The competition of MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 has reached an exciting climax with the announcement of the final three competitors. Luke Emmess, Mark O’Brien, and Gareth Baty have secured their spots in the finals, vying for the prestigious title.
Meet the Finalists of MasterChef: The Professionals 2026
- Luke Emmess – Head Chef at the Wykeham Arms, Winchester
- Mark O’Brien – Chef Patron at Willy’s, Margate
- Gareth Baty – Private Chef
Competition Highlights
Earlier this week, the finalists triumphed over Caroline Meyer Kerber during the chef’s table challenge at the Goring in London. They also prepared a dish showcasing the theme of ‘home.’ During finals week, the competitors demonstrated their culinary skills by cooking a dish inspired by chef Norbert Niederkofler, renowned for his three Michelin stars at Atelier Moessmer in Brunico, South Tyrol. They also successfully delivered a lunch service at the restaurant, featuring dishes like risotto with pine oil and catfish with grated beef heart.
Final Showdown
Viewers can tune in at 8 PM on Thursday, March 26, for the thrilling final battle of MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 as Emmess, O’Brien, and Baty seek to claim the title.
Profiles of the Finalists
Luke Emmess
Luke Emmess is the head chef at the Wykeham Arms, a Fuller’s outlet in Winchester. He studied at South Downs College, specializing in larder and pastry. Under his leadership, the restaurant has maintained two AA rosettes for six years. Emmess blends European influences with Thai, Indian, and American flavors in his dishes. He joined MasterChef for personal validation and to push the boundaries of his culinary offerings.
Gareth Baty
Gareth Baty is a self-taught chef who began his culinary journey later in life. He initially hosted supper clubs in East London and later moved to New York to cook soul food at Harlem Food Bar. Returning to the UK, he worked on a farm in Cumbria. Expressing pride in reaching the finals, Baty aims to cook with conviction and ensure that his cuisine reflects nostalgia and significant life moments.
Mark O’Brien
Originally from Ireland, Mark O’Brien studied medicinal chemistry before choosing to pursue a culinary career. After receiving his professional training at Cooks Academy in Dublin, he gained experience working in various restaurants, including Coppinger Row and Robin Gill’s Dairy. As head chef at Willy’s in Margate, O’Brien aims to promote his barbecue pop-ups and harbors ambitions to open his own live-fire steakhouse, emphasizing his passion for butchery and cooking over fire.
Looking Ahead
The journey of these three talented chefs has captivated audiences, showcasing their unique backgrounds and culinary philosophies. As they prepare for the ultimate challenge, the excitement builds for the conclusion of MasterChef: The Professionals 2026.
