Who is chef Patrick Pope-Moody on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?
With MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 now in full swing on BBC One, we find out more about Patrick Pope-Moody, one of the chefs taking part in this year’s competition.
Patrick lives in London and is originally from Pukerua Bay, Wellington, New Zealand.
Age at start of filming
28
Job role
Junior sous chef
Chef background
“I started cooking through an apprenticeship after high school, beginning at InterContinental Wellington. Winning Emerging Chef of the Year funded a one-way ticket to Germany, where my international journey began.
"I’ve since worked in fine-dining and Michelin-starred kitchens. During filming, I worked at Alex Dilling at The Café Royal and now work as a freelance chef.”
Who and what inspired you to become a chef?
“I fell into cooking by accident, but stayed for the intensity, discipline, and constant learning each kitchen brings.”
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“Bold, fresh, flavour-driven food with clarity and balance. At its core, my food is about generosity, cooking things people genuinely want to eat.”
Three ingredients you can’t live without
“Salt, butter, and chocolate.”
What you eat when you get back from service
“Tinned mackerel and tomato on toast (Michelin standard obviously!).”
Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?
“My girlfriend signed me up and I found out about a week before the audition! Once the shock passed, I saw it as a chance to cook under pressure and test myself on a national stage.”
Outside of cooking what are your passions?
“Cooking for friends and family, watching Arsenal, and enjoying a good pub roast.”
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Who is chef Patrick Pope-Moody on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?
