Chef Maria Elia

Career : Maria was inspired by cooking in her Greek Cypriot father's restaurant, and wanted to be a chef. After a rigorous apprenticeship in some of London's leading kitchens, Maria took positions in a wide range of restaurants in the UK and abroad, as well as onboard a private yacht, sailing around the world. Through travelling, Maria has become familiar with many cultures and their food. She has spent time cooking at El Bulli and Arzak restaurants in Spain and The Oriental Cooking School in Bangkok. She has also taught at the Authentic Ethnic Cooking School in London. These experiences were invaluable for Maria's role at London's Delfina Studio Cafe, where she was head chef for ten years. Departed from the Whitechapel Gallery Dining Room in summer 2010 and January 2011 joined the newly renovated Kings Arms restaurant in Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire as executive chef Elia is best known for her appearances on Ready Steady Cook and Market Kitchen, as well as her cookbook Modern Vegetarian.