Mario Pérez Reyes Biography – Mario Pérez Reyes Wiki

Mario Pérez Reyes, a distinguished Spanish chef, is making waves as a contestant on the 2026 edition of “MasterChef: The Professionals.” Currently, he is the head chef at Nomadic Dinners, a unique open-fire restaurant set amidst the tranquil woods. Mario’s culinary journey began at London’s esteemed Galvin La Chapelle.

In an interview with the BBC, Mario shared insights into his culinary passion, stating, “Food has always been a significant part of my life, especially growing up in Spain where it holds immense cultural importance. My mother and both of my grandmothers were exceptional cooks. From a young age, I enjoyed cooking at home, but it wasn’t until I moved to London at 26 that I pursued it professionally, thanks to my friend Iain Smith. I owe him greatly for that pivotal encouragement.”

Mario’s culinary style is characterized as “seasonal, flavorful, and relaxed.” He expressed a particular fondness for cooking with coal and wood, striving to incorporate these elements whenever possible. “While my roots are Spanish, my 12 years in London have exposed me to a myriad of cuisines, creating an intriguing blend in my cooking,” he explained.

Hailing from Seville, Spain, Mario now resides in Waltham Forest, London, sharing his home with his best friend Paul, whom he met while working their initial jobs in London back in 2014.

Mario Pérez Reyes Age

Born in 1987 in Seville, Mario was 38 years old when filming for the 18th season of “MasterChef: The Professionals” commenced. As a private chef, he joins the competition on BBC One and iPlayer alongside fellow contestants Emma Hanley, Ismail Hossain, and Terrence “Terry” Davies, all vying for culinary supremacy in heat 1 of the 2026 series.

Mario Pérez Reyes MasterChef: The Professionals

Private chef Mario Pérez Reyes is a contestant on the 18th series of MasterChef: The Professionals on BBC One and iPlayer. As well as Mario, the contestants for heat 1 of the Masterchef: The Professionals 2026 include Emma Hanley, Ismail Hossain and Terrence “Terry” Davies.

Mario decided to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals as a form of shock therapy. He explained: “I was always unconfident and never considered myself a good cook. For years I suffered from anxiety and panic attacks, so I decided it was time for some shock therapy! It will feel quite exposing in front of the judges and the cameras, knowing that everyone would see me failing or not, but I took the courage and I’m going to do it.”

Mario Pérez Reyes Nationality

Mario Pérez Reyes is of Spanish nationality.

Instagram

Mario is on Instagram @cookingsouls.