There was no going back on the first day of filming when finalists had only one chance to make a solid initial impression with fans and the mentors alike. What the hopefuls said about their points of view — and their takes on their rivals — would ultimately carry throughout the season.

Food Network Star is difficult enough without unexpected twists, but that's exactly what the finalists experienced when a Cutthroat Kitchen-style challenge befell them. Reuben was tasked with cooking out of what Alton deemed "the infamous little kitchen," while Loreal had to grind the meat for her meatballs with a snow-cone machine.

Team PayDay stole the show at YouTube Space LA when Christopher, Aryen and Lenny delivered an over-the-top clip personifying mad science gone awry. "I can't unsee that," Alton said after watching the video.

At the last moment, Chris ditched his plan to discuss his experience in the military and instead offered a presidential imitation — and it earned him hearty laughs from the crowd and mentors alike.