Matt Preston Opens Up on Brain Surgery, Signature Style, and Culinary Passions
In a revealing interview, former MasterChef Australia judge Matt Preston discusses his experiences filming the documentary series The Hospital: In the Deep End, his trademark cravats, and his love for affordable dining. Known for his vibrant personality and distinctive neckwear, Preston offers a glimpse into his life beyond the kitchen.
Watching Brain Surgery: A Surprising Resilience
Preston recounts filming brain surgery for the show, admitting he surprised the production team by not fainting. "I was so fixated by watching what was going on," he says. "Did you know the brain actually pulsates? They cut out an oyster-sized bit, and you can see the brainstem—you don't mess with that." He describes the experience as awe-inspiring, noting that the patient has been seizure-free for over six months, highlighting the life-changing impact of the procedure.
Reflecting on men's health, Preston urges more proactive monitoring. "I just think men have to grow up a bit," he states, emphasizing the importance of regular blood tests for issues like prostate-specific antigen levels to catch problems early.
The Cravat Collection: A Signature Look
With about 100 cravats, Preston explains their significance to his public image. "People do like to see something around my neck—they feel cheated otherwise, like I'm some sort of fake Matt Preston," he jokes. He has shifted to neckerchiefs for a subtler style but admits to a larger wardrobe issue: 28 pairs of RM Williams boots and 100 suits that require constant rotation.
Best Meals for Under $20 and Global Favorites
Preston shares his top budget-friendly eats in Australia, praising Dad Restaurant in Melbourne for its bún chả and Andrew's Hamburgers in Albert Park for their crunchy cabbage addition. "I spend my life travelling around the world looking for great cheap food," he says.
When asked about his favorite restaurant globally, he emphasizes companionship over cuisine. "It's not the restaurant, it's the people you're with," Preston asserts, recalling a memorable biryani meal in Hyderabad with loved ones. He adds that the best meal he ever had is a roast chicken made by his partner at home, surpassing any restaurant experience.
Secret Skills and Celebrity Encounters
Preston reveals a hidden talent for crafting boozy cocktails, such as his bourbon and cherry sour and dirty negroni with olive brine. "I can make the most innocuous tasting cocktail that's properly boozy," he boasts.
He also shares a cringeworthy moment mistaking Tim Freedman of the Whitlams for Tim Rogers of You Am I, reflecting on the awkwardness of celebrity mix-ups.
Legacy and Advice
Inspired by author Frederick Forsyth, Preston values listening as key to seizing opportunities. "Opportunity knocks quietly," he recalls being told, advising others to stay attentive for unexpected breaks.
If a sandwich were named after him, Preston chooses the Prego roll from Portugal—a simple steak sandwich with garlic butter and rocket. "I would like to be remembered as the best steak sandwich in the world," he says, symbolizing his culinary journey.
Matt Preston appears in season two of The Hospital: In The Deep End, airing on SBS and SBS on Demand, continuing to blend his passions for food, health, and storytelling.
