MasterChef Australia winner spotted working at humble market days after taking home $250,000

This year’s MasterChef Australia winner may be $250,000 richer, but it appears life has gone back to normal for the Melbourne barista.

Recent MasterChef Australia victor Nat Thaipun has been spotted returning to humble roots after taking home $250,000 during last week’s finale.

The Victorian barista emerged as winner of this year’s Channel 10 cooking series on Tuesday night, pocketing the hefty sum as well as a coveted residency at Crown Melbourne’s ALUMNI restaurant.

Days afterwards, Thaipun, 28, was photographed selling vintage clothing at her own market stall at the Evelyn Hotel in Melbourne’s Fitzroy.

MasterChef winner Nat Thaipun was seen working at a vintage market, less than one week after winning $250,000. Picture: MEDIA MODE

Thaipun was spotted sitting at her stall selling vintage clothing at a market held at the Evelyn Hotel. Picture: MEDIA MODE

The home cook was further seen walking down the street with a group of people in Melbourne’s drizzly weather.

The sighting came just days after the season 16 finale went to air, which saw Thaipun go against Tasmanian butcher Josh Perry to compete for this year’s title.

The sighting came just days after the Victorian barista pocketed $250,000 in the MasterChef finale.

The duo were put through two challenges, the second being a gruelling four-hour pressure test.

After smashing the first challenge, and all but nailing the second, Thaipun ultimately landed a final score of 71 out of 90, while Perry scored 68.

As for what she planned to do with her winnings, Thaipun said she wanted to travel the world and broaden her knowledge of food.

“[And] Maybe a restaurant one day,” she added to New Idea.

“Or a hospitality co-working incubator space, or even some supper clubs to give people a taste of my [dishes].

“I’m not a recipe person so I’m not sure how good I’m going to be at making a cookbook, but we’ll find out.”

Josh "Pezza" Perry with Nat Thaipun went head-to-head. Picture: Channel 10

This year’s MasterChef unveiled a new-look judging panel following the tragic death of Jock Zonfrillo in April last year just one day prior to the scheduled premiere of season 15.

In October, it was announced Melissa Leong would not be returning after three years at the helm.

Former MasterChef runner-up Poh Ling Yeow joined existing judge Andy Allen for the 2024 season, alongside fellow newcomers Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sofia Levin.

In an interview with news.com.au, Poh revealed how she was “absolutely terrified” when she was told she landed the coveted TV gig.

Contestants Josh "Pezza" Perry Nat Thaipun with judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sofia Levin during the MasterChef 2024 Grand Finale. Picture: Supplied.

“I really was nervous, it’s a completely different thing from being a contestant,” Poh said.

“It took me three quarters into the season to feel comfortable in the role.

“It’s not easy, finding different ways to talk about the food, not getting too involved with the contestants when you can see them struggling, and all the behind the scenes stuff of making a TV show.

“To be honest, I did find it challenging, but producers would keep saying to me, ‘Just be yourself’. I’m looking forward going into next season with more confidence.”