I'd be interested to hear from "Top Chef" die-hards as to whether they enjoy the master class as much as the regular series. I am not a foodie, nor do I have any sort of palate. (Will there be a nacho-chip challenge?) I think "Masters" is a very different animal in several ways.

1. The chefs aren't as hungry. They don't really need the boost the show will give them, and aren't as desperate to julienne their way to the top. I haven't seen much trash-talking, either. Established chefs = less drama.

2. I miss both Padma Lakshmi and Ted Allen. This version is hosted by Kelly Choi (pictured), producer and host of "Eat Out NY." She's certainly lovely; perhaps I will grow to love her. But I doubt I'll warm up to the judges, or that I'm supposed to. They are:

Gael Greene, the be-hatted New York magazine critic.

Jay Rayner, who was named Critic of the Year in the British Press Awards. There's nothing like faint praise with an English accent.

James Oseland, editor in chief of Saveur magazine. Interesting note: He appeared in "Guncrazy" with Drew Barrymore.

3. The setup of brilliant chefs being judged by brilliant critics is odd. We're not going to see any growth from the chefs during the run of the show. I am hoping, however, that we do see a chef instructed to pack up his knives, who instead throws them at the judges' panel, hissing, "You know NUSSING!"

Chicagoans, listen up. Our local chefs will be appearing on the following episodes:

Graham Elliot Bowles: June 17

Rick Bayless: June 24

Art Smith: July 22