Ep 5. Jake & Elle (QLD)

Sydney's adrenaline is pumping as the contestants move to Kitchen Headquarters for the final instant restaurant of Group 2. Mother and son duo, Jake and Elle, are determined to bring the heat to the competition from Queensland. The contestants all agree that Jake's Michelin-starred experience should make him the favorite in the kitchen. The judges are also excited to sample some Queensland flavors, including spanner crab and custard apple.

The guests begin to arrive and are greeted with passionfruit and Prosecco cocktails. Jake and Elle's dining room decor is stunning, with a gorgeous floral centerpiece and twinkling fairy lights. However, the judges and guests soon become impatient for the first dish to arrive in the midst of an overexcited Jake. But the wait is worth it as the entree of spanner crab is met with rave reviews by both guests and judges. It's clear that Jake's experience in Michelin-starred restaurants has paid off in its attention to detail and precision.

Next up, Jake and Elle serve venison with beetroot and red wine jus for the main course. The judges praise the dish's flavor but note that the venison is slightly overcooked. Likewise, the guests are pleased with the dish but have mixed reactions about the beetroot. The judges also take note of Jake and Elle's team dynamics, with Jake taking control of the kitchen and Elle playing a supporting role. The pair must work on being an equal team in the kitchen.

For the dessert, Jake and Elle serve custard apple and white chocolate parfait. The guests are wowed by the presentation, with the parfait molded into a beautiful shell shape. The judges are also impressed with the flavors, describing it as a sophisticated dessert that would be at home in a high-end restaurant. Throughout the meal, Jake and Elle are praised for their ambition and willingness to take risks. But the judges and guests note that sometimes the risks don't pay off, as seen with the overcooked venison.

Despite the concerns with the team dynamic and occasional missteps, Jake and Elle's passion and culinary skill leave a lasting impression on both the judges and guests. The duo receives high praise for their effort and creativity, and it becomes clear that this Queensland team should not be underestimated.