Dee Lincoln Concepts (which includes Dee Lincoln Prime, Dee’s Table Burgers & More, Havana Dee’s Lounge, and Dee Lincoln’s Bubble Bar) is excited to announce the appointment of acclaimed chef and restaurateur Julian Rodarte as the new Culinary Director.
At 32 years old, Rodarte brings a fresh and innovative approach to the role, combining his culinary expertise with a passion for restaurant creativity. A Dallas native with deep ties to the food industry, Rodarte was inspired by his father, a fellow chef, and has had the privilege of learning from some of the biggest names in the culinary world, including Phil Romano and Norman Brinker.
Rodarte’s career in the Dallas food scene has been nothing short of remarkable. After graduating with honors from the Culinary Institute of America, he trained under renowned chef Dean Fearing at Fearing’s in the Ritz-Carlton Dallas in 2014. In 2016, he co-founded the popular Beto & Son at Trinity Groves with his father, Beto Rodarte.
At just 23, Rodarte earned a spot on Zagat’s 2017 “30 Under 30 Most Innovative Chefs in the U.S.” He’s also appeared as a guest judge on the Food Network, consulted for brands like 7-UP and On The Border, and competed on “Beat Bobby Flay.” In 2017, he represented the U.S. at the World Tapas Competition in Spain and starred in 30 cooking episodes for Tastemade.
Most recently, Rodarte served as Executive Chef at the newly opened COSM at Grandscape and was CEO of Trinity Groves Restaurant Group from December 2021 to early 2024. There, he launched three standout restaurants in under two years—Lexy’s, Nitro Burger, and Temakeria. He was also named one of D CEO’s 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in North Texas in 2024.
Now, Rodarte begins an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Dee Lincoln, known as the “Queen of Steaks.” “This is a full-circle moment for me,” Rodarte says. “I’ve always been inspired by incredible mentors, and now I get to work for Dee, who has built a loyal community in the industry. I’m eager to learn from her, grow, and help create something special together.”
Rodarte’s culinary philosophy is focused on quality, community, and innovation. He plans to uphold the high standards of the current menus at Dee Lincoln Concepts while introducing new culinary experiences. “Dee has an amazing following,” he shares. “It’s important to preserve what people love while adding new, exciting ideas.”
Looking forward, Rodarte plans to introduce unique experiences at Dee Lincoln Prime, such as curated chef’s selections of seafood and premium cuts, an exclusive omakase experience led by Dee Lincoln’s sushi chef, and a private chef’s table that seats just six guests each night, offering a seasonal tasting menu on Versace tableware. His passion for culinary excellence will continue to guide his work.
Dee Lincoln adds, “I searched for a chef who could bring fresh energy, innovative ideas, and a strong understanding of both the business and hospitality sides of the industry. Julian does just that—he leads with both authority and heart. At Dee Lincoln Prime, where we emphasize high-quality fundamentals, Chef Julian shares my passion for food and my journey as an independent owner. It will be an exciting experience to watch us grow and elevate our offerings together.”
About Dee Lincoln Concepts
Dee Lincoln Concepts, led by hospitality icon Dee Lincoln “The Queen of Steaks,” offers high-end, experience-driven dining across its growing portfolio of DFW-area restaurants. Known for using premium ingredients, providing exceptional service, and upholding an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dee Lincoln Concepts includes Dee Lincoln Prime, Dee’s Table Burgers & More, Havana Dee’s Lounge, and Dee Lincoln’s Bubble Bar at AT&T Stadium. With a dedicated team and a loyal following, the company continues to set new standards in modern dining—one remarkable dish at a time.
