Joel Bennetts is a Sydney-based Chef with a classical training in Sydney's most-loved restaurants. Most recently known for his work at FISHSHOP & BURGERPARK in Bondi, Joel's food exudes seasonality and honesty, letting the ingredients shine.

We recently asked Joel to develop a few recipes to celebrate the festive season, combining his fine dining roots with indulgent seafood dishes for you to cook for your loved ones.

Home for me is Sydney and I love the fact I am able to swim every single day. I think the fact I love cooking seafood so much is a reflection of the kind of lifestyle I live. Constantly near the ocean, observing the daily happenings of the sea. Colour is a big inspiration for me when I cook food.

  • Joel's favourite Mud Australia piece is the Fish Platter in Milk.

Earliest food memory?

Eating my grandfathers home grown apple cucumbers

Go-to quick, comfort meal?

spaghetti aglio alio

What dish says festive season to you?

Cooked prawns dressed in olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon juice stuffed between two pieces of white bread with mayonnaise. 

Must-have kitchen tool?

My thermometer.