The quarterfinals of Le Meilleur Pâtissier 2024, aired on December 19, was filled with exciting Portuguese-themed baking challenges, captivating judges and audiences alike.
Judges Mercotte and Cyril Lignac welcomed contestants to recreate the vibrant culture and flavors of Portugal. One of the standout creations came from Tsiory, who crafted a stunning port wine bottle cake, which immediately wowed the judges. "C'est magique," said M6, highlighting the excellence of this visually appealing dessert.
Tsiory’s cake was not only eye-catching but also delivered on taste. With flavors balanced beautifully, the unexpected twist of port wine added depth, with Cyril commenting on the cake's delightful balance of textures and flavors. "Franchement, bravo, jackpot!" he exclaimed, praising Tsiory's culinary skills.
Romain, on the other hand, faced significant challenges during these trials. Formerly eliminated and then brought back, his second stint under the tent ended on this tough note as he struggled with his creative challenges. His coq de Barcelos lacked the finesse needed, leading to his eventual elimination. Reflecting on his experiences, Romain shared, "Je pensais que ça allait me coûter ma place," indicating the self-doubt he faced during the competition.
This episode also sparked conversations among viewers, especially about José, who struggled with maintaining composure throughout the challenges. Social media was abuzz with comments like, "Je n’aime pas José et j’en suis désolée, il m’insupporte", showcasing the mixed feelings audiences had about his dramatic flair.
On the flip side, Timothée continued his impressive streak, showing skills not just technically but creatively as well. He excelled once again during the technical challenge, impressing everyone with his ability to innovate under pressure.
With Romain bowing out, the remaining contestants, including Benjamin Désert, looked to secure their places moving forward. Notably, Benjamin's cake, fashioned to represent the trams of Lisbon, was well-received, showing his skillful tribute to Portuguese culture.
Looking forward, the semifinal round promises to be another thrilling chapter of Le Meilleur Pâtissier, with remaining contestants eager to keep impressing the judges. Romain's bittersweet exit from the show was noted as he expressed gratitude for the experience, stating, "Elle n'a pas été qu'une simple animatrice," when referring to Laëtitia Milot's role throughout the competition. Despite his elimination, he praised the friendships and knowledge gained during this culinary adventure.
Stay tuned for the next episode on January 9, 2025, when the remaining bakers will face new challenges and perhaps even the ultimate showdown for the title of best pastry chef.
