Ep 1. Epoch and ShrimpWreck

In the first episode of Million Pound Menu, two very different food concepts go head-to-head for a chance at investment from some of the UK's top restaurateurs. The first concept on the table is Epoch, a modern British restaurant with a focus on sustainable sourcing and high-end cuisine. The second is ShrimpWreck, a street food operation that specializes in shrimp dishes inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia.

The episode begins with the two teams setting up their pop-up restaurants in a busy area of Manchester. With only three days to impress potential investors and diners, the pressure is on to create a menu that will stand out from the competition. The Epoch team, led by chef Rob, put a lot of thought into their menu, which includes dishes like venison tartare with quail's egg and pickled mushrooms, and slow-cooked pork belly with smoked apple puree. They are committed to using only the most sustainable ingredients, and their attention to detail is immediately apparent in their carefully crafted dishes.

ShrimpWreck, on the other hand, takes a more casual approach to their menu. Their signature dish is the WreckFries, a heaping plate of fries topped with shrimp, garlic, and spices. They also offer shrimp tacos, shrimp burgers, and shrimp skewers, all of which are inspired by street food from Southeast Asia. The team is led by Exose, a former DJ who has a real passion for food and a gift for marketing.

As the teams start serving their dishes, diners start to arrive at the pop-up restaurants eager to taste what's on offer. The Epoch team is focused on creating a high-end dining experience, with an emphasis on presentation and flavor. They are hoping to attract investors who appreciate sustainable sourcing and innovative cuisine. Meanwhile, ShrimpWreck is hoping to appeal to a wider audience, with affordable and accessible food that is perfect for a quick bite on the go.

The investors, who include some of the most successful restaurateurs in the UK, start to arrive. They are not just judging the food, but also the teams' business plans and their potential for future success. As the pressure builds, both teams start to feel the heat. They know that a successful investment could change their lives forever, but the competition is fierce and the stakes are high.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise and the investors start to make their decisions. Some are impressed with Epoch's commitment to sustainability and their innovative menu, while others are drawn to ShrimpWreck's affordability and mass appeal. With only one investment on offer, both teams are left waiting for the final decision.

In the end, only one team will walk away with the investment they need to take their concept to the next level. But for both Epoch and ShrimpWreck, the experience of participating in Million Pound Menu has been invaluable. They have had the chance to showcase their food to some of the top investors in the UK, and to get some valuable feedback on their business plans. Whether they walk away with an investment or not, they know that they have learned a lot from the experience, and that they are now one step closer to achieving their dreams of success in the restaurant industry.