielle. 798 00:32:35,877 --> 00:32:37,078 Good luck, guys! 799 00:32:39,483 --> 00:32:41,387 (TENSE MUSIC) 800 00:32:41,420 --> 00:32:42,991 Station! Get to station, real quick. Let's go! 801 00:32:43,024 --> 00:32:44,761 Let's go! 802 00:32:44,862 --> 00:32:47,567 I know I can complete this challenge. 803 00:32:47,601 --> 00:32:52,275 You don't become Next Level Chef without completing this 804 00:32:52,376 --> 00:32:54,581 -(ANDY) Alright! -(COLE) Love it, girl. 805 00:32:54,681 --> 00:32:57,887 Everybody else has, around me. They have all gone through this 806 00:32:57,921 --> 00:33:00,859 and they all stand stronger because of it. 807 00:33:00,893 --> 00:33:03,264 (ELEVATOR PINGS) 808 00:33:03,297 --> 00:33:05,169 -(COLE) You got it, girl. -Alright, guys, come over. 809 00:33:05,269 --> 00:33:06,906 -Right, how are you feeling? -I feel good, chef. 810 00:33:07,006 --> 00:33:08,174 Good. Line up. Line up. How are you feeling? 811 00:33:08,307 --> 00:33:10,613 -Good. -Um, burgers. 812 00:33:10,713 --> 00:33:13,051 First off, we're down to the wire, guys, okay? 813 00:33:13,151 --> 00:33:15,421 A top-five place on this. You're two spots away 814 00:33:15,455 --> 00:33:17,561 -from finale. You ready? -Yes, chef. 815 00:33:17,594 --> 00:33:19,564 Let's go. Come on. Twenty-five minutes, yeah? 816 00:33:19,597 --> 00:33:21,234 -Hands on, everybody. Let's go. -(ANDY) Alright, guys! 817 00:33:21,334 --> 00:33:22,703 (GORDON) Classic burger. 818 00:33:26,344 --> 00:33:28,047 (GORDON) Platform is moving. On your mark... 819 00:33:28,081 --> 00:33:31,220 -(ANDY) Here it comes, guys! -..get set... 820 00:33:31,320 --> 00:33:32,524 -(PLATFORM BLEEPS) -..go! 821 00:33:32,657 --> 00:33:34,360 (COLE) Go! You got it! 822 00:33:34,460 --> 00:33:37,634 (GORDON) Ground brisket. Short rib. Love that. 823 00:33:37,734 --> 00:33:40,840 -Potatoes for your fries. -Get potatoes! Potatoes! 824 00:33:40,873 --> 00:33:43,211 (GORDON) Get everything you need to elevate those dishes, okay? 825 00:33:43,344 --> 00:33:46,050 I grab the short rib and cheddar, some ketchup, 826 00:33:46,084 --> 00:33:47,587 and I wanna make a classic American sauce. 827 00:33:47,620 --> 00:33:49,624 Like, almost a Thousand Island sauce. 828 00:33:49,657 --> 00:33:51,695 (DARIAN) ..In front of you. Yeah, get the chilis, okay? 829 00:33:51,795 --> 00:33:54,735 This sauce is redemption. 830 00:33:54,768 --> 00:33:56,772 -Corn. Right in front of you. -Where? Where? Where? Oh! 831 00:33:56,805 --> 00:33:58,509 -Yep, there you go. -Thank you. See mayo anywhere? 832 00:33:58,542 --> 00:33:59,978 Mayo? Um... 833 00:34:00,079 --> 00:34:01,413 I don't see mayo. 834 00:34:01,447 --> 00:34:02,984 (TENSE MUSIC) 835 00:34:03,084 --> 00:34:04,921 I see mayo, it's mine! I want it. 836 00:34:04,955 --> 00:34:07,126 I keep shouting for mayonnaise 837 00:34:07,226 --> 00:34:09,129 but there's no mayonnaise on the platform. 838 00:34:09,229 --> 00:34:10,833 Unless Christian has it. 839 00:34:10,866 --> 00:34:12,670 (GASPS) Does Christian have it?! 840 00:34:12,704 --> 00:34:14,240 (TENSE MUSIC) 841 00:34:14,373 --> 00:34:17,246 Checkmate. (CHUCKLES) 842 00:34:17,346 --> 00:34:19,283 -Nice clean plate, Christian! -(GORDON) Five, four, three... 843 00:34:19,383 --> 00:34:21,722 -Mayonnaise? -..two, one and stop! 844 00:34:21,822 --> 00:34:23,993 (PLATFORM WHIRRING) 845 00:34:24,093 --> 00:34:26,130 Right, your 25 minutes starts now. 846 00:34:26,164 --> 00:34:29,904 (TENSE MUSIC) 847 00:34:29,938 --> 00:34:32,409 -Christian, what did you grab? -I got short rib. I got chives. 