Image Source : Eater Miami
In a major win for Atlanta’s dining scene, the Michelin-acclaimed Miami restaurant Itamae AO is set to open a new location in West Midtown this fall. Known for its bold Peruvian-Japanese fusion and intimate chef’s counter experience, Itamae AO has earned critical acclaim and a Michelin star in the 2025 Florida guide. The expansion marks the restaurant’s first outpost beyond Miami and signals a growing appetite for high-concept, globally inspired cuisine in the Southeast.
Led by celebrated chef Nando Chang, a finalist for the James Beard Best Chef: South award, Itamae AO has built a reputation for its daring flavor combinations, meticulous plating, and immersive tasting menus. The Atlanta location is expected to retain the brand’s signature style while adapting to the city’s vibrant culinary culture.
Key Highlights From The Expansion Announcement
- Itamae AO, a Michelin-starred restaurant from Miami, will open in West Midtown, Atlanta in fall 2025
- The restaurant is helmed by Chef Nando Chang, known for his Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine
- The Miami location earned its first Michelin star in April 2025, becoming the 15th Miami restaurant to receive the honor
- The Atlanta outpost will feature a chef’s counter format with seasonal tasting menus and curated beverage pairings
- The expansion reflects growing national interest in Latin-Asian fusion and experiential dining
What Makes Itamae AO Stand Out
At the heart of Itamae AO’s acclaim is its inventive use of Peruvian ingredients and Japanese techniques. Dishes like lobster bisque with sweet potato gnocchi and creamy rice with Hokkaido scallops and parmesan have captivated critics and diners alike. The menu frequently features leche de tigre, a citrus-based marinade central to Peruvian ceviche, reimagined in multiple textures and flavor profiles.
The Miami location operates as a 10-seat counter, offering a highly personalized experience. Guests interact directly with Chef Chang and his team, watching each dish come together in real time. This format is expected to be replicated in Atlanta, with slight modifications to accommodate local sourcing and seasonal availability.
Why Atlanta, Why Now
West Midtown has emerged as one of Atlanta’s most dynamic food districts, home to a mix of upscale restaurants, artisanal markets, and design-forward spaces. The area’s blend of industrial architecture and creative energy makes it an ideal setting for Itamae AO’s immersive culinary approach.
The decision to expand into Atlanta reflects broader trends in American dining, where cities beyond New York and Los Angeles are attracting Michelin-level talent. Atlanta’s diverse population, growing interest in global flavors, and strong hospitality infrastructure make it a natural next step for Itamae AO’s evolution.
Chef Nando Chang’s Vision
Chef Chang’s culinary philosophy is rooted in his Peruvian heritage and Japanese training. He views food as a medium for storytelling, often drawing on personal memories and cultural intersections to shape his menus. His rise in Miami’s competitive dining scene has been marked by a commitment to authenticity, innovation, and emotional resonance.
In interviews, Chang has expressed excitement about bringing his cuisine to a new audience. He plans to collaborate with local farmers and purveyors to ensure the Atlanta menu reflects regional nuances while staying true to the Itamae AO ethos.
Looking Ahead
The Atlanta location is slated to open in late October 2025, with reservations expected to launch via online platforms in early September. The space will feature minimalist design elements, open kitchen visibility, and a curated soundtrack to enhance the sensory experience.
As anticipation builds, food enthusiasts across the Southeast are preparing to welcome one of Miami’s brightest culinary stars. With its Michelin pedigree and bold flavor philosophy, Itamae AO’s arrival in West Midtown promises to elevate Atlanta’s dining landscape and offer a new benchmark for experiential cuisine.
Sources: Secret Miami, The Miami Guide.
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