Ep 1. Come Dine With Me: North Surrey

Come Dine With Me is a popular British television series that follows four strangers as they switch off hosting dinner parties for each other for the chance to win a cash prize of £1000. Season 35 kicks off with the episode Come Dine With Me: North Surrey. The episode takes place in North Surrey, a picturesque part of England known for its lush countryside and quaint villages.

The four contestants are introduced: there's John, a retired footballer who now works as a fitness instructor; Alice, a fashion blogger and Instagram influencer; Sean, a software developer who has a passion for cooking; and Helen, a widow who runs her own catering business. Each contestant has their own unique personality and cooking style, and tensions quickly rise as they compete to host the best dinner party.

First up is John, who decides to throw a football-themed dinner party in honor of his past career. He decorates his house with football memorabilia and even serves fish and chips in mini footballs. However, his main course, a steak and ale pie, doesn't quite impress the other contestants and his dessert, a homemade apple crumble, receives mixed reviews.

Next is Alice, who decides to take a different approach and throws a cocktail party instead of a traditional dinner. She serves a variety of themed cocktails and small appetizers, including bruschetta and crab cakes. However, her lack of hot food and more substantial dishes surprises the other contestants, and they are left feeling a bit unsatisfied.

Sean is up next, and he decides to showcase his skills in the kitchen by cooking a three-course meal from scratch. He serves a smoked salmon starter, lamb shank for the main course, and a lemon tart for dessert. His attention to detail and delicious dishes impress his fellow contestants, and he receives high praise for his efforts.

Last but not least is Helen, who decides to cook a traditional Sunday roast for her dinner party. She serves roast beef with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings and roasted vegetables. For dessert, she serves a homemade apple pie. While her food is well-received, her lack of creativity and risk-taking in the kitchen is noted.

Throughout the episode, tensions rise as the contestants compete to win the cash prize and impress each other with their culinary skills. Each contestant has their own strengths and weaknesses, and it's interesting to see how their personalities and cooking styles clash and complement each other. Overall, Come Dine With Me: North Surrey is a fun and engaging episode that showcases the diversity and creativity of British home cooking.