On The Pass

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:

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

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Pablo Rivero is CEO of Resy + Tock and SVP of American Express Global Dining, leading the charge in reshaping how diners connect with restaurants worldwide. With a deep background in both strategy and hospitality, Pablo brings a rare blend of tech-forward thinking and boots-on-the-ground understanding of the industry.

In this episode of On The Pass, Gabriel and Pablo dive into how he stays close to the heartbeat of restaurants even as his role becomes increasingly strategic. They discuss the evolution of Resy's mission, the current structural challenges facing independent restaurants, and what it truly means to build tools that serve the people behind the pass.

Be sure to follow and subscribe to On The Pass wherever you get your podcasts — and catch recent episodes featuring Kwame Onwuachi, Andrew Wong, and Fariyal Abdullahi for more inspiring conversations with the leaders shaping the future of hospitality.

Learn more about Resy CEO, Pablo Rivero:

https://bit.ly/4jhwiC7

Follow Pablo on Instagram:

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Follow Resy on Instagram:

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Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

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Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube:

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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.studioornelas.com

You may know Chef Kwame Onwuachi from his remarkable origin story — immortalized in his bestselling memoir, Notes from a Young Black Chef, celebrated on Top Chef, and most recently, reimagined on the latest season of Netflix Chef's Table. His Harlem-born, Bronx-raised perspective, blended with global influences and deep cultural roots, has positioned him as one of the most compelling voices in food today.

His New York City restaurant, Tatiana, has quickly become one of the most exciting and culturally significant dining experiences in the country — earning praise from The New York Times, Esquire, and just about every major critic worth their salt.

But in this episode, we go beyond the headlines.

Kwame and I dive into what it means to be a chef today — not just in the kitchen, but in culture. We talk about building a brand with purpose, embracing evolution, holding space for authenticity, and leading a growing creative and business ecosystem with both grit and grace.

We explore identity, pressure and evolution — and how he's navigating it all in real time, while continuing to inspire a new generation of dreamers, doers, and disruptors.

Learn more about Kwame Onwuachi:

https://bit.ly/3YHuHym

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

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Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas:

http://bit.ly/3YS964b

Learn more about On The Pass:

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Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.studioornelas.com

Our next guest is Chef Andrew Wong — chef, anthropologist, and cultural historian. Born in Britain and of Chinese heritage, Andrew's culinary journey is a compelling blend of personal legacy and academic curiosity. It all began in 1985 when his parents opened a traditional Cantonese restaurant in London's Pimlico neighborhood — the same location where his celebrated, two Michelin-starred restaurant, A. Wong, now stands.

Since taking the reins in 2012, Andrew has reimagined what it means to serve Chinese cuisine in the West. Drawing on years of academic research, travel, and immersion into regional cooking styles, Andrew has created a dining experience that is equal parts delicious and deeply informative. His menus are not just meals, but journeys through China's vast culinary landscape — from ancient imperial banquets to the diverse flavors shaped by the country's 14 international borders.

With a sharp eye on the past and an innovative spirit toward the future, Andrew uses food as a way to tell stories — challenging preconceived notions about Chinese cuisine while celebrating its depth, diversity, and cultural significance. Sourcing ingredients with care from both Britain and China, he brings together precision, creativity, and playfulness in a way that leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to dine at his table.

In this episode, we explore Andrew's path from reluctant restaurateur to cultural ambassador, how his background in anthropology fuels his work, and why preserving and evolving culinary tradition matters more than ever.

Learn more about A.Wong:

https://bit.ly/4jMduf3

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

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Learn more about On The Pass:

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Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.studioornelas.com

Our next guest truly embodies joy—a sentiment beautifully reflected in the meaning of her name within her culture. Chef Fariyal Abdullahi is a multifaceted talent: an accomplished chef, entrepreneur, television personality, and the Executive Chef at Marcus Samuelsson's Hav & Mar restaurant, in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.​

Born and raised in Ethiopia as the youngest of six siblings, Fariyal's culinary passion was deeply influenced by her mother's exceptional cooking and the vibrant markets of her childhood. She fondly recalls assisting her mother in the kitchen and cherishing the communal family meals that brought everyone together—Fariyal felt an undeniable pull toward the culinary arts. Her culinary journey led her to esteemed positions, including a role at the renowned Noma in Copenhagen, where she honed her skills under Chef René Redzepi. ​

At Hav & Mar, Fariyal seamlessly weaves her Ethiopian heritage into the seafood-centric menu, emphasizing sustainability and thoughtful sourcing. The restaurant reflects a commitment to diversity, with a leadership team comprising women of color and collaborations with Black and BIPOC winemakers and farmers.

