View source for Top Chef: Miami

{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2025}}

{{short description|Season 3 of American television series}}
{{Infobox television season
| season_number = 3
| bgcolour      = #FFCA3A
| image         = Top Chef Season 3 cover.jpeg
| image_size    = 225px
| num_episodes  = 17
| network       = [[Bravo (American TV network)|Bravo]]
| first_aired   = {{Start date|2007|6|13}}
| last_aired    = {{End date|2007|10|10}}
| module1       = {{Infobox reality competition season
| host                 = [[Padma Lakshmi]]
| judges               = [[Tom Colicchio]]<br>[[Gail Simmons]]<br>[[Ted Allen]]
| location             = [[Miami, Florida]]
| finals_venue	       = [[Aspen, Colorado]]
| num_contestants      = 15
| winner               = [[Hung Huynh]]
| runner_up            = [[Dale Levitski]]<br>[[Casey Thompson (chef)|Casey Thompson]]
| label1               = Fan Favorite
| data1                = Casey Thompson
}}
| prev_season   = ''[[Top Chef: Los Angeles|Los Angeles]]''
| next_season   = ''[[Top Chef: Chicago|Chicago]]''
| episode_list  = List of Top Chef episodes
}}
'''''Top Chef: Miami''''' is the third season of the American reality television series ''[[Top Chef]]''. It was first filmed in [[Miami, Florida]], before concluding in [[Aspen, Colorado]]. The season was Emmy nominated for Outstanding Reality Competition Series, and garnered the Emmy Award for Best Editing in the category.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/List-Winners-2008-Primetime-Emmy-Awards-2053667|title=Primetime Emmy Awards 2008|website=IMDB}}</ref>   Season 3 premiered on June 13, 2007 and ended on October 10, 2007.<ref name=Cast>{{cite web|url=http://www.realitytvworld.com/news/bravo-reveals-its-top-chef-3-cast-series-premiere-june-13-5151.php|date=May 9, 2007|access-date=March 10, 2017|last1=Rocchio|first1=Christopher|last2=Rogers|first2=Steve|work=Reality TV World|title=Bravo reveals its 'Top Chef 3' cast, series to premiere June 13}}</ref> [[Padma Lakshmi]] returned with [[Tom Colicchio]], [[Gail Simmons]], and new judge [[Ted Allen]], who switched off with Simmons throughout the season.<ref name=Cast/> ''[[Top Chef: San Francisco]]'' contestant [[Lee Anne Wong]] was brought in as a food consultant and assisted in planning the challenges.<ref name=Production>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20070508bravo01|date=May 8, 2007|access-date=March 10, 2017|work=[[The Futon Critic]]|title=Bravo's "Top Chef 3 Miami" Premieres with 15 Hot New Chefs Wed, June 13 at 10:00 P.M. ET/PT}}</ref> Production took place in April and May 2007 in [[Miami Beach, Florida]], with production activity centered at the [[Fontainebleau Hotel]].<ref name=Production/> The winning recipe from each week's episode of Season 3 was featured on Bravo's ''Top Chef'' website and prepared by Lee Anne Wong in a web series called ''The Wong Way to Cook''.<ref name=Production/> In the season finale, [[Hung Huynh]] was declared the winner over runners-up [[Dale Levitski]] and [[Casey Thompson (chef)|Casey Thompson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tvguide.com/news/top-chef-hung-35797/|date=October 5, 2007|access-date=March 10, 2017|last=Smith|first=Nina|work=[[TV Guide]]|title=Top Chef's Controversial Hung Wins — and Says He Deserves It}}</ref> Thompson was voted Fan Favorite.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mediaite.com/food/celebrating-the-women-of-top-chef-flashback-friday/|date=June 24, 2016|access-date=March 10, 2017|last=Eisenberg|first=Dana|work=[[Mediaite]]|title=Flashback Friday: A Look Back at Some of Our Favorite Female 'Top Chef' Contestants}}</ref>

==Contestants==
{{main|List of Top Chef contestants}}
Fifteen chefs competed in ''Top Chef: Miami''.<ref name=Cast/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/season-3/bios|access-date=March 31, 2025|website=[[Bravo (American TV network)|Bravo]]|title=Bios - Top Chef Season 3|archive-date=November 19, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091119015837/https://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/season-3/bios|url-status=dead}}</ref>
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|-
!Name
!Hometown
!Current Residence{{efn|The contestants' city and state of residence during time of filming.}}
!Age
|-
|Lia Bardeen
|[[Tacoma, Washington]]
|[[Brooklyn, New York]]
|28
|-
|Camille Becerra
|[[Elizabeth, New Jersey]]
|Brooklyn, New York
|34
|-
|Sandee Birdsong
|[[St. Simons Island, Georgia]]
|[[Miami Beach, Florida]]
|39
|-
|Clay Bowen
|[[Columbus, Mississippi]]
|[[Santa Barbara, California]]
|28
|-
|Micah Edelstein
|[[Bridgewater, Massachusetts]]
|[[Boca Raton, Florida]]
|33
|-
|[[Hung Huynh]]
|[[Pittsfield, Massachusetts]]
