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Ismail Hossain Biography – Ismail Hossain Wiki
Ismail Hossain, a talented chef from Bangladesh, is making waves as a contestant on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026. Currently, he serves as the head chef at The Stag, a renowned gastro pub nestled in Hampstead. His culinary journey has seen him grace the kitchens of several notable London establishments, including Barrica, The Riding House Café, Copita, Temper, The Duke of Wellington on Portobello Road, The Old Ship in Hammersmith, and The Marlborough in Richmond.
Hossain’s culinary career took root when he began working as a kitchen porter at Barrica Tapas Bar in London. It was there he honed his skills in discipline, speed, and a deep respect for ingredients. Progressing through every station, he eventually ascended to the role of Head Chef. Among his proudest achievements is his ability to “build and lead strong kitchen teams, develop seasonal menus, and consistently deliver high-quality food.” He relishes the opportunity to “fuse classical techniques with bold flavors inspired by my heritage, crafting dishes that leave a lasting impression.”
Unable to afford formal culinary education, Ismail embarked on his learning journey by working unpaid alongside former colleagues to gain practical kitchen experience. Fortune smiled upon him when one of his employers sponsored him to complete a Level 2 – Advanced Cheffing course. By 2024, he had furthered his qualifications with a Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene certification, taking on a supervisory role.
Inspiration
Ismail credits his mother as the pivotal inspiration behind his passion for cooking. In an interview with the BBC, he shared, “Growing up in Bangladesh, I spent countless hours assisting her in the kitchen. It was there that my love for food took root. Cooking was an integral part of life, teaching me early on how food unites people.”
Upon relocating to the UK, Ismail’s career aspirations were fueled by his head chef, James Knight. Reflecting on this influence, he remarked, “Observing James Knight craft new dishes and transform basic ingredients into stunning culinary creations opened my eyes to the potential of cooking. I realized then that food has the power to bring joy, inspiring me to pursue it as my career path.”
His cooking style is rooted in “simplicity and respect for ingredients.” He added: “I strongly believe that less is more when it comes to food, allowing natural flavours to shine. I have a real passion for slow cooking, where time and technique transform simple ingredients into something exceptional. Open-fire cooking is also a favourite of mine, as it brings depth, character, and authenticity to every dish.”
Ismail Hossain Age
MasterChef contestant Ismail Hossain was born in 1992 in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. He was 33 years of age at the start of filming of MasterChef: The Professionals series 18.
Ismail Hossain MasterChef: The Professionals
Head Chef Ismail Hossain is a contestant on the 18th series of MasterChef: The Professionals on BBC One and iPlayer. Judging the TV’s biggest professional cooking competition are culinary legend Marcus Wareing, renowned chef Monica Galetti and new judge Matt Tebbutt.
Ismail wanted to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals to “prove to myself that I have what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and to honour the chefs and colleagues who have taught me so much along the way.” He added: “I put my heart into everything I cook, and I believe MasterChef is the perfect platform to challenge me, recognise my hard work, and help take my career to the next level.”
Ismail Hossain Family
Originally from Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ismail Hossain lives with his wife Sarah and daughter in West London, England.
Ismail Hossain Ethnicity
Ismail Hossain is of Asian ethnicity. He is originally from Bangladesh.
Ismail Hossain Nationality
Ismail Hossain is of British nationality.
Ismail Hossain is on Instagram @thechefsmiley.