Celebrity Chef Norman Van Aken is proud to announce the opening of his new restaurant Norman’s 180 on Tuesday, June 29. Marking Chef Van Aken’s much anticipated return to Miami, the restaurant is located in the heart of Downtown Coral Gables at the Westin Colonnade, 180 Aragon Avenue.
Chef Norman Van Aken is known internationally as “the founding father of New World Cuisine,” a fusion of Latin, Caribbean, Asian, African and American flavors that continues to be the most emulated style of cooking in the region. Building on the successes of the original Norman’s in Coral Gables and Norman’s Orlando at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes, Norman’s 180 is an extension of the classic Van Aken brand. Accessible yet sophisticated, the dining experience at Norman’s 180 will showcase Chef Van Aken’s unparalleled abilities to please the palate and inspire the senses with a signature style and energy.
According to Chef Van Aken, the Norman’s 180 menu will be more broadly American than his previous restaurants and will feature deeply flavored items that are truly a reflection of his life’s culinary journey. Expanding on New World Cuisine, the menu also draws inspiration from Chef Van Aken’s Midwestern roots and his time spent in the American South. The menu is comprised of small plates, sharing platters, soups, salads, pizzas, sandwiches, entrees, sides, and desserts, as well as an impressive menu of cheese and charcuterie. Joining Chef Van Aken in the kitchen will be his son Justin Van Aken, who has grown up in the restaurant business and finds his most ardent inspirations in the “farm to table” ethics, which he has made a long-term goal across the board for the company going forward. He will serve as Co-Chef alongside Phillip Bryant who has worked with Chef Van Aken since 2005, after serving as Sous Chef at other restaurants directed by Chef Van Aken.
Taking see-and-be-seen dining to a new level, Norman’s 180 features an open “Theater Kitchen” giving diners the opportunity to watch the chefs at work. A stylish lounge area flanks the kitchen on two sides, along with a lively wrap-around bar with literary quotes laser-etched in metal dressing the center column. Additionally, the restaurant will feature floor-to-ceiling wine vaults capable of holding over 700 bottles and will accommodate outdoor seating along Ponce de Leon Boulevard will be available year-round. An integral part of the concept at Norman’s 180 is its “Kitchen Table” that, by reservation only, seats up to 12 guests and serves a set price menu written daily. The restaurant was designed by Malcolm Berg, AIA, principal of Edge of Architecture, and evokes a vibrant, comfortable setting.
180 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables; 305.529.5180; www.normans180.com
