Matilda recalls enjoying the cookery lessons her grandparents would take her to as a child but admits she never really thought of cooking as a career. That all changed at age 16 when she went for a day’s work experience at her local Michelin starred restaurant, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd.  

Culinary Journey 

After that day, Matilda knew instantly that this was what she wanted to do. A few months later she started working at Upstairs as a commis chef and stayed for two and a half years. A move to London saw her joining The Ledbury as demi chef, which she describes as having had a massive impact on her. She currently works at Trinity, running the hot larder, where she says she’s learning from the best. 

Signature Style and Final Menu 

Matilda says ‘less is more’ defines her signature style, she tries not to overcomplicate and instead focuses on flavour and seasonality. In the final she plans to serve dishes she’s passionate about, including the venison main course, which she describes as a celebration of seasonality and of all the things she loves to eat. A twist on her favourite crowd-pleasing dessert of bread-and-butter pudding will also form part of her final menu, with a boozy raisin jam featuring with her egg custard tart.  

Professional and Personal Influences 

She cites her first boss Tom Shepherd and head chef Mike Blades at Upstairs as having had the biggest impact on her professionally. She highlights how they both nurtured her and helped her develop many of her core skills. On a more personal note, she says her grandmother has always been the biggest supporter of her career and gives her the best advice. 

Working Under Pressure 

A piece of advice that has always stuck with her is ‘pressure is a privilege’, which she distinctly remembers Tom Spenceley at The Ledbury saying to her. Heeding this advice has made her grateful for every opportunity where she feels pushed.  

Her ability to work well under pressure and thrive in fast paced environments should serve her well in the competition and she enters the final determined to embrace all the opportunities that YNCOTY brings.