Matt Preston is an English-Australian food journalist, critic and television presenter, best known for judging MasterChef Australia and his food writing.
A critic and writer rather than a restaurant chef, known for accessible, enthusiastic food commentary. This profile looks at Matt’s background, career and signature approach.

TL;DR
- English-Australian, born 1961
- Known for judging MasterChef Australia and his food writing
- He began writing restaurant reviews in Melbourne in 1996 and later reviewed for The Age.
- He is a senior editor for delicious. and Taste magazines and author of several best-selling cookbooks.
- A critic and writer rather than a restaurant chef, known for accessible, enthusiastic food commentary.
Matt Preston key facts
| Name | Matt Preston |
| Nationality / born | English-Australian, born 1961 |
| Known for | judging MasterChef Australia and his food writing |
| Location | Melbourne, Australia |
| Style | A critic and writer rather than a restaurant chef, known for accessible, enthusiastic food commentary. |
Background and career
He was born in London and graduated from the University of Kent before moving to Australia. He began writing restaurant reviews in Melbourne in 1996 and later reviewed for The Age.
Recognition and legacy
He was a judge on MasterChef Australia from its 2009 debut until 2019, known for his cravats. He is a senior editor for delicious. and Taste magazines and author of several best-selling cookbooks.

Signature style
A critic and writer rather than a restaurant chef, known for accessible, enthusiastic food commentary. It is an approach that has made Matt a distinctive figure in the food world.
Matt in context
Matt Preston is one of the chefs featured on Pickup Table 4, alongside Gary Mehigan and George Calombaris.
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Matt Preston FAQ
Who is Matt Preston?
An English-Australian food journalist, critic and television presenter.
Where is Matt based?
Melbourne, Australia.
What is Matt known for?
Judging MasterChef Australia and his food writing.
What is a notable fact about Matt?
He was born in London and graduated from the University of Kent before moving to Australia.
What is Matt’s style?
A critic and writer rather than a restaurant chef, known for accessible, enthusiastic food commentary.
