Over the years, Guillermo has worked tirelessly to transform ‘SUR’ into one of the most popular restaurants in Los Angeles. It has become a staple of the Hollywood scene and has been featured on numerous TV shows, including ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ and ‘Vanderpump Rules’, which is set in the restaurant itself. Guillermo’s dedication to the restaurant business has paid off, as ‘SUR’ is now a go-to spot for celebrities and some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Through hard work and determination, Guillermo Zapata has shown that it is possible to pursue multiple passions and achieve great success.
During our recent one-on-one interview, we had the privilege of speaking with the multi-talented Guillermo Zapata, an Argentinian-born actor/model who has since become a renowned restauranteur. He shared his journey with us in a candid and genuine manner, which is sure to resonate with entrepreneurs and remind us of the importance of our work.
During our conversation, Guillermo Zapata and I delved into his background, discussing the unexpected twists and turns that shaped his journey. We talked about pivotal moments and events that led him to go into business with Lisa Vanderpump and Ken Todd, and how their joint venture resulted in ‘SUR’ Restaurant & Lounge being featured on the popular Bravo series. Throughout the interview, Guillermo shared his passion, determination, and the source of his strength, along with what it all truly means to him.
Journey
DEMI: What led you, an Argentinian-born and raised model/actor from Buenos Aires, to venture into the restaurant business in LA?
At the age of 22, I was already working as an actor in Argentina, but my ultimate dream was to go to Hollywood and explore the city. After applying for a tourist visa, I was pleasantly surprised when it was approved, confirming that it was meant to be. So, I booked a flight to LA with no expectations other than to visit and explore the city. However, upon arriving, I was welcomed with open arms by the city, and I fell in love with the beautiful weather, nearby ocean, and mountains, and all the opportunities the city had to offer.
I immediately called my parents to tell them I was staying in LA for a little longer. They were shocked and asked me why, as I didn’t know anyone, couldn’t speak English, and had no money. But they respected my decision.
My first thought was I have to find a job quickly. I went out and found work as a dishwasher in West Hollywood, despite never considering such a job before. Language was a major barrier, but I knew that I needed to take any opportunity he could to stay in the city he had fallen in love with. With only $300 left in my name, my parents made it clear that I would have to make it work if I wanted to stay in LA. Despite the challenges, I remained determined and persevered.
It was an important lesson. Life will put you in all sorts of situations & you have to work with what you have.
I realised that I had a passion for the restaurant business and worked hard at it. However, I knew that in order to succeed in LA, I needed to learn the language. So, I enrolled in school during the day to learn English and worked in the evenings. This decision helped me gain confidence and opened up many opportunities for me. Having learned about all areas of the restaurant business, I began to be offered various roles, laying a solid foundation for my future career.
I found that I had a natural love for being around people and building relationships, which helped him despite the language barrier. I was comfortable interacting with others, and my love for people shone through even though I couldn’t speak English fluently. This trait became one of my greatest strengths, and I used it to the best of my ability. By building relationships and seizing opportunities, I was able to grow and develop my career in the restaurant business.
Your energy attracts people into your life & if you do the right thing by others, doors will open. I was offered so many amazing opportunities & I took full advantage of every single one of them to expand my life experiences.
I believe that in the restaurant industry, it’s not just about one’s knowledge or skills, but also about their character and personality. Attitude, energy, willingness to learn, work approach, and passion for the job are crucial factors that make up the whole package that one presents to others. In this industry, people with big egos do not survive, and it’s important to make customers feel comfortable both in your personal presence and within your premises. This applies to all staff working in the business.
Restaurant Business
DEMI: How did you transition from working in the restaurant industry to starting your own business?
As I worked my way up from dishwasher to Manager, I found myself constantly being offered jobs without having to go through interviews. Eventually, I became the assistant manager of a popular LA restaurant, which was frequented by many celebrities. At just 27 years old, I was already managing a restaurant and was quite content with my comfortable salary and newly purchased apartment. However, I was always on the lookout for the next opportunity and trying to figure out what my next step should be. Though I had come a long way, I knew that there was still more for me to achieve.
