Motek Mediterranean restaurant is poised to open its newest location in the vibrant Midtown Miami neighborhood, taking over the former space of the critically acclaimed Maty’s Peruvian restaurant. This significant transition highlights the ever-evolving and dynamic nature of Miami’s bustling restaurant scene, marking a notable shift as a highly recognized establishment makes way for a rapidly expanding culinary brand.
The Legacy of Maty’s and Itamae Ao
Maty’s, which opened its doors in March 2023, quickly garnered national attention for its modern Peruvian cuisine, a heartfelt tribute to chef Valerie Chang’s grandmother and heritage. The restaurant was celebrated by major publications, including Bon Appétit, which named it one of the best new restaurants of the year. Its culinary excellence was further underscored when Valerie Chang herself was awarded the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: South in 2024, breaking a 14-year streak for Miami chefs. This recognition cemented Maty’s as a jewel in Miami’s fine dining crown.
Adding to the family’s accolades, Maty’s also housed Itamae Ao, a 10-seat omakase counter helmed by Valerie’s brother, Nando Chang. Itamae Ao specialized in inventive Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors, and also achieved significant critical success. In April 2025, Itamae Ao was awarded its first Michelin star, a remarkable achievement that placed it among Miami’s elite culinary destinations. Nando Chang had also been recognized by Food & Wine as one of the Best New Chefs in 2023.
However, the dual success stories of Maty’s and Itamae Ao reached an unexpected turning point. The closure of Maty’s, following Valerie Chang’s departure from the restaurant in July 2025, directly impacted Itamae Ao. As Itamae Ao was physically accessed through Maty’s, its operational viability became impossible, leading to its closure shortly after. This succession of events underscores the delicate ecosystem of the restaurant industry, where even the most celebrated establishments can face unforeseen challenges.
Motek’s Rapid Ascent and Expansion
In contrast to the closures, Motek, a Mediterranean restaurant concept, is experiencing a period of significant growth. Founded by Charlie Levy in downtown Miami during the challenging start of the pandemic in 2020, Motek has rapidly built a devoted following. The restaurant is celebrated for its vibrant falafel, chargrilled kebabs, shakshuka, diverse mezzes, and authentic Israeli and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. What began as a modest café has evolved into a culinary powerhouse with multiple successful locations across South Florida, including Aventura, Boca Raton, Brickell, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and South Beach.
Motek’s strategic expansion is not confined to Florida. The brand has boldly ventured into the New York City market, with plans to open five locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn, including a flagship in the Flatiron District. This ambitious growth trajectory, coupled with the development of a kosher street food offshoot, Yalla Motek, highlights Motek’s robust business model and its ability to adapt and scale.
Midtown Miami: A Shifting Culinary Canvas
The arrival of Motek in the former Maty’s space in Midtown Miami signifies more than just a change of hands; it reflects broader trends within the city’s restaurant industry. Midtown itself is recognized as a pedestrian-friendly and growing culinary destination, attracting a diverse range of dining experiences. The constant flux of restaurants, with acclaimed spots making way for expanding brands, is characteristic of a competitive and trending market.
This transition illustrates the dual forces at play in contemporary dining: the pursuit of critical acclaim and culinary innovation versus the drive for widespread appeal, operational efficiency, and scalable growth. While Maty’s and Itamae Ao represented the pinnacle of critical recognition and chef-driven artistry, Motek embodies successful brand building and strategic market penetration. The demand for global flavors, particularly Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, continues to surge in Miami, a trend that Motek is well-positioned to capitalize on. Industry shifts also include navigating increased operational costs and leveraging technology for efficiency, factors that successful multi-location brands like Motek tend to master.
A New Chapter for Midtown
Motek’s upcoming opening in Midtown Miami is set to bring its popular Mediterranean fare to a new audience within the city, promising the same beloved dishes that have fueled its expansion. This news is a testament to the resilience and perpetual motion of the restaurant industry, particularly in a vibrant culinary hub like Miami. As the city continues to welcome an influx of both local and international talent, such transitions offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving tastes and successful strategies shaping the future of dining. The story of Maty’s and Itamae Ao will be remembered for their significant contributions and accolades, while Motek’s new venture in Midtown marks the beginning of its next chapter in a competitive and trending Miami restaurant landscape.
