An artistic whirlwind, Mahnoor Malik is impossible to categorise. She’s been making major waves, not just as a culinary artist but as a vibrant presence on screen. In the chaotic, high-speed intersection of media and food, Mahnoor’s story is one of pure passion and exceptional hustle. Her diverse career vibes across cooking, acting, modelling, teaching, and media production — she effortlessly slays each role like a boss. Audiences already know her from hit serials Dooriyan and Dil Pe Dastak, and her momentum isn't slowing down; she’s currently juggling two more exciting projects scheduled for next year, solidifying her place as a dynamic powerhouse. With a Graduate Diploma in International Culinary & Arts and a nose for flavours and trends, Mahnoor doesn’t just whip up culinary magic; she fosters a tight-knit community and a love for food among her fans. As she continues to grow her culinary empire, Mahnoor remains an undeniable force in the game who is rocking her gigs at ABN News and as an executive chef and instructor at COTHM, where she’s dishing out her vast culinary knowledge to future chefs while also leveling up her own skills in the kitchen. Known as a culinary influencer, she’s been serving up tasty creations on HUM TV since 2022, showcasing her flair in both, recorded and live shows like the fan-favourite "Continental Cuisine" and "Fashion Food."Before hitting the limelight, Mahnoor sharpened her culinary chops through chef positions and consulting gigs at five-star hotels. Her time with Food Panda and the National Bank of Pakistan (as a tele-sales officer) helped her understand the business side of things. Outside the kitchen and the camera, she’s a passionate educator, having enjoyed a teaching role at Lahore Grammar School and served as a fitness instructor at Shapes Health Club, Karachi.

She believes in the power of passing down knowledge, making her a real inspiration to her students and peers. She recently sat down with MAG for a heart-to-heart about her work and life. Excerpts:

You have an impressive portfolio with experience in various roles. What initially sparked your interest in cooking?

My love for cooking kicked off when I was just a kid. I’d spend countless hours watching my family whip up meals and trying out new flavours. As the years rolled by, my hobby flourished into a full-blown passion, guiding me toward culinary school and paving the way for my career.

You've worked with some major brands and shows. How has your experience in media influenced your culinary career?

Working in media has totally given me a solid platform to blend my love for food with a broader audience. It’s all about expressing my dishes in creative ways and interacting with viewers in real time. This gig keeps me on my toes, prompting me to stay ahead of the curve and ride the newest trends in culinary vibes.

You balance multiple roles but how do you manage your time and maintain creativity in all these areas?

Time management is the name of the game! I prioritise my tasks and set clear goals. Switching between different environments is a creative boost for me. Each role inspires the others, whether it’s teaching culinary hacks, crafting new recipes, or shining on a live cooking segment. Staying organised and fueled by my passion is key.

How important is collaboration in the culinary industry?

Collab is crucial! Partnering with brands opens up avenues to explore new ingredients and concepts and helps me tap into different audiences. It’s all about crafting culinary experiences that hit home, and brands amplify that vibe perfectly. I aim to form authentic and delicious partnerships.

Looking ahead, what are some of your goals for the future?

I’m all about expanding my culinary reach — think cookbooks or even my own cooking show! I also want to keep guiding and inspiring up-and-coming chefs, as passing on skills is a must in this field. Ultimately, I want to spark more love for cooking and healthy eating.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring chefs looking to make their mark in the industry?

Stay lit and keep your mind open to learning. The culinary world evolves like crazy, and there’s always something fresh to discover. Embrace the art of experimentation and let your unique flair shine through — authenticity will set you apart in this cutthroat field.

You’ve successfully ventured into acting/modelling alongside your culinary career. How did you get started in these fields?

My journey into acting and modelling was like the next level of my creative expression. I’ve always vibed with the arts, and when chances popped up, I jumped right in. Merging my love for food with storytelling felt like a natural flow.

How do you balance your work in culinary arts with your modelling/acting commitments?

Balancing these roles is all about strategic planning and adaptability. I map out my schedule to carve out time for cooking gigs and shoots. Each role feeds into the other, enhancing my creativity across the board.

Can you share a memorable experience from your modeling/acting career?

One standout moment was a fashion shoot that combined culinary-themed outfits. That fusion of my two passions was something special, and the end result was rewarding, merging food and fashion in an artful way.

What challenges have you faced in the modelling/acting industry?

Just like any competitive scene, modeling and acting come with their own set of hurdles, including the need to learn and adapt quickly. But I see these challenges as golden opportunities to grow and refine my skills.

How has your experience as a chef influenced your work in acting and modelling?

Being a chef gives me a unique lens when I step in front of the camera. I totally get the importance of presentation and storytelling, which helps me create more captivating performances and eye-catching images, whether I’m on a cooking show or rocking a fashion campaign.

What are your future aspirations in acting and modelling?

I’m looking to explore more diverse roles in acting and collab with brands that vibe with my culinary passion. I dream of creating projects that blend food, fashion, and storytelling in innovative ways, pushing the envelope of what’s possible.

RAPID FIRE WITH MAHNOOR

One word to describe your cooking style

Very hot

A Lesson learnt from a failure?

Not to get over confident

Chefs you admire the most?

Chef Nauman, chef Sadaqat.

The weirdest food combination?

Sweet and salty rice.

Your go-to comfort food?

Roti & chicken curry.

Best kitchen hack for you?

Applying raw egg white on burnt hand.

What is the most under-rated spice?

Garam masala.

Hardest part of being a chef?

Facing people who do not believe in you.

Which country would you open a restaurant if you had a choice?

Italy.

One kitchen gadget you can’t live without?

Spatula.

Favourite song while cooking?

Hype-up song, progressive music.

Tea or Coffee?

Coffee

• Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
• Hair & Makeup: Angie’s Salon
• Designer: Nudrat Talha
• Photography & Styling: Hussain Pairt