Who is chef Alin Stoica MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 contestant?

Four more chefs take to our screens in the next heat of MasterChef: The Professionals 2024, on Thursday, November 7 (8pm).

Introducing Alin Stoica, head chef at The Jacobean Hotel in Coventry.

Romania-born Alin moved to the UK as a teenager, meeting his now-wife Naomi whilst at school.

Name

Alin Stoica

Age

23

Where are you from/where do you live?

Alin moved to the UK when he was 14. Born and raised in Romania, he grew up surrounded by family, with four siblings. He met his wife Naomi as a teenager at school, where they bonded over their Romanian roots. They now live in Coventry with their 18-month-old son, Levi.

Current and previous experience

Having grown up around food and cooking from a young age, Alin knew that cooking was his path and after finishing school, headed straight to study catering at Coventry College, where he completed his NVQs level 1-3. He then went on to work at The Jacobean Hotel as commis chef. Three years on he is back working there as head chef.

Who and what inspired you to become a chef?

“I’ve always loved cooking, and my family are all good cooks. When I was growing up in Romania all family events revolved around food and I would always be helping prepare. My whole family inspired me to be a chef and in particular, my mum.”

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

“I’d say I cook refined pub-style food, but with classical techniques. I like drawing upon my Romanian heritage too, that always inspires me.”

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

“I had been doing quite a lot of cooking competitions in college and I learnt a lot from them. So I think entering MasterChef will help my professional career a lot and push me. I want my food to be judged as I think criticism is an important part of cooking - all feedback is welcome!”

Outside of cooking what are your passions?

“I’m a big football fan and do the odd bit of video gaming, I have a big family so I see them as much as I can. My dream is to have a family-run restaurant one day where everyone can get involved.”