3 Questions with Chef Amar Santana

The Top Chef veteran has channeled his culinary expertise into creating authentic Spanish tapas at Vaca Costa Mesa.

Vaca brings the flavors of Spain to Orange County, offering traditional and modern tapas, premium meats, and Chef Santana’s creative touch. The drink menu features Spanish wines, beers, classic cocktails, and inventive craft drinks.

Watch our exclusive interview with Chef Amar Santana as we discuss his biggest takeaway from his time on Top Chef, what draws him to Spanish cuisine and more!

3 Questions with Chef Amar Santana

What was the biggest lesson you learned during your time on TOP CHEF?

CHEF AMAR: I didn’t understand the magnitude an the pressure that you have when you become a public figure and then you have actual kids watching you and becoming your fans. You know kids come into the restaurant, and they tell their parents “I wanna go to Amar’s restaurant! He’s my favorite chef. It Matured me a lot more because i don’t wanna disappoint these kids.

VACA is a spanish tapas restaurant. What are tapas?

CHEF AMAR: So, tapas in Spain is just a small bite. It could be of anything; it could be out of a can, toasted bread, it could be what they call pinchos. You know, small little bites that would just get your palate going.

What’s one thing about chef culture that people would be surprised to learn?

CHEF AMAR: i always tell people to be a chef, you cannot be normal. Normal people do not say one day – i wanna be a chef, i wanna work 80 hours a week, i don’t wanna have holidays with my family. Like i said, we’re all different in a way, but we’re all crazy to do what we do.


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