tony

i think when you do what you do best
just be yourself, that's what we love
and if that doesn't work fit in a beer tasting or 12

and fans
we stay fans

Enjoy the Philippines Tony, and keep doing what you do best. Leave the arm chair cooking to others.

Tony, you are best 'in the wild'. When people put you in a cage and expect you to perform, of course it is not going to be natural. We all love ya anyway.

Awwww - I haven't even gotten to the DVR yet to watch "At the Table", and now I feel guilty about watching it at all. But - as with a terrible train wreck - I also feel horribly compelled to.

Take some comfort from the between-the-lines message in the commentary - your peeps (in general) have confidence in you, in your ethic, in your good sense, and in your future. We've all had those lampshade-on-the-head evenings of narcissistic, self-indulgent Bacchanalia, but most of us don't, thank goodness, have a camera crew there to document the event. (Or, come to think of it, $2K budgets to fund it...).

We're happy you're rich and successful and happy. Really. But apparently it makes us feel much better when you do all that in private. No offense. We know your heart is in the right place. Not that those posh things aren't worth considering, but...maybe not so much on TV. It's a little harsh, especially right now. We need someone we can relate to to show us how very good life is for "the rest of us." We KNOW it's good if you can afford a $2K meal. But what can you get off the street for $4?

Enjoy the Philippines. And if you do another USA show - for God's sake, go to a hot dog stand or something. I'd like you to have a long and entertaining career.

Tony,

I agree that you're at your best "in the wild." I did enjoy the different format. Compared with No Reservations, though, it was a little sub par.

I should say, however (I don't know why I didn't say it in my first post), that I hope you won't be afraid to try new and different kinds of shows in the future!

Innovation has its price. Failure is not necessarily bad as it teaches you important lessons. The key however is to fail fast so you don't leave a stench the size of a warthog rectum.

I agree with other posters that the show didn't have the same level of interest to me than No Reservations. Chin up. We still adore you. Looking forward to the new episodes!

tony--- coming from the kitchen world, i'm sure that you can appreciate and understand the need for a good ***-kicking from time to time. just keep charging and doin' it for the BOH crews around the world!

I dunno - I thought At The Table was kind of fun. It was a kick to get as close as I'm ever gonna get to the food of Wylie Defresne (sp?) and yeah the dinner guests were snooty New Yorkers and the the naked diving for cacao beans bordered on inappropriate table conversation, but I get a kick out of snooty New Yorkers too. To be honest, it may be more interesting then more Asian street food. I'd have watched it again, with the suggestion that the tablemates get a little tipsier and really let their tongues wag.

Come to the Salcedo saturday market! It has authentically prepared food from all over the country, plus some foreign cuisine, you'll love it. We promise to ogle you from a distance :)

If people like us didn't care - oh well - the experiment can be fixed easily by picking Real People instead of "Bleep holes".
Still with you bro' and if you find a good beer there - please pimp it.

Where are you in Manila? Would love to catch the production..

Hey! Welcome to the Philippines! Looking forward to seeing this episode.

I agree with previous posters. We, the true fans, will always remain true fans. Don't be afraid to try new shows. And failure merely allows us to better understand our strengths. :)

I disagree that it was an unmitigated disaster. mitigate... mitigate... You're a good talker - you know that from the speeches. People love your world traveler shtick, but you know you can't do that forever. The show just needs some tweek - some gloss. It needs more cooking. Less Charlie Rose, more Boulud. In fact, Mojo's dead - find some of the people behind After Hours and format a new hour-long show along those lines, with some cooking, but with more lean towards talk in the mix. Above all, get better guests. Buford was the only person worth anything. Try again.

Go to Dampa Sa Libis on the border of Marikina! I'm so stoked. SO stoked.

Don't worry Tony! I'm not against you having balut again because it's awesome, but if you're trying street fare, don't forget isaw. Sisig with ice cold beer is great too. Just focus on the food and you'll be fine. Enjoy Pinas!

i'm sorry, chef. we get all giddy like fan girls and boys whenever somebody else mentions--be it in a good light or band--anything about our country. it should be fun though. hope you have a mighty fine time! if you've time, check out the music, too. punks not die! mwahahaha

At last you're here in Manila !! I wish I could meet you. I love your shows and I like you just the way you are. Stay cool.

Another name for balut is "eggs with legs". Been there, done that. As Jean Shepherd once said, "Flick lives."

Try the monkey-on-a-stick.

Tony,

While I didn't like the guests you invited for "At The Table" -- I do appreciate the fact that you did try to do something new and interesting. Don't stop experimenting.

Like most of the other commenters, I didn't think the show was a complete abortion. Bill Buford was the only person (other than Tony) who said anything remotely interesting and thought-provoking. Ted Allen seemed to be trying to make witty remarks the entire time and it didn't work. And as boring as my life is that I would be leaving a comment on a blog post, there is no doubt in my mind that I would have served the show better than those other guests.

I don't understand why the show couldn't just get a group of chefs and legitimate food writers together to shoot the s***. This sort of begs the question: if you could put together a table of 5 or 6 diners to sit around and discuss food for a few hours, who would make your list? I guarantee I could ask this question to a billion people, and nowhere on anybody's list would there be a club promoter(?) and a gossip column editor.

Thank God that debacle is behind you! Of course we crazy fans forgive you for straying, and really to be honest, the "At the Table" format has potential to the max. Even my ex was interested and commented that it was provocative in terms of food philosophy-expanded into a two hour history channel style documentary. So, anyway, if you give this format another shot make sure you have TOTAL creative control. I hit delete on my tivo and so *poof* its outta my little universe. Like it never existed...
Oh! and Happy Trails...

ah, tony...don't let last week dampen your experience in the philippines. we've waited so long to see you there. i suspect that the infectious good nature of all filipinos will help buoy your flagging spirits. you will not screw up...you will not screw up...

Tony-
Didn't see the show. We like you raw and vulnerable...like being pounded by a masseuse (sp?)...get out there and eat and drink...show us what the world is like...we will watch. Come back to Atlantic City...enjoyed the show!

Ahh Tony,

You poor wimpering prima dona. Get over it. We all %$#*-up sooner or later. Quit your self-loathing tea-leaf flogging and go eat some bull testicles.

anthony bourdain, you're the best
even when you're not at your best

admitting failure was very cool

love you
mean it

I really hope you go to Lydia's lechon. I guarantee it's better than the one in Puerto Rico AND Indonesia.

It wasn't THAT bad. Ok, so you read the posts and know what you have to do for the next episode. Just recognizing the need for "repair" is a step in the right direction. I still think the concept is good; tweek it and learn from the comments here. As for NR - that is your forte'. Go enjoy the Philippeans in the way we expect you to - be yourself, explore, engage, and snark away, baby! Looking forward to it. Be well and safe, artnlit (Bonnie)

Tony,

Although I didn't love "At the Table," I still think it's a format that might be worth another couple of shows. Either get a bunch of chefs and really concentrate on the cooking and the wine . . . or, have some people you know to be particularly witty (chefs or not -- Ruhlman comes to mind) and talk about the things friends talk about when they get together -- favorite trips, favorite books, favorite music, etc. I think you do have possibilities as a raconteur, but the first show didn't bring out the best in you or your guests (and I'm not sure there's much "best" in Amy Sacco to bring out).

I agree with those who thought At The Table was less than your best work, but don't give up on it. The thing I like about your show is that you put the food in the perspective of the culture, and you always do it with respect (even though you may personally not like warthog anus). Batali's show was like that: "the people of this region of Italy eat this dish because..." In my opinion, you do it better.

As Primus said:

They can't all be zingers.

Oh honey, we're hard on you because we heart you so vurrah vurrah much. I'm sure your Phillipines show will be awesome as they all are when you don't phone it in ;) Was it Milan Kundera who said the best writing comes out of conflict? Then this new season will surpass all the others...

well, I can't wait to watch it. You, as always, are as intriguing, if not more so, than the places you travel and the food you eat.

Oh honey, we're hard on you because we heart you so much. I'm sure your Philippines show will be awesome as they all are when you don't phone it in ;) Was it Milan Kundera who said the best writing comes out of conflict? Then this new season will be a cracker!

We still love you. And, I don't think it warranted such hostility from the fans. But I am probably not the most objective viewer out there. :D

I wish you could cover the Hobbit house, defintely a unique restaurant. Malate is going to be an interesting place to cover.

Tony, you are still the man! Just do what you do best!

OK, I'm going to be the one to tell you the truth here. Last round of comments were all harsh, and deservedly so. This round of comments is all "we heart you" and "learn from your mistakes".
I'm here to tell you that you'd better damn well never do that show again. Period. I'm the one who thinks that the locations on No Reservations are the star, that they are the most intriguing part of the show. I wish there was someone else hosting No Reservations honestly. Can we compromise and get you a companion to travel with that might be more appealing?
Or hey, I'll take your job and won't even be "snarky" to the locals. Oh and my musical references will be from this decade. I admit that I used to like the Clash (I get the Pressure Drop reference), even hung out with Joe Strummer on his first visit to NYC about 22 yrs ago. But come on. Infuse this show with some life, some spirit of youth, some optimistic humor. Some fun?
Btw, I went to Egypt last summer. It was my favorite place that I've visited to date. I still don't forgive you for not doing Egypt justice. Not visiting the Pyramids because it's cliche? I get it if you skip the Eiffel Tower in Paris but the Pyramids in Egypt?
Refresh your mind, my snarky, jaded friend.

When my brother was a teenager working at Micky Dee's - they would hide a nice dead American Cockroach to be used when difficult customers like "Paul" would order.

The Philippines is one of the few places in Asia I did not visit in the Navy.

Tough Love My friend Tough Love

Like most cooks you should get the point of this.

Like Most I thought the CONCEPT was good, but weak guests, and man you were throwing out softball questions. Next time put the Electrodes to work and get some real fire.

And For God's sake eat somewhere that puts FOOD on the plate.

GO GET EM TIGER.

Bob

This business is killing me
And so they say
Hey, hey
You work, you work
You write all night
Until the early morning light

Can't please all the people

All the time
All the people
All the time
But then they don't
Please me

Well I can't take it no more
No, I can't take it no more

Run around, run around

Well I can't take it no more
No, I can't take it

Just do what you love - it shows when you do - and thats what people love about you.

I really liked the concept. I'd like to see round two. I just think there was a little lack of chemistry between the guests... it seemed a little forced. Maybe invite a group of people you regularly get drunk with... ply them with booze and turn the cameras on.

Tony, Oh my gosh, let me profess my undying love for you. You're forgiven, just don't do it again. Now come here baby and let me wash all the stench from you fine body.

I was wondering when you'd finally make it here, especially since Janet and Andrew both made stops here already. Can't wait to watch it and yes, there is more to Filipino food that balut. Goodness knows that though it's popular, not everyone actually eats/likes it. Cheers and enjoy your stay!

Tony, I'm a beer-swilling swine who is content with a pizza, watching college football along with the occasional baseball game on the NarcoticScreen, and who -- since I stumbled upon No Reservations a couple months back -- know that your TV show is the best thing on the boober. Looking forward to your take on Filipino food -- I married into a Filipino family here on Oahu awhile back. And spent some good times in Manila back in the day of traveling to parts of SE Asia. Thanks for the sanity, the brilliance and the humor.

Thank you for visiting our country Tony! I hope you get to find the most interesting meals while you're here. Good luck and have fun during your stay.

No public appearance, even for some fans? I'd love to have my dog-eared books signed :)

As a fillipino, I can not wait to see the show. We just want to see you realy get deep into the food culture, raw & uncut!! Oh yeah, Andrew Zimmerman's show about the phillippines was a disappointment. I know you will kick ***!

For what it's worth, I didn't dislike At The Table. I think the format could use some tightening. Less of the cutouts to the individuals - without context, THEIR humor fell flat. Maybe a walking tour of street food with friends?

oh gheezus cripes you're here! may i stalk you, kind sir? i promise to be gentle!

I just saw the show. I'm always late on that because The Boy is gone every week on business, so we save stuff up for when he gets back. For the last 21 years, that's the way it is. Sigh.

However. The problem was in the guests. Ted Allen is a sweetie, and more than a match for you when it comes to telling stories, dishing, and thinking things through clearly. Bill Buford is brilliant, but he came across as somewhat staid, almost like a hall monitor. The other two were frankly boring. I've blocked their names from my brain for eternity. Dealing with pretentious ninnies is something I don't have time for. Plus, I don't get paid for it any more. All they managed to provide was the usual "we're privileged, but we're real, so suck it up anyway" twaddle that we've all heard a thousand times or so before.

That said. Your question about the $1800.00 meal was more than valid. What are you buying, and is it worth it to you? The majority of posters to your previous post had issues with the money. Perhaps it was because we're starting to really see the consequences of the recession, I suspect a great deal of it was sour grapes, but none of that matters. If you had been with people (with the exception of Mr. Allen), that were willing to give it serious thought instead of trying to be clever and coming across as flip, it would have been a lot more interesting.

The money question had more to do with what one's priorities are than any sort of morality. Many of those same people who came down on you for spending that much have $5000.00 home theaters. I wouldn't likely spend that kind of money on dinner for two, but I WOULD and will be spending that much on tuning my car. Should I give that money to charity or buy a junker for a single mom to get to work it? Um, no. I already give to charity.

