On The Pass

127. Aitor Zabala: Somni Reimagined


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This week, Gabriel sits down with the deeply imaginative and visionary chef Aitor Zabala, the creative mind behind the newly reimagined Somni in Los Angeles.

In this expansive and intimate conversation, Aitor opens up about the last five years — from losing precious creative time when the original Somni closed, to rebuilding not just a restaurant, but a philosophy. He shares how failure became a tool for growth, how time has reshaped his approach to leadership and storytelling, and why fine dining must be about more than just impressing — it must be about meaning, memory, and human connection.

We explore his Spanish roots, the spirit of Los Angeles, and how his work aims to spark emotion through every course, every detail, and every interaction.

This episode is for anyone who believes in the artistry of hospitality — and that the future of fine dining is not louder, but deeper.

Learn more about Somni:

https://bit.ly/43MHFwk

Follow Somni on Instagram:

https://bit.ly/43S6Xt4

Follow Aitor on Instagram:

https://bit.ly/3SExHbj

Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n

Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube:

https://bit.ly/4hajZq8

Watch On The Pass Original: RARE, A Chef's Story:

https://bit.ly/3NKDU2N

Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas:

http://bit.ly/3YS964b

Learn more about On The Pass:

https://bit.ly/3J2PPXP

Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.onthepass.com

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On The PassBy Gabriel Ornelas

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