Chef of the Week: Louisa Ellis – Masterchef: The Professionals Finalist and Private Chef
How long have you worked at your current restaurant?
I started my private chef business in August 2018.
Where did your passion for cooking come from and where did you learn your skills?
My passion for cooking came from my love of food and passion to experiment since a young age.
What do you enjoy most about being a chef?
I enjoy putting smiles on people’s faces and bringing people together.
Name three ingredients you couldn’t cook without.
Salt, lemon and olive oil.
Which piece of kitchen equipment couldn’t you live without?
Spoons.
What is your favourite time of year for food, and why?
My favourite time of the year for food is winter because mushrooms and truffle are my two favourite ingredients.
Which of your dishes are you most proud of?
Banana and yuzu which was my showstopper dish on Masterchef: The Professionals.
How do you come up with new dishes?
Inspiration from festivals, cook books and working in kitchens.
Who was your greatest influence?
My family and those who never believed in me.
Tell us three chefs you admire
Clare Smyth, Gordon Ramsay and Adam Stokes.
What is your favourite cookbook?
Eleven Madison Park.
Who do you think are the chefs to watch over the next few months?
Great British menu on catch up!
What’s been your favourite new restaurant opening of the last year?
Opheem, on Summer Row.
