Judy Ann Santos expressed heartfelt gratitude after participating in a MasterChef-style cook-off led by renowned chef Gordon Ramsay during his visit to Manila. The event, held at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, brought together culinary enthusiasts, including food content creator Ninong Ry, culinary student Danica Lucero, and Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill head chef Bea Therese Qua.
Reflecting on the experience, Santos described it as a “surreal” moment in an Instagram post on Jan. 20. She shared her excitement about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, saying, “Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen in my lifetime.”
The participants were tasked with creating their version of the Filipino dessert halo-halo using secret ingredients in just 10 minutes. Santos added a unique twist to her dish by incorporating black sesame polvoron for a balance of sweetness and saltiness. Ramsay praised her creation, calling it “really good” and “interesting.”
The actress-chef described the challenge as the “fastest, most nerve-wracking 10 minutes” of her life but emphasized how grateful she was for the opportunity. She thanked her family, her glam team, and her fans for their support.
Ramsay, who visited the Philippines to oversee his first local restaurant, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, hinted at plans to open three more establishments in the country. Known for shows like MasterChef and Hell’s Kitchen, the multi-Michelin-starred chef continues to make his mark on the global culinary scene.