|[[Las Vegas, Nevada]] 
|29
|-
|Chris "CJ" Jacobson
|[[El Toro, California]]
|[[Venice, California]]
|31
|-
|Howard "Howie" Kleinberg
| colspan="2" |[[Miami, Florida]]
|31
|-
|[[Dale Levitski]]
| colspan="2" |[[Chicago, Illinois]]
|34
|-
|Sara Mair
|[[Kingston, Jamaica]]
|Miami, Florida
|34
|-
|Brian Malarkey
|[[Bend, Oregon]]
|[[San Diego, California]]
|34
|-
|Sara Nguyen
|[[Santa Monica, California]]
|Chicago, Illinois
|25
|-
|Joseph "Joey" Paulino
|[[Long Island, New York]]
|[[New York, New York]]
|29
|-
|[[Casey Thompson (chef)|Casey Thompson]]
|[[Cedar Hill, Texas]]
|[[Dallas, Texas]]
|29
|-
|Tre Wilcox
|[[Duncanville, Texas]]
|Cedar Hill, Texas
|30
|-
|}

Dale Levitski, Casey Thompson, and Tre Wilcox returned to compete in ''[[Top Chef: All-Stars]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/top-chef-all-stars-cast-is-announced|date=October 8, 2010|access-date=March 10, 2017|last=Reyhani|first=Monica A.|work=The Daily Dish|title='Top Chef All-Stars' Cast is Announced!}}</ref> Chris "CJ" Jacobson returned for ''[[Top Chef: Seattle]]'', and  later competed in ''[[Top Chef Duels]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tvguide.com/News/Top-Chef-Seattle-Premiere-Date-1053256.aspx|date=September 20, 2012|access-date=March 10, 2017|last=Gennis|first=Sadie|publisher=[[TV Guide]]|title=Bravo Sets Top Chef: Seattle Premiere Date, Adds New Judge}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/bravos-top-chef-duels-lands-708946|date=June 4, 2014|access-date=December 11, 2019|last=Ng|first=Philiana|website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|title=Bravo's 'Top Chef Duels' Lands Premiere Date, Celebrity Guests (Exclusive)}}</ref> Thompson returned again for ''[[Top Chef: Charleston]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://people.com/food/top-chef-new-season-charleston-returning-chefs/|date=October 20, 2016|access-date=March 10, 2017|last=Spence|first=Shay|work=[[People (magazine)|People]]|title=Top Chef Is Bringing Back 8 Fan Favorite Contestants — See Who Made the Cut}}</ref> Brian Malarkey returned for ''[[Top Chef: All-Stars L.A.]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://ew.com/tv/2019/12/12/top-chef-all-star-lineup-season-17/|date=December 12, 2019|access-date=December 12, 2019|last=Huff|first=Lauren|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|title=Unpack your knives: Top Chef announces all-star lineup for season 17}}</ref> Sandee Birdsong became the supervisor for ''Top Chef''{{'s}} culinary production team from the [[Top Chef: Texas|seventh season]] onwards.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2016/artisans/production/top-chef-production-team-road-trip-1201671753/|date=January 7, 2016|access-date=March 23, 2021|last=Wagmeister|first=Elizabeth|website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|title='Top Chef' Culinary Production Team Has Right Recipe for Road Trip Reality}}</ref>

==Contestant progress==
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:100%" 
|-
!colspan=2|Episode #
![[#1|1]]
![[#2|2]]
![[#3|3]]
![[#4|4]]
![[#5|5]]
![[#7|7]]
![[#8|8]]
![[#9|9]]{{ref|3|3}}
![[#10|10]]
![[#11|11]]
![[#12|12]]
![[#13|13]]
![[#14|14]]
![[#15|15]]
|-
!colspan=2|''Quickfire Challenge<br>Winner(s)''
| ''Micah''
| ''Hung''
| ''Brian''
| ''Casey''
| ''Joey''
| ''Casey''
| ''Dale''{{ref|2|2}}
| ''CJ''{{ref|1|1}}
| ''Dale''{{ref|1|1}}<br />''Howie''{{ref|1|1}}<br />''Hung''{{ref|1|1}}<br />''Sara M.''{{ref|1|1}}
| ''Brian''{{ref|1|1}}
| ''Hung''{{ref|1|1}}
| ''Hung''{{ref|1|1}}
| ''Casey''{{ref|1|1}}
| {{N/A|N/A}}
|-
| colspan="19" style="background:darkgrey;"|
|-
!colspan=2|Contestant!!colspan="17"|Elimination Challenge Results
|-
!1
! Hung
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| IN 
| style="background:hotpink;"|WINNER
|-
!rowspan="2"|2
! Dale
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| IN{{ref|2|2}}
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:gold;"|{{nowrap|RUNNER-UP}}
|-
! Casey 
| IN 
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| IN 
| style="background:gold;"|{{nowrap|RUNNER-UP}}
|-
!4
! Brian
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| IN 
| IN
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT 
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="1"|
|-
!5
! {{nowrap|Sara M.}}
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| IN 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="2"|
|-
!6
! CJ
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="3"|
|-
!7
! Howie
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="4"|
|-
!8
! Tre
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN 
| IN 
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="5"|
|-
!9
! Sara N.
