"Eater LA broke the news that Somni had been awarded three stars, the highest designation, and the first time a restaurant in the city had received it. Reflecting on the moment, Aitor Zabala said: "It’s nice to be back after five years. It’s nice to see people that we know and see people get recognition in the industry. I know how privileged I am to be here, I know I’m an immigrant with privilege, and was able to come in a different way. I want to make a voice not only for me tonight but also for people that weren’t in my position. They have the same talent as me but they will never be here, so I want to make it for them, too. These people are also working hard, they have dreams, and they still keep the faith to move on. So I want to make it for that." - Matthew Kang