The Next Food Network Star is…..

Aarti Sequeira, who will be filming Aarti Paarti; showing viewers how to put an Indian flair on food. The pizza she made did look appealing, and if I can find the recipe I’ll likely make it. I have to be honest; she would have been my third choice. However, she was consistent throughout the challenges, and wowed the Iron Chefs with her food. Michael Symon declared it the best food he had eaten in the three years of Next Food Network Star.

I really thought it was going to be Tom Pizzica, whose Big Chef concept was engaging. His pilot was even more intriguing. He seemed like a friend who invites you over for dinner then wows you with amazing food. And I loved his tagline, “It’s your kitchen.” It made me feel like Tom was saying, “Hey, I’m just a guy who knows how to cook, giving you a few tips. I know you can do it!”

Tom was followed, in my mind, very closely by Herb Mesa, whose concept Cooking con Sabor (Cooking with Flavor) was inspired by his experience as an overweight child. I think the Latin influence would have been wildly popular, especially coupled with his healthy approach to the food.

But… Aarti was consistent throughout Next Food Network Star, and wowed the Iron Chefs with her food.

Although I am disappointed that I won’t be watching Big Chef, I’ll give Aarti a chance. However, she needs to win me over.