Chef Amar Santana

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About Chef Amar Santana

Chef Amar Santana is a highly acclaimed restaurateur and TV personality, best known as a finalist and judge on Bravo's 'Top Chef.' He is the co-owner of the popular Southern California restaurants, Broadway by Amar Santana and Vaca Restaurant, specializing in innovative New American and modern Spanish steakhouse cuisine, respectively. His journey includes a full scholarship to the Culinary Institute of America through the C•CAP program.

★Awards & Recognition

Bravo Top Chef Season 13 Finalist (2016)

Bravo Top Chef Judge

Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP) Scholar…

2026 LA Gala All-Star Alum (C•CAP) (2026-05-15)★Award-winning Chef (general recognition)

Chef Timeline

Born in Dominican Republic

Immigrated to the U.S.

At the age of 13.

Received C•CAP Scholarship

Awarded by the Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP).

Attended Culinary Institute of America

On a full scholarship from C•CAP.

2011

Opened Broadway by Amar Santana

Broadway by Amar Santana

Co-owner with Ahmed Labbate.

2015

Opened Vaca Restaurant

Vaca Restaurant

Co-owner with Ahmed Labbate.

2016

Top Chef Season 13 Finalist

Insights

Key Information

Chef Amar Santana is a highly acclaimed restaurateur and TV personality, best known as a finalist and judge on Bravo's 'Top Chef.' He is the co-owner of the popular Southern California restaurants, Broadway by Amar Santana and Vaca Restaurant, specializing in innovative New American and modern Spanish steakhouse cuisine, respectively. His journey includes a full scholarship to the Culinary Institute of America through the C•CAP program.

Customer Perception

Customer perception is not explicitly provided in the search results. General feedback for his restaurants often highlights the innovative and high-quality cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent service, consistent with an award-winning chef's establishments.

Cuisine Highlights

New American CuisineModern Spanish Steakhouse

News

Chef Amar Santana is slated to cook at the Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP) Los Angeles Gala on May 15, 2026, where he will be honored as an All-Star Alum.

Restaurants by chef

Broadway by Amar Santana, Vaca Restaurant

Additional Details

Born in the Dominican Republic, Amar Santana immigrated to the United States at the age of 13. He received a full scholarship from the Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP) to attend the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, a testament to his early talent and dedication.

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