Miami’s culinary scene is set to lose one of its acclaimed establishments, Itamae AO, a restaurant recently awarded a coveted Michelin star. The Peruvian Nikkei eatery, known for its distinctive Japanese influences, will serve its final dinner on August 2nd. This abrupt closure comes just weeks after chef Nando Chang’s celebrated restaurant received a significant accolade, adding to a series of recent honors for the chef and his establishment.
A Taste of Success Cut Short
Itamae AO’s journey to a Michelin star, achieved in April 2025, has been marked by critical acclaim. Chef Nando Chang was also recognized among Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs in September 2023, underscoring his innovative approach to Peruvian Nikkei cuisine. The restaurant’s specialization in this fusion, blending the vibrant flavors of Peru with the refined techniques of Japanese cooking, had garnered a dedicated following and significant critical attention.
However, the success of Itamae AO is being curtailed by unforeseen logistical hurdles. The closure is directly attributed to operational challenges stemming from its current location within a space shared with Maty’s, another restaurant operated by Chang’s sister, Valerie. The complexities of managing operations within this shared environment have ultimately led to the decision to close the Midtown Miami location.
Future Plans and Interim Measures
Despite the closure of the Midtown outpost, Chef Nando Chang remains optimistic about the future of Itamae AO. He is actively engaged in the search for a new, suitable location to reopen the restaurant. Chang stated his intention to resume operations once a perfect space has been secured, emphasizing his commitment to continuing the Itamae AO dining experience for its patrons.
In the interim, Chang is not standing still. He has announced plans to host a series of pop-up events in both Milwaukee and New York City. These pop-ups will serve as a way to keep the Itamae AO brand visible and offer diners a taste of its acclaimed cuisine during the transitional period. Further details regarding these temporary engagements are expected to be released.
A Culinary Legacy in Motion
The closure of Itamae AO marks the end of an era for its Midtown Miami presence, but it is by no means a conclusion to Chef Nando Chang’s culinary endeavors. The recent recognition from the Michelin Guide and Food & Wine highlights the significant impact Chang has made on the culinary landscape. The James Beard Award win, received just weeks before the closure announcement, further solidifies his standing as a chef of considerable talent and vision.
Miami’s dining patrons will undoubtedly miss the unique offerings of Itamae AO in its current iteration. The restaurant’s ability to seamlessly blend Peruvian and Japanese culinary traditions created a distinctive gastronomic experience. The logistical challenges that precipitated the closure are a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in the restaurant industry, even for establishments achieving the highest levels of recognition.
As Chef Chang navigates the process of finding a new home for Itamae AO, the anticipation for its eventual reopening will likely build. His commitment to exploring new locations, coupled with his ongoing pop-up series, signals a resilient spirit and a dedication to his craft. The interim events in Milwaukee and New York City offer a glimpse into the chef’s adaptability and his drive to connect with diners across different cities, ensuring that the anticipation for Itamae AO’s return remains high. The culinary community will be watching closely as Itamae AO embarks on this new chapter, with hopes that its return will be as impactful as its initial celebrated run.
