Who is chef Steve Andrews MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 contestant?

We find out more about the next batch of chefs set to take to our screens when MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 continues this week, next airing on Tuesday, November 5 at 9pm.

Introducing Steve Andrews, chef patron of fish & forest in york

Having worked in the industry since the age of 15, Steve set up his own restaurant in 2019.

Name

Steve Andrews

Age

33

Where are you from/where do you live?

Steve grew up in York with his mum, dad and older sister. He now lives there with his wife and two-year-old son.

Current and previous experience

Steve started out front of house in his parents’ restaurant, before long he was in the kitchen and worked there as the chef for 10 years whilst studying catering at college. In 2016, he left to go travelling around the world, which included working at Little Jeans restaurant in Sydney. In 2019 he set up on his own restaurant, he started with a pop-up, then an establishment within a pub and now his own venture Fish & Forest.

Who and what inspired you to become a chef?

“It’s slightly embarrassing how I got into food. I don’t have a classic story but when I was working front of house, I just loved the smell of chips in the fryer, and I was so intrigued by what made it smell so great.”

How would you describe your style of cooking and any influences on it?

“Modern British Bistro - we use sustainable fish and game to curate a small balanced menu. I have dedicated myself to using sustainable ingredients to create new dish on a regular basis and this inspires me every day.”

Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?

“I applied because I believe in my ability, and I believe in myself. I think my story of how I got to where I am today has shaped me as a chef and this has had a massively positive impact on my cooking and skills. I want to be able to showcase what I know I have to offer this industry.”

OUTSIDE OF COOKING WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

“It sounds cheesy but outside of cooking, my favourite thing is spending time with my son. He has just turned two and he is honestly a legend. I couldn’t be prouder of him.”