Andy Hearnden

Andrew Hearnden, known professionally and online as Andy Cooks, is a New Zealand-born chef, cookbook author, and digital content creator residing in Australia. After spending over two decades in commercial restaurant kitchens across New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Australia, Hearnden transitioned into short-form food content creation in late 2021. He gained widespread popularity on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for his approachable cooking tutorials, professional culinary expertise, and engaging video formats.

Early Culinary Background and Career

Hearnden discovered his passion for food at an early age in New Zealand. At age 15, he left traditional schooling to enroll in culinary school in Auckland, beginning his formal training in professional kitchens. Over the next two decades, he built an extensive culinary career, moving to London at age 21 to work in high-end establishments under acclaimed chefs like Tom Aikens. Upon returning to Oceania, he served as head chef and executive chef at prominent Sydney and Melbourne dining spots, including Bistro Felix, Gills Diner, Entrecôte, and ST. ALi Coffee Roasters. Later, he took on high-level corporate culinary roles, managing airport hospitality venues and heading the test kitchen at Kilcoy Global Foods on Australia's Sunshine Coast.

Content Creation and Digital Growth

In November 2021, Hearnden launched his content platform under the handle Andy Cooks, originally sharing simple, step-by-step cooking videos on TikTok. His content stood out due to his blend of technical knife skills, restaurant-grade culinary foundations, and relaxed, accessible presentation. He became widely recognized for his recurring video premise where he prepares custom meals prompted by the phrase "Hey Babe, what do you want for dinner?" Within two years, Hearnden built a massive digital footprint spanning millions of followers across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Beyond short-form social content, he published his debut cookbook, titled "Andy Cooks: The Cookbook," and expanded his brand into kitchenware and commercial partnerships.

Personal Life

Hearnden is based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. He produces his content alongside his partner, Katelyn Flood, who frequently features off-camera in his popular dinner prompt videos and collaborates on the business operations of the Andy Cooks brand.