George Calombaris
LOCATION: Sydney, NSW
George Calombaris is one of the world’s most decorated chefs; recognised and respected around the world by his peers and the general public for his culinary genius and his absolute passion for food.
In his home country of Australia, George has built a massive following as a result of his successful and hugely popular restaurants, as well as headlining MasterChef Australia for 12 years, helping take it from domestic success story to global blockbuster.
George also has a significant following in countries as diverse as India, South Africa, Greece, Netherlands, Poland, United Kingdom and Indonesia; instantly recognised through his appearances on TV shows including MasterChef Australia, MasterChef Poland, MasterChef Greece and Saturday Kitchen in the UK, among many others.
George’s career has seen him at the forefront of some of Australia’s finest, award-winning restaurants; leading and mentoring many of Australia’s next generation of extraordinary young chefs and hospitality workers.
His skills have been acknowledged though many personal accolades including Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Young Chef of the Year…but he loves nothing more than being on the tools, in a kitchen surrounded by dedicated, passionate and talented young artisans.
As well as mentoring young talent, George has always given his time generously to important causes including mental health and bowel cancer prevention.
George Calombaris is a man with a story to tell. From winning a scholarship as an apprentice, to competing in prestigious international events including the Bocuse d'Or culinary grand prix in France, working for and then owning some of Australia’s finest restaurants, becoming a published author of multiple successful books, and then all the way through to his time as a celebrated chef on some of television’s most successful shows.
And still to this day George remains absolutely committed to his craft. Through the trials and tribulations that have come his way, his creativity, knowledge, and ability to show love through his food will never be lost. George is a risk taker and a leader; a trend maker, always on the lookout for something that makes his work stand out from the rest, in every aspect.
In April 2023, George opened The Hellenic House Project, a restaurant and casual eats souvlaki bar, in small outer suburb of Melbourne called Highett, bringing his magic back to Greek cuisine in Australia of which he mentors the team.
Today George focuses his time creating new hospitality opportunities in Sydney, as Culinary Director of Linchpin Hospitality, across several restaurants, pubs and hotels.
He has also recently launched his first cookware range, called Blu. The Conscious Cook, that is 100% Toxin Free. George has also directed his creativity to an online app and platform called ‘Culinary Wonderland’, which he has softly launched alongside co-founder Chef Shannon Bennett in 2024.