After dining at SUR and realising the restaurant was struggling, despite being owned by a lovely Argentinian family, I offered my time and knowledge to help them turn the business around. As an Argentinian myself, I had high expectations for the food and atmosphere, but was disappointed with the experience. With my experience in the restaurant industry, I knew I could help improve the business and prevent it from going under. The owners eventually asked me to become a business partner, which was a surprise, but I saw it as a great opportunity to take on a new challenge and build something of my own.
I had a tough decision to make. On one hand, I had a secure job with flexible work hours and guaranteed income that allowed me to pay my bills and enjoy life. On the other hand, I had the opportunity to become a business partner in an established restaurant that was going downhill fast and had a pile of bills to pay. While owning a place with money coming in would be great, owning a struggling business was not what you had envisioned.
Although many people may have declined the offer, I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and embark on a new venture. Despite the fact that the restaurant was going downhill fast, I decided to take the offer as a business owner, which would allow me to do my own thing. I knew that starting from scratch would be a lot of work, but I was up for the challenge. Therefore, I set out some conditions that I wanted to be met, such as keeping the business name ‘SUR’, changing the menu completely, and redoing the entire decor. I was also successful in convincing the Chef to stay on board, which was a great relief, as he is still with me today.
I was confident that the business would be successful if I had a great Chef on board & I was at the forefront of the business, & I was right!
My business partners and I put in a lot of effort to revive the restaurant, and our hard work paid off as we began to see an increase in the number of customers. Many of my friends and acquaintances from different backgrounds also started dining with us, and I was confident that my connections and networking skills from my years in the restaurant industry would help attract even more patrons to our establishment. In fact, one of the most memorable moments was hosting a birthday celebration for the late George Michael – it was an incredible and unforgettable evening for everyone involved.
After a considerable amount of effort, we finally achieved our goal! By 1998, we had transformed ‘SUR’ from an unsuccessful restaurant to a thriving one. Building the restaurant from scratch was no easy feat, but I was determined to make it work. I used all the skills and knowledge I had acquired from my previous experiences and learned many more along the way. Starting from the bottom once again was challenging, but this time it was for my own business, and that made all the difference.
At this point, my business partners wanted to move back to Argentina and asked if I would like to buy them out, it was a definite YES!
I was now completely on my own, until my beautiful wife, Nathalie came into my life. It was love at first sight.
Business Partners
DEMI: How did your business partnership with Lisa Vanderpump and Ken Todd come to fruition, and do you recommend entering a business partnership?
The arrival of Nathalie, my stunning new partner from Paris, injected new energy into my life and business. We were excited to start making plans for the restaurant and our future together. It was a wonderful time in my life, and having her by my side gave me the extra motivation to work even harder.
Together, Nathalie and I worked hard to create a business plan outlining our ideas for expanding the restaurant. We took our plan to our lawyer in West Hollywood, who was intrigued by our vision. He then mentioned that a couple from London, who were already highly successful in the restaurant industry in the UK, were interested in investing in the LA restaurant business. Our lawyer presented our plan to the couple, who turned out to be ‘Lisa Vanderpump’ and her husband ‘Ken Todd’. After falling in love with the restaurant, they became our business partners on the spot. It was an incredible opportunity, and we were thrilled to work with them.
Their excitement was contagious, and we shared the same level of enthusiasm. We quickly became business partners, and since then, the growth of our restaurant has skyrocketed. It almost feels like we’re living a dream come true.
The decision to have business partners was not an easy one, but it was the right one for me. Having partners means having someone to share the workload, the responsibilities, and the risks. It’s not just about the money, it’s about having someone you can trust and depend on. Running a successful restaurant takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and having a partner who shares your vision and is as passionate about the business as you are can make all the difference. I believe that the success of our restaurant is a testament to the power of collaboration and teamwork.
Inspiration
DEMI: How did your upbringing shape your go-getter attitude and what motivated you to pursue entrepreneurship?
