IMO, a fantastic solution would be to replace Padma with Gail as host/judge, and to add the fabulous Eric Ripert as the other permanent judge (and part time host). He could "pitch hit" some of the hosting duties (Quick Fires) for Gail. Eric Ripert has such a wonderful and kind personality as a chef/food "reviewer". There's an old You Tube video of he & Gail Simmons, where she goes to his house and makes Welsh Rarebit in his kitchen (a dish he'd never had before). The chemistry works. He's so good on camera, a food "subject matter expert", and would elevate Top Chef further. Here's the link to the short vid of Eric & Gail.
