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Address and Contact Information
Address: 3225 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33137
Website: http://www.itamaeao.com/
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Itamae AO (@itamaeao) • Instagram photos and videos
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Chef Nando Chang took center stage with his first solo restaurant, Itamae AO, which will serve its last dinner service on August 2. Photo by …
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Reviews
Alvaro Huaman Ruiz
Overall a great experience! The staff were super friendly and attentive, an exceptional customer service and they treated us VERY well for our anniversary.
A couple of comment worth noting, though not significant enough to give them 4 stars:
The first being the choice of music. Though I understand it’s the chefs “personal” preference, which I can respect, it was… interesting and completely different from what I was expecting. Not bad though!
Second being the spiciness of the food. Although I personally enjoy spicy food, and none of the food was overly spicy in my opinion, my wife has a “softer” palette and found one of the foods a bit too spicy. No complaints though because I got an extra dish to eat thanks to that!
Keep it up Itamae, we’ll be back!
… moreA couple of comment worth noting, though not significant enough to give them 4 stars:
The first being the choice of music. Though I understand it’s the chefs “personal” preference, which I can respect, it was… interesting and completely different from what I was expecting. Not bad though!
Second being the spiciness of the food. Although I personally enjoy spicy food, and none of the food was overly spicy in my opinion, my wife has a “softer” palette and found one of the foods a bit too spicy. No complaints though because I got an extra dish to eat thanks to that!
Keep it up Itamae, we’ll be back!
Hannah Carnevale
Truly the best dining experience. Staff was absolutely amazing!! I lost an earring back and everyone was trying to help find it!! Everyone at AO worked like a well oiled machine. My husband mentioned his military service to Kat and she was so nice to give us a discount! If you have the opportunity please go.
… moreDominique Nobre
Itamae is a cozy yet bold restaurant, with impeccable service, unique ingredients, and a strong sense of creativity.
It was a delightful birthday surprise, especially because every dish brought something new and unexpected. The experience is made even more special by the seating format — a single omakase-style counter with only ten seats — and the fact that you can watch every dish being finished right in front of you adds a unique layer of engagement.
However, some of the flavors fell short or were so overpowering that they overshadowed the main ingredients. This was noticeable in the four-dish combo featuring Hon Maguro, Kinmedai, Hotate, and Aori Ika. The seasoning was so intense that it masked the delicate taste of the fish and seafood. The same issue occurred with the Maine Lobster dish: although the sweet potato gnocchi and salmon roe played creatively and harmoniously, the creamy sauce overwhelmed all the other elements in a heavy-handed way.
On the positive side, the Kanpachi stood out — the textures and flavors were intriguing and well-balanced. The Lucuma dessert, with its perfect consistency and a mushroom-shaped garnish on top, offered a delicious sweet-and-savory twist.
Overall, I had a good experience — full of charm — and watching the dish execution was definitely my favorite part. That said, I’m unlikely to return, mainly because the heavy sauces weighed down the flavor profile of most dishes.
… moreIt was a delightful birthday surprise, especially because every dish brought something new and unexpected. The experience is made even more special by the seating format — a single omakase-style counter with only ten seats — and the fact that you can watch every dish being finished right in front of you adds a unique layer of engagement.
However, some of the flavors fell short or were so overpowering that they overshadowed the main ingredients. This was noticeable in the four-dish combo featuring Hon Maguro, Kinmedai, Hotate, and Aori Ika. The seasoning was so intense that it masked the delicate taste of the fish and seafood. The same issue occurred with the Maine Lobster dish: although the sweet potato gnocchi and salmon roe played creatively and harmoniously, the creamy sauce overwhelmed all the other elements in a heavy-handed way.
On the positive side, the Kanpachi stood out — the textures and flavors were intriguing and well-balanced. The Lucuma dessert, with its perfect consistency and a mushroom-shaped garnish on top, offered a delicious sweet-and-savory twist.
Overall, I had a good experience — full of charm — and watching the dish execution was definitely my favorite part. That said, I’m unlikely to return, mainly because the heavy sauces weighed down the flavor profile of most dishes.
