What happens when you arrive in the U.S. with no English, no plan, and no safety net—but an unshakable dream?

In this powerful episode of Interviews with Immigrants, Guillermo Zapata—actor, producer, entrepreneur, and co-owner of the legendary SUR Restaurant (yes, that SUR from Vanderpump Rules)—opens up about trading in comfort in Buenos Aires for the chaos and opportunity of Los Angeles.

From washing dishes to welcoming celebrities at one of the most famous restaurants in Hollywood…
From dreaming of acting on two continents to producing his own films...
From being the son of a musical legend to carving out a legacy of his own…

Guillermo’s story is one of grit, grace, and starting over—with nothing but heart and hustle.

We talk about:
🎭 Acting in two languages and the power of reinvention
🍷 Building SUR from the ground up (literally!)
🎥 Producing films with international reach
🇦🇷 Leaving Buenos Aires to chase the unknown
🔥 What it really means to “start over” in America—and why he’s just getting started

This episode is full of grit, charm, and immigrant hustle. Whether you’re a Vanderpump Rules fan, a dreamer, or someone who’s ever had to reinvent themselves far from home—this one’s for you.

🎧 Also available to listen everywhere, including:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19YtPoXvb47f1M9aGpA6FJ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/interviews-with-immigrants/id1792940158?uo=4
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/db753d20-2dff-4a26-87a6-7721e442d9ec
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02:12 Growing Up in Argentina with a Famous Father
04:57 Choosing Acting Over Music
07:12 Becoming a Working Actor in Argentina
08:32 A Trip to LA Changes Everything
10:12 Culture Shocks & Language Barriers
12:42 Never Looked Back: No Doubts, Only Drive
14:12 The Birth of SUR
17:52 Reinventing the Restaurant
20:12 The SUR Origin Story
21:42 Enter Lisa Vanderpump
23:42 Vanderpump Rules Begins
25:22 The Immigrant Roots of SUR & Vanderpump Rules
27:12 Returning to Acting
29:12 Becoming a Producer
30:32 Acting in Two Languages
32:12 Restaurant Is a Stage
33:42 Natalie: Love, Partnership, and the Balloon
35:12 Raising Trilingual Kids
38:12 Leading by Example in the Latin Community
41:12 Advice to His 22-Year-Old Self
42:57 Be Amazing Where You Are First
44:42 Why He Loves the U.S.
46:12 Alfajores & Dulce de Leche
50:42 Final Thoughts & Gratitude

Missed Episode 1?
Check out our hilarious and heartfelt interview with Brazilian-born comedian Jade Catta-Preta 🇧🇷🎤
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/m5rP4HL-FgA
Missed Episode 2?
Don’t miss our delicious and deeply personal conversation with Mexican-American chef and TV personality Aarón Sánchez 🇲🇽🔥 — as we talk heritage, hustle, and take a surprise tequila break.
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/iF2gwzmaQJ4
Missed Episode 3?
Catch our powerful episode with Leo Chan 🇭🇰🗽 — the fashion influencer and former Wall Street analyst who shares what it’s like growing up as an immigrant in NYC, redefining Asian masculinity, and turning identity into impact.
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/X7UwahYAQtc

📍 Visit SUR: https://surrestaurantandlounge.com
📲 Follow Guillermo: @guillermozapata
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DISCLAIMER: This video and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. The information in this video should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. the information presented in this video does not create an attorney/client relationship nor is it a solicitation to offer legal advice. You should seek legal advice from Andrea Szew directly by contacting her through email or other means noted above, or from another attorney before taking any legal action.

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