The Finals: Starters, Great British Menu, 18 March 2024, BBC Two

Get ready for the brand new episode of Great British Menu, as national finals week kicks off with the starters round. In this special edition, the winners from the regional heats come together to showcase their culinary skills and compete for the opportunity to cook at a lavish Parisian banquet celebrating the Olympics and Paralympics.

Throughout this exciting week, eight talented chefs will battle it out over different courses, starting with the appetisers. Each episode features a unique panel of expert judges, including renowned Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, acclaimed restaurateur Nisha Katona, and popular food podcaster and comedian Ed Gamble. Adding an extra touch of Olympic spirit to the show is guest judge Ellie Simmonds OBE, Team GB’s second-youngest Paralympian ever and a holder of gold, silver, and bronze medals.

In the first episode airing on Monday 18 March 2024 at 9:00pm on BBC TWO, our judging panel faces an exciting challenge as they sample eight vegan starter courses inspired by the Olympics and Paralympics. The dishes presented by the rival chefs are as diverse in their sources of inspiration as they are in their cooking styles.

As tensions rise and creativity flows in the kitchen, each contender hopes to impress Ellie Simmonds OBE and her fellow judges with their innovative interpretations of vegan starters. Who will win this round and secure a coveted spot at the Parisian banquet? Tune in to find out!