We recently connected with Zurisadai Resendiz and have shared our conversation below.

Zurisadai , appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Lucha libre (mexican wrestling )is always been part of me ,not only on the cultural side but also my dad was a Luchador back in the 90 , been Mexican always wanted to represent and show case my amazing culture ,and Luchador was born not only representing my culture but honoring my dad legacy thru my food . Worked on some of the best restaurants in Denver getting experience on pretty much everything I could learn that lead me to better positions in the industry and I knew at one point I was going to be ready to start my business,
It was after COVID when I realized change and adaptation is a most in my industry the idea food truck came to my mind .
I started my research : building costing ,operating cost , permits , labor and of course revenue .
I knew it had to work foos trucks became super popular so I started working on a simple menu the people was familiar but never try before .
Making everything from scratch it’s what make luchador unique and successful .

Zurisadai , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Chef Zuri Resendiz – Elevating Culinary Excellence, One Dish at a Time
“Make it happen” is not just a motto for Chef Zuri Resendiz; it’s a testament to his unwavering dedication to the culinary craft. Originally hailing from the vibrant culinary hub of Mexico City, Zuri’s culinary journey was sparked by the women in his life – his mother, grandmother, and aunts, all of whom boasted of their culinary prowess. “I come from a family of cooks,” he fondly recalls, “and they all brag that they are the best.” For the record, he acknowledges, “all of their food is amazing.”

In his early years, his family’s entrepreneurial spirit led them to sell mouthwatering carnitas, barbacoa, and an array of other delectable dishes. A young Zuri would eagerly lend a hand in food preparation, unknowingly laying the foundation for his remarkable culinary career. “Without knowing it, I was training for what I am right now,” he reflects.

In 2002, Zuri made the bold move to the United States, where his culinary journey truly began. His initial role as a dishwasher soon gave way to the heart of the kitchen, where his knife skills and culinary acumen shone. “In that moment, I knew that I really liked the kitchen. I’m in love with the concept of the transformation of food,” he passionately explains.

In 2012, Zuri Resendiz embarked on a transformative partnership with the esteemed Chef Elise Wiggins at Panzano. Under her mentorship, he ascended the ranks to become sous chef. When Chef Wiggins opened her own restaurant, Cattivella, in 2017, Zuri Resendiz followed suit, ultimately assuming the role of chef de cuisine. However, in early August, Zuri departed Cattivella in pursuit of his culinary dreams. “I’ve been with Chef Elise for nine years,” he shares, “I’ve been working side by side with her all that time, and it was a huge, huge pleasure and motivation and inspiration, but as chefs, we’re always looking for our own path.”

Zuri Resendiz’s path led him to Shanahan’s Steakhouse, where he made his mark as the executive chef. He approached the owner with a vision: “I can bring flavor to your concept,” he proposed. “I know you have the brand, and the brand is excellent, but you need some freshness.” During his tenure at Shanahan’s, he revitalized the menu, infusing it with his distinct touch and creativity. “The feedback has been great,” he excitedly reported on the success of the new menu.

But Chef Zuri Resendiz’s culinary journey didn’t stop there. In 2022, he made a bold move by opening Luchador Taco and More, a culinary venture that took the food scene by storm. His innovative approach and dedication to crafting unforgettable flavors quickly earned him the title of “Best Food Trucks 5280” in 2023.

Not content to rest on his laurels, Zuri Resendiz continued to reach new heights. He secured the title of the “Hispanic Top Chef 2022,” showcasing his culinary prowess and celebrating his Hispanic heritage.

His road around Food Network was equally impressive, as he showcased his culinary talents on “Chopped,” where he triumphed as a champion, dazzling judges with his unique flavors and outstanding salsas. His victory earned him the title of “Chopped Champion.”

Another milestone in his journey was his appearance on “Grocery Games,” where his culinary roots guided him to victory, emerging as the winner and further solidifying his culinary prowess.

In a nod to his incredible journey, Zuri Resendiz was recognized as one of the “30 Under 30” by Zagat in 2015, an honor reserved for the brightest young talents in the culinary world.

Today, as the CEO of Luchador Taco and More, Chef Zuri Resendiz is gearing up for yet another thrilling chapter in his culinary story. He’s set to open new horizons in 2024, promising a culinary experience like no other. With an impressive resume that includes accolades, innovation, and a deep passion for the art of cooking, Chef Zuri Resendiz continues to elevate the world of cuisine, one dish at a time.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of my first jobs was in a taco stand I was 13 at the time , full of energy but clueless on what a job really meant .
The owner always told me the if I was going ti do anything in life to do it the best be there best at it it doesn’t matter what you do in life as longest you try your best , buts most importantly do it with heart and Passion he said , if you can have of balance on that just keep going never stop .
That it’ always on the back in my head do it with heart and passion and it will be a great journey because having a business it’s and amazing journey.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media has become part of the daily life . So as a business owner we need to create a brand , who we are as a business and what do we do for our customers, make sure you know where you brand can take you and use that to promote Making sure you reaching new customers
Is not about the following is about the reach and exposure you’ll get to your company

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Luchador.foodtruck
• Facebook: Zurisadai resendiz
• Linkedin: Zuri resendiz
• Other: https://www.westword.com/restaurants/zuri-resendiz-chopped-shanahans-steakhouse-cattivella-12198809 https://www.westword.com/restaurants/luchador-zuri-resendiz-14632563

Image Credits
Christopher j davis