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| IN 
| IN
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="7"|
|-
!10
! Joey
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH 
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="8"|
|-
!11
! Lia
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:tomato;"|LOW 
| style="background:limegreen;"|WIN
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="9"|
|-
!12
! Camille
| IN 
| IN 
| IN 
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="10"|
|-
!13
! Micah
| IN 
| style="background:cornflowerblue;"|HIGH
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="11"|
|-
!14
! Sandee
| IN 
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="12"|
|-
!15
! Clay
| style="background:lightgrey;"|OUT
| style="background:darkgrey;" colspan="13"|
|}
<div style="font-size:85%">
{{note|1|Note 1}}: The chef(s) did not receive immunity for winning the Quickfire Challenge.<br />
{{note|2|Note 2}}: As a reward for winning the Quickfire Challenge, Dale was allowed to sit out the Elimination Challenge.<br />
{{note|3|Note 3}}: There were no eliminations in Episode 9.
</div>
:{{Color box|hotpink|border=darkgray}} (WINNER) The chef won the season and was crowned "Top Chef".
:{{Color box|gold|border=darkgray}} (RUNNER-UP) The chef was a runner-up for the season.
:{{Color box|limegreen|border=darkgray}} (WIN) The chef won the Elimination Challenge.
:{{Color box|cornflowerblue|border=darkgray}} (HIGH) The chef was selected as one of the top entries in the Elimination Challenge, but did not win.
:{{Color box|white|border=darkgray}} (IN) The chef was not selected as one of the top or bottom entries in the Elimination Challenge and was safe.
:{{Color box|tomato|border=darkgray}} (LOW) The chef was selected as one of the bottom entries in the Elimination Challenge, but was not eliminated.
:{{Color box|lightgrey|border=darkgray}} (OUT) The chef lost the Elimination Challenge.

==Episodes==
{{main|List of Top Chef episodes}}
<onlyinclude>{{Episode table|background=#FFCA3A |overall= |season= |title= |airdate= |country=US |episodes=
{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 26
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 0
 |Title      = 4-Star All-Stars
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|6|6}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
On June 6, 2007, as part of the buildup for Season 3, Bravo aired a special charity episode called "4-Star All-Stars", which awarded $20,000 to the charity of the winning team's choice. The show brought together [[Top Chef: San Francisco|Season 1]] contestants [[Harold Dieterle]], [[Tiffani Faison]], Dave Martin, and [[Stephen Asprinio]], and [[Top Chef: Los Angeles|Season 2]] contestants [[Ilan Hall]], [[Marcel Vigneron]], Sam Talbot, and [[Elia Aboumrad]]. The show format was kept the same, starting with a Quickfire Challenge (cook 2 eggs in 10 minutes, with one hand behind their back) that determined the team captains, followed by an Elimination Challenge (produce a four course meal using scallops, lobster, duck & [[Kobe beef]]). The show was filmed in Miami, Florida, the setting for the upcoming season. The winning Season 1 competitors, captained by Stephen Asprinio, donated their winnings to [[Susan G. Komen for the Cure]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.popsugar.com/food/Top-Chef-4-Star-All-Stars-Recap-301059#photo-301059|date=June 7, 2007|access-date=March 23, 2016|work=[[PopSugar]]|title=Top Chef 4 Star All Stars Recap}}</ref>
 |LineColor    =#FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 27
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 1
 |Title      = {{anchor|1}}First Impressions
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|6|13}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs are surprised at their introductory party at Miami's [[Casa Casuarina]], also known as the Versace Mansion. when they're required to create an ''[[amuse-bouche]]'' within 10 minutes, using only the existing appetizer food and primarily plastic utensils from the event. The winner received immunity from elimination.
