Global Gastronomy
One of the most celebrated figures in South Florida’s dining scene and a recognized leader of Latin American cuisine in the U.S., Chef Diego Oka has parlayed exceptional culinary skills and an innate eye for creativity into a successful career spanning more than 20 years. Since 2014, he’s served as Executive Chef at La Mar by Gastón Acurio in the Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key. The restaurant will move to a new nearby spot in Brickell while the hotel is redeveloped. Born and raised in Lima, Peru, he incorporates a myriad of influences into his deliciously inventive signature international cuisine, taking diners on a culinary adventure with every bite; LaMarMiami.com.
Inspired Menu
Michelin-starred “Gypsy Chef” David Myers is a luminary culinarian helming Adrift Mare, a globally renowned experiential culinary concept that melds the gourmand’s love for travel and taste with captivating bayside views from the 25th Floor of Hotel AKA Brickell. Boarding a new flight every few days and touching down on a new continent every few weeks is all part of a nomadic lifestyle that yields an elevated Mediterranean menu bringing together the elegance of the French Riviera, the laid-back vibe of the Balearic Islands, the vibrancy of fresh Italian produce, warm Levant hospitality and the gentle rhythm of the Greek Isles; AdriftMare.com.
Elevated Palate
After over a decade of working with Chef Massimo Bottura at restaurants including 3 Michelin-starred Osteria Franescana, twice ranked atop The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, and successfully guiding Torno Subito Dubai to its inaugural Michelin star, Chef Bernardo Paladini was handpicked to lead the charge as Head Chef of Torno Subito Miami. Nestled in Downtown Miami on the rooftop of Julia & Henry’s, the restaurant showcases recipes Paladini thoughtfully curated for Miami while incorporating Bottura’s signature flair. With experience across global culinary hubs from Florence and Rome to Dubai, at Torno Subito Miami, Italian authenticity blends deliciously with international expertise; TornoSubitoMia.com.
Couture Cuisine
At the helm of Kiki On The River since its opening, Chef Steve Rhee has a passion for seafood in fresh and authentic presentations at the famed riverfront restaurant, complete with dock-up space at the site of one of Miami’s original fish markets. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, his award-winning Greek cuisine has been heralded in multiple best-of lists and publications in the U.S. and abroad. With an esteemed pedigree that includes stints in Las Vegas and California’s top kitchens, he is an industry leader in sustainable seafood sourcing, green initiatives, and a “guest first” philosophy; KikiOnTheRiver.com.
Taste Maker
Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, Chef Stephen Parker is inspired by both his stepmother, Nancie Simonet, and his mentor, Michael Fiore. His first taste of professional cooking came while working in various restaurants while attending college, and then as a manager for casual dining restaurants while continuing his education in Hospitality Management. In 2009, he began working under Fiore in NYC, spending time at his restaurants in New Jersey, as well as Brooklyn’s Tempo. Today, Parker is Corporate Executive Chef at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, overseeing menu concepts and development at 18 locations across the globe, including Brickell City Centre. Their artisanal, award-winning burgers, array of craft beers, and whimsical milkshakes has earned them a slew of “People’s Choice” and “Judge’s Choice” Awards; BlackTap.com.
