Gareth Baty, 40, has been named the winner of MasterChef: The Professionals series 18 after seven weeks of challenging competition. The chef impressed judges Marcus Wareing, Monica Galetti and Matt Tebbutt with his bold, flavourful and heartfelt cooking throughout the series.
In the final, Baty faced runners-up Luke Emmess and Mark O'Brien. His winning menu paid tribute to his family, including a langoustine and green apple tartar starter for his mother, and a chicken roulade main course in memory of his father. Monica Galetti described the starter as delicate yet gutsy, while Matt Tebbutt praised the main course for its texture and flavour.
Earlier in the competition, Baty earned positive reviews from critics including William Sitwell and Tom Parker Bowles. The final week saw contestants cook at the Michelin-starred Dining Room at The Goring hotel, then travel to Atelier Moessmer in Italy to work under three-Michelin-starred chef Norbert Niederkofler.
Reacting to his victory, Baty said it was the best feeling he had ever had, adding that cooking from the heart can take you a long way. Judge Marcus Wareing noted Baty's huge future ahead of him, while Matt Tebbutt said Baty cooked with love and passion.
