For the first time, M6 offered chefs the chance to take part in the restaurant war, the famous test where candidates have 48 hours to open a business, design the menu and design the decoration. Were you ready to experience it?
Glenn Viel: At first I wondered if we were capable of doing that. We no longer have the youth that the candidates have. It hasn’t been easy in the sense that it poses a real danger to us. On a more personal note, I am not a competitive man. I like to work quietly, at my workplace, without problems… Two days to open a restaurant, no one can imagine how complicated it is. We went too, but we weren’t very calm.
How did you share the tasks?
I started in the kitchen while Philippe (Etchebest, editor’s note) was in the dining room. Then we switched roles. Then Paul (Pairet) and I went shopping. It was pretty funny because I can say we were racing like never before.
What was the most difficult for you?
Finding your way around an organization that doesn’t belong to you is highly destabilizing. Impossible to do in two days. I needed to perform well while getting along with my partners. We must listen to each other. I’m the youngest and last to Top Chef, so I set myself a little further back so there weren’t too many people to decide. In the end, it worked pretty well! In any case, there was no fight!
What “color” did you want to give your restaurant?
We started with “simple” but well done. We didn’t stray from the path… But I won’t say more.
How did the candidates look when they saw that you were one of their competitors?
It made them feel awkward even if they didn’t have much to lose, unlike us who risk losing a piece of our pride when they fail! (Laughs) It was easier for them than for us. They were furious… We thought we would be beaten alive!
This is your second participation as a Top Chef judge. Do you feel more comfortable?
Last year I was already feeling good. Some find me more comfortable this season. However, the welcome given to me last year was so benevolent that I don’t have the impression. Much better if that’s what the public perceives. I’m not a tough kid, you know!
Have you felt the “before-after” effect of Top Chef?
The program gave additional visibility to the establishment I work for (in L’Oustau de Baumanière, Les Baux-de-Provence), but nothing has really changed in my daily life. I live in the countryside and no boar has stopped me from asking for an autograph yet! On the other hand, I have humorously received marriage proposals!
Top Chef is on M6 on Wednesday 3 May at 21:10
INTERVIEW WITH ADELINE QUITTOT
Source: Programme Television
Joseph Fearn is an entertainment and television aficionado who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a keen eye for what’s hot in the world of TV, Joseph keeps his readers informed about the latest trends and must-see shows.