My father, Rodolfo Zapata, is a constant source of inspiration to me. Despite being 85 years old, he still exudes the energy and vitality of a person half his age. He grew up in very humble circumstances and managed to rise to great success as a singer and actor in Argentina. From him, I learned so much about what it takes to achieve success in life. One of the most important lessons he taught me was the importance of staying grounded and keeping things real. He has always emphasised the value of hard work, determination, and persistence in the pursuit of one’s goals.
Don’t pretend to be somebody you’re not! – Rodolfo Zapata
It’s been my personal belief that one’s upbringing plays a crucial role in shaping their personality and future. That’s why, as a father, it’s my top priority to provide a solid foundation for my two lovely daughters, Miarose, and Lou Lou. I want them to grow up with strong values, a sense of responsibility, and an understanding of the importance of hard work. I want them to have the freedom to explore their passions, while also teaching them the importance of being kind and empathetic towards others. In essence, I want to give them the tools they need to become confident, independent, and successful individuals in their own right.
When I was growing up, it wasn’t about money, it was all about building a solid family foundation.
My daughters mean everything to me, and I believe that the best gift a parent can give a child is unconditional love. Being connected with them is of utmost importance to me, and I consider myself blessed to have been shown a lot of love in my own upbringing, which enables me to do the same for my kids. I strive to raise them on a solid foundation, and I hope to inspire them to follow their dreams, just as my father inspired me.
Positive Mindset
DEMI: How important do you believe maintaining a positive mindset is to attaining success both in personal life and business?
I strongly believe in the power of positive thinking. When faced with challenges or setbacks, I didn’t allow myself to dwell on negativity. Instead, I focused on taking action and doing my best to overcome obstacles. I refused to view things as too difficult; rather, I approached each situation with a can-do attitude and a determination to succeed. Maintaining a positive outlook has helped me to persevere through difficult times and achieve my goals.
I seized every opportunity that came my way and took full responsibility for my own success. I believed in myself and was willing to take risks and make mistakes in order to learn and grow. Rather than dwelling on setbacks or missed chances, I focused on the future and what I could do differently to achieve my goals. I have always been self-motivated and driven, and I never lost sight of my vision for success.
Success in life and business comes from taking action and making things happen for yourself. I firmly believe that in this country, negative thinking has no place. Instead, one must approach life with a positive, can-do attitude. I developed a go-getter mentality by always being prepared to take on challenges and try new things. I don’t rely on others or complain about missed opportunities. Instead, I take control of my own path and focus on doing my best in every situation.
Startup Tips
DEMI: What advice would you give to first-time founders who are looking to start their own business?
My advice would be to gain experience by working for someone in the industry you are interested in. It is important to learn as much as possible about the business before starting your own. Jumping into a business without any prior experience, even if you have the resources, is not recommended.
Be willing to start early every morning, prepared to go all day & every day!
DEMI: How can one pursue their dreams while also managing financial responsibilities and paying the bills?
It can definitely be a challenge to balance pursuing your passion while also fulfilling financial responsibilities. Many of my current staff members are in a similar position, where they are pursuing other career paths outside of the restaurant industry while still working with us to pay the bills. When I was in their shoes, I faced similar challenges, but I also realised that the industry I wanted to succeed in was extremely competitive. I found it difficult to sustain long-term success as an actor, and I knew that I needed to find fulfilment in my day job as well. So, my advice would be to continue pursuing your dreams while also finding a job that you can enjoy and find fulfilment in. It may not be your ultimate passion, but it can help support you while you work towards your goals.
Keep your paid job whilst you’re pursuing the dream or building your business. It’s important to stick with what’s paying your bills for as long as you can or until your business or acting career starts making money.
While it may be difficult to succeed as an actor in Hollywood, it’s not impossible. Persistence and determination are key, as you never know when you might get your big break. In the meantime, it’s important to have a realistic approach and understand that you may need to supplement your income with a day job.
