To be honest, I like Emeril. I think his cooking is excellent and he really comes off as a very nice guy who respects his patrons. He certainly cooks a wide variety of meals; fancy Las Vegas or comfort food and everything in between. I do think he does overdo it with the butter, heavy cream, fat from various meats (pork fat especially), and booze but if you're paying $100 for your meal it must be worth the money. I like Doc Gibbs as well.
What I really hate is that audience. The way they cheer for the Essence, alcohol, and especially garlic can get to you. Also, there are way too many shots of his audience and they always seem to be in some trance. They all have big smiles on their faces; as if seeing this guy cook is the greatest thing to experience in New York. While I enjoy the various guests he occasionally brings in, sometimes his pandering to some of them (Tony Danza) can be almost uncomfortable to watch.
Still, it's a show I like to watch once in awhile and he does hit the mark with some of his catchphrases and antics. I just wish he'd dump the audience. It's scary to see them go over the top. Oh yeah, Babe!