We all earn our livings. We all have things that we like to do for no other reason than that we like to do them. You, of all people ought to know that! The money is secondary. I'd be willing to bet that if you took it as a percentage of income, the naysayers spend more on entertainment than you do. I know it makes you feel a bit squidgy to do stuff like that, and that's a good thing. It means you remember what it was like when you couldn't, and it should remind you of what you had go through to be in the position you're in now. If others are willing to put in the hours and work through the stress that you have, then they, too can feel free to burn $1800.00 on dinner.

The format could be an interesting way to make a few specials. It's the guest list that needs work, and really, don't we say that after every dinner party?

hey pau

the rhetoric is what makes 'no reservatons' - along with tony's entire attitude and demeanor - all real and good with a healthy dose of intelligence and humanism.

if you fail to miss that, change the channel.

At The Table was FINE, Tony. Relax. The food looked really pompous and the questions could have been better answered by the average 'man on the street' instead of your well-paid pals, but it did not suck. I'd watch it again. Why not do it again with just regular people? I think you'd get a way better show that way.

Well, welcome to our humble country, Tony. Keep your pockets clean and make sure you have candy in your pockets all the time. You'll see...

And don't take the same route as Andrew Zimmern. You're too cool for that. AND YOU KNOW IT. Have fun in Manila while you're at it. It's an insane city, but I think you've been briefed about that already, and you pretty much have a battle plan ready. Don't go soft on Manila, Tony!!

Looking forward to the episode.

After receiving a tip that you'd be in Pampanga yesterday, two friends and I thought it'd be a hoot to head over! Yes, driving 1 & 1/2 hours and skipping work and sleep for the slight chance of seeing you might sound very stalker-like, but I assure you we're not certifiable. We figured that even if we didn't manage any face time with you or get our books signed (specifically, "Nasty Bits" and "Typhoid Mary"), we'd at least eat some good food while we were there. And for our designated driver, it was a milestone -- it was her first time to drive out of town!

Well, as is obvious to you by now, we didn't get lucky. We showed up at Bale Dutung unannounced (we've eaten there before) and tried to explain to the very befuddled owner (your host) what three women were doing at his doorstep in the middle of the day. He confirmed that you were, indeed, coming, but not until much later, and in any case he couldn't let us hang around to watch. We were disappointed, of course, but also hungry, so we quickly shifted to Plan B: lunch at a Cajun restaurant, where we comforted ourselves with seven kinds (yes, that's more than two for each of us!) of carb-based side dishes. No, we're not obese and we do like protein, too; but good Cajun food does not exist in Manila, so we were excited by the biscuits, cornbread and grits.

As we drove back that afternoon, while wondering if you were inside any of the vehicles heading the other direction, we got a text telling us what hotel you're staying at in Manila. We could've saved ourselves a lot of trouble if we'd just stayed in town and had breakfast there! But then, we couldn't have had all that gumbo, catfish and ham hock. So I guess we can thank you for that.

We hope you have a blast in the Philippines, and that you get a taste of the best of our local cuisine. You've got great guides showing you around, so we know you won't screw up.

Welcome to our couontry, Anthony. Do let us know what's on your Filipino menu when you get the chance -- regardless how odd the contents may be.

All the best.

while in manila go visit cebu too, try the hanging rice and cebu lechon!

i mean while your in the philippines try to visit cebu, try the hanging rice with cebu lechon and barbeque and kinilaw.

Where are you?! I want to worship at your feet!

Damn time you visit the Philippines Anthony =P wish I'm there now to see you in person but I won't be there til the first week of November >_< But I hope you'll have a great time there !!

can u do something other on your show about drone on about how good the alcohol is and suck up whatever they feed you? How about u cooking something? You are the worlds greatest taste tester..u snub the food network and the people on it..hmmph..show us some of your skills sometime..its not hard to snarf food and liquor all day and give an opinion..and your books suck..even rachel can run circles around your greedy drunk ***

Nice reference to early "ska".

When are you endorsing a presidential candidate?

Tony, welcome to Manila! Hope you have an awesome time here and I so hope we bump into you somewhere!

You're my man, Tony.

Hi Tony. I'm an expat living in the Philippines. I'm a bit adventurous with food, and that is why I am huge fan of yours. Since you're in this country, you should go find the time to go a tiny little steakhouse in Makati called Elbert's. It's very secluded (doesn't even have a sign or an obvious door). There you will pleasantly be surprised to find some of the most fantastic steaks in the world, bar none. You can find details at their site, steakroom.com. Look for Elbert, I'm sure he'll be thrilled to have you.

YOU'RE HERE?! :)

Are you really here in Manila? Shriek!

Looking forward to watching this episode. I just watched At the Table. I loved that you and your guests were so involved in your conversation that the food was an after thought.

Great to know u'll be travelin around my part of the world after hearin all ur honest reviews about everywhere else...hope u enjoy

...just one recommendation, if u wanna have the best seafood in Manila, try Dampa Sa Libis, u wont be disappointed :)

welcome to Manila! email me if u need a tourist guide :-)

Go to Istanbul, you won't regret it!

I want to preface what I'm about to say with "I loved you on Top Chef. I loved Ted Allen on Top Chef." But to see you two together in dinner jackets eating a tasting menu and not eliminating or eviscerating someone's blood, sweat, and tears? What a yawn. At least give me some venom.

Maybe the venom was there, but, to be honest, my husband and I couldn't even finish watching the show to find out. We'd DVRed it thinking "Oh it's Anthony, it won't be as bad as it sounds." Um, yes, it was. And I was very sorry for it. I even love Wylie Defresne with his cute little sideburns and scrumpdillyumptious comida! But this seemed .SO. contrived. Would you guys (and gal) all really sit around in nice clothes eating that dinner? Maybe. Probably. And you have every right to! You're all well-to-do and lovers of all things sapid. Of course you should eat it and enjoy it and feel free to hang out with friends and chit chat about it.

But I don't necessarily want to see that while I'm stuck at home feeding my family hamburger helper-esque meals each week.

We normally love living our food fantasies through you, but this week left us a little deflated. Luckily, my husband and I know that your charm and wry wit will shine again in a more natural habitat with the new season of No Reservations. Looking forward to the pig in shit versus last week's pig in pantaloons. (although you shouldn't take that to mean I think you're a pig. you seem like a quite lovely man.)

I'm so glad that voices of the masses have changed the tide...We love you on the go...Tasteing new and exciting & sometimes awful dishes from spanning the globe.
I think more people threw a lot of anger your way when all in all, you didn't write it; didn't produce it; and had to endure it like ourselves... But the powers that be flipped your audiences world by trying something lame...Please don't tell me it was your idea... Much love from the Midwest, where men are men & sheep are scared...I also now have a little girl, pick up one of your old vices...It'll calm you down...Think of smoking hash on the top of a sand dune, how relaxed were you then?
wd

Hey Tony, I hope it's not too late. But I'm sure you're production staff made plans already for the Philippine Episode. There are three books which you can read about Philippine Cuisine: The Governor-Generals Kitchen Philippine Culinary Vignettes 1521-1935 by Felice Sta. Maria and Kulinarya, A Guide Book to Philippines Cuisine by 6 different local chefs, and Pulutan (roughly translated Bar chow or Tapas)by 2 detained military coup plotters. Pulutan is quite special because these men where complaining about their diet in an enforced residence (i.e. prison) so they cooked and wrote a cookbook so they can keep their sanity. Email me. I would love to help you. Pulutan is your best bet. These books are available locally. It's an honest account of what Filipino food is all about. It's good with San Miguel beer and cigarettes.

Tony, in your soul you knew the static format and the pretentious/dull group "At the Table" were a lethal combination; hence, your justified trepidation on the cab ride to the restaurant.

It wasn't so much you - it was them.

Keep experimenting. Your fans will keep watching. You've built up enough cred through your brilliant travel shows and your writing to be forgiven the occasional misstep.

If you ever go back to the table, give it more action, more filming in the kitchen during meal prep, more one-on-one with the chef. And invite friends who complement your wit and sense of humor and revel in good food and good company the way you do. That's the kind of party we'd love you to host.

It was an honor to have seen and met you yesterday :)

Thank you for seeing the Philippines...thank you for choosing Angeles City!

Hope you enjoyed... :)

TONY,
Just my 2 cents on the new show--casting & production. Perhaps the producers should have considered mixing up the line-up. At the moments when you were having to over-moderate it was because you were sitting with all fellow foodies. Seemingly everyone would go down the same road topic after topic because they all are submerged in the hi-food scene. Why not mix it up for the next one including an athlete, a businessman, a musician, an artist, a model... I would love to see another one. The high-chroma look did give it some timeliness, however shooting the cutaways and side interviews in the same format was far from innovative.
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW SEASON OF NR!
Cheers.

Oh man up you big douchy stork! The show was not that bad. All these aholes with their withering comments are just trying to get your attention. Bunch of egg-head dorks, I got douche chills reading the comments and had to quit these people take themselves so seriously. NOW I DEMAND MORE EPISODES!

SIR TONY!!!

I am really looking forward to meet you, see you, catch you here in Manila! I flew to the states, in New York but to no luck I didn't catch you. Hence, the only closest way I got myself near you was to order NO RESERVATIONS on AMAZON and keeping the dvd's really kept safe with my life protecting it. I'm back in Manila and I still watch your show over and over again. I can't get enough!

I dream to be a Bourdain but no one can ever become ANTHONY BOURDAIN!

Where can we meet and greet you? Oh Please! Let there be a change here in Manila! :)

Hey Tony....Mabuhay! Welcome to the Philippines. Im sure you know by now that u have a lot of followers here in Manila...and they can get pretty wild especially now that word is out that you are here :D i wish you an enjoyable stay in the Philippines and always remember that your Filipino fans adore you.

I think that if you take the time to mull over the comments, you will see that you were not shot at, but corrected. Your fans love you for your honest approach to travel and food. I remember a session on one of your shows where you meet other chefs and had a late night and talked confortably (you had bone marrow). Use that as a base to start and give the audience another chance. It will work.

Philippines loves you :) Relax and enjoy the food. you should have ADOBO and SINIGANG aside from of course other provincial specialties.

Paul will speak again!
I defend my comments. I do not go along with the crowd.
Claudia left a comment:

"hey pau

the rhetoric is what makes 'no reservatons' - along with tony's entire attitude and demeanor - all real and good with a healthy dose of intelligence and humanism.

if you fail to miss that, change the channel."

Claudia, If there were the same format with a likeable host on a different channel, I would change the channel! I don't like Tony's attitude, demeanor, "intelligence" but I will give him humanism. Do I really have to look at him in Daisy Dukes cavorting in the ocean? Yuk!
I keep fighting the urge to say "shut up and move" so I can see the locals, the food, the environment.
I'm sure there are others out there that feel the same way. If someone else comes along to host this type of show, I promise, I'll change the channel!

Welcome to the Philippines tony!

My boyfriend and I are big fans of your show. email us if you'd like a rock n roll food tour of the philippines with a real filipino rockstar :)

peace!

I think this whole thing is a bit weird. Was the show truly a failure? Why is it off putting or bizarre for Bourdain and/or the Travel Channel execs to consider pursuing additional avenues to explore subjects that are more personal or ponderings that may occupy the minds of so-called culinary/restaurant biz "insiders?" My husband and I have worked as advisers and traders with venture capitalists and private equity firms, we know many people who are doing well economically and question the appropriateness, necessity, or value of their consumption. We also know many very successful people who would rather eat Jamaican Patties with Coco Bread and Jerk Chicken, and have eaten at WD50 and similar venues feeling unimpressed, disinterested, and hungry.

"At The Table" isn't the most boring thing I've seen featuring Bourdain. Some episodes of No Reservations can be snooze fests depending on your cultural perspectives, personal histories and interests. "At The Table" is also very similar to a show Chef Daniel Boulud hosts (or "hosted" in the past tense, I'm not sure the show is currently in production) on the cable network Mojo. I thought the Daniel show was cool since it is very much spirited with the quintessence of Daniel. Daniel's show revealed a certain aspect of chef comaraderie, horseplay, and foul-mouthed gossipy chatter that was at the very least entertaining, if not educational from a cultural or culinary perspective. I remember watching Daniel's show and wondering how well Bourdain would fare in a similar environment. I guess obviously the jury is still out on that one. However, I believe "At The Table" wasn't successful at capturing a deeply personal facet of Bourdain's personality or his relationship with fellow chefs or foodie friends because of the lineup, the static location, and the trappings of production. I think Bourdain's problem with "At The Table" stems from his guests (boring professional foodies) and the unfamiliar production environment that apparently made him feel very John McLaughlin-ish.

The Saudi Arabia No Reservations episodes was so much fresher than most culinary shows because of the absence of professional foodies and the presence of a genuine intellectual intimacy and connection between Bourdain and the woman who guided him in Saudi Arabia.

If Bourdain keeps focused on Chefs who he likes and respects, and people who are knowledgeable advocates of food and culture (amateur foodies like the lady in the Saudi Arabia episode), then I think everything else will take care of itself. As for the folks who wish to link the issue of a television show episode to class, economics, or cultural issues, let's don't get ahead of ourselves and go too far. I hope Bourdain does not become a slave to his fans...The production decisions of Anthony Bourdain and the Travel Network have absolutely nothing to do with the sustainability of the Global economic system.

Finally!!! :)
Enjoy and welcome to the Philippines...

nice! i'm always glad when filipino food gets represented in mainstream media! thanks Tony! can't wait for the episode. Eat Filipino Food!

