Kayleigh and I were lucky enough to go to a taping of The Chew yesterday morning (brief pause while I consider how awesome my job is). their book comes out in September, and I highly recommend snagging a copy. The recipes are all affordable and tasty, and the projects will make for excellent gifts.
It was a really fun and interesting experience…there were a million people, each with their own very well orchestrated role, milling about the set. R.C. Smith warmed up the crowd, and kept us laughing through the breaks, instructing us when to clap, laugh, awwww, do jazz hands….I may or may not have felt a bit like a monkey at times, but it did add to the allure of the moment.
I was a huge fan of the sound/d.j. engineer who had exceptional taste in music and got everyone clapping and dancing. Journey o'clock happened much earlier than usual.
Carla and Clinton had an impromptu dance party prior to the start, and can I just say, they are super cutesy. So genuine and friendly. In honor of Mother's Day, Carla's mom was a guest, and she was lovely – very no-nonsense and down to earth – my kind of mom. Daphne Oz is just as gorgeous as everyone says, but also very smart and charming. Mario Batali is… well, he's Mario Batali – orange crocs, pony tail, vest, talent. And last but not least, the oh so entertaining Michael Symon!
Of course this group of very skilled chefs made the meal preparation look easy, but I think they are actually doable – even to someone with less than stellar kitchen abilities. The smells made my stomach growl, and I came very close to jumping over the row in front of me to get to the table where audience members were partaking in the delicious meals. Make sure you check out the recipes for some brunch ideas.
And if you want to see my and Kayleigh's TV debut, you can watch our episode.
Happy Friday!
– Annie