He wasn't born here, but Miami is Chef Nando Chang's city. The chef/owner of Itamae Ao, a newly awarded One MICHELIN Star restaurant, spent his youngest years in Peru alongside sister Valerie, chef/owner of Maty's (named for the paternal grandmother who raised them).
They came to Miami in the 90s to live with their father, and while their life was far from easy, it was focused on family. One glance at the wall inside Maty's is proof, as vintage family photos are proudly displayed. Their father, who worked in sushi bars, imparted his knowledge and respect for fish and fishermen to the two, and they often spent his one day off preparing food together.
Nando perfected his English while listening to rap, later recording several albums of his own before shifting careers. The three finally worked together to launch Itamae, a food stall in the Design District. They later closed it, Valerie opened Maty's, and then one day she convinced Nando to transform a side room off the main dining room. Nando agreed, opening Itamae Ao in May 2024. Eleven months later, the 10-seat, seafood-focused counter with a Peruvian Japanese bent won a MICHELIN Star.
The talented chef's passion is palpable, and his love for his hometown runs deep. In a recent interview, Nando shared how proud he is of Miami's growing food scene and its power players. "I grew up here. I've watched them become the best," he sais.
Now he's the one to beat. That's why we asked him where he goes on his days off, where he'd take a group of friends, and where to find that only-in-Miami experience.
Where are your favorite bakeries, food trucks, and lunch spots?
The Wolf of Tacos, Taste Right Jamaican Bakery, True Loaf, Bettant, or Chèvre, which has probably one of the best tuna melts I have ever had.
Where do you recommend for a special night out?
Definitely The Surf Club.
What is something that is iconically Miami?
The Cuban sandwich at Sanguich, definitely.
Where would you take an out-of-towner for a classic Miami dining experience?
Flanigan’s. I need a firecracker shrimp, some rib rolls, and some chicken wings
Address Book
Bettant Bakery & Cafe
1043 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Chèvre Miami
1295 Coral Wy Suite 1, Miami, FL 33145
Flanigan's
2721 Bird Ave. Miami, FL 33133
Taste Rite Jamaican Bakery
18400 NW 2nd Ave. Miami, FL 33169
True Loaf Bakery
1894 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
The Wolf of Tacos
353 NE 61st St, Miami, FL 33127
Hero image: Itamae Ao / Nando Chang
