Chef Zuri Resendiz

Biography

“Make it happen.” That’s chef Zuri Resendiz’s motto, and he’s made a successful culinary career happen.

Originally from Mexico City, Resendiz got his early inspiration from his mother, grandmother, and aunts. “I come from a family of cooks,” he explains, “and they all brag that they are the best.” For the record, he says that “all of their food is amazing”.

Resendiz began working with Elise Wiggins, then the executive chef at Panzano. Under her mentorship, he worked his way up to sous chef, and when she opened her first restaurant, Cattivella, in 2017, Resendiz moved there, eventually becoming chef de cuisine. But in early August, Resendiz left Cattivella. Resendiz’s path led him to Shanahan’s Steakhouse at 5085 South Syracuse Street, where he led the kitchen as executive chef. Also exciting: Resendiz’s budding television career. After appearing twice on Guy’s Grocery Games, the chef kept in touch with the Food Network.