Jock Zonfrillo is a Scottish-Australian chef and television personality who is currently a judge on the Australian cooking competition show
Jock Zonfrillo is a Scottish-Australian chef and television personality who is currently a judge on the Australian cooking competition show, MasterChef Australia. He is widely respected in the culinary world and has won numerous awards for his work as a chef, including a prestigious accolade from the World's 50 Best Restaurants. In addition to his work on MasterChef Australia, he is the owner and head chef of the acclaimed Adelaide restaurant, Orana. Zonfrillo is known for his commitment to using native Australian ingredients in his cooking and his efforts to support indigenous communities and food culture.
Jock Zonfrillo was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1976 and began his culinary career at the age of 16, working in some of the top restaurants in the UK and Europe. He moved to Australia in 2000 and worked at several prominent restaurants before opening his own, Orana, in Adelaide in 2013. Orana quickly became known for its innovative and sophisticated cuisine, which showcases indigenous Australian ingredients and flavors.
In addition to his work in the kitchen, Zonfrillo has also been active in promoting indigenous food culture and supporting indigenous communities in Australia. He founded the Orana Foundation in 2016, which aims to preserve and promote indigenous Australian food culture and support indigenous communities by creating economic opportunities through food-based initiatives.
Zonfrillo joined MasterChef Australia as a judge in 2020, and has quickly become a fan favorite for his knowledge, passion, and sometimes controversial opinions. He is known for his high standards and tough critiques, but also for his warmth and sense of humor. He has also been a judge on MasterChef: Back to Win, a special edition of the show that aired in 2020, featuring past contestants competing for the ultimate title.
Overall, Jock Zonfrillo is a highly respected figure in the culinary world, known for his dedication to excellence and his commitment to promoting indigenous Australian food culture.