Yes I'm with you, dont do balut! But I'm glad you've made your way to the Philippines and I'm sure you'll be well-welcomed there. I can't wait what you have to show about the Philippines. I'm eager to see what adventures and experiences you and your crew goes through. Be safe & do skip drinking tap water, just an fyi. :)

God! You are such a brand. I scratch the surface of your cookbook and like my mussels, coquilles st. jack with piper-sonoma brut and cote de porc a la charcutiere more than life itself. When they come for that I will defend myself.

You could have had at least had the courtesy to mention to Daniel Boulud you were going to do a show that was pretty much exactly like the one he has. Grimey. Aren't 7 shows on the Travel Channel enough?

Oh. The Phillipines. Don't go fishing with anyone who uses dynamite. Save some coral for the grandkids.

We're having an annual Adobo Festival in Silay City, Negros Occidental on November 5th, in case you would like to take a look-see.

Cheer up. Thankfully, I didn't see "At the Table" (The Travel Channel is literally the only channel that my cable doesn't carry), but it can't possibly be 1/3 as bad as the pointless and embarassing debacle that is the new Mario Batali/Mark Bittman PBS show. Can't recall the name, as I just called it "Horndogs on Holiday" before abandoning it halfway through the 3rd show. At least your effort isn't sucking up the increasingly scarce PBS funding.

There....don't you feel MUCH better now?

Hi Tony,

Would really appreciate it if we could have our copy of your books signed. :-)

Well, the good news is that my boyfriend enjoyed the episode. The bad news: I sat there and wondered if we were watching the same show. While it was awkward, there was a good idea behind it. I think with a little tweaking, it could be great. What really sucked is that you didn't get to talk! You were like the moderator at a food debate! Enjoy the Philippines and take it easy. Best wishes to you an your family!

Say NO to Balut.
Say NO to purple yam ice cream in hamburger buns.
Say NO to indigenous grubs/bugs.
Other than that, chow down with the Hungry Filipinos (the nicest and most generous people on the planet) and do what you do best: Make us want to go there.

Don't worry. You still rock. We'll all still be tuning in for our Monday night snark fix.

[Fan girl alert] OH.MY.GOD.

You're here! You're really here! :D

Hope you have a awesome time in the Philippines! We have an amazing selection of grub, I don't even know why we're not that popular on the gastronomy map. Skip balut, yes, and don't drown yourself in the San Mig lights (maybe you should try lambanog or some other local alcohol concoction we have here). There's so much to try, Tony, you'll have more than enough to film with. :)

And oh, don't worry if people are bombarding you with where-to-go's and what-to-do's in the Philippines. We just love it when cool dudes like yourself take the time to check out our humble little niche this side of Asia.

Any news on a meet and greet? I would drag my weak, barely-a-week-from-surgery a*s to wherever you'll meet your adoring Pinoy fans. :)

Lastly, would you need a production assistant? I would love to tag along your Pinoy food adventure. :D

finally tony! oh i just wish i could be the one to show you around... whats really good though is that almost all filipinos speak english as long as you dont mind the accent, of what we call carabao engrish, so i hope you wont have a hard time going around...
do try the different specialties from different provinces, like bicol express which is PIG in coconut concoction with a LOT of chili.
enjoy!

That's so exciting to hear that you are in my COUNTRY! I was a little girl when I was moved to the U.S from the Philippines by my mother. It's crazy because I've been here for about 13 years and I still feel lost. I think it's because the Philippines is my home and the people and culture is still in me. I envy you for being there!!!!! Enjoy every moment it! Oh and check out Bohol Island it has the so called "Chocolate hills" You can check out picks of it on myspace elwie_apor on myspace.com

oh the guy who wrote our lives! finally! your in the Philippines! I've been waiting for this! and i'm so sad cause i'm currently away from home. i hope that you'll love your stay there so that it'll make you think to come back again. if that happen, man i'll kill a MAL CARNE to meet you up!..

Tony... 2 things.
1.San Miguel Beer
2.Lechon

With all the different preparations to our favorite meat of choice i'm pretty sure you'll find something you haven't had before and even if you have, how can you go wrong with a roast pig with all the good parts?

Hey Tony,
At the table was well done! I know how hard that could be to get it right. We we're thinking of shooting in the Philippines our self. See you on the next one.
Rob

Try sweet potatoes covered with sugar, or bananas wrapped and covered with sugar. Or Leche Flan, maybe. Or maybe the food in Chinese restaurants in Binondo. Or maybe BBQs - I think it's different compared to the ones in the US.

OMG. I can't believe I'm a fan. HAHA

my friends and i saw you at the hotel, but we missed you.

*insert expletive here*....*add another for good measure here*

i hope you'll be somehow shuffle through all these posts and email me on when and where we can catch you :)

DO A BOOK SIGNING!!!! YOU CAN HOLD IT IN MY PLACE!

hey tony...im a fan...im henry...elsa's son from the philippines....

I hope you're not going to spend the entire episode stuck up in Northern Luzon and Manila cause if you do, you haven't truly tasted the Philippines then!

I hope you'll venture to Bicol and the Visayas regions and show the world about their cuisine too.

hey tony mom told me to tell you that she misses your lil girl . me and my siblings are so grateful for all the help and kindness you and your wife have showed my mom....forever we will be grateful for that... hope to meet you and thank you personally....

Tony,

All is not lost.

We have laughed with you in Romania, cried with you in Laos, been disgusted with some of the Zimmern-like things you have eaten in other countries and watched as you made amends for not eating chicken and rice in Singapore. We're just raggin' on ya because we love ya. Believe us...if we didn't love the show, we would all probably be watching Rachel Ray bubble and squeek for 30 minutes and saying Anthony Who?! Everyone is allowed one slip.

Shake it off. Get you head back in the game. Don't eat the balut. (Unless you have consumed far too much mojo to actually taste them.)

I don't think you should give up on the show.Give it time to develop. I also think you should use the show to discuss other topics besides food and the restaurant business.

Hi Tony. I just found out that you were here in the Philippines from a friend who had her picture taken with you the last minute at aling lucing's i think. My boyfriend and I watch your show and we love it and still loving it. Just wished that I could have had the pleasure to see you in person. Maybe next time I hope. :) By the way, did you stay for Octoberfest here in Balibago?

Ok - the format has been done before. The guests were stale (did you have any say in the guests?). The conversation was very un-Bourdain like. It almost seemed like the network suits had you over a barrel. Hopefully, you are "square" with them and you can continue with the formats that truly showcase your strengths. No failure here, just some major tweeking to do if you want to continue that format.

Tony...don't fret. The "At the Table" episode is completely in line with the "No Reservations" theme. The food, surroundings and company are as far from my reality as is warthog rectum in Namibia. It's all about living vicariously through you. Thanks for all of it.. hope you find time to create more detective novels. Enjoy all you do.

Hey, Tony! Welcome to the Philippines! I'm one of those schmucks who've been posting here saying you should come check out the Philippines. I think your episode on our country (and culture) will do just fine...I hope! Man, wouldn't it be great if I can meet you in person? You and your helluva novel, Kitchen Confidential, got me hooked into cooking. Well, hope you enjoy the Philippines and hope you can come back soon! Just kick back, relax, have fun and do what you do best! If all else fails, just grab a bottle of beer. Will send you San Miguel ;)And this, Tony, is how we roll.

Hi Tony! I’ve always admired your passion for food as well as your refreshing sense of honesty and unapologetic candor. But after meeting you in person yesterday in Binondo, I think I’ve become fond of you even more. Thank you for being so nice in person, for letting me take your picture and for making me the envy of all my friends. Keep on rocking!!!

hi tony, i saw you this morning at the hotel lobby, did you like the hotel food? anyway, i hope you visit some provinces here in the Philippines,Im sure you will find something that you have never tried before. Would you like to try insects?frog meat? look for buro and taba ng talangka and you might want to taste lambanog and tuba..
enjoy!

Dear Paul,

>even hung out with Joe Strummer on his first visit to NYC about 22 yrs ago. <

Much like most of your statements about the show, you're wrong. They Clash played the NYC at early as 79'.

Why not make your life easier and just watch Rachel Ray. I'm sure you'll abide with your requests of "playing musical references from this decade" to boot.

Leave Tony and The Clash alone.

Chef, hope you'll still be able to do an apocalypse now sorta treatment for the show in the Philippines. Don't worry about anything, I'm sure the episode is going to be great.

PS: Enjoy the Ramones LP.

hi tony...i hope you'll have an appearance with a local tv station...after watching the countries you've been to, it's a relief to know that you're in the philippines. ;)

So what's to be your penance for "At the Table"?

May I suggest another Uzbek-style massage?

Seriously, the newer NR shows are better than ever. They are more focused on food and culture while allowing your personality to shine through. Frankly, I thought the older shows were a little to focused on you traveling and getting drunk in different places while casting a jaundiced eye at your foreign surroundings. I'm enjoying the newer shows that are tweaking the show in the right direction.

Hi Anthony,

we love you.

Sharon and Andrej

Aww.. It's a shame your not doing Balut. I'm from Pateros it's like the Balut capital of the Philippines. Well Andrew Zimmern's been here and yeah he already featured the Balut.. Oh well.. Anyway Enjoy the Philippines Tony :) The booze is great here with "pulutan".

ONE word Tony. Sosing's.

Tony: You should try to get a gig on BBC's Top Gear. I think you'd love driving around is super fast cars and I also think that it would make enjoyable viewing.

Best of luck in the Philippines.

I just watched "At Table". Actually, I'm in the middle of it and had to run to comment. My son was 7 when he started "cooking" dinner for us one night a week. He'd come up with some ideas and we'd all get in the kitchen and help bring those ideas to fruition--he loved it. He stopped when someone at school told him that "Boys don't cook". Yes, obviously, BOYS DO COOK--everyone should at least try. You brought some excellent points/thoughts to light--thoughts that people SHOULD think about. Thank you!!!!

Tony, At the Table wasn't that bad! It just wasn't as magical as your perspective and reflections about getting wasted and cutting up with commies in the jungles of Vietnam, or hanging with head hunters in the jungles of Borneo! To paraphrase your own show, the very best food comes from a cook doing one thing he does very well. Keep doing it! I'll keep watching.

would love to see you around!
:)

Wow it was only one show! I enjoyed it although not as much as when you are dressed down and have a drink & smoking a cig in some remote place, only because I know that's where you are yourself! Just finished Kitchen Confidential. Loved it! Am off to buy another of your books. Looking forward to seeing you again no matter what you are doing. Love ya Sammy

Hi Tony! I’ve always been a fan of your show as well as your refreshing sense of honesty and unapologetic candor. But now that I’ve finally met you in person (in Binondo), I think I’ve become fond of you even more. Thank you for being so nice, for letting me take your picture and for making me the envy of all my friends. Keep on rocking!!!

Sisig,
Sisig sisig pulutan sisig, sisig. Sisig pork sisig.

At the table was one of the biggest, New York-centric steaming piles of garbage I witnessed in a long time...To make it even more troublesome was Anthony Bourdain was in the Captain's chair. The page 6 guy seemed to be the only one based in reality. Stick to No Reservations and leave the swill to the other two guys who never met a word they didn't like.

Can I get that hour of my life back? It seems like other fans are trying to sugar-coat the truth about "At the Table". Let me be honest here, it was bad. Really bad.
The conversation was elitist, pretentious, and a crystal clear example of New York City snobbery. This is the exact opposite of everything you’ve shown us about yourself on “No Reservations”.
As a proud born & raised New Yorker, I have a deep affection for the culinary diversity this city has to offer, but it's this type of egotistical pompousness that has gone rampant in the New York City Restaurant scene that makes my stomach turn.

Really Tony, what happened to New York F***in city?? Do you really care what LoLo likes to eat? The other “No Reservations” New York episodes were more real, intelligent and insightful than this disaster sit down conversation.

In an effort to keep this short, I’m done venting.

Please excuse me for sounding harsh. Truth is I'm a huge “No Reservations” fan who also loves to travel, eat & explore. So Tony, I'll keep watching your show. It’s the best TV has to offer. Just stick to what you're good at.

hi mr anthony bourdain!
i was so lucky to have that photo op with you last saturday in ongpin! i'm still in high heavens until now! i am a real fan! stay cool!

All I want to know is when are you coming to Alaska? Your show is all about seeing places as they really are, not as the tourists see them. A million people a year visit Alaska, a state with less than 700,000 residents, and very few of the visitors see the real Alaska. It is the epitome of your show and you should see the Real Alaska.

Tony, I myself am a writer, well i am starting out but your compelling style and somewhat understated prose is what inspired me to believe that my own sytle, 2 bottles deep and still going, may work in an world of overly generalized and overt writers. In my own desire to do be more then i have been i can understand your desire to do more then a show which often shows you eating foods cook in a mannor that would have failed even the most crooked NYC health inspector's ledger and with more pressure then a Bush ambassidor two days after someone decided "Shock and Awe" sounded like a nice catch phrase for a war. Dont get me wrong i love to travel and when asked in a language i dont understand if i want to come along or try the house special my answer by defaut is Si, Da, yes...undeniably so. Still after living over seas and then back again i can understand the desire for change or even the familiar, and in all honestly i believe the show could work what you need to do is make it more then chef's and foodies and take it back to your natural audiance broadening its spectrum and make at the Table more then inside info. Being both i found the show a mix of your natural style and a more tedious format, still i think it has potential and with the right tweeking could become another hit. Prost!