Starting a business also requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and patience. It’s important to have a clear vision and to stay focused on your goals, but it’s equally important to have a solid financial plan in place to keep the business running. Without proper funding and a sustainable cash flow, it can be challenging to keep the business afloat and make progress towards your goals. Balancing financial responsibilities and pursuing your dreams can be a challenging task, but with the right mindset and planning, it is possible to achieve success in both areas.
It takes a lot of hard work, discipline, and time management skills to be able to balance both your dreams and your financial responsibilities. However, it is important to not give up on your dreams and to continue pursuing them, even if it means doing so slowly and gradually while also managing your financial responsibilities.
It’s a good idea to find a job you love to do whilst you’re preparing for your big break.
DEMI: What tips or advice would you offer to aspiring actors who are looking to pursue a career in the industry?
When it comes to pursuing acting, it’s crucial to be well-prepared, gain as much experience as you can, and discover what sets you apart from others. Joining a reputable acting association and securing a reliable agent are important steps to advance your career. Dedication and hard work are essential, ensuring that you arrive prepared for every audition. Most importantly, be patient and understand that success in the acting industry takes time to achieve.
Recruiting & Retaining Staff
DEMI: When it comes to recruiting your team, both everyday staff and celebrity staff for the show, what is your process for selecting the right individuals?
As ‘SUR’ is at the heart of the Bravo Series, ‘Vanderpump Rules,’ the restaurant has gained international recognition, and we receive job applications from all over the world. Therefore, we have to be highly selective in our hiring process for both everyday staff and celebrity staff.
At SUR, delivering exceptional customer service is a top priority. Our unwavering commitment to our customers guides every aspect of our business, regardless of the roles for which we are hiring. We clearly communicate a zero-tolerance policy for negative attitudes in the workplace or when interacting with customers to all staff members. While we always strive to select individuals with the right attitude for our team, we recognise that even the best hiring processes may occasionally fall short of our expectations. However, we view these instances as learning opportunities and take proactive steps to continuously refine our hiring processes to identify candidates who embody our customer-focused culture.
DEMI: What are the essential qualities to look for when hiring a candidate?
Personality is crucial, and we seek individuals who are friendly and welcoming with a positive attitude. It’s also essential that candidates are well-groomed, neatly dressed, and well-presented. We recommend candidates come prepared with their resume, and it’s helpful if they include a picture to help the interviewer remember who they were speaking with. We have a dedicated HR team who understands our hiring needs, especially since we receive many applications from individuals who are primarily interested in appearing on TV. This team is responsible for filtering through applicants to find the best candidates who align with our values and culture at ‘SUR’.
Sometimes we receive applications from individuals who may not have restaurant experience but would be great for the TV series. To manage this, we break down our applicants based on our current needs, but we also keep an open mind to identify candidates who may excel in other areas of the business. Our goal is to find the best talent available, and we are always looking for individuals who are passionate, motivated, and dedicated to their work. We believe that by hiring the right people, regardless of their background, we can provide our customers with the exceptional service and experience they expect from ‘SUR’.
DEMI: What is the recruiting process specifically for ‘Vanderpump Rules’?
Recruiting the right people for ‘Vanderpump Rules’ is a time-intensive process. To be considered for the show, individuals must work with us for at least 6-7 months prior to shooting. Our celebrity staff members are also required to fulfill all their duties at ‘SUR’, and failure to do so could result in them losing both their job at the restaurant and their place on the show. We place a high emphasis on finding individuals who not only have the potential to contribute to the show but also embody the values and qualities that align with our customer-focused culture at ‘SUR’. By carefully selecting and maintaining our staff, we aim to provide our customers with an exceptional experience and continue to produce a successful TV series.
DEMI: How do you successfully retain the staff members on ‘Vanderpump Rules’ and maintain their consistency over time?
The staff on ‘Vanderpump Rules’ have been exceptional, and I have tremendous respect for their courage and willingness to share their personal lives with the world. Retaining them is important to us, and we ensure that they are well-compensated for their contributions to the show. Being on a reality show can open doors and provide opportunities for growth and development, and we encourage our staff to take advantage of these opportunities. We also value open communication and provide support to our staff, recognising that their well-being is crucial to the success of the show.