*'''Winner:''' Micah ("Tuscan Sushi Revisited": Italian Ham with Fig Jam, Prosciutto & Balsamic Dressing)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs were asked to create a "[[surf and turf]]" dish in two hours using exotic proteins, such as [[ostrich]], [[bison|buffalo]], [[abalone]], [[alligator]], [[snake]], [[Solid black (chicken plumage)|black chicken]], [[geoduck]], and [[eel]]. The winner received a collection of books by [[Anthony Bourdain]].
*'''Winner:''' Tre (Roasted Ostrich Filet with [[Heirloom tomato|Heirloom Tomato]] [[Risotto]] & Abalone Reduction Sauce)
*'''Eliminated:''' Clay (Pan Seared Wild Boar Chop & Cornbread Dressing with [[Scorpion Fish]])
 |LineColor    =#FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 28
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 2
 |Title      = {{anchor|2}}Sunny Delights
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|6|20}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs created dishes featuring [[Florida]] [[citrus]], including [[orange (fruit)|oranges]], [[lemons]], [[key limes]], [[grapefruit]], [[tangelo]]es, and [[blood oranges]], with Florida fine dining pioneer and cookbook author chef [[Norman Van Aken]] as the guest judge. The winner received immunity from elimination.
*'''Winner:''' Hung (Slow Roasted Sea Bass, Citrus Crumble Watercress & Radish Salad) 
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs needed to create an upscale [[barbecue]] dish. They were given two hours to prep and two hours the following day to cook on a barbecue grill on location at a barbecue party.
*'''Winner:''' Brian (Scallops, Shrimp & Seabass Sausage with Ginger Slaw & Chili Glaze)
*'''Eliminated:''' Sandee (Vanilla Poached Lobster, Pancetta Wrapped Date & Truffle Slaw)
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 29
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 3
 |Title      = {{anchor|3}}Family Favorites
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|6|27}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs had to "catch and cook" a shellfish dish in 30 minutes after using nets to retrieve [[scallops]], [[crawfish]], and [[conch]] out of a fish tank. The winner received immunity from elimination.
*'''Winner:''' Brian ("3 Rivers": Wine, Butter, Garlic, Chives with Clams, Scallops, Mussels & Crawfish; Oyster [[Mignonette sauce|Mignonette]])
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs were asked to update traditional "family favorites", such as [[tuna casserole]], [[stuffed cabbage]], and [[chicken and dumplings]], by creating a healthier, more modern version with reduced [[cholesterol]] for members of an [[Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks|Elks club]]. The winner received three books from guest judge, chef [[Alfred Portale]], and an invitation to spend a week at the [[Gotham Bar and Grill]] working with Portale and his staff.
*'''Winner:''' Howie (Fennel Crusted Pork Chops with Three Apple Fennel Salad & [[Sultana (grape)|Sultana]] Raisin Emulsion)
*'''Eliminated:''' Micah (Italian Style Meatloaf with Smashed Garlic Potato & Roasted Pepper Sauces)
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 30
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 4
 |Title      = {{anchor|4}}Cooking By Numbers
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|7|11}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The contestants were challenged to create an appetizer to pair with [[Bombay Sapphire]] mixed drinks; the specific drink was selected by random draw. The winner received immunity from elimination.
*'''Winner:''' Casey ([[French Toast]] [[Baguette]] with Pecan Crusted [[Foie Gras]], Raspberry Sauce & Strawberry Gin [[Rickey (cocktail)|Rickey]])
'''Elimination Challenge:''' In teams of three, the contestants prepared a [[tasting menu]] of four courses, each consisting of trios around a central ingredient. The contestants divided themselves up into teams, and selected the main ingredient for each course and the order of the courses. The meal was served to the judges and members of [[Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs]] at Barton G. The Restaurant, owned by one of the diners, [[Barton G. Weiss]].
*First Course (Shrimp Trio): Hung, Brian, Lia
*Second Course (Tuna Trio): Casey, Howie, Joey
*Third Course (Beef Trio): CJ, Tre, Sara N.
*Fourth Course (Pineapple Trio): Dale, Sara M., Camille
**'''Winner:''' Lia (Olive Oil Poached Shrimp with Avocado, Cucumber, Lime & Grilled Pepper Salad)
**'''Eliminated:''' Camille (Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Ginger [[Zabaione|Sabayon]])
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 31
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 5
 |Title      = {{anchor|5}}Latin Lunch
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|7|18}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The contestants were asked to create any dish starting with a pre-made pie crust, using additional ingredients from the ''Top Chef'' pantry. The winner received immunity from elimination. 