848 00:34:32,510 --> 00:34:33,979 -And those buns, yes? -Yes, chef. 849 00:34:34,113 --> 00:34:36,986 -Cheese as well. -Options. Options. 850 00:34:37,119 --> 00:34:38,789 A lot of options, and a nice cheddar as well 851 00:34:38,823 --> 00:34:40,491 -if you wanna do a two-cheese. -No, no, no. I'm picking homage 852 00:34:40,526 --> 00:34:42,630 to the classic American burger. 853 00:34:42,663 --> 00:34:45,803 Okay. Good, good, good. Good luck, my man. Let's go. 854 00:34:45,837 --> 00:34:48,608 -How you feeling, Christian? -Feeling good, like I should! 855 00:34:48,642 --> 00:34:50,980 (DRAMATIC MUSIC) 856 00:34:51,013 --> 00:34:52,416 Right. How you feeling? What did you grab? 857 00:34:52,550 --> 00:34:54,286 I feel good, chef. I grabbed a lot of stuff. 858 00:34:54,386 --> 00:34:57,693 -I'm going kind of Baja-ey here. -(GORDON) Okay, good. 859 00:34:57,793 --> 00:35:01,669 I am elevating this burger by adding a lot of flavor 860 00:35:01,702 --> 00:35:05,643 that you wouldn't really expect on your burger. 861 00:35:05,676 --> 00:35:07,914 Beautiful. You got avocado, corn... yum! 862 00:35:08,014 --> 00:35:10,720 Oh, beautiful! Very Baja. 863 00:35:10,820 --> 00:35:13,692 Gabrielle, I want you to focus on that patty now. 864 00:35:13,725 --> 00:35:15,896 You need to start shaping that thing. Please. 865 00:35:15,996 --> 00:35:18,569 Come on! Piece of paper on top. 866 00:35:18,669 --> 00:35:20,606 Good. Nice and pressed. If you press it evenly, 867 00:35:20,706 --> 00:35:22,275 -it will cook evenly. Okay? -Yes, chef. 868 00:35:25,749 --> 00:35:27,687 (TENSE MUSIC) 869 00:35:27,721 --> 00:35:29,825 Do you want that shaped into a patty or not? 870 00:35:29,858 --> 00:35:31,494 Uh, no. I'm gonna ball it, and then I'ma shape it a little bit. 871 00:35:31,528 --> 00:35:33,231 Okay, bud. 872 00:35:33,331 --> 00:35:36,337 Nicely seasoned, guys. Okay? 873 00:35:36,370 --> 00:35:37,907 Alright, Christian! Nice. 874 00:35:41,314 --> 00:35:42,784 -We are halfway. -Yes, chef. 875 00:35:42,817 --> 00:35:44,688 Twelve minutes to go, okay? 876 00:35:44,721 --> 00:35:47,159 -I'm gonna do a relish. -(ANDY and COLE) Oh, yum! 877 00:35:47,193 --> 00:35:49,396 -Love a relish. -(COLE) A little lemon. 878 00:35:51,802 --> 00:35:55,510 (TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES) 879 00:35:55,610 --> 00:35:58,214 I'm making a sweet and spicy aioli. 880 00:35:58,348 --> 00:36:00,887 This is the make-it-or-break-it burger. 881 00:36:00,987 --> 00:36:03,926 I wanna make sure this elevated American classic 882 00:36:03,959 --> 00:36:05,696 stands out to these mentors. 883 00:36:05,730 --> 00:36:07,767 Watch that burger. 884 00:36:07,800 --> 00:36:09,671 Alright, Christian, wanna put cheese on that? 885 00:36:09,804 --> 00:36:11,173 Yes, chef. 886 00:36:14,346 --> 00:36:17,385 It's gotta be even, coast to coast, medium rare. 887 00:36:17,486 --> 00:36:19,390 I need to secure my spot on the top five. 888 00:36:19,490 --> 00:36:21,360 There is no room for error here. 889 00:36:21,494 --> 00:36:23,131 (CHRISTIAN, IN KITCHEN) Looks good! 890 00:36:23,231 --> 00:36:24,700 (GORDON) Eight minutes to go, yes? 891 00:36:24,734 --> 00:36:26,838 (TENSE MUSIC) 892 00:36:26,971 --> 00:36:29,777 Oh so beautiful, Gabrielle! 