We are thrilled to be a part of ‘Vanderpump Rules’ and are currently in the process of filming Season 6. The popularity of the show has been overwhelming, and we anticipate many more exciting seasons to come. The enthusiasm and support from our viewers are truly incredible, and we are grateful for the opportunity to entertain and connect with our audience. We look forward to continuing this thrilling journey and sharing more memorable moments with our audience.
DEMI: The offer of an amazing partnership opportunity by Lisa Vanderpump to Tom & Tom was a great moment, but there seemed to be some hesitation. What do you think could have caused this hesitation?
It is not uncommon to experience some hesitation when presented with a significant opportunity like the partnership offer Lisa Vanderpump extended to Tom & Tom. The level of responsibility that comes with a partnership role can be daunting, even for those who are highly experienced in their field. However, it’s important to consider the potential benefits that come with such an opportunity, such as the chance to be a part of a successful and renowned establishment like SUR. Ultimately, the decision to accept the offer will depend on each individual’s personal goals and aspirations.
DEMI: What would be your response if you were in their position?
Given the opportunity, I took the chance to work with Lisa and Ken right away. However, it’s important to note that I was already in the restaurant business and looking to expand within the industry. So, it would depend on the individual’s career goals and where they see themselves in the future.
Well, you saw what I did. When I had the opportunity to work with Lisa & Ken, I took it and ran with it immediately! But I was in the restaurant business already and wanted to expand within the industry.
In my opinion, I would seize the opportunity because an acting career may not last long, and having a long-term plan for your future is essential. That’s exactly what I did, and it turned out to be a great decision. So, let’s wait and see what Tom & Tom decide in the next series.
It’s important to not focus on the negative aspects of a business opportunity and to remain positive. Don’t let others’ opinions influence your decision, listen to your heart, and decide what’s best for you.
Passion for Acting
DEMI: With the success of your restaurant, are you still pursuing your passion for acting and modelling?
With the success of my business, it has allowed me to revisit my original passion for acting and modelling. Even during the early days of ‘SUR’, I continued to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry, which also helped bring in additional income. So, to answer your question, yes, I am still pursuing my passion for acting and modelling.
DEMI: What inspired or ignited your passion for acting?
To me, seeing my father’s passion for acting and his love for the entertainment industry really inspired me to pursue it as well. I remember going to his performances and seeing him on stage, and it always made me feel so proud of him. I think that’s where my own passion for acting comes from – the love and respect I have for my dad and his work in the industry.
Like I said, it always goes back to family & how you were raised.
My father was a strong advocate for teaching us a wide range of skills, including acting as well as practical, everyday tasks such as painting and gardening. His emphasis on resourcefulness and the ability to get things done without relying on others has proven to be invaluable over the years. It has taught me to be self-sufficient and independent in all aspects of life, whether it’s pursuing a career in acting or running my own business.
Work + Life Balance
DEMI: What is your perspective on the topic of work/life balance?
I think work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being and happiness. It’s important to prioritise and allocate time for both work and personal life to ensure that neither one takes over completely. It’s also essential to have a support system in place, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, to help maintain that balance. Keeping any relationship healthy requires effort and communication, whether it’s a personal or business relationship. Being on the same page and making decisions together is key to success in both areas.
A successful business and life partnership is crucial as it impacts various aspects of your life. Finding a life partner who shares your business aspirations is a bonus. Nathalie, my wife, works with me at ‘SUR’ every day, which is perfect for me. She is my right hand and helps me balance work and family life. We both work tirelessly, but the rewards are great. We get to live a comfortable life, own a beautiful home, and travel as a family. It requires a lot of work, but the outcome is worth it.
DEMI: What advice would you give to your two beautiful girls?
