Ben O’Donoghue

Ben O’Donoghue is one of Australia’s original and most enduring celebrity chefs, with over 30 years of experience spanning award-winning restaurants, international television, bestselling cookbooks, and entrepreneurial ventures. With a career rooted in high-end kitchens and lifted onto the global stage through television and publishing, Ben has built a reputation for innovative, culturally rooted cuisine and a natural, charismatic presence in media.

Ben began his culinary journey in Perth, earning accolades early as a silver medalist in the National Apprentice of the Year awards. After honing his skills in Sydney’s acclaimed dining scene, he moved to London where he worked under legendary chefs Ruth Rogers and Rose Gray at The River Café. He later served as Head Chef at Jamie Oliver’s Monte’s Club, and the iconic Atlantic Bar & Grill, playing a pivotal role in reshaping British dining under the creative leadership of Oliver Peyton.

Ben’s breakout television role came with the BBC2 series The Best, which led to widespread recognition. He co-hosted the globally celebrated Surfing the Menu alongside Curtis Stone, and later appeared in programs such as Drive Thru Australia, Aussie BBQ Heroes, and Tom & Ben’s Singapore Sling. His TV presence extended internationally, with appearances on the Food Network, ITV, Channel 4, and the BBC, as well as on Master Chef Australia.

As an author, Ben has published multiple cookbooks including Outdoor: Grill Your Way Round the World, Ben’s BBQ Bible, Ben’s Meat Bible, and At Home with Ben. He also contributed regularly to Delicious and Olive magazines for over a decade.

Ben returned to Australia in 2008, establishing his own successful restaurant ventures. These included the award-winning Billykart Kitchen and Billykart West End, known for seasonal, produce-driven menus and casual sophistication. He also served as Executive Chef for the 203 Brisbane, Stanbroke an Australian Beef producers flagship fine-dining venue, where he oversaw every detail from concept to launch, including design, staffing, menu creation, and operations.

Notably, Ben was chosen to cater the prestigious G20 Summit leaders’ lunch in Brisbane, serving dignitaries including U.S. President Barack Obama—a personal career highlight.

Beyond business, Ben remains a dedicated father, community advocate, and supporter of numerous charities including Foodbank QLD, Youngcare, and the Starlight Foundation.