Tre returns for Top Chef Holiday Special

I think this is actual breaking Top Chef news. A Bravo spokeswoman confirmed to me today that Top Chef filmed a holiday special to air sometime in December.

This hasn't been announced, but South Florida chef Norm Van Aken let the secret slip (actually, shared it willingly) during an interview about Tavern N Town, his new Key West restaurant. Van Aken, a guest judge during Season 3, got the call to return as a judge in this holiday showdown.

Even though Van Aken appeared on Top Chef, he said he's not a fan. At least, he doesn't watch. Of the contestants on hand for the holiday special, he only recognized Tre. And he did say Hung wasn't there. Bravo, naturally, wouldn't cough up any details today.

Van Aken said the prize money was $20,000-- which probably would go to a favorite charity, like the last Top Chef alum smackdown. He was most amused by the setting. The special was filmed in Chicago, site of Top Chef's Season Four, a couple of weeks ago. But Top Chef imported as much of a December feel as possible: Christmas trees and holiday decorations, Van Aken said.

"It was kind of like shooting 'It's a Wonderful Life,'" he said.

Check out the Top Chef reunion special tonight  at 10-- maybe they'll announce more details. Should we expect a sing-along by a piano? Cardigan sweaters? Guest appearances by college football All-Americans? Stay tuned...