Biography
PRIVATE DINING • BARBECUES • CAKES • MEAL PREPS • EVENTS • CONSULTANCY
© 2024 Exose Grant Lopo-Ndinga. Designed and Created by www.dalefittondesign.co.uk
Early Inspiration
"I have always enjoyed baking cakes and watching my Mum cook African Cuisine at home when I was young but my passion for becoming a chef ignited when I was in High-school, The teacher always used my food as an example “Everyone, look at Exose's food, this is how it should look and taste” This was so rewarding for me, it was at this point I knew I wanted to be a chef."
"Growing up with my mothers cooking I was surrounded by big flavours which have stuck with me and this shows in my dishes. I developed a love for pastry and multiple cuisines including Italian, French, English & Asian which I like to add my own twist to."
James Martin Restaurant
At the age of 18, Exose started his first professional chef job at James Martin. In this popular fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Manchester Exose Improved on his savoury and pastry skills whilst learning the importance of food hygiene and allergens. The 4 years Exose spent here had a massive influence on the chef he is today.
"It comes as no surprise that Exose is making a name for himself. He is an extremely talented and creative chef who is hardworking and always ready to learn"
- James Martin
IKARO Manchester
In 2023 Exose became Executive Chef to launch Ikaro, A Seafood & Grill Restaurant and Champagne Bar. Working with the talented Sushi Chef Lattawan Buchanan, both created menus of beautifully presented and flavoursome food.
Masterchef: The Professionals
At the age of 22, Exose took part in the well-known cooking competition Masterchef: The Professionals 2019. Only being a Chef de Partie at this point Exose's skills impressed guests, judges, critics and Michelin Star Chefs! His food creations landed him a spot in the grand final of the series.
BLVD Manchester
In Early 2022 at the age of 24, Exose took over the kitchen at BLVD Manchester for 1 year, Creating a variety of Pan-Asian Style Menus offered throughout the week.
Bake Off The Professionals
Exose's love for learning and competition saw him enter the Bake-off in 2019 pairing up with his friend Sanjam Nagpal. Being the youngest team in the competition did not set them back, impressing the judges with their creations and flavours throughout their time in the series.
Exose At Home
With restaurants closed during the lockdown, Exose decided to start his new business Exose At Home, creating affordable 3-course microwaved meals. The business eventually expanded into Private Dining, Cake Creations, Weddings, Barbecues, Buffets and Meal Preps.
Cakes
At 17 Exose started his own business selling customised cakes. He pushed his love of baking to the next level, self-teaching himself on decorating skills and improving each time. Diners can now customise their own Celebration Cake as an add on to their Exose At Home experience.