Relax Tony..breathe. You'll figure things out and we'll tune in again....

Welcome to the Philippines! At least you'll be able to replace that sour taste in your mouth from the previous show with good kind of sour -- adobo (vinegar braise); sinigang (soup flavored with unripe tamarind); kinilaw (seafood in different types of vinegars); calamansi juice (Filipino version of limeade); etc. Hope you enjoy your stay.

Welcome to the philippines! I'm a big fan! Hope you have fun!

Diego, in case you're still here, your DVD of Tony's press conference is on its way to Lourd. Nice to have met you, man. And yeah, Tony, enjoy the vinyl.

Hi Tony! Welcome to the Philippines! :D
I love "No Reservations", and I am very much curious as to what going you're going to do here. There's always the "balut" for starters.

P.S. How long are you staying here? Can we track you down and stalk you? Hahaha! ;)

mom told me that tony had already eaten BALUT at one of the filipino restos in ny.....orient express is the name...if u happen to be in new york do visit the resto...

find the music..... not the karaoke

pucha!!!!! (haha, getting away with tagalog! yeah!) I love you Tony! thank you for finally coming here to the philippines!!!!

this blows!!! The one time you're in Manila and I'm in New York!!!!!

aaahhnakanamputs! finally!

hi tony,
no one love pig more than we do. not even you. pig and garlic, in no particular order.
welcome home. may the pork be with you.

Paul, stop your attempts to sound witty. You come off as a deuche.

I agree with the folks here that say keep taking chances, we love you any way you get served up...some ways just not so much. Now the Romania episode tonight....THAT is bad TV....but I will still challenge anyone to find a more enjoyable pastime than watching NR, this episode included. Will I watch it again tonight? duh.

Everyone is now trying to backpeddle. We love you Tony! Bleh
Typical sheepish behavior expected from followers, I mean fans.

Diego said previously...
diego - October 26 2008 @ 9:26 am
Dear Paul,

>even hung out with Joe Strummer on his first visit to NYC about 22 yrs ago. <

Much like most of your statements about the show, you're wrong. They Clash played the NYC at early as 79'.

Why not make your life easier and just watch Rachel Ray. I'm sure you'll abide with your requests of "playing musical references from this decade" to boot.

Regarding the Clash, you may very well be right. Maybe it was Joe Strummers first time in the East Village. He asked me to show him around. I was on St Marks Place. He said he had never been there before. We spent the afternoon together going from the East Village to Midtown Manhattan. I like the Clash but I dont live in the past.
Rachel Ray sucks but so does Bore-dain.

I cant stand that fake tone of voice as he reads the narrative on No Reservations. And the narrative itself is annoying.

No Reservations, We are stuck with a great concept for a show with a crappy host.
That is the truth and I stand behind it.

First of all, I just want to say that I watch your show entirely too much. Sometimes I find myself even watching reruns witch its also, often not enough. I'm a 19 year old that fantasizes about the extravagant, wild, beautiful, interesting adventures you go on, and you've inspired me to eventually do the same. I was just wondering; if you have ever been to El Salvador, thats where I'm from. I would love if you guys would do a show on my country, and show a totally different side of El Salvador. A side that many people don't even know about, a beautiful, interesting and yet traditional with a splash of free-minded thinking. Also lets not forget about the food! I definitely believe that you as the rest of the world would enjoy it. Well this is already to long of a comment, and I know Im supposed to send an e-mail of some sort but I just could not find it..lol
Before I say my goodbyes; I just want to say , that everything your doing is great, and keep on doing it exactly how you been doing it for years( its obviously working ;)and since I can be there taking in beautiful cultures and amazing adventures; just keep on showing me more.

Thanks to the whole group that makes
"Anthony Bourdain No Reservations"
Possible.

Erika Mitchell

Hey, paulie...still sounding like a deuche. Your need for attention is quite clear. Pathetic.

So, not such a hot show. The issue was the guests, not you. None, except Ted Allen, went anywhere interesting with your questions. Rest assured, the questions were good ones. I think they went zinging over some heads, if you get my meaning.

I don't think, after all the years that you've been making terrific TV, that anyone can give you the gears over ONE show that didn't go as anticipated. This premise is well worth trying again.

Anthony?...... Iv'e not ever been to your blog before, but I gotta tell ya!...... Your show kicks **s!!!!! Its not only funny and entertaining, but, in a smart *ss sorta way, pretty damm philosophical!

I love ya!!! Smoke more, drink more, cuss more you'll be on more! Your Very refreshing in a land of 'Mickey Dee's and Applebees"!

tomkat!

well hi anthony love your show and i wish by the end of your journey you have reached all the places you wanted to go or everywhere in the world now that ive said that do you ever think about going to puerto rico or you dont think it will impress you be honest i know you will.

oh and one more thing for the haters writing **** about anthony you are all jealous and wish you had a job like that really because to take time out of your precious life to write something bad about him is really pathetic i mean really do you really think anybody ***** cares.

how i wish i could meet you mr. bourdain =) welcome to the Philippines! enjoy your stay =)

I was going to burn on "Defecating At the Table" but the host already knows how awful it was. How come there are no new shows in the can yet? We have to wait for the Phillipines to wrap?!

tony, if you screw it up... we'll love you for it anyway!

and get your *** out of manila and into the small towns and beaches of the philippines. you smoke, but i tell ya, the smoke in the city is worse. real people and better food are out there, not the "fusion" type thing pretentious people tend to drop on your table and charge you an arm and a leg for.

maligayang paglalakbay, pare!

hi, i am a writer and editor at New Times, an alt weekly on the Central Coast of California (about 200 miles north of LA)...i would love to get in touch with you and your producers to talk about a visit to this stunning, special and majestic place...you would dig it's endless and eclectic cuisine, magnetic and monster wine culture, the pristine beaches, and so much more...cheers!

Hey dude, love your show. Normally. I won't dis the "at the table" thing much, I'll just give you a simple summary of what I was eating and thinking while watching you and your...er....guests eat overly priced food; Ramen. Instant ramen. To hear someone say "1900 isn't too much for good food" and their excuse is entertainment value for such a price. As I ate boiled noodles loaded with msg, I wondered' if I presented it in a special way to "entertain" if I'd get someone to pay 2,000 bucks for my food? Hrm anyways, can't wait to see you back on the road, man. That's more your setting, not stuck, surrounded by lights and settings and trying to get intellectual conversation out of a bunch of overly-wealthy *****. I can't wait to see what you think of and how you present the Philippines. And don't worry, man. As much as I've seen, as long as you're not in central asia, you do well.

well mr B, don't leave manila without eating crispy pata! the german club version is awesome. i hear you shot at café ysabel and been eating fishballs in chinatown...and heading to cebu for some world famous lechon with marketman. Bon Appetit!

A few things Bourdain could do to improve the show.

Stop smoking. Everyone knows it is no longer cool. Causes cancer and yellows your teeth. Looks really bad.

Take out the one earring from your ear. One earring? Dated. Are we still in 1983?

Stop wearing jeans that are 3 sizes to small. Do we really need to see those gangly legs? (and everything else). Yuck!

Thats just the physical for starters...

OMG,this is my 3rd attempt to post a comment here and i hope this works. Anthony Bourdain i am your biggest and at the same time dumbest fan! i didn't know you were already here! gawd! i can kill myself! i was so excited about Bobby Chinn's demo cooking here and how you wrote the foreword to his book and i ddn't even think you'd be here too! i was so hoping that you'd be with him on friday in FULLY BOOKED. When will you be leaving Manila?! hahaha...sorry i am just so overwhelmed that you are in my country FINALLY!!!!!!!!!

♥,
B

going home now. Hope to see you soo so i can get tons and tons of pictures with you!hahaha...hope i'm not scaring you.

♥,
B

WHY HAVEN'T YOU BEEN INTERVIEWED BY HOWARD STERN YET? YOU'RE SO MUCH LIKE HIM, EXCEPT YOU'RE TOUGH WHERE'S A KITTEN.

Can't wait for this episode!

Aw, man. Don't beat yrself up about a show. Remember the old saying: "That which does not kill your fanbase makes you stronger." Droves of people dig you like family, Mr. Bourdain. Keep it up! You are the fork wielding saviour of Western Civ.

Thank God, budda, whatever... You have seen the light. We watched 'At the Table' in complete horror. Unfortunately it was like seeing your parents having sex, you will never look at them the same. The rebellious Tony from 'Kitchen Confidential' is gone. He is now a soft celebrity that complains about an $1800 dollar meal while the rest of NY elite look on in horror because you did not get their celebrity treatment and get comped for the meal.. I will continue to watch No reservations with reservations.

Tony.. Get away and get in touch with the person we fell in love with. The Queens of the Stone Age punk rocker.. You look fat a bloated after living off the fat of the lamb and at the table reflected it!!! This was brought to you in love and reverence, really.

Regardless of the criticism so generously offered by others, I continue to applaud you for your willingness to experiment. Yeah, something might flop, but it's not like you don't kind of sense that as it's happening. At least you honor the opinions of your viewers and (very humbly) offer your condolences. F~~em... you're Tony Bourdain. You have embraced your niche of success by sharing the delicacies of the world with the average Joes (yes, some plumbers as well) and served it up with a snarky smile and an unparalleled sincerity that we can trust and laugh with.
Okay, enough of that, then.
As for the Philippines, I am thrilled! I was born on Clarke AFB in 1972, but we moved back to the States 4 months later. I have always perused the family albums from their time there with fascination. I am truly looking forward to your take on my country of birth.
Peace to you and yours,
Sheila Tago (Myrtle Beach, SC)

i wonder where you are in the Philippines right now?i hope you're going back to Manila..things to try when you are here:

1. Ride the Jeep, the kalesa and the sidecar
2. you must try: Isaw(chicken/pork intestines)
3. Taste the Durian too
4. DRINK PALE PILSEN! i know you've tried sanmig light already but PALE is a different beer
5. Eat Chicken Inasal..I hope you go to BICOL goes that province boasts of a lot of delicious foods too!
6. Visit High Street and Serendra!!! please be at Bobby Chinn's book signing!hehehehe

Have fun in the Philippines, Tony. I'm sure you will.

all i can say is..FINALLY!:)

Tony, whatever you do..please do not watch a show called "Wowowee" on your TV in the Philippines. it's the last thing i want you to have in the back of your mind while traveling through the Philippines! hahaha

I hope you had a good time here in the Philippines, Mr. Bourdain, and I hope whomever took you around showed you the best of who we are and what we eat.

tony:
meet us in bologna! i know that you understand how great the food of emilia-romagna is, but let us show you il coure della citta. we will be there from 02-10 november '08 and will definitely be back in '09. wish you had chosen us for your show when we were there in may. you missed the porcini and the cherries.....oh my god.

Hi Tony,

No pressure from me. If you don't like our food - It's ok, I won't mind :-)

Raynelle, what's wrong with Wowowee? I watch here in Canada on Youtube. I will be delighted to see Mr. Bourdain in the Hip Hip Hooray segment. To Mr. Bourdain, goodluck on your trip to the Philippines.

We have been waiting for this! :) Yeah!!! Man, I can't wait to see this episode and see MarketMan's legendary Lechon!!! Hahaha :)

hurry up and go to australia
proberly no use writing this because u wont read it but ill give it a shot

"Jorge Pierre - October 24 2008 @ 2:53 am
Hi Tony. I'm an expat living in the Philippines. I'm a bit adventurous with food, and that is why I am huge fan of yours. Since you're in this country, you should go find the time to go a tiny little steakhouse in Makati called Elbert's. It's very secluded (doesn't even have a sign or an obvious door). There you will pleasantly be surprised to find some of the most fantastic steaks in the world, bar none. You can find details at their site, steakroom.com. Look for Elbert, I'm sure he'll be thrilled to have you."

Elbert'S? hahaaaaaawaaahahaaaawaaaahhhhaaa r u outta ur mind man?????? Tony Bourdain s hir 2 eat Filipino fud, gago! Bf mo c Elbert ano?

Tony, I am remind of the movie Batman: Begins. Young Bruce Wayne has fallen down a hole. Scared, alone, and being tormented by a large bat, young Bruce is saved bu his father. the elder Wayne asks his son, "and why do we fall down?" and young Bruce Wayne says "to learn how to get back up."

Once a fan-boy always a fan-boy

Mike

I sincerely hope that "No Reservations" remains on the air for a very, very, long time. My daughter and I both enjoy your show so much, and enjoy seeing all of the interesting countries that you have visited. I have been to the Philippines twice - and found the people there very friendly and really wonderful! It's a beautiful country - so just relax and enjoy yourself. Go to the Province if you can - San Juan, Atimonan, Hugom. We love you, Tony!!!

Hi Anthony,

Thank you for taking me on journies always dreamed of. Your inability to be anyone but you is such a clean and refreshing change in this world of make believe.
If you ever want some company, email me. It would be my honor.

good luck. don't be pressured. we will always be fans.
we need the honesty and sincerity to realize how much we need to improve.

mabuhay tony!

yo cabrone , don't lament one experiment . it didn't suck . romainia was far worse and that was out of your hands .keep up the great work . we chefs have to stick together

Tony,

I'm a big fan of your show No Reservations. I'm glad to hear that you finally decided to do the show in the Philippines. I'm sure you know from your various travels that certain countries suffers from "ethnocentrism" - and the Philippines is no exception. So, be aware that certain native food like "adobo" are cooked or prepared differently according to various region in the Philippines, and they all will claim that theirs is better than the next town. I hope you visit the island of Negros - the Ilonggo's dishes are so different in taste and in preparation than any other places in the country (I guess, I'm biased because of where I came from as a proud Ilonggo)....

