Miguel Maestre

Miguel Cascales Maestre was born on November 5, 1979, in Murcia, Spain. His culinary journey began at the age of 21 when he moved to Scotland, where he worked at establishments like Indigo Yard and Montpelier’s Partnership, also learning English during this period. After returning to Spain, he later relocated to Australia, working in prominent Sydney kitchens such as Bather’s Pavilion, Bel Mondo, Cru, and Minus 5 at Circular Quay. At 27, he became Head Chef at Tony Bilson’s Number One Wine Bar in Sydney’s Circular Quay, originally working under Manu Feildel. A significant turning point in his career came after meeting Spanish chef Ferran Adrià at elBulli, which inspired him to open El Toro Loco at Manly Beach, then Australia’s largest Spanish restaurant.

El Toro Loco, opened in 2010, initially served authentic Spanish dishes but adapted its menu to Australian tastes, incorporating popular ingredients like chorizo and adjusting traditional recipes such as paella. This venture, though later closing in 2010 after a legal dispute, established Maestre as a prominent figure in the Australian culinary scene and contributed to a trend of Spanish restaurants emerging across the country. In October 2013, Maestre completed his Australian citizenship, further solidifying his connection to his adopted home. His media career expanded beyond restaurants, with hosting roles on TV shows like ‘Miguel’s Feast,’ ‘Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen,’ and ‘Boys Weekend.’ He is currently the host of Network 10’s ‘Ready Steady Cook Australia’ and has co-hosted the lifestyle television series ‘The Living Room.’

Maestre’s commitment to promoting Spanish cuisine led him to develop over 100 products under his Maestre Enterprises brand, available in Australian supermarkets like Woolworths and online, focusing on authentic Spanish ingredients and flavors. He has authored several cookbooks, including ‘Miguel’s Tapas’ (2010) and ‘Spanish Cooking’ (2012), and co-authored ‘Life Force’ (2018) with Barry Du Bois, blending nutritional advice with recipes. His media presence includes participation in ‘Dancing with the Stars’ (2019) and winning the sixth season of ‘I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!’ (Australia) in 2020. In 2014, King Felipe VI of Spain honored him with the Cruz de Oficial de la Orden del Mérito Civil for his representation of Spain in Australian media.