Roman Beylin
My initial experience at the original Itamae in the Design District was truly eye-opening, with exceptional food, flavors, and service that left me eager to return. However, I am not convinced that this new iteration lives up to its predecessor.
While the food was satisfactory, it lacked the “wow” factor that distinguishes a memorable meal. Several dishes at the beginning were unnecessarily spicy, overshadowing their underlying flavors and detracting from the overall dining experience. Although the quality of the ingredients was high, I expected more creativity and flair at this level.
We opted for the sake pairing, which featured some intriguing selections. However, the timing of the pours was inconsistent, and the portions were too small to fully savor the experience. It would have been preferable not to have to consider asking for more.
On the positive side, the atmosphere and service were commendable. The staff was welcoming and provided clear explanations of each dish and pairing. The chefs and the sommelier were great.
The challenge for Itamae AO is the fierce competition in Miami’s dynamic dining scene, which sets a high bar. Currently, I don’t feel a compelling urge to revisit. Perhaps with some adjustments to the menu, I might be enticed to return in the future.
… moreWhile the food was satisfactory, it lacked the “wow” factor that distinguishes a memorable meal. Several dishes at the beginning were unnecessarily spicy, overshadowing their underlying flavors and detracting from the overall dining experience. Although the quality of the ingredients was high, I expected more creativity and flair at this level.
We opted for the sake pairing, which featured some intriguing selections. However, the timing of the pours was inconsistent, and the portions were too small to fully savor the experience. It would have been preferable not to have to consider asking for more.
On the positive side, the atmosphere and service were commendable. The staff was welcoming and provided clear explanations of each dish and pairing. The chefs and the sommelier were great.
The challenge for Itamae AO is the fierce competition in Miami’s dynamic dining scene, which sets a high bar. Currently, I don’t feel a compelling urge to revisit. Perhaps with some adjustments to the menu, I might be enticed to return in the future.
Jackie Shtemberg
Really good elevated Peruvian food with Japanese omakase influences. Service was impeccable. The lobster with gnocchi and shrimp broth was beyond incredible and the standout dish. Chef was very accommodating with gluten and dairy allergy which was very much appreciated. Great soundtrack playing too! Elevated cuisine yet not too pretentious.
… moreCo Flo
Dined for lunch. Great service, great food. Limited but great selections in the menu. Sushi was top notch but the cooked choices were amazing. Especially loved the black squid ink rice with middle neck clams. That is the one dish you cannot pass up. Seating is limited inside with bar counter only. Majority of seating is outside situated in the heart of the design district. Enjoyed this Peruvian Asian cuisine.
… moreAngel Espinoza
The most incredible dining experience we’ve ever had. Every detail was flawless, and every bite was unforgettable. A must-visit destination.
… moreF Villamizar
Itamae AO is an amazing culinary experience. Chef Nando has created a great Manu that surprises in a good way with out any gimmicks. I truly advice any foodies to try this great Miami Gem.
… moreEdwin Cardona
Honestly one of the best meals I’ve ever had! Everything from the service to the atmosphere and most importantly the food was amazing. It’s honestly amazing to see the evolution of what Nando, Val, and Papa have created in the past 8 years. Can’t wait to go back.
… morevivian azalia
I’m SHOCKED!! I’ve followed this chef and his family since design district and this new version of the restaurant is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s nestled in midtown (Entrance through sister restaurant Maty’s) and you immediately walk in to an intimate experience with front row counter seating to the chef and his team preparing the food. It’s an 8 course meal with 17 small plates from the cleanser, variation of ceviche tastings, tea intermission and multiple desserts you leave feeling beyond satisfied. The meal was a story by the end we had eaten eel from Maine, the chef’s dad favorite mushrooms, and 42 day aged tuna. The team served in such a welcoming manner you felt like you were eating with friends, plus the touches of hip hop music and modern design made the space feel so relaxed and enjoyable. Definitely coming back!
… more