Ismail for MasterChef: The Professionals S18 Heat 1 / BBC
Age: 33
Lives: With wife Sarah and daughter in West London. Originally from Rajshahi, Bangladesh
What is your background in the industry?
“I started my career at the very bottom as a kitchen porter in a Spanish restaurant, Barrica Tapas Bar in London, where I learned discipline, speed, and respect for ingredients. Over the years, I worked my way up through every section and eventually became Head Chef. One of the biggest highlights has been building and leading strong kitchen teams, developing seasonal menus, and consistently delivering high-quality food. I take pride in combining classical techniques with bold flavours inspired by my background, and creating dishes that people remember.
“I couldn’t afford to go to culinary school, so I worked for free with ex-colleagues to start learning things in the kitchen. I was then lucky enough to be sponsored by one of my companies to do a Level 2 – Advanced Cheffing course. Last year I did Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene to become supervisor.
“As well as Barrica, I’ve also worked at other London restaurants – The Riding House Café, Copita, Temper, The Duke of Wellington in Portobello Road, The Old Ship in Hammersmith, and The Marlborough in Richmond. As I head into MasterChef, I’m working as Head Chef at an independent gastro pub, The Stag, in Hampstead.”
How would you describe your cooking style?
“My cooking style is rooted in simplicity and respect for ingredients. I strongly believe that less is more when it comes to food, allowing natural flavours to shine. I have a real passion for slow cooking, where time and technique transform simple ingredients into something exceptional. Open-fire cooking is also a favourite of mine, as it brings depth, character, and authenticity to every dish.”
What are three ingredients you couldn’t live without?
“Salt, chili and garlic.”
Why did you take part in the show?
“Cooking is more than a career for me — it is my passion and my purpose. Since starting my journey as a chef, I have dedicated myself to learning, improving, and pushing my limits every day. I want to prove to myself that I have what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and to honour the chefs and colleagues who have taught me so much along the way. I put my heart into everything I cook, and I believe MasterChef is the perfect platform to challenge me, recognise my hard work, and help take my career to the next level.”
The new series of MasterChef: The Professionals is ongoing on BBC One and iPlayer.