*'''Winner:''' Joey (Trio of Tarts: Berry Cream with Balsamic Vinegar, Roasted Mango Purée with Rum, Warm Apple Compote)
''Elimination Challenge:'' The contestants prepared a classical Latin lunch course to be served to the cast and crew of the [[Telemundo]] [[telenovela]] ''[[Dame Chocolate]]''. They had $150 to spend on groceries and initially had three hours to prep. However, on the day of the lunch, the chefs were told that they only had 90 minutes to complete their meals and pack them for service. The winner received a bottle of Argentine wine from guest judge DUO restaurant co-owner Maria Frumkin.
*'''Winner:''' Howie (Braised Pork Shoulder with [[Yucca]] Sour Orange [[Mojo (sauce)|Mojo]])
*'''Eliminated:''' Lia (Smoked [[Rainbow Trout]] with [[Polenta]] Cake)
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 32
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 6
 |Title      = Watch What Happens Special
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|7|25}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 33
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 7
 |Title      = {{anchor|7}}Freezer Burn
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|8|1}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The contestants were challenged to the culinary equivalent of a [[spelling bee]], and had to identify foods by either taste or appearance. The winner received immunity from elimination.
*'''Winner:''' Casey
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The contestants were randomly paired up to create [[Bertolli]]-inspired Mediterranean entrées that would be frozen overnight. The food was served to shoppers the next day in the style of pre-packaged frozen dinners. They were given $100 to shop at Fresh Market to buy enough food to make 15 full courses and sampling dishes, two hours to prepare prior to freezing, and another hour after freezing before serving their meals. Each member of the winning team received two tickets to [[Italy]]. [[Rocco DiSpirito]] guest judges.
*Team 1: Hung, Joey
*Team 2: Howie, Sara M. 
*Team 3: Brian, Sara N.
*Team 4: CJ, Tre
*Team 5: Casey, Dale
**'''Winners:''' Tre, CJ ([[Tuber (genus)#Black truffle|Black Truffle]] & Parmesan [[Linguini]], [[Kale]], Tomato [[Confit]] & Grilled Chicken)
**'''Eliminated:''' Joey (Tri-Colored [[Fusilli]] with Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce & Chicken)
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 34
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 8
 |Title      = {{anchor|8}}Guilty Pleasures
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|8|8}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs were given 45 minutes to prepare ingredients to be mixed into [[Cold Stone Creamery]] [[ice cream]] just prior to serving. The winner received immunity from elimination and dined with restaurateur [[Govind Armstrong]] at Table 8.
*'''Winner:''' Dale ( Flambéed Peaches with Candied Pecans and Cobbler Topping)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs were initially told they had the night off to enjoy Miami nightlife. They discovered later that they would be cooking outdoors for patrons at the [[Jack Penrod#Nikki Beach|Nikki Beach night club]]. The eight chefs drew knives to divide into two teams of four, with Quickfire winner Dale getting the night off. Each team was given a catering truck to use as a mobile kitchen, 30 minutes and $300 to shop, and two hours to prepare a number of "late-night" bar food dishes. The winner received a first-edition copy of Armstrong's book and a platinum card good for entry into all Club Nikki locations.
*Black Team: Brian, Hung, Sara M., Tre
*Orange Team: Casey, CJ, Howie, Sara N.
**'''Winner:''' Tre (Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, Cheese [[Grits]] with Tomato [[Chipotle]] Butter)
**'''Eliminated:''' Sara N. (Beef [[Slider (sandwich)|Sliders]] with Caramelized Onions & Plantain Chips)
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 35
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 9
 |Title      = {{anchor|9}}Restaurant Wars
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|8|15}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs were given 30 minutes to prepare a [[hamburger|burger]], as inspired by [[Red Robin|Red Robin's]] line of "Adventuresome" Burgers. The winner received an advantage for the upcoming Elimination Challenge. From this point on, immunity was no longer awarded to the winner of a Quickfire Challenge.
*'''Winner:''' CJ (Scallop Mousse & Shrimp Burger with Tangerine)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs divided into two teams, and each one was responsible for taking an empty space and opening an operating restaurant out of it in 24 hours. The teams had $2,500 and 45 minutes to purchase décor items, and $500 and 30 minutes to shop for food items at The Fresh Market. Each restaurant was connected to the ''Top Chef'' kitchens; thus, teams shared the kitchen space. CJ, as the winner of the Quickfire, was able to select the members of his team. The teams were unaware prior to the challenge that Andrea Strong, author of the food blog "The Strong Buzz", would also be dining in each restaurant and commenting on décor, service, and food, with her comments partially influencing the judging decisions. [[Daniel Boulud]] guest judges.