I wouldn’t want to dictate to my daughters what they should or should not do. Instead, I believe in leading by example and showing them how to live a fulfilling life. For me, that means prioritising love and spending quality time with my family. I try to expose my girls to new experiences, take them on trips, and enjoy everyday moments like driving them to school. Ultimately, my advice to them would be to always stay true to themselves and follow their passions.
DEMI: You have achieved a lot in your life, but do you feel like you are now living your dream?
I am passionate about what I do and proud of my accomplishments, but to be honest, my ultimate dream has always been to star in a movie. Acting has been my true calling, and I continue to pursue that dream alongside my business ventures. Success in any field is not just about luck, but a result of years of hard work and preparation meeting the right opportunities. While I am content with where I am today, I am still striving towards my ultimate dream. I am proud of what I have achieved so far, but I am always working to improve my skills and take on new opportunities. I believe that success is a combination of preparation and opportunity, and I am committed to pursuing my dream until I physically cannot. I am a dreamer at heart, and I always will be.
Although I run a very successful business, I still dream, & why not? Everyone should dream. I’ll keep dreaming but I’m also realistic!
SUR Restaurant & Lounge
DEMI: Given the success of your restaurant ‘SUR’, have you considered expanding or franchising, or do you plan to continue focusing on the existing location?
Despite the frequent inquiries we receive about expanding our business, our response remains unchanged: we have no plans to do so. We have invested a great deal of effort and resources into our current business, and it has proven to be incredibly successful. We believe in giving our all to what we have already built and making it the best it can possibly be. The idea of franchising does not align with our values and vision for our business, and therefore, it is not something we plan to pursue.
In a way, the series ‘Vanderpump Rules’ was the expansion.
DEMI: Were there any concerns or reservations about featuring the restaurant on a reality show?
Deciding whether to feature the restaurant on a reality show was a difficult and challenging decision. We were concerned about how the restaurant would be portrayed and how it would be perceived by viewers. We understood that exposing so many aspects of the business could either be a great thing or lead to disaster. We took the risk, and it turned out to be a positive experience that strengthened the business.
To ensure that everything went well during filming, I made a conscious decision not to personally involve myself as an actor on the show. Instead, I took on the role of a producer, working behind the scenes to ensure that everything was perfect for filming. We were aware that it was a gamble, as it meant exposing many aspects of the business and potentially risking its reputation. However, we decided to take the risk, and fortunately, the show turned out to be a big hit, with positive effects on the restaurant’s growth.
As a business owner, it’s an amazing feeling to be able to make decisions about the direction of the business and life in general. Being in control of the journey and having the ability to chart your own course is a truly empowering experience.
See, that’s the amazing thing about being a business owner. It’s an amazing feeling for me, being able to make decisions about which direction my business and life will take. I feel like the pilot of my journey, in total control of where I go, I love it!
DEMI: Based on your experience with SUR, what tips and advice have you learned that you can share for creating a successful business?
As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to create a successful business. Here are some tips and advice that I would like to share:
- Be Smart: Take calculated risks and do thorough research before making any decisions.
- Be Persistent: Stay focused and motivated. Don’t let setbacks or failures deter you from achieving your goals.
- Be Patient: Success takes time, so don’t expect immediate results. It can take years of hard work before you start seeing the fruits of your labour.
- Watch Your Finances: It’s important to be mindful of your spending and keep track of your finances. Even if someone invests in your business, they will expect a return on their investment.
- Take Your Time: It’s important to dream big, but don’t go too big too fast. Start small and build a solid foundation for your business.
- Manage Your Funds: Make sure you spend your money wisely and prioritize your expenses. Remember how hard you worked to earn that money.
- Find a Good Location: Your business’s location can play a crucial role in its success. Take the time to research and find a location that will work well for your business.
- Work Hard: Success requires dedication and hard work. Be willing to put in the time and effort necessary to make your business thrive.
DEMI: How has the massive success of SUR and Vanderpump Rules impacted your personal life and daily routine?
