The American version is nowhere near as good as the Japanese version, IMHO. Alton is always good to listen to, but I really don't know what's missing. I think there are two differences, at least for me: (a) lack of a live audience and (b) Alton doing all the work. I think the tag team of Hattori and Fukui really added to the flavor of the import, and having the guest foodies throwing in the 0.02 yen worth also added to it.

I can take or leave the "Chairman's nephew", he doesn't do anything for me one way or another.