*Restaurant April: Brian ({{abbr|FOH|Front of house}}), Casey, CJ, Tre ({{abbr|EC|Executive chef}})
**''[[Amuse-bouche]]'': Bluepoint Oyster with Ginger & Watermelon [[Granita]]
**First Course: Seared Sea Scallop on Corn & Black Truffle Custard
**Second Course: Seared [[Grouper]] with Shellfish, Basil [[Pistou]] & Artichoke Hearts
**Third Course: Wild Mushroom and Gorgonzola Crusted Beef Tenderloin on Smoked Fingerling Potatoes
**Dessert: Mango [[Lemongrass]] & Sake Sorbet, [[Tarte Tatin]] with Brandy Sauce & [[Crème Anglaise]]
*The Garage: Dale ({{abbr|FOH|Front of house}}), Howie, Hung, Sara M. ({{abbr|EC|Executive chef}})
**First Course: Tuna Tartare with Egg Vinaigrette, Niҫoise Olive Purée & Herb Salad
**Second Course: Wild Mushroom Risotto with Foie Gras & Black Truffles
**Third Course: Braised Lamb Shank with [[Jerusalem artichoke|Sunchoke]] Potatoes & Baby Vegetables
**Dessert: Sweet [[Crêpe]]s with Dark Chocolate and Orange [[Grand Marnier]] Sauce
***'''Winner:''' None{{efn|No team won the Elimination Challenge, since the judges felt that both teams' respective successes in their restaurants were canceled out by the relative mis-steps. However, the judges decided not to send anyone home this round, opting for a redo of the challenge the next day, where someone would be eliminated afterwards.}}
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 36
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 10
 |Title      = {{anchor|10}}Second Helping
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|8|22}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' Continuing with the same teams from the previous week, both teams competed to be the first to complete four ''[[mise en place]]'' tasks in relay. The winning team received the help of [[Top Chef (season 1)|Season 1]] contestant and [[sommelier]] [[Stephen Asprinio]] for pairing wine with their courses during the Elimination Challenge, along with an extra $200 to spend on wine.
*Restaurant April: Brian, Casey, CJ, Tre
*The Garage: Dale, Howie, Hung, Sara M.
**'''Winner:''' The Garage
'''Elimination Challenge:''' Each team reopened its restaurant, using input from the previous challenge, along with the assistance of [[Christopher Ciccone]], who appeared as a diner in the previous episode, for interior decoration. The teams were allowed to change anything else they wanted with their restaurant, including its name. Each team prepared two different options for three of the four courses. They were given four hours of preparation time before both restaurants opened. Head judge Tom Colicchio was present in the kitchen during the preparation time and into the serving period. The winner received a fully stocked pantry from [[Town & Country (magazine)|Town & Country]]. [[Geoffrey Zakarian]] guest judges.
*Restaurant April: Brian ({{abbr|FOH|Front of house}}), Casey, CJ, Tre ({{abbr|EC|Executive chef}})
**First Course: Seared Sea Scallop on Corn & [[Black Truffle]] Custard; Wild [[Chinook salmon|King Salmon]] with [[Macadamia nut|Macadamia Nut]] [[Pesto]] & Grapefruit
**Second Course: Chilled Carrot & Ginger Soup; Lobster Salad with [[Arugula]] & Caramelized Cauliflower
**Third Course: Monkfish with [[Mascarpone]] Potatoes; Beef Tenderloin with Smoked Potatoes
**Dessert: Apple & [[Brioche]] [[Bread Pudding]] with Cinnamon & Brandy [[Crème anglaise|Anglaise]]
*Quatre: Dale ({{abbr|FOH|Front of house}}), Howie, Hung, Sara M. ({{abbr|EC|Executive chef}})
**First Course: Tuna [[Tartare]] with Egg Vinaigrette; [[Poussin (Chicken)|Poussin]] with Mint [[Gnocchi]], Sweet Pea Purée, Carrots & [[Hazelnuts]]
**Second Course: Halibut with Grapes & [[Braising|Braised]] [[Leeks]]; Lamb with White Beans & [[Green bean|Haricot Verts]]
**Dessert: [[Panna Cotta]] with Fresh Berries; [[Crêpe]] with Orange & [[Grand Marnier]] Sauce
***'''Winner:''' Sara M.
***'''Eliminated:''' Tre
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 37
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 11
 |Title      = {{anchor|11}}Chef Overboard
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|9|5}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs drew numbered knives corresponding to an aisle in a supermarket. Each chef had 20 minutes to create a dish using only $10 worth of products from that aisle, in addition to a limited selection of items from the ''Top Chef'' pantry. The winner received the ability to choose the team leader for the Elimination Challenge.