With the huge success of SUR and Vanderpump Rules, there has been an increase in public recognition and attention for me. People often approach me to talk about the show and I always make an effort to be available for them. I am truly grateful that people take the time to approach me and share their thoughts and feedback on the show.
Moreover, I enjoy interacting with aspiring entrepreneurs who seek advice and guidance in their journey. Having been in their shoes before, I understand the challenges that they face, and I am always willing to share my knowledge and experiences to help them in any way possible. Overall, the success of the show has allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level and has opened up new opportunities for me to share my expertise and inspire others.
DEMI: Can you share with us any exciting new projects you’re currently working on?
I’m very excited about the current producing and acting projects I’m working on. I promise to share it with you as soon as I have all the details finalised. I’m very passionate about this project and loving every minute.
DEMI: Is there anything else you would like to share with our audience?
Yes, absolutely! I would love to extend an invitation to all the Heels Agency family and friends to come and say hello if you’re in LA. I’m usually at SUR in the evenings and would be thrilled to meet you in person.
Guillermo Zapata shares some insights about work, life, and family.
I love what I do because… It allows me to live well with my family in this beautiful town.
My greatest talent is… Social skills, I love people!
Never underestimate… Yourself and your abilities.
Do you believe in luck… It’s not about luck, it’s just opportunity.
My biggest challenge was… Not speaking English.
I overcame that challenge by … Putting in the time and effort to learn how to speak the language.
When starting a business one must … Be persistent and work hard.
SUR secrets to success… We offer great food, a fresh menu, and a magnificent atmosphere.
SUR stands for… Sexy – Unique – Restaurant!
On business partnership… Do it! But with the right people!
SUR partnership… The first day we met with Lisa Vanderpump and Ken Todd back in 2005, we became business partners.
I always… Wake up early to make the most of the day.
I hope to one day… Be on the big screen and fulfill all my acting dreams.
In my spare time I like to… Enjoy time with my family and friends.
On styling… How you present yourself is very important. One must always look good regardless of the occasion.
On Fashion… One of the most important things in my life, is dressing well. Whatever you wear, wear it well.
Fashion Inspiration…. I love GQ Magazine! I like to check out what’s trending.
I really enjoy… Music! I love good music and I play all my favourite tracks from my travels at SUR, it’s great!
Most rewarding career moment so far… This is the moment that’s most rewarding. The restaurant is almost fully booked every day and we’ve achieved what we set out to do.
Living the dream means… Being present and enjoying every day.
Happiness is… Definitely my family!
My greatest dream is… To see my daughters, grow up healthy and successful.
Influence on Lulu Mila & Mia Rose… Kids are constantly learning by what we are doing, if we don’t do the right thing, they won’t do the right thing.
Never be afraid of… New opportunities and a challenge.
My mission… Right now, is to pursue my first love, acting!
Success means… A healthy and happy home.
What’s next… Lots of acting! I’m working on it.
When starting a business, one must… Be persistent and patient because it can take a long time to get where you want.
On attitude… You have to be HUMBLE! Don’t think you know it all and are above it all. Being humble will attract the right people into your life. If you come across as knowing everything, there will be no need for people to come into your life to teach you anything and you will miss out on many opportunities in life.
Remember… You’re always learning, there’s never a time when you know everything, so don’t assume you do. Things change and you have to keep learning. Don’t let ego take over. So, when you think that you’ve made it, it’s just the beginning of a new learning phase.
Guillermo Zapata: WWW.GUILLERMOZAPATA + WWW.SURRESTAURANT.COM
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“I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to connect with many impressive entrepreneurs daily. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Guillermo Zapata and was truly inspired by his story. Not only is he blessed with good genes, a beautiful wife, and two lovely daughters, but he has also achieved incredible success beyond what most entrepreneurs can only dream of. During our conversation, what stood out to me the most was his grounded and positive attitude towards life. It’s refreshing to see someone who has accomplished so much, yet still manages to stay humble and genuine. Guillermo’s journey is truly remarkable, and I am grateful that he has taken the time to share his story with me and with others.” – Demi Karan, Heels Agency
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