Jess Liemantara, or Jess Lemon as she sometimes goes by, was a standout on season 10 of Masterchef Australia when it aired in 2018.

She had a penchant for pastry and was a successor, of sorts, to “dessert king” Reynold Poernomo, who starred in the show’s seventh season and recently opened Koi Dessert Bar on Queen Street in the CBD.

She specialises in modern French patisserie and recently joined the team at Neds (formerly known as Neds Bake), where she has the enviable title of head of product innovation. Among those innovations has been the introduction of pastry doughnuts she calls “bombs” to the menu.

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We took five minutes with the chef to find out where (and what) she’s eating in Melbourne these days.

What’s your go-to for a quick takeaway?
Little Caesars Pizza in Glen Waverley. I usually get the large deal, which is $36.90 for two large pizzas, a large focaccia and a large soft drink. It’s totally worth it and I always order a super supreme and a Hawaiian pizza.

How about lunch on the go?
Hot Star Chicken. The extra large fried chicken with Cajun seasoning is one of my favourites. The wait can be a little longer than you’d expect, but it’s a great quick lunch when you’re on the fly and don’t have time to sit down.

If it’s a special occasion, where do you go?
Nomad. It’s got mood lighting, great ambience and a warm environment with impeccable food and lovely customer service. The woodfired flatbread is to die for, as is the burrata entree and olive oil ice-cream sandwich dessert.

Where do you go for a big meal?
Ten BBQ & Hot Pot in Southbank. It’s all-you-can-eat hotpot and barbeque with dessert. There is a selection of meats, veggies and soup bases that please any palate.

If you’re recommending a spot for a first date?
A first date is all about first impressions, and a great spot to start is at Tartine. The luxurious and elegant interior with corner open windows gives such a fresh homely feel, which is sure to make you comfortable meeting someone very special. Don’t leave without trying dessert – it’s a definite must.

What’s your go-to hangover food?
I love heading to Supper Inn, which stays open till 2.30am. A great way to cure the late-night party animal. I get corn soup and salt and pepper prawns and finish it all off with Chinese fried rice and Chinese tea.

Where did you go for your last birthday?
Gogyo in Fitzroy – the best service and ramen you will ever eat! I recommend everything on the menu. It’s a hidden Japanese ramen restaurant with an elegant lightly lit room that serves impeccable food.

Favourite ice-cream or gelato shop?
Hareruya Pantry in Carlton. I get gelato – I love their strong matcha or genmaicha – covered in mochi and topped with sugar syrup and crispy sago pearls.

Where can you find your favourite dessert or sweet treat?
Homm Desserts or Meet Fresh are my two picks for dessert. They’re both great on a hot or cold day. I love Meet Fresh for the strawberry or mango snow ice.