A Career Shaped by Innovation
Fernando Martínez Zavala has become one of the leading voices in contemporary Mexican cuisine. Originally from Uruapan, Michoacán, the chef brings more than two decades of experience defined by technical precision, creativity, and a constant reinterpretation of Mexico’s rich culinary traditions.
His professional journey began in celebrated kitchens such as Les Moustaches in Mexico City, an experience that helped earn him the title of Mexico’s Chef of the Year in 2014. He also appeared in the inaugural season of Top Chef México, further establishing his presence within the country’s evolving gastronomic scene.
Migrante and a Borderless Culinary Philosophy
Today, Martínez Zavala is best known as the chef behind Migrante, his acclaimed restaurant in Roma Norte, Mexico City. Built around the idea of cultural exchange, Migrante blends international techniques with local ingredients, traditions, and stories to create a contemporary interpretation of Mexican cuisine that looks beyond geographical boundaries.
Restaurants That Have Defined His Career
Before opening Migrante, Martínez Zavala led Yubán, a restaurant dedicated to Oaxacan fine dining that earned international recognition after being included in La Liste, the prestigious global restaurant ranking. He has also collaborated on projects including Kün and Raíz, continuing to reinterpret regional culinary traditions through a contemporary lens.
Cooking as a Cultural Platform
For Martínez Zavala, cooking extends far beyond the restaurant. He views gastronomy as both a cultural and social tool, an approach reflected in his participation in charitable initiatives, including fundraising dinners supporting Save the Children Mexico and programs benefiting children and families experiencing forced displacement.
Fernando Martínez Zavala at Millesime x Casa HOTBOOK
This summer, Martínez Zavala joins La Copa en Casa, a culinary series presented by Casa HOTBOOK as part of Millesime, one of the world’s leading gastronomic festivals known for bringing together internationally recognized chefs, premium brands, and immersive dining experiences. Hosted in Mexico City, the event celebrates fine dining, design, hospitality, and culture through a series of exclusive chef collaborations.
As the official sponsor of La Copa en Casa, Banorte plays a central role in shaping the experience.
The event extends beyond the dining table through the Lincoln Legacy Gallery, an installation where automotive design, craftsmanship, and contemporary mixology intersect. Inspired by Lincoln’s design language, signature cocktails crafted with Reserva de la Familia®, Maestro Dobel® 50 Cristalino, and Zacapa XO® invite guests to experience each space through a carefully curated sensory journey.
The experience is further enriched through collaborations with The Macallan, Tequila 1800, Wagner Family Wines, Monte Xanic, and Roche Bobois, bringing together gastronomy, design, and hospitality in a celebration of contemporary luxury and refined craftsmanship.