Regarding your recent show "At the Table" - sorry but it was a pure unadulterated pretensious show. The topic that you posed to your guests were so ridiculous - who cares if you paid that amount of money on a given dinner. Does it really matter for the viewers to know whether you feel morally guilty about how much you spent on good food - it's your hard earned money after all, which you are entitled to spend however you want. Again, I just find that show trite and banal....Still, I'm a big fan of No Reservation - not just because of your sarcasms and condenscension, but also your brutal honesty, which I admire (even though my husband hates your show - he thinks your full of cliches and that your story telling narrations are vapid....but, it's just his opinion, so who cares....

Goodluck and hope you'll enjoy eating good authentic filipino food....

Chef Tony, you must be the MESSIAH of Philippine cuisine to the world???
For whatever trouble it's worth, thank you for taking a second look at our country's humble gastronomy.

Hi Tony -
Enjoy the Philippines; if you screw up in any way, Filipinos will love you more!

Tony, glad you've finally picked the Phils. It's a beautiful country. I went to NY early this October hoping to get your autograph to no avail. Lo and behold, the local paper has 3 huge feature write-ups on you today. Really hope you're still in the Philippines for a little book signing perhaps? Pray to Papa Jesus.

Tony,
"At the Table" was not my cup of tea. It wasn't terrible, but I think you know you could do better.

On the plus side, I'm happy to hear you're visiting Manila. Finally. My parents' homeland is beautiful with plenty of chances to eat amazing food. Enjoy that and you may want to pack your own roll of toilet paper. I thought that helped as I bopped around Luzon a few years ago.

Tony,

I'm currently spending the next two months in China in a little, big city. My hosts speak no English and frequently cart me around to eat various meals. The food has been great. But as I'm in my own la la land in my head I often wonder "what would Tony say about this fish?" I could sure use your expertise and drinking companionship!

As for the Philippines, don't sweat it.

Oh, joy, no more "At the Table" episodes. I felt like a coprophagous beetle watching that. I kept thinking that it would get better or maybe an asteroid would hit my house. Either option was good.

I have one more comment about that episode, if you are going to eat a dinner that costs $1,900, eat it with joy, don't doubt yourself, be delighted and grateful that you can afford such an exquisite luxury. And if something like that bothers you then donate $1,900 to a charity like Share our Stregnth. Whining about feeling guilty about already having eaten it sounds really gutless; out of touch, rich and gutless. That is exactly the kind of comment that makes me despise elitists. Just enjoy the dammed meal, donate the money and STFU.

You are the best when you are on the road with average folks. YAY for a Philippine show.

Anthony, Look forward to a shower, and forget the doubt. Most places have that one (or couple) of dishes that actually coax us to enjoy it all five of our senses.

I look forward to spending time with you in between courses, work, appt, and more. Try the kare-kare...it suits us oxtail lovers!

Tony show them all the real Philippines and tell the rest to kiss your ***. Live free and Die Eating well.

You think that was bad? Doesn't do anything compared to your podcast where you want to advocate the return of days when it was "Ok to pick on the fat kids". Now that really was your shining moment.

"At The Table" how about "Under The Table" - love you best when you are RAW & Adventurous! See you next month in Houston!

Okay, so "At the Table" crashed and burned. I was stoked at the concept, but the manifestation was painful to watch. I honestly think it had a lot to do with the guests. At least Buford came prepared to talk, be open, be excited. I appreciated that a lot. He's a great guest. The other three...lame, useless wannabes who need to drag themselves out of the city once in a while and get some perspective. Remember "Dinner for Five" on IFC where Jon Favreau would dine with four guests from the film industry? That show was fun because: 1.) They drank a lot and loosened up and 2.) They were honest and generous and didn't take themselves so damn seriously. And when a show with a bunch of ACTORS looks good by comparison!? That's when we're in trouble. Love you Anthony, love your honesty and directness...you just need to surround yourself with more people with that kind of hard-won perspective. And, come on now, easy with the NY comments everyone. I've lived here for over 16 years, and those lame guests are NOT representative of ANY New Yorkers I have ever known. Just as I'm sure they're not part of the NYC that Anthony loves either. Which made the choice to include them at the table really confusing.

"Failure"...so it has come to that? Say it ain't so!

It didn't occur to me while watching the show, but now that the court of popular opinion demands judgement.... In hindsight you didn't stand a chance, our snarky eminence.

No surprise, it was the fish. Don't you get it, Anthony, you are first and foremost our hero. Us...the little people. Please, save the $888/ounce fish for the privacy of your own island. Obviously it floats on money. We can take it--but you can't. We have a rep to maintain.

You're our hero, Tony. Arriving uncharacteristically regal in the limo with a bottle of JD tattooed to your screen, you, characteristically, trained the moral razor on yourself first. Whatever grew (or died) from that point on was besides-the-point. I thought it was okay, until weary heads slumped plaintively into their cornballs, looking for redemption. --Not a weighty platter that. As is your custom when you press people beyond their comfort zones you extend a safeword. "Cornball" was yours. And at what price?!

And that's the other issue: where did that famously grand anthonybourdain graciousness go? Perhaps in that dog-eat-dog, meatpack swilling city of yours it's considered bad manners. But we don't want to see it. Yes, beat down a crazed pack of vegetarians to knaw your way into a stray jackal's ***; but please, show some discretion. Tony, you're our hero.

No doubt the Phillipines will prove a stern antidote to this mean-tempered case of Manhattanitis. And our old Tony will be back on mount. Sure, go ahead and wear an ironed shirt this time. I don't think anyone here would begrudge you a share of the finer things. Just eat. Eat some more. Eat like your life depends on it.

I like what you tried. You elevate the game, Chef. And the food?...well, in the end, it is who eats it.

Best regards.

Tony.
I feel as if I kow you so I'll call you Tony, hope you don't mind.
Just a word of advice (even if you don't want it.)
Please do a show, similar to At the Table, but leave out the gloss and the mutual ****, have it at a dive bar with after hours cooks, talking about, what else? Food, but please dispense with the niceties and pompousness.
Hey, you gave it a shot, it didn't work. Tweak it out and go back to what you love. Or hey, here's a novel concept COOK SOMETHING! But, not in a designerish kitchen made for t.v., a real kitchen with real people.
I love the way you describe the gnarled knuckles and years of depravity ravished phyche, where is it?
Let see some literary and culinary chops, for crying out loud! People love the punk ethic, hit it hard, hit it quick and do it with some style!
Peace,
Jax

Chef Tony, I am an alumni of Center for Asian Culinary Studies. I must say it was pretty exciting seeing pics of you in my Alma Mater!!! With Chef Gene, Gino and Giannina.. I really wished I was there too!=)

More power to you!

Your the man!

Look Tone, from one New Yorker to another (and that's bronx new york by the way)at the end of the day when your belly is full who really gives a ****

now another Christmas special would be appreciated!

Tony...
Relax and just be yourself, again...We miss No Reservations, please feed us soon.

just read an article written by my uncle Cloud in the Philippines. Been a fan of yours for about 2 years now and I can't believe that you visited my uncle's home. I too was wondering when you will be visiting the Philippines and its great that you tasted the best culinary region in the Philippines and that is Pampanga. Looking forward to more of your shows.

Well Tony you probably have finished shooting by now and can't wait for the episode to air. I hope you took your time to see Mindanao and Visayas, anything away from Manila. I'm from Bohol living in the US now and I hope your visit was an experience.

I am a newbie to your show but since finding it I have recorded everything that has aired. This my first post to your blog, I just didn't have anything really to share worth typing. Until today!
I spent almost a year in the Philippines back in '90 having served, at that point, 2 years in the armed forces. When my orders came in while serving in North Dakota (2 very cold winters), people quickly informed me how lucky I was. I had to look up this mysterious land.

Once I stepped off the plane, I knew I was in for big changes...cultural, social and culinary. First notable item...the people! Being from Connecticut, I am used to the usual F YOU attitude we sometimes receive living in the northeast. Once I was "briefed" about the political "hot spots" I went downtown. The sites, sounds and smells made ME feel very far from home. However, once I met some of the local men that worked in our unit, asked some questions and sampled some of the local dishes they brought in I understood something quickly...eating in the Philippines is about togetherness. It sounds hokey but true. The Pilipino men that I worked with, at lunch time, would spread out newspaper and everyone put out (on the paper) what they brought in that day. This was odd to me. Here we are working hard, sweating in the 95 degree heat with 90 percent humidity, dealing with cobras and terrorists, and we're having a picnic! I quickly started enjoying and looking forward to these picnics.
What really did it for me was a pig roast these local gents had prepared for us. You see, there was this smoking thing called Mount Pinatubo that decided to erupt that year and some of us stayed behind to clean up and ship out some costly equipment. We knew that these men and their families depended on the base greatly and with the impending closure of the base we took it upon our selves to help them with "gifts". They in turn, being gracious folks, threw us a party, a pig roast to be exact. An entire pig slowly, gingerly and carefully roasted and all the San Miguel beer you could drink!
I am sure you know and have stated so eloquently, eating great food is indeed great but sharing it is something else entirely.
Thanks for your passion!

Hey Tony,

Me and my wife love your shows. Being a Pinoy myself, I believe that going back to our roots, we are known to eat "DOG and GOAT" as delicacy - "pulutan" - food that is popular among the Pinoy guys that always goes well with beer and hard liquors. I know its hard to show this on the US tubes, but I just have to say it as it is...you haven't tasted Pilipino food unless you try it as the locals do. This are prepared as Kaldereta, Kilawin, Pinapaitan.

More power to you man!

Art Lloid Metalloid

alright dude, im a huge fan so i got something to complain about!

when did you quit smoking? ya know, quitters never win....

I'm way too excited when "No Reservations" airs your trip to the Philippines. I have a feeling that you'd be a fan of dinuguan (I'd like to think that it's similar to blood pudding only with tripe and pork in a sauce rather than sausage form-it's also known as "chocolate meat") or a nice kare-kare (something like an ox-tail stew). And I agree with Metalloid-you can't experience the food unless you do it with a fire pit in the back yard and a case of San Miguel.

Hey doug (post 208) this is somewhat a funny coincidence. Like I said I grew up in the Philippines and for the last 13 years have lived in the US, East Hampton, Connecticut. Anyways, I am honored for you to have experienced our culture in Pinas and hopefully Tony got to experience it too however short it was. That's the beauty of shows like NR, it goes beyond the food and Tony always strives to be a local as much as he can and to me that's the best way to be a "tourist".

After a hard days work trapped between doing things i hate and doing things i have no choice but to do;i just love watching your show. There's something about seeing a man " walk, unshaven, unwashed and in dirty clothes through the lobby of his hotel" all while still looking good on TV- very relaxing (laughs). I am a fan of your show just not a crazy one who knows everything about you;though i do love your little fits when given an annoying,awful time (as ive said on your trip to Romania blog). No matter what your fans will always support you and the show. Don't worry about screwing anything up either,if people don't like what you have to say screw them,you are who you are and that's what people will always love about you and those who hate have nothing better to do than rant. Many people may think traveling here and there is all fun and exciting;while it is at times tiring and frustrating. So just relax and take it easy Tony,don't stress to much. I may not be a celebrity on TV or consider myself your #1 fan over the thousands of other people who prove more loyal to an Anthony Bourdain trivia game and answer every question with full detail. But i do care about what you go through and how you feel about it,dont know how much that will actually mean to you but anytime you feel really **** just remember your fans got your back...i'll be in the crowd as well. Just keep doing what you do best,stick to your guns and tough it out but dont stop telling it like it is. And hey..i like your reeking carcass...well,after i put a little cologne on it. Hope your trip goes well and in case you even need that big floppy hat,just ask i'll have one ready lol.

Gr8 show. Sitting in the middle of Siberia we can enyjoy your show on one of the local ghetto channels. Enjoying some vobla and beer right now.
The most poignant show for me was where you met Zimmern in NYC. You guys will eat anything anywhere, anytime. Inspirational!
Leveraging this talent into two great shows is genius!
Thought you might like to try Kazakstan before Zimmern beats you to it. Sheeps head and fermented mare's milk. Yum!

Thank God you're not doing balut! It's getting old, really. It's already grossed out it's fair share of foreigners (Andrew Zimmern not included, of course). Time for other equally interesting Filipino dishes to step up (I heard you thoroughly enjoyed Cebu's famous lechon). Hope to catch the episode on Discovery T&L.

Trying to contact Tony Bourdain. I recntly met his new security detail, Joe , (retired NYC cop ), and gave him info, brochures, etc. for Woodstock NY Real Estate, which he said was of interest to Mr. Bourdain. Is there a way I can e mail him directly ? Please provide the necessary info.
Thanks.
Margo Lynn Obourn, Associate Broker, FreeStyle Realty.

This maybe a long shot but here goes nothing.

