What is the best version

C

Explanation:

1 was starting might be slightly better, but it still does not work. You need a pure past tense.

2. Same problem. The dinner did start might work. It's a bit awkward, but it might be enough.

3. Here's your pure past tense. It started unappetizingly.

4.  That's more present than anything. You want C

thtahth hg nd d

explanation:

gfdhj rs tyh6r h ts eqagdas   d dy d   w 5js   tydtrs tfs4gtehtyhh