Chef
Michael Vakneen
- Discipline
- Chef
- Based in
- Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
i. Biography
Michael Vakneen, chef of DØUBLE ZERØ PIE & PUB in Las Vegas, works pizza as a practical language: dough, fire, service, and timing held to the same standard. That discipline runs through his role as pizzaiolo partner at Truly Pizza in Dana Point, California, where the same craft is carried across a different room and coastline.
The Climb
At W Hotels in New York and New Orleans, the work moved between chef, operations, and food and beverage roles, which meant precision had to sit alongside pace. Michael Vakneen used those years to build a base in kitchen discipline and the mechanics of service, before moving into the role of chef and partner at Pop Up Pizza. Today, he is pizzaiolo partner of Truly Pizza, bringing that same working knowledge into another exacting setting.
Today
At DØUBLE ZERØ PIE & PUB in Las Vegas, the kitchen leads with the same attention that the oven demands. Service opens with the øø Spritz, a complimentary welcome cocktail made with pressed watermelon, jalapeño simple syrup, Aperol, lime and prosecco. It is a small but direct piece of hospitality: cold, bright, and set up to meet the first slice. The pizza menu shows where the line work lives. The Salami Rossa is built with garlic confit, white sauce, preserved lemons, yellow dorati tomatoes, stracciatella, crushed pistachios, red pesto, lemon and chili oil, moving between richness, acidity, cream, and heat. The Vegeterania stays on a greener track with charred green onion, garlic confit, marinated zucchini, squash and fresh herbs. Across both pies, Michael Vakneen keeps the balance tight: layered, but not crowded; expressive, but still controlled. He also serves as pizzaiolo partner at Truly Pizza in Dana Point, California, where the same eye applies to dough, topping, and finish.
Signature
Michael's signature dishes include Umami Mushroom Pizza, øø Spritz, Salami Rossa pizza, Vegeterania pizza, and Mike’s Hot Pepperoni.
Recognition
Michael Vakneen has received James Beard Foundation Award, Best Chef: Southwest semifinalist (2025). Michael's honors include World Pizza Champion.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Michael
Where did Michael Vakneen work before?
Michael Vakneen's earlier career included W Hotels and Pop Up Pizza.
What recognition has Michael Vakneen received?
World Pizza Champion.
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