Michael Demagistris

A passion for food was ingrained in Michael Demagistris from childhood, however, his culinary journey began while working as an aspiring chef under Jacques Reymond in the kitchen of the internationally acclaimed restaurant, Jacques. Highly ambitious, Michael moved on from his senior role at Jacques and took it upon himself to learn from the most revered chefs, working in restaurants around the world including Alinea and The Publican in Chicago, and Noma in Copenhagen.

Out of genuine love for the Mornington Peninsula and a thirst for the opportunity to grow, Michael made the move to the region, accepting a role as the youngest ever Executive Chef at the prestigious Sorrento Golf Club. During this time, Michael made his mark by placing in the top four of TV series MasterChef The Professionals, before going on to transform the seaside restaurant Buckley’s Chance as Executive Chef.

Michael’s enthusiasm for delivering incredibly flavoursome food that emphasises the region’s local produce led him to open his own restaurant East Bar and Dining in Mount Martha. Here, Michael developed a menu that highlighted his culinary skills and thirst for innovation, as well as his love for foraging and sourcing the best produce the Mornington Peninsula has to offer.