I'm a big fan of Alton Brown of Good Eats fame. He's got a very unique way of presenting food and cooking.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V-1O2nqars

He's gotten a little too concerned with the precision of food science these days, especially when it comes to baking. But he's still my favorite. And I've had the pleasure of watching him live twice, and can say he's just the same in person as he is on TV.

Second favorite is Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa. Mostly because she's like a less indimidating Martha Stewart, and all her recipes that I've tried have been easy to follow, easy to make, comprhensive enough for a somewhat new cook, and spot-on. When I need an elegeant recipe I know is going to work, Ina's my go-to girl.
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Love Bobby Flay. I have a few of his books and try to use the grill as much as possible (difficult with snow on the ground though).
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Anthony Bourdain all the way! If you enjoy the show, you will love his books. I have read all his non-fictions and currently reading Bone in Throat.
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To watch Gordon Ramsey. He is a good guy and makes great food but he is hilaroius to watch when he is dressing down some self absorbed weenie.

To eat Rachel Ray. I have made alot of different recipes from many different chefs but hers seem to be both the most consistant and tasty. Though Emeril had a baby back rib recipe that was to die for.
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For personality I like Guy Fieri. He's a departure from the usual suspects on Food TV.

http://www.guyfieri.com/

Actually cooking knowledge is probably Alton Brown...
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It's a toss up between Eric Ripert and Daniel Boulud. They're both excellent technicians and successful retauranteurs who could well be difficult and arrogant but aren't. They're both talented and personable. With them, it's clear it's all about the food and not showmanship. Since I'd rather eat good food than be entertained, I think that's a prize quality in a chef.
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Bobby Flay
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Gordon Ramsey
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I've always liked Mario Batali, David Adjey, and Jamie Oliver. I know a lot of people like Bobby Flay, but I think he is pretty overrated.
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Alton Brown. I always learn something when I watch his show Good Eats.
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I love Chef Emeril Lagasse. I have had the good fortune to dine in three of his restaurants in the past few years. The food is amazing.

I am particularly fond of his show on Planet Green (Discovery). He doesn't do the whole "Bam!" thing. He demonstrates skills of a teacher.

I love his food, and Emeril Green is an awesome show.
Source(s):
For more information:
http://www.emerils.com/
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/emeril-green/

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