Hi Tony,

I am a fan and seen that you've traveled near and far to experience food and culture. You've been to China, Thailand, and even Lao's. Heck you've even mentioned about hmong in your Lao's episode...so here I am, a hmong woman, who loves to cook, and would love to expose you to a dish or two that you haven't had in the places you've been. Look at the plus side, you don't even have to leave the country to experience food and culture. Its right in your backyard (well, I am located in PA). lol!

Like I said this maybe a long shot, but I hope to hear from you!

Kia Ora Tony

Love the show mate, keep up the good work and go hard bro

i love your show mr. bourdain.when will the philippines episode be shown here?

Tony, why don't you come to Georgia? Think of a unique small nation with its own alphabet, one of the first Christian nations, the Caucasus mountains with its diverse warm climates, or imagine the Great Silk Road, the place where East meets West, and a place that has been frequented by all kinds of Alexander the Greats, Tamerlanes and Marco Polos... and you can get the food picture.
Also, check out the book by Darra Goldstein "The Georgian Feast".
Cheers,
Iva

Hey Toni, when are you guys gonna film the Fallujah episode?

Tony you still rock, I'll be watching! I agree with some of the other posters- don't stop experimenting, your audience is not the fickle type- we may have been annoyed by At the Table but we're still here, firmly.

I repeat... Tony, I have not been watchin. I put the cable money in the bank. I ate a good meal with the rest of it. So... uhhhh, What's up with Balut? and What's this about feeling down and dirty? Long trips to anyolace requires at least a wash-up before we can feel better... now doesn't it. That's it snookums... smile for us and get back in front of the camera. where's Jennifer?

If it starts going bad mention about Marcos and her 2000 pairs of shoes.This will take care of the women.Then,show a couple go-go dancers for the guys.For everyone else,mingle with the locals and eat their food.This is what you do.

Tony, I don't think you could screw up an episode, so plunge on my friend!

Tony, cut that **** out. I guess I have to ask myself in a more defined way why it is I like your shows. I really believe you are the next great foodie after the two "Fat Ladies." Because it's real and visceral. I'll think about it and get back to you. By the way, the guests on your talk show were boring - interesting might be B celebs or chefs from up and coming restuarants, but you don't talk about cooking, you eat and talk about life and what got you there.

Tony and crew I've been thinking about the table show. I think it could work but maybe as a more biting inquiry into restaurant dish. You could call it Pass the Dish and tell us kitchen stories somewhere between Kitchen Confidential and No Rez.

there are all kinds of people and social situations available.

i would totally eat thousands of dollars worth of ***

word up!! not a mistake..

hot dogs are good too WHATEVER!!

Thanks rommil (post 212)- It's always a pleasure to meet a fellow local "foodie". I too look forward to NR Philippines episode. Do you know when it will air?

I love you and your job. I always watch. Thank you so much

You are too good on TV to mess up an episode.Keep it coming...

OH Tony you are gonig to love the Philippines. My g/f is a native of eastern sumar and we were there for a couple of weeks last June. Hit Manilla for a couple of days and hit a resort on Boracay, and then to Eastern Sumar. The people are fantastic, and the Lechon, well its crazy good. The food is not as sophisticated as some other asian countries, but the home-cooked type meals that reflect a little bit of everything are absolutely out of this world. Alittle Adobo, a little pork tocino (my personal favorite besides of course LECHON)
I saw the other show Tony, and well I agree with the rest of the bloggers here, stick to your day job. haha You never know until you try something though. Rock on and good travels.

I have read somewhere that the Philippines episode will air on January 2009.

Hi Tony,
You are "unforgettable moment in the lives of ordinary chef around the world".
Thank you so much

TONI YOU ARE THE BEST!

i enjoyed talking to you at my brother claude's bale dutung..

While I seriously doubt Mr. Bourdain will actually read this, I just wanted to say personally how glad I am that he is around. My husband and I recently sort of stumbled upon the show (there was absolutely NOTHING else on :) and just sort of got sucked in. And by the end, we really felt like we had just been to Saudi and were picking sand out of our toes. You can tell this guy REALLY loves food---and I love the fact that he talks so passionately about it. If he likes it, you know it; and if he don't, you know it! Since I know most of us were raised on home cooking and street food, it's good to see someone going to were it's all at. All those Nobu chefs and Bobby Flay's got their culinary skills from home and the street and in my opinion there would be no Nobu or Mesa Grill or freaking celebrity chefs without those simple dishes their mamas made.

And one particular thing stuck out to me as fascinating: While I did not get to check out the Table show, hubby said that Mr. Bourdain had posed a question about is it right to pay 1800 dollars for a sushi dinner. I think we were both in awe that anyone of his status even cared. Went a long way with us as every day, mortgage paying, child care toting joes. That someone like him could actually have a second thought about spending on one meal what I spend on clothes in a year, well, it just made us feel good that he cared or noticed even that detail. And for the record, I don't care how good the sushi dinner is----not for that much.

Thanks Mr. Bourdain---thank you for traveling to all the places we will never ever get to go, but making us feel like we were there. You never come across as smug or fake; and I truly believe you know how good you have it.

PS...I totally won. Hubby sweared he thought you were gay, but probably only because I was swooning over you. After all, who wouldn't want a beer drinking, liver eating chain smoker lol? Maybe it's just that badboy vibe that just has us all hooked. I'm taking my $20 I just won and buying a new vegetable or fruit I haven't tried (that's what we do now we started watching your show---see, you impact even some Texans with your show!)

Hi Tony! I'm Irene, an italian girl, I'm 18..sorry but i don't speak english very well! :) I have red your books, they're FANTASTIC!! I study in a culinary school, I will be a chef..you have ispirated me! I think to do a final exam of school about you.. you're the best!

I enjoyed "At the Table," and I hope you & the production company do more from time-to-time. There is not that much thoughtful, more-or-less free-form conversation among experts on food, particularly on television.

I asked you that question about the morality of spending $1800 on a meal for two people (among, I presume, many others) when you were in San Francisco a year or two ago. It still nags a me, but, then, how do I justify going to Venice for two weeks when I could give the money to Heifer International or some other worthwhile organization?

Oh yes it was painful but it was a nice try :)
I am not sure why you set up camp in a restaurant, I would like to see you in someone's home/kitchen more often. Why don't you go into people's kitchen more?? Chef are already celebrities, let's see what the rest of the world is eating. No Reservation has a bit of that vibe, push it all the way!!!!
Let me discover with your help the "real" world chef and where they go shopping. Let every day people educate others about what to buy or not to buy, what's their trick to a dish and what's their favorites?

Have a good trip and if you get bored in airports, check my food blog: One bite at a time!
http://www.isabellemazzoni.com/Isabelles_site/One_bite_at_a_time%21/One_bite_at_a_time%21.html
Cheers!

im really pissed at you. WHY HAVENT YOU COME TO CHILE!, YOU GOT TO COME HERE SOON!!

when you come here id like to take you to places where you will eat things that tastes like nothing else you tryed before.

in case i didn´t make myself clear, YOU HAVE TO COME TO CHILE!

5 WORDS MR. B--"COME TO SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS!"
OUR CITY IS ONE OF THE DRUNKEST AND FATTEST CITIES IN THE U.S. THANKS TO OUR FIESTAS AND ALL AROUND CUISINE. GIVE ME A SHOT TO SHOW YOU THE PLACE I LOVE AND CALL HOME. THANKS ROBERT C.

Well, I hope you enjoyed your shoot in Cebu. I'm currently based in Shanghai and even resorted to getting bootleg Filipino cable just to watch "No Reservations"--sad, but, as we're in cyberspace, I'm willing to admit to that. Heh.

At the Table...Yeah, I liked it better the first time I saw it, and it was called Dinner for Five on IFC. Jon Favreau's show with more relateable people was more entertaining than the truffle elite with whom Tony dined.

Ah, the way of the proud highway. Don't let these savages do to you what they did to the Beatles, sweet Jesus man. Don't take any guff from these diminutive fiends.- Ashanti-Conor

PS. I enjoy your show and if you need any contacts when you visit Greensboro North Carolina this February don't hesitate to contact. You have a weird following of "no reservations" disciples.

i didnt get to see you! i heard you tried aling lucing!!

Tony, I'm a vegetarian and very well aware of your contempt of our kind, but I love you anyway you make me want to eat the fattiest of roasted pigs so bad. If I ever go back to eating meat again, it will be because of you. (I was still a meat-eater when I became your fan and in fact shared that same hatred of yours, but the decision to go veg was another story altogether. ANYWAY...)

Can't wait for the Philippine episode.

AB has to see this photo collection of 70's Swedish bands, being the huge ABBA fan that he is. This is hysterical!!!

http://pics.yemii.com/swedish-dance-bands.html

o men! you're lucky that i was too caught up with school work and family problems when you were here or else i would have stalked you at your hotel or whichever province you visited. lol! just kidding! i'm such a fan! :) glad you visited manila. huller, balut is overrated! :) glad you're not doing that.. can't wait to see the show. :)

If I was to be in New York which resuturant is home to tony? It looks like there is four resturants under his resutrant in the New York Area?

IM so excited to see this episode! ive been waiting for so long! hehehe mabuhay philippines

ideally, you are puffing away on a cigarette while in a malaise of exhaustion and lack of sleep reading the comments to your blog. maybe you are doing the former while your crew performs the latter...

anyway, hopefully you read down this far. stop fretting, because you will screw up if you think about screwing up. just throw in adovo, good beer, and a perspective in east meets west and i'm sure you're phillipines episode will kick ***. a fillipino friend of mine said they have dumplings with cat meat in them. please do that.

Your last show sucked. But NO RESERVATIONS has yet to disappoint. I even enjoyed 'Romania' as I am clearly a sadist.

You're still entirely watchable and interesting. Your panel was an ill fit and the questions seemed trite. The set even seemed uncomfortably stiff.

Consider all of the smaller interviews and chats with chefs you've done in the past 'on location', wherever you were. That's what people want to see. Damnit, that's what I want to see.

Summon that same spirit, that same easy setting and bring it here to our chefs, our talent. We'll watch.

Your show 'No Reservations' has been interesting to watch, if I'm not watching discovery channel or history channel, or FitTv, some News channels, I'm watching the travel channel :) Come to south Georgia, U.S. some time and try our fried catfish, or southern cooking.

Hi Tony,
I wrote a scathing, and rightly so critique of "AT The Table". I said I would never watch you again, but I have forgivern you, espeically since I read you married an Italian. She will teach you how to love, as I can already read in your comments about your daughter. Forget about your failure. I love your humor and intelligence in "No Reservations"
Renee

I just hope all the negative comments directed towards "At the Table" will not stop you from trying new and different programming just because it might be deemed as an "unsafe" thing to do. You have always tried to instill onto the viewers of "No Reservations" to get out of one's comfort zone and experience new things. I applaud you, Mr. Bourdain, if for nothing else than you tried something different, something new with "At the Table." Of staying true to what you have always done and left the relative comfort and safety of the "hotel grounds" that is the "No Reservations" format and stepped into the unseen with "At the Table."

Did I personally like or dislike "At the Table?" It really does not matter. As long as you stayed true to yourself, as long as you were being the real Anthony Bourdain at that moment in time, and as long as it was something you wanted to do, who cares what anyone thinks or says? You have always professed doing things different from what is considered the norm, please do not stop now just because some overly judgemental "uber fans" on the internet did not approve of seeing a different side of you, or a different part of your world. Own it, and do not appologize for it, sir.

You shook things up and pissed-off a whole lot of people with "At the Table." Just for that, you get one in the win column in my book. Good job.

We love your show. The kids & I watch you all the time. We were talking and we would like to know more about you, your family, where you went to school, and how tall are you? It would be really cool if you have time to add these and more things to your bio. Thanks & travel safe!

Chef Anthony,
I have been a fan for a long time but please don't hold that against me!
I am in the process of opening my first restaurant (with an investor) in Las Vegas after toiling away cooking "other people's food" for way to long! Any advice to an old schooler?
Do you have any plans to venture out to our fantasyland anytime soon?

Tony, I love your style.

Thanks

you are the best!! oh how i wish i learned of your coming to manila. man that was chance of a lifetime to see you in person. God bless and do come back again i am sure our country still has a lot of food and culture to offer.

Why not continue with 'At The Table' but each episode eat at someone's home. I'm sure you've seen the movie Big Night. How refreshing it would be to watch you eat, describe and enjoy an entire meal someone prepared for you and their family. America has a lot to offer....People want to look at the food, look at you eat it, look at someone preparing it in their own kitchen. It is inspiring! Everyone is drawn to 'real' cooking....that is one of the greatest parts of your show 'No reservations'. Good luck and keep up the good work!

The table episode wasn't a bad concept it was that the guests came off a bit pretentious and well I'll just say it, borrring! Your much more entertaining, but I guess that's why you have your own show!

Anthony or any other viewers,

I have seen the Spain episode a few times, and would like to try to recreate the onions (I think it's calcitarra?) along with the peanut sauce (I think it was robescue?) at home. If anyone has any thoughts on how to best accomplish this in a mid-western urban home, please pitch in. Though I know it won't be authentic, I hope that drinkin plenty of red wine will help.

Mike

It's been interesting to see Bourdain, morphing himself from an obscure counter-culture offbeat maverick into the celebrity hound cabal oriented over-exposed figure prone to quoting banal cliches that're starting to get predictable. I suppose that transformation was inevitable. Only a few, like Bill Watterson, can refuse offers to sell out their souls.