893 00:36:29,811 --> 00:36:32,951 -Drop my fries please, chef! -Yep. Fries are up. 894 00:36:32,984 --> 00:36:34,720 Check your sauce now. 895 00:36:34,754 --> 00:36:38,595 (TENSE MUSIC) 896 00:36:38,695 --> 00:36:40,532 Not good. 897 00:36:40,633 --> 00:36:42,168 What were you trying to make - mayo? 898 00:36:42,268 --> 00:36:44,273 It's a charred corn aioli but it's loose. 899 00:36:44,373 --> 00:36:46,845 It's not gonna work. It's going to just 900 00:36:46,878 --> 00:36:50,151 seep off of this burger bun. 901 00:36:50,252 --> 00:36:51,888 I've already been through that today 902 00:36:51,921 --> 00:36:54,260 where they weren't able to pick up my crab cake. 903 00:36:54,293 --> 00:36:56,998 I can't revisit that. 904 00:36:57,098 --> 00:36:59,136 If it's not right, don't serve it. 905 00:36:59,169 --> 00:37:01,775 We are down to our final five minutes, okay? 906 00:37:01,875 --> 00:37:03,277 Deep breath. You got this! 907 00:37:03,411 --> 00:37:06,484 (TENSE MUSIC BUILDS) 908 00:37:06,585 --> 00:37:07,720 I'm scared. 909 00:37:07,753 --> 00:37:09,022 (MUSIC ENDS) 910 00:37:13,297 --> 00:37:15,802 (TENSE MUSIC) 911 00:37:15,836 --> 00:37:18,708 Can always add one more egg yolk? Olive oil? Let it run. 912 00:37:18,742 --> 00:37:20,546 Yeah. I'll go. 913 00:37:20,679 --> 00:37:22,817 A sauceless burger is my risk right now. 914 00:37:22,917 --> 00:37:24,386 I have to save it. I have to at least try. 915 00:37:28,027 --> 00:37:29,664 (MACHINE WHIRRING) 916 00:37:29,764 --> 00:37:31,467 (DRAMATIC MUSIC) 917 00:37:31,568 --> 00:37:33,905 Check your bun, Christian! Bun! 918 00:37:34,005 --> 00:37:35,843 (DARIAN) Oh. 919 00:37:35,943 --> 00:37:37,980 (CHRISTIAN) I've made many burgers but this is 920 00:37:38,013 --> 00:37:40,786 the most important burger of my life at this point. 921 00:37:40,886 --> 00:37:43,057 It has to be perfect. 922 00:37:43,157 --> 00:37:44,627 -You okay? -Yeah, 923 00:37:44,728 --> 00:37:46,464 I got two sets of buns, just in case. 924 00:37:46,598 --> 00:37:48,434 -Plan A, Plan B, my man. -(CHRISTIAN) Options, options. 925 00:37:48,468 --> 00:37:49,871 Good, good, good. 926 00:37:53,545 --> 00:37:55,081 -You like the sauce, Gabrielle? -Yeah, I like it. 927 00:37:55,181 --> 00:37:56,317 -Okay, good. -Taste! Taste! Taste! 928 00:37:56,417 --> 00:37:58,187 Thank you, sweet Darian. 929 00:37:58,221 --> 00:37:59,824 We are down to two minutes, guys. 930 00:37:59,858 --> 00:38:01,493 Let's go! Start plating. Bring it home. 931 00:38:01,594 --> 00:38:04,132 (HI-ENERGY ROCK MUSIC) 932 00:38:04,232 --> 00:38:06,436 I want Richard and Nyesha blown away with these burgers. 933 00:38:06,470 --> 00:38:08,608 (CHEFS SHOUTING ENCOURAGEMENT) 934 00:38:08,708 --> 00:38:11,013 Nice and gentle. Don't break it. 935 00:38:11,046 --> 00:38:14,620 Build it beautifully, okay? Build it beautifully, 936 00:38:14,654 --> 00:38:15,656 (COLE) You got this. Take your time. 937 00:38:17,359 --> 00:38:19,229 (ANDY) Beautiful! 938 00:38:19,329 --> 00:38:21,234 Alright, Christian! Nice clean plate, Christian! 939 00:38:21,367 --> 00:38:23,972 (GORDON) ..Four, three, two, 940 00:38:24,072 --> 00:38:26,644 one, and stop! Well done! 941 00:38:26,745 --> 00:38:28,348 -Wow! -(GABRIELLE SCREAMS WITH RELIEF) 942 00:38:28,448 --> 00:38:33,491 (TENSE MUSIC) 943 00:38:33,592 --> 00:38:36,497 Nyesha, Richard, welcome back. 944 00:38:36,632 --> 00:38:40,371 Two phenomenal powerhouse chefs, and two incredible burgers. 