2 days ago
Tragic news for beloved MasterChef star Reynold Poernomo as latest restaurant goes bust
MasterChef star Reynold Poernomo has received some tough news this week with his high-end dessert bar in Melbourne going bust.
The business behind KOI Dessert Bar in Melbourne, known for its luxurious, highly creative, and visually stunning treats, has entered voluntary administration.
The family run business, which also has two establishments in Sydney, became known to the public when Poernomo placed fourth on the 2015 series of the beloved Channel 10 show.
It's the latest in a series of blows for the popular chef, who's business Monkey's Corner in Sydney entered liquidation in May, according to Herald Sun.
The business, which was opened back in 2017, reportedly owed almost $500,000 to creditors at the time of its closure, including unpaid taxes.
Managing director of KOI Dessert Bar Ronald Poernomo, Reynold's brother, told News Corp that the Melbourne venue, located at 100 Queen St, was continuing to trade during the administration process.
'KOI Dessert Bar has since begun the process of seeking a new licensed retailer to take over the Melbourne location, in line with our commitment to uphold the quality and reputation of the KOI brand,' he said.
'The site is currently under the control of an administrator, who has listed it as a potential franchise opportunity.
'This is a common commercial strategy designed to attract the highest possible value for the business.
'The viability of other alternate options to preserve KOI's presence in Melbourne will also be discussed with the administrator in good faith.'
He added: 'This matter pertains solely to the Melbourne operations and does not reflect the health or viability of KOI Dessert Bar's wider operations.
'The KOI Dessert Bar brand – including its Sydney venues (Chippendale and Ryde) and global collaborations – remains unaffected.
'KOI Dessert Bar remains fully committed to its customers, staff, and suppliers, and to delivering world-class culinary experiences with creativity, integrity, and care.'
Meanwhile, Poernomo previously revealed that he will never return to the show following yet another devastating loss.
The pastry chef first appeared on the reality show back in 2015 where he finished in fourth place, and returned to the show five years later where he came third.
His latest stint saw him crowned the runner-up on Dessert Masters in 2023, and despite fans rallying behind him on social media, Poernomo confessed he had officially had enough of always being the reality TV bridesmaid.
He told Yahoo Lifestyle there is 'not a chance' he will return for another chance at the crown, and revealed his loss has sparked his decision to move to a country where he's more appreciated.
'I can't just be pigeonholed the whole time on the show,' he shared.
'It's time for me to keep growing and keep moving onto bigger things. It's not the end, it's just the beginning.'
Maybe I might go for Michelin overseas, maybe I might go into the entertainment industry overseas. But definitely somewhere in Asia or somewhere in the States.'