Beyond her culinary endeavors, Fariyal is dedicated to fostering inclusive kitchen environments and mentoring aspiring chefs, particularly women of color. Her leadership and advocacy have positioned her as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring others to pursue their passions and challenge traditional norms. ​

Learn more about Hav & Mar:

https://bit.ly/4iiZGaY

Follow Fariyal on Instagram:

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Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

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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.studioornelas.com

In this special episode of On The Pass, we're joined by Chef Ryan Cole, the visionary chef and co-owner of Salsify at The Roundhouse in Cape Town, South Africa. Recently recognized by 50 Best Discovery and acclaimed for its innovative approach to modern South African cuisine, Salsify was everything we could have hoped for—and more—for our first proper sit-down meal in Cape Town.

Set within a historic landmark overlooking the breathtaking views of Camps Bay, Salsify blends heritage with culinary artistry, offering a dining experience that feels both rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary. Ryan and his team craft dishes that are as thoughtful as they are delicious, pairing them with an exquisite selection of wines—all delivered with the warm, unmistakable touch of South African hospitality.

In our conversation, Ryan shares his creative philosophy, and what it means to shape the future of South African fine dining.

Learn more about Salsify at the Roadhouse:

https://bit.ly/4275y0T

Follow Salsify at the Roadhouse on Instagram:

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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.studioornelas.com

Many of my most unforgettable hospitality and culinary experiences have been meaningful not just because of their quality, creativity, or service, but because they fostered a deeper connection to the local culture, people, and traditions. These experiences go beyond excellence—they tell a story, evoke emotion, and create lasting impressions. This is exactly what our next guest has dedicated his career to curating, preserving, and championing.

Joining us on this episode of On The Pass is Laurent Gardinier, President of Relais & Châteaux, a prestigious global association of independently owned luxury hotels and restaurants. With nearly 580 properties across 65 countries, Relais & Châteaux offers travelers an immersive way to experience the world—rooted in sustainability, heritage, and authentic local culture.

Laurent is not only a visionary leader in hospitality, but also a hotelier and restaurateur himself. He co-owns Domaine Les Crayères, a luxurious 20-room hotel nestled in France's Champagne region, and Le Taillevent, a two-Michelin-starred fine-dining institution in Paris. His deep industry expertise, passion for excellence, and commitment to sustainability shape his leadership as he steers Relais & Châteaux into an exciting new era.

In our conversation, Laurent shares insights into the evolving landscape of hospitality, what makes the Relais & Châteaux collection so unique, and his ambitious vision for a more sustainable future. Now, let's dive into this inspiring discussion with Laurent Gardinier.

Learn more about Relais & Châteaux:

https://bit.ly/3A3Hl1o

Follow Relais & Châteaux on Instagram:

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Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n

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.studioornelas.com

In Episode 6 of Effects of Change, Jamila and Gabriel sit down with Fawn Weaver, entrepreneur, author, and spirits mogul, CEO of Grant Sidney Inc. and owner of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. They discuss leading as your authentic self. Jamila and Gabriel close out the series by reflecting on everything they've learned through these conversations, the progress that has been made, and the work that still lies ahead.

Learn More about Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey:

https://bit.ly/464ow8N

Follow Fawn Weaver on Instagram:

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Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

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Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas:

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

https://bit.ly/3NKDU2N

Learn more about On The Pass:

https://bit.ly/3J2PPXP

Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.studioornelas.com

In Episode 5 of Effects of Change, Jamila and Gabriel sit down with Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation, and Tim Brooke-Webb, Managing Director of the World's 50 Best Restaurants, Bars, and Hotels platform. They discuss awards, recognition, and the importance of these platforms as vehicles for discovery and community building.

Learn More about The World's 50 Best Ecosystem:

https://bit.ly/416kRGt

Learn more about The James Beard Foundation:

https://bit.ly/3X6Lk5J

Follow Tim Brooke-Webb and Clare Reichenbach on Instagram:

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https://bit.ly/432eLcJ

Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

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Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas:

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

https://bit.ly/3NKDU2N

Learn more about On The Pass:

https://bit.ly/3J2PPXP

Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.studioornelas.com

In Episode 4 of Effects of Change, Jamila and Gabriel sit down with Melina Shannon-DiPietro, Managing Director of MAD, the nonprofit founded by chef René Redzepi of restaurant Noma, and Juliane Caillouette Noble, Managing Director of the Sustainable Restaurant Association. Together, they discuss sustainability, the supply chain, and the broader impact of how and what we eat.

Follow Melina Shannon-DiPietro and Juliane Caillouette Noble on Instagram:

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https://bit.ly/4i4Xbcp

Follow On The Pass on Instagram:

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Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas:

http://bit.ly/3YS964b

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

https://bit.ly/3NKDU2N

Learn more about On The Pass:

https://bit.ly/3J2PPXP

Lets work together! Get in contact:

https://www.studioornelas.com