Known to many as the “Pasta Man,” chef Mateo Zielonka has built a global following for his creative approach to fresh pasta. Born in Poland and now based in London, Zielonka began his career humbly as a kitchen porter before rising through restaurant kitchens and discovering a passion for pasta-making.
His colorful doughs and precise hand-shaping techniques earned him a devoted online audience during the pandemic, when his short tutorial videos went viral and inspired home cooks around the world. Today, he serves as head chef at 180 Strand in London, producing fresh pasta for large-scale events while continuing to teach and connect through his social media platforms and website, Mateo’s Kitchen.
Zielonka is the author of three cookbooks: The Pasta Man (2021), Pasta Masterclass (2022), and his final pasta-focused volume, Pasta Pronto (2025), which emphasizes quick sauces and simple techniques for everyday cooking.
