Indonesian chef Yuda Bustara has emerged victorious in Netflix’s new culinary competition show, The Maverick Academy. Created by renowned Demon Chef Alvin Leung, the series blends high-stakes cooking challenges with business acumen, aiming to identify the next culinary star who will become Leung’s apprentice and business partner.
Bustara’s win is a significant milestone for the celebrity chef and host of Iron Chef Indonesia, showcasing his culinary talent on an international stage. Known for his innovative approach to traditional Indonesian dishes and a strong media presence, Yuda Bustara competed against a diverse group of chefs from across Asia. His ability to balance modern techniques with classic Indonesian recipes was a standout feature, helping him secure the top spot in a competition filled with seasoned professionals. Bustara’s success on The Maverick Academy solidifies his position as a key figure in the culinary world, underscoring his expertise beyond the local Indonesian food scene.
The competition featured a diverse lineup of contestants, each bringing unique culinary backgrounds and distinct flavors. Chef Jarupol Petpaesri from Thailand drew on traditional Thai cuisine, honoring his late grandmother’s dreams of becoming a chef. His dishes were a blend of classic Thai flavors and modern innovation. Chef Janessa Wong from Hong Kong, the youngest contestant and a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, impressed judges with her versatility in handling French, Italian, and Japanese cuisines. Despite her experience, Wong admitted finding Cantonese cuisine the most challenging, showcasing her dedication to mastering various culinary styles. Chef Carl “CJ” Dy from the Philippines showcased a unique fusion of Filipino and Chinese flavors, earning accolades for his creative interpretations of traditional Pinoy-Chinoy dishes. He aspired to become the first Michelin-starred chef from the Philippines. Meanwhile, Chef Stefan Poyet from Indonesia wowed the judges with his blend of local ingredients and global techniques, representing Bali’s vibrant food scene.
The mentoring panel was a highlight of the show, featuring culinary icons known for their expertise and contributions to the industry. Headlined by Alvin Leung, the Michelin-starred chef known for his “X-Treme Chinese” cuisine, the mentors provided invaluable guidance to the contestants. Chef Pam Soontornyanakij, celebrated for her progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine, brought a wealth of experience and was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2024. Chef Chudaree Debhakam, a trailblazer in sustainable cooking, showcased her dedication to using local ingredients and zero-waste practices. Chef Ton Tassanakajohn, known for his seasonal Thai dishes, emphasized the importance of using local produce, while Chef Chalee Kader contributed his expertise in sustainable, nose-to-tail cooking. Rounding out the panel was Chef Michael Bonacini, who brought his extensive experience from high-end restaurants and his role as a MasterChef Canada judge, offering a global perspective on culinary excellence.
The Maverick Academy aims to inspire the next generation of chefs in the region, combining elements of a cooking show with insights into the business side of the culinary industry. Bustara’s victory marks the beginning of his journey as Alvin Leung’s apprentice, where he will collaborate in creating innovative dishes and redefining the culinary landscape. The show is now streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a glimpse into the rigorous and dynamic world of fine dining and entrepreneurship.
