Who is chef Lindsay Rushton MasterChef: The Professionals 2023 contestant?

Ahead of MasterChef: The Professionals 2023, which airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Monday 23 October, we find out more about the chefs taking part.

Introducing Lindsay Rushton, Chef Patron, Rebel Restaurant, Newcastle.

Born in the North East, 30-year-old Chef Patron Lindsay grew up near Edinburgh.

He’s been a chef for nearly 10 years, working in both Michelin kitchens and as a private chef.

Back to his roots, he now runs his own restaurant celebrating local and seasonal produce in the Newcastle Upon Tyne and lives with his partner and baby boy.

Name

Lindsay Rushton

AGE

30

Where are you from/where do you live

Newcastle Upon Tyne, grew up near Edinburgh, Scotland.

CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

Lindsay completed his professional cookery qualifications at Dundee College.

He then went on to work at restaurants in Scotland, before moving back to Newcastle where he worked at the Michelin-starred House of Tides and Jesmond Dene House.

He now owns and runs Rebel Restaurant, which is named after his childhood dog.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO COOKING AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT IT?

“I've always enjoyed cooking and being in the kitchen. After taking a course at college I ended up getting a job at a nearby hotel. I really enjoyed it from the start and never looked back. As long as something tastes and looks great, there are no bounds to what ingredients you can put together.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF COOKING AND ANY INFLUENCES ON IT?

“I see my food a creative and modern. I try to stay away from classical or obvious dishes, as I don't feel there is much enjoyment in replicating something that has been done to death.”

WHY DID YOU WANT TO TAKE PART IN MASTERCHEF: THE PROFESSIONALS?

“MasterChef: The Professionals is something I've always wanted to do. I think it will be a great experience to learn from.”

OUTSIDE OF COOKING WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

“Having a newborn and a restaurant doesn't leave much time for yourself! I enjoy exercising when I can.”