945 00:38:40,471 --> 00:38:44,279 Right. Let's start off with, uh, this one here. 946 00:38:44,379 --> 00:38:47,787 This is a Classic American Short Rib Burger 947 00:38:47,820 --> 00:38:50,224 with American cheese, crispy onions, 948 00:38:50,258 --> 00:38:52,763 sweet and spicy aioli, and fries. 949 00:38:52,796 --> 00:38:55,368 I love a burger that just has meat, cheese and onion. 950 00:38:55,402 --> 00:38:58,073 (TENSE MUSIC) 951 00:39:05,255 --> 00:39:07,793 You know, it's a little inconsistent 952 00:39:07,827 --> 00:39:10,799 in the sear but sauce is incredible. 953 00:39:10,933 --> 00:39:12,603 The texture of the fries - phenomenal. 954 00:39:12,703 --> 00:39:14,807 Great job. 955 00:39:14,907 --> 00:39:18,548 You know, it's a lot of one flavor going on... 956 00:39:18,648 --> 00:39:21,688 ..and I think the burger is a little bit imbalanced. 957 00:39:21,789 --> 00:39:23,825 But I'm being very particular here. 958 00:39:23,925 --> 00:39:25,963 -(GORDON) Got to be. -But it's still delicious 959 00:39:26,096 --> 00:39:28,067 I mean, this is a restaurant- caliber burger right here. 960 00:39:30,271 --> 00:39:32,375 Right. Next up, 961 00:39:32,408 --> 00:39:35,448 this is a Brisket Patty with Pepper Jack cheese, 962 00:39:35,549 --> 00:39:37,419 a toasted corn relish, 963 00:39:37,553 --> 00:39:40,559 and a charred corn aioli. 964 00:39:40,659 --> 00:39:42,930 Visually, I feel like I'm sitting at a burger bar. 965 00:39:42,963 --> 00:39:45,034 This is really beautiful presentation. Very thoughtful. 966 00:39:51,046 --> 00:39:53,084 (POTATO FRY CRUNCHES) 967 00:39:53,117 --> 00:39:55,288 What I love about this burger is the creativity of it. 968 00:39:55,321 --> 00:39:57,492 I love the cook on this, the char on it. 969 00:39:57,593 --> 00:39:59,897 The meat is seasoned really, really well, 970 00:39:59,997 --> 00:40:01,901 and the acidity you're getting from the pickle in there, 971 00:40:02,001 --> 00:40:04,573 which is so important for me in burgers. 972 00:40:04,674 --> 00:40:07,813 This is a really thoughtful, interesting approach to a burger 973 00:40:07,847 --> 00:40:09,584 using lots of different vegetables, 974 00:40:09,684 --> 00:40:11,989 using a corn and aioli, um... 975 00:40:12,089 --> 00:40:13,592 I just wish there was just a little bit of balance. 976 00:40:13,692 --> 00:40:14,927 It does kind of finish tangy. 977 00:40:19,303 --> 00:40:22,643 (GORDON) Tell me, which burger are you sending home, please? 978 00:40:22,743 --> 00:40:25,750 Is it the Short Rib Burger? 979 00:40:25,883 --> 00:40:28,387 Or is it the Brisket Burger? 980 00:40:28,487 --> 00:40:30,592 For me, the burger that I'm eliminating is... 981 00:40:32,530 --> 00:40:36,036 ..the Short Rib Burger. 982 00:40:36,169 --> 00:40:39,611 Wow. Um... The burger that I will be sending home... 983 00:40:39,711 --> 00:40:41,714 (TENSE MUSIC BUILDS) 984 00:40:45,088 --> 00:40:47,627 ..is the Short Rib Burger. 985 00:40:47,727 --> 00:40:49,363 (GENTLE, REFLECTIVE MUSIC) 986 00:40:49,496 --> 00:40:50,966 That short rib burger was cooked by Christian. 987 00:40:53,639 --> 00:40:55,341 (WHISPERS) Good job, chef. 988 00:40:55,375 --> 00:40:57,947 You've been an absolute powerhouse 989 00:40:58,047 --> 00:41:00,051 from start to finish in this competition. 990 00:41:00,084 --> 00:41:02,356 -Thank you, chef -Christian, as your mentor 991 00:41:02,389 --> 00:41:04,125 for the first part of this competition, 992 00:41:04,259 --> 00:41:06,130 dude, you're an absolute force. 