Food Network Star, Season 13: Top Moments of Episode 9

Relive the best moments of Week 9, and go on set with Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis and the finalists.

Episode: Game Day Special

Photo By: Eddy Chen

Food Trucks Times 4

With just a few weeks left in the competition, only four finalists remain, and this week, the mentors dish out one of the toughest challenges yet: an on-location live segment, wherein they'll report from a hot-spot food truck.

Truck Takeover

"It was kind of like a home invasion," Bobby jokes of Rusty's over-the-top interactions with the owner of his assigned food truck. Not only does Rusty dominate the conversation and attempt to get the timid owner to dance, but Rusty snags his hat and his taco sauce, which seemingly caught the owner off guard. "I love Rusty, but that was too aggressive," explains Giada.

A Serious Setback

Fresh off several weeks of strong presentations, Jason flops in this Mentor Challenge, struggling to convey the what's and why's surrounding the grilled cheese from his food truck. "I think this is probably the least-interesting thing he's ever done," Giada admits.

Showing Promise

Matthew knows that the time is now to step up with a strong performance, and lucky for him, he delivers. "He had a very good balance, in my opinion, of controlling the situation," notes Bobby, "and he brought his guest into the action." He earns the win in this challenge and goes on to receive an advantage in the upcoming Star Challenge.

Game-Day Grub

It's game day in Food Star Kitchen, but, of course, this isn't an everyday tailgate. Before hosting a four-part live ensemble program, the finalists are tasked with mashing up traditional game-day eats, like nachos, pizza, sliders and wings.

Double Stumbles

Though Amy manages to offer a nacho-slider combo, she chooses to forgo a critical element — the tortilla chip — and the mentors are quick to fault her for that. Similarly, her presentation leaves much to be desired too. "I just felt like it just sort of died," declares Giada. "The closing was lackluster."

A Live Touchdown

Both Jason and Matthew shine in their live segments, though when it comes to the food, Jason receives some serious flack for presenting just two deviled eggs for four people, which results in a messy look on-air. "You couldn't make four eggs?" Bobby asks him.

Missing the Mark

For Rusty, the food isn't the issue; Giada is keen on his loaded potato-hot dog mash-up. It's the presentation that proves tricky, as he makes multiple flubs in his speech. "You can't say 'stuck with,'" explains ESPN's Jemele Hill, "'cause then you're giving the impression that what's coming is not worth your time."

Amy's Goodbye

Despite impressive growth in this competition, Amy is ultimately sent home, just two weeks before the finale. "I'm proud I made it as far as I did; I just wish I made it all the way," she says, looking back on the experience.

Want More Food Network Star?

Check out Food Network's Food Network Star headquarters for more insider coverage of the competition, and read exclusive interviews with the finalists and mentors. Plus, get Star-powered recipes for every occasion.

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