Mikiko Yamamoto

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Chef Mikiko is a genuine global citizen. Her culinary passion and insatiable curiosity have propelled her on a worldwide odyssey, from Japan to Southern Italy, Mexico, and beyond. Through these journeys, she honed her skills amidst diverse cultures and cuisines. Today, she delights in sharing her wealth of knowledge to our cherished students.

Favourite cuisines: Japanese, Thai and Turkish

Favourite dish: Tiramisu (it's still a dish)

Favourite drink: Matcha Green Tea

Jodie Tan

Born and raised in Sydney, Jodie developed her passion for cooking at a young age, and spent over a decade working at restaurants like Quay, Merivale’s Est & Ash Street Cellar, Pendolino’s, Jamie’s Italian and La Grande Bouffe.

Favourite cuisines: Italian and Japanese

Favourite dish: Roasted pork belly rice paper rolls

Favourite drink: Coffeeeeeee … & Tequila

Mayumi Nagata

Multi-talented chef with a specialty in French pastry, Mayumi has accumulated an envious wealth of knowledge and culinary skills over the years working with Michelin star chefs back in France. She teaches at Le Cordon Bleu, as well as running her own business – Mimi’s French Pastry, and when she teaches at VIVE, she is incredibly passionate in sharing her knowledge with our students.

Esti Garcia

Passionate and award winning pastry chef (pâtissier) and chocolatier. Esti was born in Colombia and now proudly call Australia home. He has spent his adult life working and learning with the goal of becoming one of the best in his field.