Monica Galetti Age, Height, Nationality, Education

Born Monica Faʻafiti on 26 August 1975 in American Samoa, Galetti’s early years were shaped by the rich cultural tapestry of the islands. Raised initially by two aunts in Upolu, she moved to Wellington, New Zealand, at the age of eight, reuniting with her parents and five siblings. Her journey into the culinary world began with a diploma in hospitality at the Central Institute of Technology, Upper Hutt, in the early 1990s.

Monica Galetti
Image Credit: Citizen Femme

Career Beginnings:

Galetti’s culinary odyssey commenced at Lower Hutt restaurant Timothy’s, where her skills quickly gained recognition. Sent to cooking competitions in Australia, America, and Europe, she set her sights on London, the gastronomic capital. The first offer she received was from Michel Roux Jr., a proposition that led her to the esteemed Le Gavroche in 1999. Starting as first commis, she ascended through the kitchen ranks, eventually becoming senior sous-chef in 2015, a historic achievement as the first woman in such a senior role at the restaurant.

While working with Roux, Galetti expanded her horizons by launching and heading the kitchen at Le Gavroche des Tropiques in Mauritius.

MasterChef and Beyond:

Galetti’s presence on the small screen became notable when she served as a judge on the BBC series “MasterChef: The Professionals” from 2009 to 2021. Her expertise, constructive critique, and dedication to the culinary craft made her a respected figure in the competitive cooking arena. After a brief hiatus, she announced her return to the show in March 2023, reinstating her role as a judge.

In 2017, Galetti, alongside her husband David, ventured into the London culinary scene with the opening of their restaurant, Mere. The establishment quickly garnered acclaim, showcasing Galetti’s commitment to culinary innovation and excellence.

Literary Contributions:

Beyond the kitchen and television, Galetti has shared her culinary wisdom through publications. Her books, including “Monica’s Kitchen,” “The Skills,” and “At Home: My Favourite Recipes for Family & Friends,” offer readers insights into her culinary philosophy, techniques, and favorite recipes.

Ambassadorial Role and Recognition:

Galetti proudly serves as a UK Tourism Ambassador for Samoa, bridging her cultural roots with her culinary pursuits. In 2022, she was honored with a role as a judge for the Platinum Pudding Competition, a celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.