Originally from Middlesbrough, Michael was raised in Redcar, North Yorkshire. He studied classical and modern ballet between the ages of 11 and 18, then embarked on a degree in aeronautical engineering at Kingston University in London before a change of heart struck, and he eventually decided to pursue a career as a chef. Michael has become well known for his individual personal style. He became instantly recognisable with his 'rockstar hair' after his appearance on The Great British Menu
He is the chef-owner of The Man Behind the Curtain, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Leeds, England. His cooking style is often described as avant-garde, combining molecular gastronomy with creative presentations, and pushing the boundaries of traditional fine dining..
