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 an innate eye for creativity into a successful trajectory spanning over two decades. Since 2014, Oka has held the prestigious role of Executive Chef at La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s award-winning restaurant which was recognized by the inaugural Florida Michelin Guide as a recommended restaurant and recently received a coveted inclusion in the reputable 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 into his deliciously inventive signature international cuisine including his Peruvian and Japanese descent; his early years spent in his grandmother’s kitchen where he first discovered the art of cooking; as well as his extensive travels.
Chef Oka is an integral fixture of the Miami culinary community and is paving the way for other Latin American chefs to introduce their work to U.S. diners, often inviting them to collaborate at La Mar to showcase their cuisine. 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. Chef Oka has recently represented Miami in important national and international 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; Lengua Talks in Miami and several cooking collaborations, sharing and exposing the Miami culture and his culinary passion to other cities in the world.
Oka’s noteworthy longtime 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 about combining flavors 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.
Chef Oka has made it his mission to bring the inimitable cuisine of his native country and the traditions of excellence from the flagship La Mar location to the world. His unparalleled leadership has made La Mar’s Brickell Key location a must-visit destination for the past ten years. A must-stop for genuine foodies that live in or visit Miami, La Mar has developed a prominent following of loyal diners who laud the flavors, energy and creativity showcased in Oka’s colorful menu of classic Peruvian cuisine that is elevated with delightfully unexpected twists. Highlights from the menu include the Tiradito Lujoso, La Flor de Papa, Conchitas OKA and La Fiesta Del Puerco. Under Oka’s leadership, the prestigious eatery has become a fixture in top fine dining print and digital publications and regularly collaborates with local and national non-profit organizations to help raise necessary funds for causes close to the celebrated chef’s heart.
This fall, Oka will introduce a unique seven-course tasting menu entitled “AMANO by Oka,” highlighting his dual artistic talents through a meticulous curation of dishes served on bespoke ceramic tableware handmade by the chef himself. Oka’s journey in pottery began approximately five years ago when he purchased a pottery wheel and taught himself the craft through online videos. Beyond his passion for cooking, Oka discovered that working with ceramics and clay became a sanctuary for his busy mind to help find peace and clarity. It is in those moments of shaping clay that he can silence the noise, reset, and allow creativity and tranquility to flow.
To follow along on Oka’s culinary adventures, please follow @diegooka and @lamarmiami.
