Who is chef Seb on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?
With MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 heats coming to a close on BBC One, we find out more about Seb, one of the chefs taking part in this year’s competition.
Seb lives in Birmingham, England.
Age at start of filming
33
Job role
Senior sous chef
Chef background
“I am a completely self-taught chef - everything I know has come from learning on the job, pushing myself, and immersing myself in kitchens.
"My first professional experience was at Resort World in Birmingham, where I quickly fell in love with the fast-paced rhythm of service. The most defining part of my career so far has been Harborne Kitchen, a fine-dining environment where creativity, discipline and precision are essential.
"During filming for MasterChef: The Professionals, I continued working at Harborne Kitchen, absorbing as much as I could from a team that constantly pushed me to grow.
"I now work at Hogarths Hotel, where I continue developing my cooking voice through new ingredients, techniques and challenges.”
Who and what inspired you to become a chef?
“My earliest food memories come from my grandmother, who cooked every day when I was growing up in Ecuador.
"After moving to the UK, my brother Diego and my head chef, Tom Wells, became strong influences. They encouraged me, challenged me, and helped turn my interest in food into a career I’m deeply passionate about.”
How would you describe your style of cooking and any influences on it?
“My cooking style is rooted in classic technique but influenced heavily by the countries I’ve lived in and the people I’ve cooked with.
"My food brings together Latin American warmth, Spanish flavours and the British kitchens where I built my career. I believe in simplicity, strong flavour, and letting ingredients speak for themselves.”
Three ingredients you can’t live without
“Salt, garlic and black pepper.”
What do you eat when you get back from service?
“Something small, simple and comforting - usually rice and a light protein. After a long day, I prefer food that’s easy and satisfying.”
Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?
“The opportunity came at exactly the right moment in my career. I wanted a new challenge, a chance to test my abilities, and an opportunity to grow professionally. MasterChef felt like the perfect platform to push myself outside my comfort zone.”
Outside of cooking, what are your passions?
“I enjoy long walks, spending time with family, reading (especially cookbooks), and taking time to disconnect and recharge. Cooking can be intense - finding balance outside the kitchen is essential.”
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Who is chef Seb on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?