I still like his anti-establishment, passionate, introspective codas that wrap up episodes, but despise his chumming with other celebrities to discuss what constitutes a decent amount to spend on a dinner, what's crossing the line into decadence.

Note for Tony: stick to your roots, don't be a sell-out, go for the cheap off-beat stuff, not the overpriced crap that can only be served by your other celebrity friends, that most of us can't ever afford.

Also, Tony, dude, you can learn a lot by being modest with likes of Andrew Zimmern. Your s*** grows old, his doesn't. His respect for other cultures seems more authentic, his humility comes across more powerfully, and he's not as much about trying to make a fake statement like you sometimes tend to. Really, is your over-use of the phrase "Going bamboo" so much superior to Emeril's abuse of "Bam!"?

Your constant disdain for all things Disney is a source of pleasure to a lot of us!

Eagerly awaiting the next occasion when you'll trash Rachel Ray, Emeril, and remind us to see "Apocalypse Now" yet again :)

Tony, dude, your overuse of the phrase "Going bamboo", is a lot more tasteful than Emeril's, "Bam!" right?

Learn a thing or two from Bill Watterson, don't sell out, or, for that matter, from Zimmern, whose respect for other foods/cultures is a lot more authentic than yours. I don't see them palling around with celebrities, gorging $500+ gourmet meals, while, in the same breath, espousing the benefits of using "nasty bits".

I know you're busy and all but I've bee checking for a new post for weeks now!!! ;) ...I guess I'll be back in a couple of days.

Chef, I agree that failure is a drag--but our failures make our successes a little more sweet. You've got to burn the bacon once to appreciate properly prepared bacon.
peace, mw

Mr. Bourdain,

I first stumbled upon your show when I was studying in Argentina in the fall of 2006. I don't recall the episode I first saw, but you said something during that episode that struck a chord with me:

"The older I get, the more I travel, the less I know."

I've found this concept to be very true in life. There truly is a wealth of information out there, and the more one learns, the more apparent it becomes that there is so much more to learn. This is so easy to see when you are traveling. There's little I enjoy more than watching people of different cultures and backgrounds in their natural environments. Food, as I'm sure you know, is certainly an integral part of many cultures.

Watching your show, though, I have to wonder what it would be like to travel with a film crew like that. I've never traveled like that, but I'd imagine it would be odd for the natives in the country, perhaps resulting in behavior that may not be 100% natural. Still, it seems like you do manage to find guides and locations who are genuine with you and show you good local places to enjoy. Some of my favorite travels came when my friends and I were just wandering around in small towns in Central America looking for sights to see and a place to eat dinner.

Nevertheless, I really enjoy the show and seeing all the sights. When I saw the episode on Argentina, I was instantly reminded of all the great meals I had while I was there. Keep up the great work.

Oh poor Tony. Hey Tones, next time you get real down about making some schlockfest on television think about all the brothers in arms cooks/chefs scattered all over the world trying to keep food on the table with their cooking careers. At this point, there are cooks/chefs with just as much talent and personality (not talking about me here)as you begging ghetto 7-Elevens for a shot at 3rd shift cherk.

I'm putting my last thin dime on the whole molecular gastronomy/high end dining movement collapsing in on itself as a result of the economy. And if I'm right, won't it be a kick in the pants Tony to realize you got out before the barbarian armies plundered the castle? Think about that. Bad television is very watchable sometimes. And I think even bad Bourdain is good. So pick yourself up, dust yourself off and smell those roses.

Mr. Bourdain,

I have to say I respect your clarity and ability to objectively assess your latest "experiment."

Well Tony, you tried, and at least you admitted it didn't work. But if I recall, you seemed skeptical going into it. So honestly it doesn't really matter. Just keep making good T.V. that keeps me running to my fridge to stuff whatever I can find (usually hot) into my gob hole, right after I've eaten dinner.

Senor Antonio Bourdain,

A couple of random thoughts-
How are you able to eat so much food (for a living) and never seem to get fat? Also, you should check out this restaurant in Truckee CA, called Moody's - if you guys ever do a Reno/Sierra Nevada(Tahoe, Truckee) episode, go to Moody's. Actually Truckee/Tahoe area is a veritable 'foodie paradise'.

Be a purist, not a panderer

Tony ... Early this year I wrote to you asking when you will be in the Philippines. What a shock that you finally flew in! I just regret that I did not learn about it sooner, or else I would have appeared at your hotel haha. So Filipinos are your greatest fans huh? It's a thrill to know I'm in good company. I've been hooked with your work, and had to scout for your books abroad, but now I believe your books here are selling pretty fast. Thank you for visiting our beautiful country. Hope you had a blast. Can't wait to see the show.

Me and my wife are big fans of your show. Infact, just this morning my wife gave me an "urgent call" informing me that you were in the Phils. doing a show. I was just there too last week and had so much fun. I hope you had blast and enjoyed the Filipino hospitality.

Hey Mr. Bourdain, in all seriousness, I have NEVER liked shows about food. Sandra Lee is a borderline fraud of a cook, Barefoot Contessa is a barely veiled overweight housewife and that's just to name a few.

The first time I accidently stumbled over your show No Reservations, I was instantly enthralled by the ignorant commentary and care-free musings. Since then, I have taken the time to download both seasons of A cook's tour, all 4-5 seasons of No Res. and even checked out your special about cooking technology. Since I live in MD, watching your show on the travel channel is almost like rooting for the Baltimore Ravens, the difference being that whenever I watch them, I don't feel like eating every 45 minutes.

Anyways, it would be a shame if you left the show, The only thing I would have left to watch on the travel channel would be Bizarre Foods... have you by chance noticed that a number of his episodes seem to replicate yours? If not, check out his travels through Sicily, he eats the same spleen sandwich you do, and also manages to scarf down those horrifying random deep fried organ bits that you did on your trip through Sicily.

I haven't checked out your "at the table" episode yet but i'm sure it won't be as bad as you think. They never are. In the very least, it will be amusing, just to hear you rant and rave.

-MW

PS: It would be great if you had the chance to respond, you are an inspiration to all of us in the food business.

Heard you were in the Philippines to shoot for No Reservations. Thank you for featuring and visiting our country. I'm a big fan of yours. Hope you had a great time here. I hope you all enjoyed our local food and the Filipino culture and hospitality. I can't wait to watch the show.

Am pleasantly surprised to see you fly into Manila. And thank you for dissing balut. Yes, it gets boring after awhile. Adding to the already omnipresent pressure, I'm looking forward to this episode. I was very disappointed by Andrew Zimmern's Bizarre Food episode on the Philippines. The country has many islands to explore, each with unique culinary traits. I hope you do show the world this rich part of the Philippines.

When are you going to Panama? You Must visit this hidden gem of a culinary paradise. I'll even show you around personally.

Dear Tony,
If you thought Saudi Arabia was fun I would love to show you Iran. Guaranteed ot be much much more fun.

Hey Mr. B,
Are you still in lurk mode? It's been a month and I was wondering why, so I had a look at the blog and photos, seemed fairly innocuous, then I looked at the responses (I don't usually read those things, is that irony? After Alanis Morisette I'm never quite sure). Holy crap! No wonder. Anyway I was going to send you my top 5 alternative lives seeing you were reinventing yourself: Punk rock god, pilot, interpeter, cheesemaker (there's probably a better name) and eelfarmer (I even had the business plan ready for that one). If you can't think of the possibilities for public embarassment with those you're just not trying. Maybe racing car driver, although messing that up would be more dangerous and physically painful.

I also thought of reminding you that like success, failure is usually a team effort. But you've probably had enough advice and opinions and I'm just not sure that'll do the trick so I'm going to have to resort to something more powerful. Puppy love! I bought a puppy yesterday, he's 7 weeks old a red and blue heeler cross. That's an Oz breed, you probably saw some when you were here? They're usually short-legged and barrel-chested with flecks of white in their red/black fur. Anyway his name is Ash and he's perfect in the usual way small dogs are; waggly tail, soft fur, sharp little teeth, big brown eyes and ridiculously happy. I've spent most of the day doing absolutely no work, just lying on the carpet giggling like an idiot and wearing a watermelon grin. I understand small humans work the same way, hopefully you've got one handy. Cheers.

hi i am reading your book,kitchen confidential ...fantastic!
kiss
fp

Ha! I'm reading this stuff and I get that Zimmern is a doll. He's a mush, I love him. But what he does is not an even comparison for No Reservations. The number of testicles that man has had in his mouth rivals... well, I won't go there. I'm just surprised his show isn't called "Balls and Bugs" or hmm... maybe "Fear Factor". He's basically a humble traveler on a dare. I digs, I just don't take it seriously.

I also love the original post. It's honest and I can really appreciate that. You'll be okay. Just pick a panel you can be yourself around. They're not bad, just not you.

Watch the show alot, sadly missed most episodes due to kids wanting to watch kiddie stuff. CHEERS! for visiting the philippines! -Jordan, Manila

Given the economy in the US, I'd like to see you become an ambassador for the return of street food in this country and actually go out and try to make it happen state by state. Now THAT would be a fascinating show, and it would be a wonderful thing for this country and a way to evolve our cuisine. I live in buttfark florida and never go out to eat unless it's a potluck dinner where people bring real stuff or a smoked mullet festival where the old FL crackers strut their stuff. If becoming a street food vendor was easier in each state, many many people would be able to support themselves and the quality of food in this country would soar. Hope you'll think about it. Do an experiment and try one state where you see there could be promise in actually making it happen.

Your role is that of outsider to the food biz, as a former insider. That's why we "civilians" relate. I know it get's a little boring to stay in that role but insiders talking the trade isn't of much interest. Plus, who needs to see the inside of another "Oh wow!" NYC hyper-eatery? B-o-r-i-n-g.

The warthog episode was the best. Worst food and no booze to cut the crap taste!! Yeeha!! That's living large.

You gotta also love a culture where all status derives from who kills meat -- today. Kinda reminds me of Wall St.

ok , tony , you need to do a thanksgiving show ( antartica) and you need to address the question as to whether or not you have sold out ( and if so , is that a good thing ) and if not , when and if you expect to , and will your fans be able to tell , and how . and zimmer , at least he looks like he eats . ha ha . seriously , tony , you have truly dominated the millennium . cheers from bend , oregon .

hello anthony!

I'm been your biggest fan for years and i just hope you doing well.

greetings from Ohio

Hey there Anthony, hope you having or had a good trip to the Philippines. I love your show and you're biting sense of humor. You take us to places that i would never think to try out. And i love how you talk about your show being the Anti-Tourist show. You're a hoot. Watching the Puetro Rico episode right now. Keep up the good work. You rock Anthony!!!

Tony - like you, I travel the world, and avoid (almost) all known tourist traps, I like to live like the locals live. Unlike you, I have no production crew in tow, and no pressure to publish/produce, so in a lot of ways, my travel adventures are more enjoyable than yours. I have about 50 trips to SE Asia under my belt, and have been to Manila and Davao, about 20 times. I presently have fallen in love with Australia. I use your book, as a handout, to restaurant staff and owners I meet, literally around the world, so that they remember me, and know I appreciate how hard they work to take care of/put up with, me and my rowdy, hungry, thirsty, debauchen friends - old and new. At age 53, I just got my first body ink, partially because of your Miami Ink episode, but mostly because it was just time to stop talking and thinking about it, and just do it. I don't know if you read these comments or not, but I am hoping to find a way to express my thanks to you personally, for being who you are, and being of so much help to me, and of course, your money will be no good , until mine runs out...would love to break bread with you in NYC or Philly or Brisbane, maybe one day brother.

LOVE YOU, MISS YOU, PLEASE WRITE.

Anthony.
HIRE ME.
I will follow you around and do anything you want. I am a quick learner and very observant. I would love to see how you work.
Let me learn from you and let's share our passion for food and learning and writing.
please please please please please

Dim Sum....how about a tour of the back of the house in one of the big ones.....must be insane!!! Please ...we don't feel like they welcome us for a tour but you....maybe

I have travelled to 26 countries, speak 5 langauges, and have an MA in international studies.
Let me know if you need my talented input.
If you know of a job-opening I am available!

In regards to the book you thought no one would read, and the show you thought no one would watch; it has taken you places...

I have your book and haven't read it. I've watched your show but only rarely. But I can say the two shows I've seen of you has inspired me to cook and I in so doing I snagged a fiance-- So thanks....

AHTONY! YOU WRITE IT'S A BEAUTIFUL STORY! I,WOULD WRITE IT MYSELF, BUT I'AM A,
DISABLE, VET, I,CAN SIT DOWN TO LONG! I'LL GIVE YOU HALF PROFIT

most tourist dont want to do "tourist stuff", i enjoy the show in this aspect of depicting the true vibe you get when visiting these foreign countries. As a viewer i can tell when anthony is not "acting" and the director lets him do his thing. John Morley said- "No man can climb out beyond the limitations of his own character." So, Anthony, I understand your limitation of input,(not being the director)but please try to be yourself and continue to provide us with the poetic destriptions that describe your experiences so well.

hi Anthony,
i just sew the show from Lebanon
i am from Isreal and i wanted to tell you that the fear here was the same, our children where killed there taken from us. but it was interesting to see the diffrence of opinion inside the people, the Hizbala suporters and other people, it was intersting to see how simmelar we are, the fear was the same, but you have to understand the irony in this small area. thank you for being fair in your words.
and for showing how it was for all of us.

