Volume 22 • No. 8 • April 16 - 30 , 2026 Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Gazini Ganados
Winnipeg bakers win Bake Master Battle
Credit: Gazini’s IG
by Lucille Nolasco
Gazini Ganados
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Opposites do attract, and win! This phrase has proved to be true with the pairing of Winnipeg chefs Marie “Nikki” Mallari and Jerome Castro who won the Bake Master Battle finals that aired on the Food Network Canada on April 6. Castro comes from a classically trained background focused on techniques and flavours while Mallari is more on the artistic side and has focused a lot on the decorative elements of each creation. Mallari shared that they have never worked together before this, but they trusted each other’s strengths and made sure they clearly communicated during the competition. The atmosphere during the competition was intense according to Castro as they were up against incredibly talented bakers from across Canada. It was also very hot with all the lights, kitchen ovens, and the time pressure. Castro was sure the viewers noticed he was sweating the entire time. After all was said and done, their differences in style and approach perfectly balanced to win the judges and viewers’ hearts and palates. “Hearing our names announced as the winners is something I will never forget,” Castro said. “All the pressure, long hours and secondguessing just hit at once, but in the best way.” The announcement of the winners was also most memorable for Mallari. “When you watch the episode, you can see how shocked my
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Chefs Jerome Castro and Marie “Nikki” Mallari reaction was!” As for the $10,000 prize money, Mallari is saving hers for her two daughters. “I want to buy them a piece of jewellery they can wear when they grow older. As a reminder that through hard work, consistency, and the courage to dream big, anything is truly possible!” Castro plans to invest his share into growing and expanding his business as well travel to Vietnam with his partner. “To explore the culture, the food and it’s also to
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say, ‘thank you’ for putting up with all the craziness while I was preparing for the show.” When asked what, to them, makes a great baker, Mallari said, “Someone who is consistent, patient and passionate for the craft. Anyone can follow a recipe, but a great baker can produce the same quality over and over again. They are driven by the joy of creating something that brings people together.” “A great baker understands See BAKERS p8
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