About
Chef Cesar Zapata is one of Miami’s most celebrated and influential chefs, recognized nationally for his bold and innovative fusion of Colombian and Vietnamese cuisine. As the driving force behind the Michelin-recognized Phuc Yea, Cesar, alongside his business partner Aniece Meinhold, has set a new standard for global dining in Miami.
Born in Medellin, Colombia, and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Cesar discovered his passion for cooking at a young age. His culinary journey flourished in Texas, where he immersed himself in Texas-style barbecue, Mexican cuisine, and Gulf seafood before refining his craft at the Art Institute of Houston. His experience at world-class establishments like the Four Seasons Hotel and Setai Hotels under the mentorship of James Beard Award-winning Timothy Keating and two-Michelin-starred Shawn Hergatt—shaped his refined yet adventurous approach to cooking.
In 2011, Cesar made history by launching Phuc Yea, Miami’s first-ever pop-up restaurant, revolutionizing the city’s food scene. The success of this venture led to The Federal, a critically acclaimed restaurant that earned national recognition, including Food & Wine’s “Best Biscuits in the US” and Florida Trend’s “Golden Spoon Award.”
By 2016, Cesar cemented his culinary legacy with Phuc Yea’s permanent location in Miami’s MiMo District. Hailed by Eater and Miami New Times as one of the Top Restaurants in Miami-Dade County, Phuc Yea continues to push the boundaries of global flavors.
Cesar’s work has been showcased on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Tastemade, Vice TV, and Bravo’s Best New Restaurant. In 2024, he made his guest judge debut on Chopped, one of Food Network’s most iconic shows. His industry impact extends beyond the kitchen, earning him a Star Chefs Rising Star award and collaborations with major brands like Tabasco, Cadillac, Toyota, and McCormick. In 2023, he helped develop McCormick’s Chefs Flavor of the Year, crafting a unique Vietnamese Cajun spice blend.
Cesar’s culinary empire continues to grow. In 2024, he launched LcKy ChKn, a Vietnamese-inspired fried chicken concept at Hard Rock Stadium, thrilling fans with his bold take on comfort food. He also opened his second Pho Sho location in Downtown Miami, expanding his fast-casual Vietnamese concept in one of the city’s busiest districts.
Beyond his culinary success, Cesar is deeply committed to philanthropy, sustainability, and food justice. As an alumnus of the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs Boot Camp for Policy and Change, he actively advocates for a more equitable food system. He also serves on the Advisory Council for No Kid Hungry and supports The Humans Who Feed Us, a nonprofit advocating for migrant workers’ rights.
With Phuc Yea earning Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand recognition for four consecutive years (2022–2025), Cesar continues to redefine Miami’s food scene. His portfolio includes Pho Sho, OTC, LcKy ChKn, a signature spice line, a forthcoming cookbook, and the ever-popular Rice and Noodz stand at Miami’s Kaseya Center.
A chef, entrepreneur, and advocate, Cesar Zapata is a culinary powerhouse whose influence extends far beyond the kitchen, shaping the future of modern cuisine in Miami and beyond.