Finally something positive from the ano maSSistas, thank you ano Franco, I will change the word fighter as soon as I can. Don’t get confuse, it means I fight for democracy in my country, off course you already new this.

If I don't stop having that dream about you where we are bobbing around in the shallows off some distant caribbean island blissfully unaware of the gargantuan stainless-steel gas grill floating beside us, I'm going to have to see about something a little stronger than Ambien.
Love your s***; come to San Diego and lets eat some tacos.

ok, this is the only place I can find to contact, possibly, Tony Bourdain, so here I am. I just finished reading Bone in the Throat. It was great! What made it great were the very thinly veiled identities of the mobsters, and the dedication to Sammy "the Bull". Being a mafia nut, I recognized several key players in LCN during the late eighties and early nineties, as well hidden as they were. Someone was well versed in his information on the DeMeo gang, Mr. Fatico, and several other mob figures. I find it fascinating that Mr. Bourdain was a part of the New York of that time period, and I can understand with what angst and longing he says "where is my New York?" It was a well written book, with interesting characters, mostly those that had to be ferreted out of fiction and matched with their true identity. Excellent job. And, I would have dedicated it to Sammy, too, tongue in cheek or not.

Hi! Mr. Anthony Bourdain! I am Diane 25 yrs old living in Sta. Ana Manila Philippines! I'm a very, very big fan of yours.. I always watched your shows especially No Reservation.. You did a very great job showing other countries culture and showing yourself how excellent you are in everything! I just browse the net and found out that you had a website and as what I've read in your blog, you've been here in Manila last October and I'm so happy that finally you will be able to feature our country in your show, who everyone in this world admires and loved. I loved all your episode Sir and somehow it gives me a hope to dream that someday i can also travel around the globe and I learned to appreciate more how beautiful life it is.. You are one of my inspirations! Goodluck Sir! Always count your blessings! May GOD bless you and your family always! With so much respect, Diane

"At The Table" might have been more fun if it were under the table. You gotta be "Free Range" man, but you knew that. Don't let those Bean Counters push you down the wrong path. No "Veal Pen" for you.
Nice to see N.R. continuously evolving.

This post proves it's a lot of work and pressure to make the show look like it's relaxed and easy going.

As laid back as Mr. Bourdain is, there's obviously a work ethic mixed in with the I don't give a **** attitude.

Either way, I'm not worried. His approach makes even his worse shows work well.

Damn I love your writing. Even when you're talking of failure and/or the fear of messing up it's done with a flare that I admire (maybe because I do those two things almost exclusively?) Good luck with the Philippines episode. Love the show and the blog. -J

I just (finally) read Kitchen Confidential, and I loved it! I was reading bits out loud to my teenage son (and just pointing out some bits for him to read, since he doesn't need to hear ME saying those words), and he was literally rolling on the sofa laughing. I enjoyed the unexpected parallels I saw between the kitchen world and, believe it or not, the police department. Two years ago I jumped into that whole new world and had to learn a whole new language. When the officers stopped apologizing for swearing in front of me, I knew I was "one of the guys," or as close as I'm ever going to get, considering I'm twice their age. I'm wasn't the FNG anymore!

Mr. Bourdain I would love to be your Ralph Steadman, you're awesome.

I Heart You, Anthony!

Tony,
I hope your trip to the Philippines was great - I'm looking forward to see that episode, especially that I'm so curious as to which places in the Philippines you visited and what dishes you tried and really enjoyed.

I've been living here in NYC for 30 years and will finally retire to the Philippines this coming March 09- which I'm excited about to finally eat authentic Filipino food and hang out with super nice people who lives in the province.

I've been enjoying watching your previous season's shows - the Namibia episode was priceless. But what I love the most is the Jamaica episode where you totally lost it during the cave trek - another priceless moment of watching Tony Bourdain totally out of his comfort zone....

I think fans should not compare you to Andrew Zimmern - both have different style and appeal, yet both are very entertaining. I call Andrew the Three B's Man (The man who eats Bugs, Brains and Balls). You on the other hand Tony - you are the king Fulminator (bar none).....keep up the great work.....

It's a scary prospect going to the Philippines. I took my internship there, strait out of Culinary school, in 2005. Manila is a wonderful city. There's more to do and find in the confusion that is that city than a 1 hour TV show could ever cover. I actually missed out on "at the table" and apparently that might not be the worst thing ever. If you don't meet one of Manila's most intriguing and entertaining chef's, Scottish ex-pat Colin McKay who owns Sala and People's Palace(and just happens to be a drag show vixen), I for one won't necessarily be disappointed as I'm certain this will not be your last visit to the 'pinas. You will love every moment there, especially the Durian and the Lumbanug... or however the hell they spell it.

Big fan, big fan,
I believe you won't cover every aspect of the cuisines, since we are a bundle of scattered islands. There's 1. The North which includes "Batanes" the land of Dorados (check out Howie Severino's Documentary on the island)and unfledging spirit of the Ilocanos. 2. The Central plains of Luzon where the Kabalens and the Tagalog region with their "Sankutsa" and "Saute" style of cooking. and the 3. The South with their "SUTUKIL". I just hope you could find time to cover the Magnificent Lugaw or Goto or Pospas (mata ng Baka ng Batangas, Bahay Itlog ng Tagalog).

mr bourdain:

a failure? doubtful. a one-time mess-up--perhaps. nonetheless, i'd be more willing to watch forced conversations w/ ted allen about free food than the pitiful xmas specials they loop on the food network.

if the above words of encouragement aren't enough, at the very least, know that your writing has inspired at least one reader to pickup writing after a long stint. you know that this is leading to a shameless plug, but an honest, entertaining, and worthwhile one, at that:
http://the-mission-taco.blogspot.com

Hi Tony,

I think my flashbulb may have bothered you at the recent Gourmet Institute. Certainly, I got a look from you. To make it up, please you and Ottavia come to dinner at our villa in San Gersole, outside Firenze.

oh why oh why tony did you not go around some more here in the Philippines? you should have visited the schools, the BPO centers... and thank goodness no balut. :)

Hey Tony:
I'm a freind of Bulldog's....All I would have reminded the people in the Phillipines are how they threw us out of our airbase and lost all those American-paying jobs there...
Rhino

have fun in PI

Hey Tony.....im such a big fan of your show.....i've always wish that you could visit my country the Philippines.....now that your finally going there.....i thank you for doing it cuz of the bad publicity from the media it always been overlooked.....i hope that you have a great time tasting exotic foods,exploring historical sites,walking on stunning beaches and a Filipino hospitality that only the Philippines can offer=)

To mirror some of the comments above, I hope you get off of Luzon and out to some of the other islands. Mindanao is dramatically different, and so is Cebu. Balut is just one piece, and you did durian in Bali (your actual relishing of it garnered you great admiration from me. In the years I live in the Philippines, I could only get it in my mouth once).

Hey there. I was laying on my couch watching TV, as I always do before I take my medication, and your show was on, so I decided to watch. You amuse me, very much. Every time I see you on, I excitedly look to see if by chance in this episode, you're in Ireland, but you never are. What the %$#@? That is what I want, man. I'm sure you've probably been there before, but I don't care. Go back, and film it! Make me a happy little Irish girl.

Tony, you need a REAL wristwatch. I've seen you wearing a Tag Heuer. Since you're a world traveller you need a GMT-Master II or a Panerai. Let me know and you can borrow one of mine for a season.

Don't ever compromise who you are. You are loved because you are real. When you begin to subdue the reality to comply with the faculty, you will loose the audience. You are different. We, your fans, rejoice in it. In the words of my teenager: "stay real".
~Tonja

I,m excited to see your website and blog, Great place to visit and learn more about you and your Company!
Thanks for keeping this great Business Social Networking website!

Tony, let me say to you, a quote that helped me alot through life:

"There is no such this as a problem, without a gift for you in its hands."

That roundtable debacle was a huge problem, but it will give you some humbling gift somehow.

Love you Tony! Can't wait for the new season!

Yours in Ramones,

Christa

P.S. Tony, since I hear you are coming to Buffalo, NY (my hometown) believe me, we will definitely get you back on track. You'll probably be eating inexpensive, filling, fantastic food!! I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Buffalo is great, fantastic, cheap food!

Really looking forward to seeing this episode! Glad you stopped by my Manila!

hmm
karınca yumurtası, tala, tala yağı, karınca yumurtası satış

God you people are so annoying.
I find the rest of asia to be more interesting.
Something tells me he was forced to go because of you naggy people.

tony, a word of advice, go to Marikina, and try the "EVERLASTING"... simply the best...

Pig Fat!! Yumm!!!Show me the pork

I can't wait what you have to show about the Philippines. I'm eager to see what adventures and experiences you and your crew goes through.

i always watch your show everytime it's on tv. i can't wait to see your experience in my country...I hope you had some Lechon!!!!!!!

HENRY K-- you must have a lonely life to even get annoyed because we are so proud of our country!! i feel sorry for you!!!!!

Aw, c'mon, Tony, this episode was NOT your worst! At all! We thought it had potential for more, and that it was a more sedate, literate (or something) venture about food. I've seen far worse on that awfulother Network!!! And, hoot though he was, the Zamir/Romania show left this one in the dust for awfulness. Don't give up, try again sometime on this type of show, at least for occasional variety.

thansk you..

Thank you for not doing Balut! I watched Zimmern eat that partially formed chick from its shell and it was REPULSIVE!

Tony , i have to say you truly have an amazing job! I watch your show from time to time , last one was in greece. Didnt seem to like those urchins too much! On the other hand the alcohol seemed alright! Im very much looking forward to seeing you do a show about brazilian cuizine.

You have become shame-less!

Downside of being known. I think Bill Murray said it best when he said "if you ever wanted to be rich and famous, get rich first and you'll know, that's about all you need."

Does anyone knows when the Philippines episode will be aired?
Hope I didn't miss it :o(( I've

Anthony B. Iloveyou... so much!!! Just dont blow this one, No pressure. Ok! bye

Is this show ever going to re-air? I never got a chance to see it. I have to imagine it's quite different than NR, but it can't be terrible.

I never find this story,

Tony, I really enjoyed yoru show in the PI, I feel like Agusto, I am Italian and Filipino and All American. But love my Filipiono Food that my sisters or mom cook. There are Excellent Philippine Crusines here in West Covina CA Restaurants and a few others places in Los Angeles. Thanks for sharing my homeland identity. It's all about the food.

Tony, I've always liked your show and was very excited to see your second trip to the Philippines. I was there recently for 3 weeks and just came back last Sunday. Heck I've been going back every year for the last 6 years! I gotta admit, that guy 'Gusto did a terrible job. He's got no clue on where to go much less where to eat or what to do. For my money I'd hit Manila/Quezon City fairly hard, including my mom's cooking, and then cap the trip off to Boracay. The trip would be exhausting due to the exploring all day and the partying all night. And unlike confused Augusto I already know what I am. CBP, Chinese Born in the Philippines. So while I was deliriously happy to see you go to the Philippines again, I'm appalled at the pathetic job that guy did. He's a lost tourist with a brown tan.

I Tony, I'm a Filipino living in U.S. & would be a pleasure for me to take you to the other side of this country, I'm mean in the main land where you would see good entertainment , food, and liquor.

AT THE TABLE wasn't a "terrible train wreck" - it just needed more thought than "Tony has dinner with four foodie friends, and they discuss random **** for an hour." Of maybe you need need more scintillating dinner companions - except for Ted Allen, everybody seemed to lock up on-camera.

Where do you get your sunglasses?

You never screw up, Tony (not on your show at least). I'm not surprised why you have so many fans there. You're an honest, gentle, no-BS kinda guy and that's appreciated, worldwide.

keep doing what you do best. Leave the arm chair cooking to others.

Hi, thank you for the information that you provide. reklamcı

I am remind of the movie Batman: Begins. Young Bruce Wayne has fallen down a hole. Scared, alone, and being tormented by a large bat, young Bruce is saved bu his father. the elder Wayne asks his son, "and why do we fall down?" and young Bruce Wayne says "to learn how to get back up."

I think when you what you do best
just be yourself, this is what we love
and if it does not work you can do in a tasting of beer or 12

Still stinging from the whirlwind of revulsion that followed last week's stillbirth, I wish I had a big floppy hat I could pull down over my head (if not my whole body).

It is quite a wild and diverse palce to live here. I am teaching English in the Philippines and a great place for food! Takes a little while though to get used to thecultural difference from Europe.

I think you do have possibilities as a raconteur, but the first show didn't bring out the best in you or your guests

ventrilo servers

Your experience in the Philippines was good but it ain't even a slice of what the country beholds... Although Augusto has all the pride & enthusiasm of being a Filipino, he still lacks the experience and information on what the Philippines can truly offer. However, we salute our fellow pinoy who was able to persuade you visiting the Philippines. More Power to your show!! :)

Tony, you are best 'in the wild'. When people put you in a cage and expect you to perform, of course it is not going to be natural. We all love ya anyway.

Another name for balut is "eggs with legs". Been there, done that. As Jean Shepherd once said, "Flick lives."

Diego, in case you're still here, your DVD of Tony's press conference is on its way to Lourd. Nice to have met you, man. And yeah, Tony, enjoy the vinyl.

After reading this blog i think that Everyone is now trying to backpeddle. We love you Tony! Bleh
Typical sheepish behavior expected from followers, I mean fans.