What do you love about Top Chef Masters?
I love watching these amazing chefs manoeuvre through challenging situations to, more often than not, come up with outrageously delicious dishes.

Which of the challenges do you think you’d be able to ace?
That’s a good question. Some of those challenges are real doozies and then we throw a few curveballs in that make them even tougher. Who knows if I would’ve aced it, but I’d like to think the love-inspired elimination challenge in episode seven would have brought out the best in me.

How do you stay in shape with all the tastings you’re exposed to?
I’m not sure I do! I do love to surf, ride my bike and walk my dog, but I’m afraid I don’t get to do it as often as I’d like.

Can you share some of your top healthy cooking tips?
Substitute oil for butter when cooking or opt for a non-stick pan and skip both; steam your veggies instead of sauteing them; up the nutritional content of sauces like bolognese by adding pureed carrots, cauliflower or parsnips.

Do you get to come back to Australia often? Do you miss us?
Australia is home, no matter where in the world I am. Thankfully I get to come back often.

What’s the most exciting foodie discovery you have stumbled across in the US?
Farmers’ markets in the States are full-on festivals every weekend, which I absolutely love. Some farmers take it a step further and create annual festivals around their crop. Just last week, there was an amazing avocado festival right outside Santa Barbara that I unfortunately missed. Imagine a banana festival in Queensland. I love that they’re so passionate about their local produce.

Are you getting more and more excited about becoming a father?
It’s incredible. I feel like a kid at Christmas. I just can’t wait to meet the little one.

Are you planning on spending lots of time in the kitchen with your little one?
For sure. I can’t wait to teach our child all about food. Kids really love being included in the kitchen.

What other exciting projects are you keeping busy with at the moment?
I’m in production for a couple of shows that will air next year, which I’m excited about.

At the end of a long day filled with food and cooking, can you still muster up the energy to cook at home?
Good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Cut up a tomato from the garden, put it on a plate with fresh mozzarella and drizzle some olive oil over it and you’ve got a quick tasty meal.