I was a bit disappointed when Carla Hall didn't win Top Chef on Tuesday, but of all the chefs I've ever seen cook on there, she's the one I most like to have cook for me. And meet.

Ironically, her missteps in the final meal were being open to change, which is usually a good thing. She was open to new ideas, and while that led to a less than perfectly executed meal.  It doesn't make her any less of a winner in my eyes.  

In the interview excerpt they showed in the final episode, she nailed the reason why she should be considered a winner; she said that she wanted to show it was possible to "compete with love".  And that's the primary reason I loved watching her. 

It's not just her energy and perspective.  Or the fabulous glasses I can't help but admire.  Throughout the show, she was showing love every time she was on camera. She cooked with love, and competed with love.  I remember her talking to Arriane when she was feeling bad about a particular elimination round.  While most of the others were riffing on each other, she was focused on the food.  She'd cheer on her competitors, and help out when she could.  Even the self-absorbed Stefan was moved to comfort her in the final episode. 

With all that love, she never boring, or fluffy-bunny conjuring; she could be feisty, awkward, sweet, and all the while honest.  She proved entertaining doesn't require ego on overdrive. When she didn't have a perfect quick fire challenge dish, I'd love hearing how she'd critique herself. 

Some of her competitors would get good with the blame-throwing, but not Carla.  I know the producers selectively edit and promote certain drama strains, but the fact that two of the last three contestants were spending so much time talking down each other, and focusing on beating each other, Carla's focus on her food stood out. Watching the sniping between Stefan and Hosea went from boring to annoying. 

How refreshingly unique she is on television was underscored by the finale episodes.   We need more people like her in the world.  Now if more people could embody her attitude.

She can cook for me any time.  I hope that her catering company, Alchemy Caterers, can take advantage of the Top Chef exposure.  If I lived in the DC area, I'd definitely check them out.

So regardless of owning the official title, Carla Hall is a winner.