The culinary competition "Das Perfekte Dinner" is back, showcasing amateur chefs who will display their skills across five nights, beginning from February 24 to February 28, 2025, in the picturesque Bergisches Land region of Germany. The beloved format sees participants turning their kitchens and homes to stage vibrant culinary battles, all vying for the coveted title and prize money of 3,000 Euros.
Kicking off the week is Gabi, a 61-year-old from Solingen, who aims to impress not just with her palate but also the luxurious setting of her home, which features its own swimming pool, sauna, and well-stocked wine cellar. Since selling her successful industrial knife manufacturing company two years ago, Gabi is excited to explore her passions, including hosting and cooking for friends—something she invites viewers to experience firsthand this week.
Gabi has curated her first night's menu with the theme "Aufbruch vom Land übers Meer in die Ferne" emphasizing her desire to transport her guests to warmer, sunnier climates, especially with the cold German weather. The first course features potato and beef tartare topped with premium Beluga caviar, signaling her efforts to indulge her guests: "Wenn jemand keinen Kaviar mag, dann schiebt er ihn halt zur Seite. Das wäre dann aber, auf gut Deutsch gesagt 'Perlen vor die Säue,'" she remarks, acknowledging the delicate nature of the ingredient.
Her main course, pan-seared monkfish accompanied by ratatouille and flavored with thyme, promises to be equally impressive. Each dish not only reflects her experience and love of hospitality but also her knack for presentation, intending to delight eyes and palates alike. Gabi hopes her culinary creativity will set the standard high for her competitors throughout the week.
During the meal, guests are treated to Gabi's flamboyant service style as they enjoy the delicious offerings. Her inviting home has already garnered soft laughter and cheerful camaraderie, as seen when Stefan jokingly remarks about her "ganzer Fuhrpark an Geräten" (whole fleet of devices) as she accesses her well-equipped kitchen. He expresses awe at her impressive wine cellar: "Es waren Flaschen dabei, die waren so spektakulär, die kenne ich eigentlich nur vom Namen her," he admits, reflecting on the range of high-quality wines stocked so generously.
Following the main course, Gabi serves her dessert—tonka bean ice cream enriched with marinated mango slices. Tenderly prepared, this final dish aims to charm the guests' sweet tooth and leave them wanting more. Her thoughtfulness and detailed presentation earn her compliments, with one guest exclaiming, "You have managed to create such splendor!"
At the end of the night, each guest rates Gabi's performance, taking comprehensive note of atmosphere, meal quality, and overall experience to award Gabi points. The judging criteria include meal presentation, service, and ambiance, with them rating out of 10 for each category.
An impressive start, Gabi garnered a total of 35 points from her guests, setting the bar high for the remaining competitors. Fellow contestants Seda, Heiko, Sarah, and Stefan are now tasked with devising their menus to not only match but hopefully surpass her culinary brilliance as the week progresses. Seda’s evening is scheduled for February 25, 2025, where she will present her own culinary creations reflecting her unique heritage.
"Das perfekte Dinner" airs from Monday to Friday at 19:00 hours on VOX, and viewers can catch each episode on demand on RTL+, ensuring no culinary moment is missed. This season promises thrilling rivalries, delightful meals, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Bergisches Land, inviting audiences to savor every moment both on and off-screen.
So, buckle up for a week of delightful dishes and friendly competition as the chefs battle it out, serving dishes reflecting their distinct styles, personalities, and love for gastronomy! The anticipation of seeing how hospitality can unite and challenge individuals is surely what makes "Das Perfekte Dinner" such engaging television.