*'''Winner:''' Brian (Canned Meat Aisle: [[Spam (food)|Spam]], Corned Beef Hash & Fried Egg with Onions & Balsamic Reduction)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' Working as a team, the chefs catered a party for fashion designer [[Esteban Cortázar]] and 60 guests aboard the yacht ''[[Venetian Lady]]'' chartered by the Pure Nightclub. The entire team had a total of $350 to spend for supplies, and had two hours of preparation time on board the yacht prior to service. The winner received a 17-inch [[Apple Computer|Apple]] [[MacBook Pro]] laptop computer. [[Dana Cowin]] and Michael Schwartz guest judge.
*'''Winner:''' Casey (Beef [[Carpaccio]] with [[Watercress]] & Fried [[Caper]], [[Shiitake]] Broth)
*'''Eliminated:''' Howie (Asparagus and [[Prosciutto]] "Cigars" with Parmesan Cheese)
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 38
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 12
 |Title      = {{anchor|12}}Snacks on a Plane
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|9|12}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs were awakened in their penthouse by Padma Lakshmi and had 20 minutes to serve her breakfast using only a butane burner, a [[Breville]] blender, and a selection of ingredients brought over from the ''Top Chef'' pantry. The winner received an early copy of Lakshmi's new cookbook ''Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet'' and was first to choose a protein for the Elimination Challenge.
*'''Winner:''' Hung (Steak & Eggs with Papaya; Banana & [[Grand Marnier]] Shake)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The contestants flew to [[Newark Liberty International Airport]] and, using the [[Continental Airlines]] kitchen at [[Newark Liberty International Airport|Newark Airport]], prepared a meal for [[First class travel|first class]]. The meal had to be reheated and served aboard a [[Boeing 777]] in a hangar to 14 Continental [[flight attendants]] and the judges. The winner received two Continental business first class tickets to any Continental destination worldwide. Anthony Bourdain and	Jimmy Canora guest judge.
*'''Winner:''' Casey (Veal Medallions with [[Crimini]] & Apple Brandy, Cauliflower [[Gratin]] with [[Gruyère (cheese)|Gruyère]])
*'''Eliminated:''' CJ (Seared Halibut & Toasted [[Farro]] with Mint Oil; Roasted [[Broccolini]] with Breadcrumbs)
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 39
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 13
 |Title      = {{anchor|13}}Manhattan Project
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|9|19}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs dined at [[Le Cirque]] on a classic dish of sea bass wrapped in thinly sliced [[Russet Burbank potato|Russet potatoes]] over [[leeks]]. They then had 25 minutes to recreate the dish as closely as possible to the original. This challenge was judged by [[Sirio Maccioni]], owner of Le Cirque and the co-creator of the dish. The winner earned an extra 30 minutes of cooking time for the Elimination Challenge and the opportunity to serve the elimination judges first.
*'''Winner:''' Hung
'''Elimination Challenge:''' At the [[French Culinary Institute]], the chefs created dishes highlighting what are said to be the three hardest [[French cuisine]] ingredients to be creative with: [[onion]], [[Chicken (food)|chicken]], and [[potato]]. The chefs had a $200 budget to shop at the [[Union Square Greenmarket]] and two hours to cook (except Hung, who had an extra 30 minutes). The dishes were served to a panel of FCI deans consisting of [[André Soltner]], [[Nils Norén]], [[Jacques Torres]], [[Alain Sailhac]], [[Cesare Casella]], and Dorothy Hamilton. The four dishes judged as the best would advance to the ''Top Chef'' finale in [[Aspen, Colorado]].
*'''Winner:''' Hung (Sous-Vide Chicken, Crisp Chicken Skin, [[Pommes dauphine|Pommes Dauphine]], Salad)
*'''Eliminated:''' Sara M. ([[Fricassee]] Chicken with Potato & [[Couscous]] [[Risotto]], [[Confit]] of Onions)
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 40
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 14
 |Title      = {{anchor|14}}Finale, Part 1
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|9|26}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Quickfire Challenge:''' The chefs were each given a fresh [[trout]] from the [[Fryingpan River]] Valley area of Aspen, Colorado, along with a frying pan, camping stove, and several basic pantry ingredients. They then had 20 minutes to create an original dish to impress guest judge [[Eric Ripert]], executive chef of [[Le Bernardin]] restaurant in New York City.
