The 10-seat counter Itamae AO has been elevating the local Nikkei cuisine scene—a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian foods—ever since it first opened last year. Their efforts have been officially rewarded: the restaurant just earned its first-ever Michelin star, joining a roster of 15 other standout local eateries that have retained their one star status.
In total, 31 new selections across the state were announced during yesterday's Michelin Guide Florida event.
Sorekara in Orlando was awarded two Michelin stars, for example, while MAASS in Fort Lauderdale, Konro in West Palm Beach and Ômo by Jônt in Orlando were granted one star each. Green Stars were awarded to EntreNos and Stubborn Seed in Miami, which honors sustainable restaurants. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon also maintained its two Michelin stars.
This year, Florida has become the state with the most newly awarded accolades, setting the standard for culinary excellence.
Back to Itamae AO: chef Nando Chang moved to Miami from Peru when he was only 12 years old, making this much-deserved recognition that much more special. At the restaurant, he serves lobster bisque, fried apple banana, Jimmy Nardello leche de tigre with Japanese sea bass sourced directly from Japan and other standout dishes as part of a rotating, seasonal tasting menu that costs $165 per person.
Turns out that culinary excellence is a family trait: patrons can reach Itamae AO through the bar door at Maty's, which is run by Chang's sister, Valerie Chang, who won a James Beard Award for Best Chef in the South last year. The duo has become a Miami staple.