From the kitchens of his grandmother and aunt in the Philippines to the grand stage of MasterChef Australia, Chef Miko Aspiras reveals how pastry has shaped his joy, identity, and life’s purpose.
Key Points
- Chef Michael ‘Miko’ Aspiras learned to make Caesar Salad dressing from scratch at the age of five, and it was in his grandmother’s and Aunty Annie’s kitchen that his love for cooking, especially baking, was nurtured.
- He became recognised as one of the most renowned pastry chefs in the Asia-Pacific region, known for reshaping the dessert landscape with his creative style.
- Chef Miko Aspiras served as the guest judge for the Season 17 finale of MasterChef Australia, where he showcased his masterpiece, the ‘Botanical Garden,’ to the contestants.

I met pastry artist Amaury Guichon briefly in Italy in 2018. I never expected he’d remember me, so being recommended by him for this role felt like a full-circle moment.Chef Miko Aspiras, Finale Guest Judge, MasterChef Australia Season 17



Being a pastry chef right now means bringing joy to people. I put my heart into everything I do, and as a trailblazer in my industry, I truly love it. If given the opportunity, I hope to bring even more happiness to people through my desserts.Chef Miko Aspiras, Finale Guest Judge, MasterChef Australia Season 17

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