Chef Esto, aka Johnny, is a culinary trailblazer who has been creating unforgettable dining experiences for private and commercial clients for over a decade. With a passion for food and a dedication to sustainability, Johnny is revolutionising the culinary industry with his innovative approach to cooking.

Growing up in Kushtia, Bangladesh, Johnny began cooking as a child, creating meals from simple ingredients for his friends and family. Moving to Melbourne in 2002, he honed his craft working at countless restaurants in the country and for some of the most elite event companies in Victoria. He quickly gained a reputation for his unique culinary creations, which combined the freshest, locally sourced ingredients with his signature flair.

This Chef Johnny

But Johnny's talent didn't stop at cooking. He was also a pioneer in developing zero waste cooking classes, which taught students how to create delicious meals using every part of the ingredient from root to stem that might otherwise go to waste. Working with the Big Umbrella Foundation, Johnny developed their food rescue program ‘Real Meals’ which sees the kitchen working with excess food from events, donations and community partners to prepare and serve meals twice a week for vulnerable Australians experiencing food insecurity and homelessness. His co-founding of the ‘Meal Drop Program’ in COVID-19 earned him a Premier’s Award nomination and was a huge success, earning praise from both the culinary community and the wider public.

From his work producing events at Formula One and Melbourne Racing Carnival, Johnny has proven time and time again that he is a master of his craft. But it is his commitment to sustainability and social responsibility that truly sets him apart. Through his innovative approach to cooking, he has not only delighted the taste buds of his clients but has also helped to create a better, more sustainable food system for all.