South Australian friends Leigh and Jennifer are the first team through to the MY KITCHEN RULES grand final after knocking out Tasmanian couple Megan and Andy in a nail-biting semi-final clash.

The Adelaide duo were victorious with a score of 52/60, narrowly edging out their Apple Isle competitors who finished on 46 points.

The two teams had to prepare their best three-course menu for judges Pete Evans and Manu Feildel and guest judges Tobie Puttock, Guy Grossi, Karen Martini and Liz Egan. It was a close decision, with the judges full of praise for each team. "This was a terrific battle tonight," Pete said. "Two teams producing menus of the highest order. Throughout this competition, everyone has kept evolving and it was evident in each and every dish on the table."

Leigh and Jennifer's menu consisted of a Confit of Murray Cod entrée, Twice Cooked Pigeon Main and Chocolate and Earl Grey Tea Tart for dessert. Each of the judges commended the girls on raising the bar. "The flavours were dancing on my tongue," Liz said. Pete added: "It was perfect."

The girls were overjoyed with the result. "We're very, very happy," Leigh said. "We're over the moon."

Megan and Andy opted for a menu featuring Sesame Seed Pork Rice Paper Rolls, a Rich Seafood Chowder main and Chocolate Marquise with Crème Anglaise for dessert.

While the seafood king and queen gave it their all, it wasn't enough to beat the SA pair. "Megan and Andy, you're the essence of the competition," Pete said to them afterwards. "Real, honest Aussies with a passion for food and you should be going home with your heads held high."

The feisty pair were upbeat despite their defeat. "This experience has been the best thing we've done," Megan said. "Coming into this competition from the start, we never expected to be producing restaurant quality dishes. It's just phenomenal what we've learnt. We survived three eliminations. We never expected to get this far. The memories we take from this will stay with us forever."

The competition turns into a battle ground as South Australian mates Nic and Rocco collide with Victorian sisters Carly and Emily. Who will join Leigh and Jennifer in Tuesday night's grand final?

The second semi-final kicks off tonight at 7.30pm, culminating in the grand-final on Tuesday. Who will walk away with the $250,000 prize money and be crowned the 2012 champions?