Chef Norman Van Aken is known for his ability to blend an array of flavors in just the right way, highlighting cultural influences in his food, such as those derived from Caribbean, Asian and African spices. It is no wonder then, that Van Aken has concentrated his culinary efforts in Miami, where residents crave exactly that: rich flavor with roots. Norman Van Aken is a born and bred Floridian himself, which gives his “new world” approach to food an added element of authenticity.

Tuyo, located above the Miami Culinary Institute, is Van Aken’s newest addition to his list of restaurants that is forecasted to be yet another successful venture for the chef turned restaurateur. The ingredients used at Tuyo are sourced from its very own organic garden, adding environmentally sound practices to the restaurant’s standard of excellence. Some of the choices on the dinner menu include Brazilian dishes such as the cracked conch chowder, as well as Cuban dishes such as the pork “Havana.”

Like Haute Living Miami? Join our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter @HauteLivingFL. Want Haute Living Miami delivered to your inbox once a week? Sign up for our newsletter.