Methus trained as a professional chef at University College Birmingham (UCB) and currently works at The Belfry Hotel and Resort. Inspired by his father, Methus is determined to show how deeply that influence shaped his journey and continues to inspire others.

Future goals

Methus’ long-term goal is to work for a 3 Michelin-starred restaurant and be part of its history. He also would like to represent England and showcase his culinary talent on the world stage. Although being a chef is demanding, Methus thrives on the challenge and believes food has the power to bring people together.

Being a finalist this year

Methus was genuinely surprised to be named one of this year’s 12 finalists, knowing how competitive and prestigious the Young National Chef of the Year competition is. He wasn’t expecting he’d be selected for the final. He thinks it’s an interesting brief that has been created this year.

Before Methus created his menu, he had to think about seasonal ingredients in October and experiment with those ingredients in each dish. His inspiration comes from his head chef, Javier Santos, who spent his time and effort on making Methus a better chef.

Winning YNCOTY would mean a lot to him, and he believes it would open many doors with new opportunities for him in the future.

Continuously learning

Methus’s biggest culinary influence is John Williams from The Ritz. The best piece of advice he has received is: “You’re only as good as your last service.” He feels that no matter how good you are or how big your achievement was in the past, it means nothing. You must stay humble and learn every day. He admits that the intensity of the kitchen can be exhausting, but his passion for cooking never fades. This is the only thing he wants to do, and he’ll do his best to become better at it.

Favourite type of cooking

Methus’s favourite dish to cook is a barbecue. Whilst that might sound funny, for him it’s a type of food you can’t enjoy by yourself, it’s meant to be a moment with friends and family. Food brings people together and closer.