Australian Greek chef Philip Vakos has made a strong start on the 10th season of MasterChef Greece, successfully progressing through the audition stage and securing his place in the competition.
The season premiered on Sunday, 18 January, airing on Star Channel Greece, with Vakos impressing all three judges with a lamb dish inspired by both Australian and Greek flavours. His performance earned him an apron and confirmed his place on the show.
During the episode, Vakos’ down-to-earth and emotive personality was on display, alongside his passion for food and cooking. He also spoke about his grandparents migrating from Greece to Australia in the 1940s, reflecting on the significance of returning to Greece to cook as a third-generation Greek.
Since first appearing on MasterChef Australia Season Two in 2010, Vakos’ career has evolved significantly. After moving from Tasmania to Melbourne, he pursued his passion for hospitality, building a long-standing presence in the restaurant industry.
“This is really special, to come back on a show after 15 years, to cook, and show my culinary experience, in Greece. After almost 12 years of running our restaurant Bahari in Melbourne, I believe it’s good to challenge yourself, and get out of your comfort zone – in order to grow” ~ Philip
The 10th season of MasterChef Greece features not only chefs from Greece, but competitors of Greek heritage from around the world, with participants travelling from countries including Dubai, Egypt, Germany and Switzerland. Vakos is representing Australian Greeks in the international lineup, all returning to their ancestral homeland to compete.
Although he had not planned to return to television competition, Vakos said the opportunity to take part in a milestone season filmed in Greece was one he could not refuse.
“Sometimes life throws you an opportunity, and you either say no, or grab it with both hands. I’m really grateful to have firstly, the love & support of my wife, and also family, to be able to partake in this season, and be able to represent Australian Greeks” ~ Philip
Vakos currently runs Bahari | The Hellenic Palate in Richmond, Melbourne, alongside his wife and business partner Heleena. The restaurant has been operating for almost 12 years and is well known for its traditional Greek dishes, complemented by Vakos’ modern twists.
More recently, the couple launched Mediterranean ready-meal company Phlavour, catering to busy families, professionals and elderly community members seeking wholesome, preservative-free meals delivered to their homes.
Vakos has made a number of television appearances since his original MasterChef Australia run and remains actively engaged with the Greek-Australian community. He regularly participates in cultural and community events across Australia, including appearances at major festivals such as the Antipodes Festival in Melbourne.
