Judson Allen

Food Network Star hopefuls arrive in NYC to compete for their dream job.

This week's challenge is a food tour of New York City. The finalists are split into three teams, each of which will take a busload of tourists on a tour of a different neighborhood.

The 13 remaining finalists meet Chopped judges Alex Guarnaschelli, Scott Conant, and Marc Murphy and are given their Star Challenge: Each team must use a basket of ingredients to create his or her best sweet concoction, Chopped style.

"You take the good, you take the bad ... ." Originally set at the prestigious Eastland School for Young Women, housemother Mrs. Garrett is the caretaker and confidante of a special group of girls. Over time, this group shrinks to be centered on only four young women: wealthy and spoiled Blair, gossipy Tootie, eager-to-please Natalie and tough girl Jo. Over the years, the girls graduate from school, and the story lines evolve with them.

It's Fashion Week in New York, and the finalists are thrilled to learn that, as potential stars, a makeover is essential. But, they learn, they aren't the recipients: this is a food "makeover."

Paula Deen hosts a beach party at Miami's South Beach Wine and Food Festival, and the finalists cook the meal. Each must create two versions of a dish; the final eight will also give a 30-second on-camera "entertaining tip."