Executive Chef Diego Oka – La Mar by Gastón Acurio Miami at Mandarin Oriental, Miami
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 a creative eye into a successful career spanning over two decades. Since 2014, Oka has served as Executive Chef at La Mar by Gastón Acurio in Miami, an award-winning restaurant recognized by Florida’s MICHELIN Guide and the esteemed 50 Best Discovery search engine.
Born and raised in Lima, Peru, one of the world’s most diverse and eclectic culinary destinations, Oka incorporates a myriad of influences in his inventive internationally inspired cuisine. These include his Peruvian and Japanese heritage, formative years cooking alongside his grandmother, and extensive global travels.
A pillar of Miami’s culinary community, Chef Oka is committed to amplifying Latin American talent, often inviting fellow chefs to collaborate at La Mar and share their culture with U.S. diners. When he is not leading and mentoring his team at La Mar, he spends time at home with his wife Nicole raising their two young children, Malki and Nova.
Oka has made it his mission to bring the cuisine of his native country and the traditions of excellence from the flagship La Mar location to the world. Oka has proudly represented Miami in prestigious international culinary events like Madrid Fusion and San Sebastian Gastronimika in Spain; NYC City Harvest; Mesa Redonda in Puerto Rico; Los Danzantes in Oaxaca, Mexico; Miro Kaimuki in Hawaii; and Lengua Talks in Miami. These experiences allow Oka to share the vibrant spirit of Miami and his culinary philosophy with global audiences.
His longstanding collaboration with Gastón Acurio and Acurio Restaurantes began in 2001 when the young and promising talent accepted an internship at the celebrity chef’s Astrid & Gaston restaurant, a world-class establishment located in Lima that still maintains a high ranking on “Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants” list. By 2005, Oka’s impressive abilities and fearless attitude led to a significant tenure as executive chef at the original La Mar location in Lima, followed by stints in Bogota, Colombia; San Francisco, CA; and Mexico City among other notable global hubs for the fine dining establishment before settling in Miami.
Under his leadership, La Mar’s Brickell Key location became a must-visit destination during its 11-year run (closing in May 2025 due to building redevelopment). Beloved by locals and visitors alike, La Mar developed a prominent following and drew praise for standout dishes like Tiradito Lujoso, La Flor de Papa, Conchitas OKA and La Fiesta Del Puerco. Recently, Chef Oka introduced “AMANO by Oka,” an eight-course tasting menu served on handmade pottery he crafts himself, an artistic passion he began five years ago through self-taught ceramic work. For Oka, shaping clay offers a meditative escape that fuels balance and creativity.
In recognition of his leadership and culinary excellence, StarChefs named Oka a South Florida Rising Stars Award Winner in 2016. Nearly a decade later, in 2025, he was honored again by the organization with the Miami Rising Stars Mentor Award, highlighting his continued commitment to nurturing the next generation of chefs.
Construction is now underway at the new La Mar located at 1451 South Miami Avenue, marking a fresh chapter for Chef Oka, as he continues highlighting the exciting flavors of Peru’s iconic dishes and biodiverse ingredients in a modern setting.
To follow along on Oka’s culinary adventures, please follow @diegooka and @lamarmiami.
