Miami’s newest culinary stars aren’t just cooking great food—they’re shaping the future of the city’s dining scene. Twenty-four of the most exciting chefs, pastry chefs, bakers, bartenders, sommeliers and restaurateurs have just been named the 2025 StarChefs Miami Rising Stars, earning national recognition for their creativity, leadership and deep ties to the community.
Estefania Andrade of Trippy Kitchen is turning heads with her stacked churrasco steak sandwich, while Tam Pham of Tâm Tâm is serving an unforgettable massaman goat curry. Meanwhile, Maria Teresa Gallina and Nicolas Martinez of Recoveco are drawing crowds with their spiced golden chicken, and Juan Manuel Umbert is putting a luxe spin on handmade pasta at PASTA. And that’s just the beginning.
Each Rising Star was handpicked after in-person tastings and interviews with over 100 Miami hospitality pros, evaluated on national standards for innovation, presentation, ambition and, of course, incredible food and drink creations.
As StarChefs managing partner Will Blunt put it: “Hospitality professionals in Miami are successfully representing the city’s dynamic cultures and communities with respect and intention. As the focus shifts west—beyond the beach—a new generation of chefs, bartenders, sommeliers and restaurateurs are thinking locally by emphasizing South Florida produce, catering to year-round residents, and embracing Miami’s global influences while paying homage to the industry leaders who have come before them.”
Want a taste? You’re in luck: from May 7–21, StarChefs will host Miami Rising Stars Restaurant Week, spotlighting the winners with special dishes at their restaurants, and donating $3 from every featured item sold to Rethink Food.
Miami's dining scene suddenly feels ever fresher than usual.