The revolution in cuisine in general and the culinary professions more specifically has meant not only that the culinary press has grown astronomically, but also that chefs have a lot to say. There are plenty of places for them to talk and be heard – blogs, tweets, TV morning shows, and their own books – but there are enough important – and not-so-important issues on their minds that a new talk show on food is a significant addition.

The Chew premiers on ABC on Monday, September 26th at 1:00pm/ET, as a hour-long talk show with five hosts – include Mario Batali, Clinton Kelly , Carla Hall, Michael Symon, and Daphne Oz. The idea is to cover anything that touches on food:

As food has become the center of everyone’s life, “The Chew” will focus on food from EVERY angle — as a source of joy, health, family ritual, friendship, breaking news, dating, fitness, weight loss, travel adventures and life’s moments.

It is obviously modeled on ABC’s The View (same format, same mix of hosts and it even rhymes), and will be on the same network.

Super Chef has high hopes for The Chew. If it tackles big issues like childhood obesity, food safety, culinary education, and the careers of celebrity chefs, along with all the fun, it will be well worth the watch. Carla , Michael, and Mario will, no doubt, bring some depth to the discussions and attract interesting guests. Food is fun to talk about – it touches everyone and is in most parts of our lives – movies about food, shopping, growing, eating, or not. No doubt, The Chew will also be a platform of the hosts’ own projects – not necessarily a bad thing. After all, Mario is planning more Eataly stores.

Let’s hope it brings a fresh wave of irreverence, stimulating conversation, and fun to afternoon TV.

[cincopa AAHAYoq4svea]