Valerie and Nando Chang, along with their father Fernando, are behind this tiny, no-frills restaurant in the heart of the tony Design District. Itamae marries the precision of Japanese culinary techniques with the bold flavors of Peru, making the dishes bright, flavorful, and supremely interesting. The simple menu offers nigiri, ceviche, a local grilled catch, and tiraditos — all prepared super fresh. The care the Changs put into their 40-seat restaurant has not gone unnoticed: Itamae was a James Beard Award semifinalist and earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand rating in 2022. ($$)