“Yes, I’ve been camping before. Hated it”

Anna Polyviou is a chef like no other. She thinks beyond the boundaries and invents to inspire and amaze. As a creative director, she designs mind-blowing food experiences, taking fans on a magical journey and empowering them to have fun. She’s bold, bright and exceeds expectations, just like her hair.

Anna began her career at The Sofitel Hotel in Melbourne where she won the Best Apprentice in Victoria competition run by Les Toques Blanc and was awarded a scholarship to work anywhere in the world to further her cooking career.

She followed her dreams to London where she worked at Claridge’s Hotel. Anna entered and won many competitions, including the Nadell Trophy (Dessert of the Year) and the Culinary Academy Award of Excellence for pastry, which took her to Paris to work with Chef Pierre Herme. Once back in Australia, Anna became Creative Director of Pastry at Shangri-La Hotel.

Anna is a regular presenter and host on network television in Australia. She is a regular guest on MasterChef Australia, wowing the judges, and stumping the contestants with her challenging and amazing desserts. She has also won the hearts (and stomachs) of Australians through her appearances on Family Food Fight, Snack Masters, The Cook Up with Adam Liaw, Everyday Gourmet, Studio 10, My Market Kitchen, House of Wellness, The Living Room, and Sunrise.

A colourful cookbook author, Anna launched her first book Sweet Street in May 2018, and it sold out within weeks. Her second book Kids’ Corner was released in November 2019.

Instagram: @annaopolyviou