Food Network Star winner: Which Southern chef got his own show?

The Food Network Star winner was crowned and everyone will be cooking with butter, bourbon, and bacon, Lord Honey.

The Season 13 finale of Food Network Star may have been light on the cooking, but the Food Network Star winner was the champion that everyone wanted. Jason Smith, the Country Bling cook, has joined the Food Network roster. While the finale didn’t specify Jason’s pilot launch date, his fans will eagerly anticipate the show.

Food Network Star

winner, photo from Food Network

Throughout season 13, Jason has been the hands-down favorite. Fans love his down-home, Kentucky-influenced phrases. Even Bobby Flay was referred to as “honey.” While some people don’t understand the many phrases, they are completely entertaining. Who doesn’t want to try to work “butter my butt and call me a biscuit” into a conversation?

The Food Network Star finale was a combination of the three pilots and flashbacks to the entire season. All the finalists came back to the finale taping. The show was clearly about Jason, Cory, and Rusty, but a few other finalists had their moments, too.

Expectantly, Matthew was extremely quiet. The episode barely mentioned him or even showed him. Amy, with her quirky, awkward issues, was brought up again. Also, Nancy (remember nana who was kicked off early?) had an obligatory swearing grandma moment. Addie even had a moment, but she was very pregnant which couldn’t go unnoticed. The majority of finalists only had a moment or two on camera and most didn’t even say a word.

Food Network Star Finale, photo from Food Network

While Jason, Cory and Rusty and their pilots were the main parts of the Food Network Star finale, the show did have a few other entertaining moments. The Bobby Flay outtakes were amusing, but they could have been left out. While it’s good to know that Bobby and Giadia get along so well, I don’t need to see her grooming his eyebrows. More importantly, I don’t want to see Giadia’s cleavage any more. This season had way too many cleavage shots, although unavoidable given the outfits.

The Food Network Star finale began with Rusty’s pilot. His pilot, titled “French Dipping,” showed his big personality. While he had one too many “how y’ur doings” for my preference, it was enjoyable. It reminded me of a Southern Guy Fieri show. But, the Food Network doesn’t need another Guy’s Big Bite.

Food Network Star Finale, Rusty and Guy Fieri, photo from Food Network

Rusty did come in second to Jason. I thought that Rusty’s connection to the Zac Brown Band might give him an edge. The Food Network doesn’t have a show about what bands/musicians eat on the road. Even a limited run show about what bands or musicians eat on the road would probably do well. Rusty is an impressive chef. He is probably the guy that I would want to have a beer and watch a game with.

Food Network Star Finale, Cory, photo from Food Network

The second pilot was Cory. Although Cory has had problems showing his personality, Cory’s cooking ability was clearly the best. Looking at his plates, I was salivating for his food. Too bad there isn’t smell-a-vision.
Cory’s pilot was titled “Taco Tuesday.” The title could have been better. His pilot was really good. Cory had some of the best food authority tips of all the pilots. It showed more of the “cooking” aspect. As an amateur chef, I like seeing the cooking tips and techniques. I might never go to the LA Farmer’s Market, but I can try to cook Red Snapper tacos at home based on this segment.

Although Cory might not be the best person to watch on television, I want to see and eat more of his food. Maybe he can make an appearance at some food festivals. I would buy a ticket to South Beach Wine and Food Festival to taste that whole fish dish from episode 11. Are you listening, SOBEFWW?

As third place chef, Cory should be able to get some leverage out of his appearance. Remember, Cory beat Bobby Flay in an episode. Very few chefs have accomplished that feat. I really hope that I see more of Cory and his amazing food.

Food Network Star Finale, Jason Smith, photo from Food Network

The final pilot shown was Jason’s segment, “Fondue for Two.” Overall the segment was quite enjoyable. Putting Jason into a French restaurant with two French chefs could have spelled disaster, but it worked. I do have concerns that Jason could come across like a gimmick or a punchline. Jason is more than just funny sayings. I would hate to see the “fun” aspect exploited.

His pilot had a lot of good technical information too. The combined cheese information for the fondue was an important tip. Very few people would probably know how to avoid a greasy fondue. Also, clarifying the French name for rue was important, too.

Of course, Jason is about the entertaining when eating good foods. Just look at the gentleman’s jacket for the finale. If that didn’t t scream “Country Bling” I don’t know what does.

Jason should be a great addition to Food Network. The Food Network Star winner adds a lot to the network. First, he provides a Southern presence. Southern food is trending. From Nashville hot chicken to down-home, simple cooking, the Food Network needs to highlight this trend. Jason gives the network that opportunity.

Food Network Star Finale, Jason Smith, photo from Food Network

Second, Jason is an accomplished baker. While shows like the Baking Championships and Cupcake Wars show some baking, these shows aren’t targeted to the home baker. I would love to make Jason’s nut tart at home. It seemed like a dessert that is possible for the home baker to accomplish. Maybe the Food Network will include some baking aspects to his show.

Lastly, Jason is a big personality. Hopefully, his show will be about cooking and entertaining. I don’t really need another Food Network personality taking me to his or her favorite restaurant. I want to see people cook, give cooking tips, or tackle some crazy ingredient. Let’s bring back the cooking, Food Network.

Jason, the Food Network Star winner, should do well. While some of the previous winners haven’t made a big impact, Jason seems to be an unique individual that can stand out. Let’s hope that he stays true to his brand and himself.

Next: Disney Springs, dining destination or Disney theme park?

Another season of Food Network Star comes to a close. Time to get into my home kitchen and get creative. I may not be the Food Network Star winner, but I do cook a great black truffle risotto.