Kenyans continue to shine on the global stage, and one outstanding example is Milton Isalano—a top chef working with the English Premier League giants, Manchester United.
Isalano’s journey with Manchester United began in 2005 during the era of Sir Alex Ferguson. He took on the role of Senior Chef, a position that marked a significant step in his culinary career. Before this, he worked at the Windsor Golf and Country Club in Nairobi from 1991 to 2002, where he served as a Pioneer Senior Chef.
Over the years, Isalano has held several high-profile positions. Between 2010 and 2014, he was the Head Chef at the VIP Escape Lounges at Manchester Airport. In this role, he served elite clients, including footballers from Manchester United and Manchester City.
Speaking about his experience at the club, Isalano noted that Manchester United has 26 kitchens and employs around 120 chefs on match days. From 2015 to 2018, he also worked at the award-winning Gotham Hotel, where he catered to celebrities like X-Factor judge Simon Cowell.
Isalano’s culinary journey started in Kenya, where he studied short courses at Kenya Utalii College and Kenya Polytechnic. He later moved to the UK, earning a Chef’s Diploma from Lancaster and Morecambe College (2004–2006), and later a BA in Hospitality Management from Salford University in 2012.
Recently, Isalano was seen with Kenya’s High Commissioner to the UK, Manoah Esipisu, during the “Kenya and Friends in the Park” event held at Pitshanger Park in London. Esipisu praised Isalano’s achievements, saying they reflect the potential and talent of Kenyans abroad.
Isalano is part of a growing list of Kenyan chefs gaining international recognition. Another notable name is Bernice Kariuki, who once worked as a private chef for Arsenal FC. Kariuki, originally from Jericho in Nairobi, studied at local schools before joining Westminster Kingsway College in the UK.
Her career includes stints at top establishments such as The Lanesborough, The Dorchester, and The Waldorf Hilton in London, before landing her role with Arsenal’s first team.