993 00:41:06,263 --> 00:41:07,967 This, by far, has been 994 00:41:08,067 --> 00:41:11,909 the most exhilarating experience of my life. 995 00:41:12,009 --> 00:41:14,514 But I've also learned a lot from you three. 996 00:41:14,614 --> 00:41:18,254 We're gonna miss you, bud. 997 00:41:18,387 --> 00:41:19,924 (VOICE QUIVERING) To just be recognized 998 00:41:19,957 --> 00:41:22,996 as someone who can... hold their own 999 00:41:23,030 --> 00:41:24,499 means the world. 1000 00:41:27,004 --> 00:41:28,274 Blais Boys, man. 1001 00:41:28,407 --> 00:41:30,546 You fight the good fight. 1002 00:41:30,679 --> 00:41:32,549 -Keep that blue up top, yeah? -Yes, sir. Yes, sir. 1003 00:41:32,683 --> 00:41:34,821 I will never forget this moment. 1004 00:41:34,854 --> 00:41:37,593 This is embedded in my DNA 1005 00:41:37,693 --> 00:41:39,964 on how I'm growing as a chef. 1006 00:41:39,997 --> 00:41:41,701 You're a great cook, man. You're a great chef. 1007 00:41:41,734 --> 00:41:44,239 It is one for the books! 1008 00:41:44,272 --> 00:41:47,045 -Love you, Christian! -Love you, Christian! 1009 00:41:47,145 --> 00:41:48,147 (DARIAN) Much love. 1010 00:41:50,519 --> 00:41:52,422 Whoo! 1011 00:41:52,556 --> 00:41:54,727 -(GORDON) Wow. Well done. -Good job! 1012 00:41:54,828 --> 00:41:57,967 Top five. Give yourselves a big round of applause. Come on! 1013 00:41:58,067 --> 00:42:01,040 -(CHEFS WHOOP AND CELEBRATE) -Top five BandG! Let's go! 1014 00:42:01,173 --> 00:42:02,810 All of you, 1015 00:42:02,843 --> 00:42:05,850 get some rest, please, 1016 00:42:05,983 --> 00:42:09,591 because next time the goal... 1017 00:42:09,724 --> 00:42:13,330 is to kick things up a notch. Good night! 1018 00:42:13,430 --> 00:42:16,137 -(DARIAN) Ooh! -Let's do it! 1019 00:42:16,270 --> 00:42:17,840 -(ANDY) Thank you, chefs! -Congratulations. 1020 00:42:17,973 --> 00:42:19,176 -Thank you. -(NYESHA) Good job. 1021 00:42:19,276 --> 00:42:21,113 Thank you, chef! 1022 00:42:21,213 --> 00:42:23,484 -(RICHARD) Much love. -(GABRIELLE) Thank you! 1023 00:42:23,586 --> 00:42:25,087 -Good job. -(RICHARD) Good job, Cole! 1024 00:42:25,187 --> 00:42:26,591 (DARIAN) My man! Much love. 1025 00:42:26,725 --> 00:42:29,597 -Way to fly, Gabrielle! -Ah! My goodness me. 1026 00:42:29,731 --> 00:42:31,734 Hey, are you three from Team Ramsay? 1027 00:42:31,834 --> 00:42:34,440 (CHEFS WHOOP AND CHEER) Gordon's girls! Gordon's girls! 1028 00:42:34,473 --> 00:42:37,580 (GRUNTING HAPPILY) Yaw! 1029 00:42:37,980 --> 00:42:40,484 (RICHARD, V.O.) Next time on Next Level Chef. 1030 00:42:40,586 --> 00:42:42,089 Welcome to the Next Level stadium! 1031 00:42:42,189 --> 00:42:45,428 Goooaal! 1032 00:42:45,462 --> 00:42:49,904 (NYESHA) World Cup fusion dish! Mexico. Argentina. England. 1033 00:42:49,938 --> 00:42:52,041 -Second one, here we go. -OK, let's think. Think! Think! 1034 00:42:52,142 --> 00:42:53,779 What are you gonna fuse into your dish? 1035 00:42:53,879 --> 00:42:55,883 -That was a terrible decision! -Is the rice cooked? 1036 00:42:55,983 --> 00:42:58,521 -Not yet, chef. -Kimchi. Did we open it yet? 1037 00:42:58,621 --> 00:43:01,595 Not yet, chef. This is absolutely insane. 1038 00:43:01,661 --> 00:43:03,999 Please welcome Alexi Lalas! 1039 00:43:04,066 --> 00:43:07,873 (BOTH CHANTING) I believe that we will win! 1040 00:43:08,207 --> 00:43:10,144 This is gonna go down as my best day, 1041 00:43:10,244 --> 00:43:11,747 and I've given birth twice.