*'''Winner:''' Casey (Trout Filet with Crisped Skin, Grapes, Tomatoes & Summer Corn)
'''Elimination Challenge:''' At the Moon Run Ranch, the chefs catered the annual dinner for the [[Snowmass (ski area)|Snowmass]] Rodeo Riders, using supplies already in place for the event's original caterers. Once the chefs arrived in the kitchens, the protein was revealed: [[elk]]. Each chef had three hours to create their own menu of dishes, and an hour for service. As the winner of the Quickfire Challenge, Casey was the only chef who would be able to use the items she brought from home in the Elimination Challenge. All others had to use what was provided.
*'''Winner:''' Dale (Spiced Elk Loin, [[Huckleberry]] & Blackberry Sauce, Cauliflower & Fingerling Potatoes)
*'''Eliminated:''' Brian ( Whiskey-Braised Elk Shank, Potato Purée, [[Pancetta]], Corn & Asparagus Relish)
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 41
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 15
 |Title      = {{anchor|15}}Finale, Part 2
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|10|3}}
 |ShortSummary  = 
'''Elimination Challenge:''' The chefs took a ski lift to the [[Aspen Mountain (ski area)|Aspen Mountain Club]], with an elevation of 11,200 feet. Their instructions for the final challenge were simple: "cook us the best meal you've ever cooked in your life." They were shown a large, diverse array of proteins and produce and were given 35 minutes to plan a three-course menu. Their final meal was served head-to-head rather than back-to-back; each chef's course was presented at the same time as their competitors. The chefs then drew knives to see which celebrity sous-chef they would be paired with for the three-hour prep period on the first day. Hung was paired with celebrity chef and author Rocco DiSpirito. Casey was paired with chef [[Michelle Bernstein]]. Dale was matched with chef and restaurateur [[Todd English]]. On the second day, the chefs were given two hours to complete their dishes before service. With an hour left, however, they were told that that had to add a fourth course to their menus. It could be composed of any ingredient available in the kitchen, and be served at any point in the meal. Eliminated contestants CJ, Howie, and Sara M. were randomly paired through knife drawing with Dale, Casey, and Hung, respectively, as sous-chefs to assist in the fourth course preparation. The four judges were joined at the dining table by the three celebrity sous-chefs and the most recently eliminated contestant, Brian. This episode marked the first, and only, time that the winner of ''Top Chef'' was announced live following the pre-taped portion of the show, at a live event in [[Chicago]].
*Casey:
**First Course: Cinnamon Scented Scallop with Celery & [[Foie Gras]] with Apple
**Second Course: [[Poaching (cooking)|Poached]] [[Prawn]] with Rice Cake in Lobster Mushroom Broth
**Third Course: Crispy [[Pork belly|Pork Belly]] over Pea Shoots with a Roasted Peach and [[Crème fraîche|Crème Fraîche]]
**Fourth Course: Seared Sirloin with Potatoes, Mushrooms, Ruby [[Chard]] & Parsley Purée
*Dale:
**First Course: Foie Gras [[Mousse]] with Peach [[Ras el hanout|Ras El Hanout]] [[Gastrique]] & [[Arugula]]
**Second Course: Seared Scallop with [[Portulaca oleracea|Purslane]] Grapes & Sweet Corn
**Third Course: Lobster, Corn, Mushrooms & [[Gnocchi]] in [[Curry]] [[Au jus|Jus]]
**Fourth Course: Poached Lamb with Eggplant Purée, Tomatoes & Squash
*Hung:
**First Course: "Fish & Chips": [[Japanese amberjack|Hamachi]], Potatoes, Olive Oil & Tomato Vinaigrette
**Second Course: Shrimp with [[Palm sugar|Palm Sugar]], Cucumber Salad & Coconut Foam
**Third Course: Sous-Vide Duck with Mushroom [[Ragout]] & Truffle Sauce
**Fourth Course: Molten Chocolate Cakes with Raspberry Coulis, Vanilla Creme Fraîche, & [[Nougatine]] Tuiles
***'''Winner:''' Hung
***'''Runners-up:''' Dale, Casey
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}}{{Episode list/sublist|Top Chef: Miami
 |EpisodeNumber = 42
 |EpisodeNumber2 = 16
 |Title      = Reunion
 |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|2007|10|10}}
 |LineColor    = #FFCA3A
}}
}}</onlyinclude>

==References==
;Notes
{{notelist}}
;Footnotes
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef Official website]

{{Top Chef}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Top Chef (Season 3)}}
[[Category:Top Chef]]
[[Category:2007 American television seasons]]
[[Category:Television shows set in Miami]]
[[Category:Television shows filmed in Florida]]
[[Category:Television shows filmed in New Jersey]]
[[Category:Television shows filmed in New York (state)]]
[[Category:Television shows filmed in Colorado]]