Fall TV Preview: Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares

Gordon Ramsay's introduction to the American reality TV scene came three seasons ago with the premiere of Hell's Kitchen -- an in-your-face culinary elimination show, rather like Survivor with flammable cooking oil and dangerously sharp knives. Since then he has inspired and intimidated dozens of aspiring chefs and has made the careers of three talented winners. Now, this fall, Ramsay's new show Kitchen Nightmares will debut on Wednesday nights on Fox, beginning September 19.

Viewers who have seen the British version of this series, which airs in the States on BBC America, will have some idea of what to expect; for those who haven't, here is a brief rundown of the show's premise: Ramsay visits financially struggling restaurants, and offers them a critique of everything from dining room decor, to menu choices, to the way the kitchen is run. And he does it in typical Ramsay style -- forcefully, no sugar-coating. I have personally seen him make more than one grown man cry, and in one episode, the head chef actually locked Ramsay out of the restaurant, unable to take any more "advice". In the end, however, the advice proves beneficial, and after making some difficult changes to menus, staff, and policies, the struggling restaurants usually regain their footing and earn Ramsay's seal of approval.

So what can we expect to see in Kitchen Nightmares here across the pond? For one, more of Gordon Ramsay's charming personality -- he is consistently upfront, honest, and belligerent. Whether he is dealing with an unknown contestant or another famous chef, he treats everyone with the same directness. In Kitchen Nightmares, as he is trying to turn around a failing business in a short amount of time, this is essential. And with the typical British politeness, his criticism is usually well-received. In America, however, not everyone is so patient -- I think viewers are in for more confrontation, more tears, and potentially more fistfights. I expect to see the British version of the series, with a major dose of drama. I also hope to see the same heartwarming endings; after all the conflict and uncertainty, in the end the restaurant owner's dreams of running a successful business are fulfilled.

If you are a Gordan Ramsay fan and can't wait until the Spring Premier of Hell's Kitchen to get your weekly fix of pots, pans, and profanity; or if you are new to the world of culinary reality TV, be sure to check out this new series. I expect we'll be in for the usual fun, as well as some surprises!