Walk On the Wild Side

S1, E1: For his first event, an LA philanthropist hires Marcel to cater an elaborate event to increase awareness for the Wildlife Waystation, an animal refuge and sanctuary based in Los Angeles. After a visit to the Waystation, Marcel and his team strive to create an amazing safari-themed party with animals and their habitats serving as inspiration. Things in the test kitchen get off to a rocky start when members of Marcel’s team perform their tasks too slowly and display negligence that leads to a fire. Matters are further complicated when the client stops by for a tasting and is not necessarily pleased by the all the works-in-progress. The pressure continues to build as Marcel and his team are unable to test all their dishes before the event and are forced to prepare dishes for the first time while hungry guests wait. The spectacular menu includes an edible map, Bird’s Eye Surprise (a 'mozzarella balloon' inside a potato nest), an elaborate edible landscape and 'Himalayan Tiger’s Breath' with liquid nitrogen. The party is brought to life at a beautiful estate with actual exotic animals -- including monkeys, parrots and, pythons -- positioned inside various themed-rooms. A Himalayan tiger completes the experience in a magical back yard setting with ice sculptures and falling snow. The scope of the party is so massive, however, it leaves Marcel and company wondering if they bit off more than they can chew.