Norman Van Aken

Norman Van Aken, hailed as the Walt Whitman of American Cuisine, is a legendary and visionary culinary figure known as the founding father of New World Cuisine, blending Latin, Caribbean, Asian, African, and American flavors.

Internationally acclaimed for introducing the concept of Fusion to the culinary world, Norman Van Aken is an award-winning author with his latest memoir, 'No Experience Necessary... The Culinary Odyssey of Chef Norman Van Aken,' receiving high praise from industry giants like Thomas Keller, Mario Batali, and more.

As the only Floridian inducted into the prestiged James Beard 'Who's Who in American Food and Beverage,' Norman's restaurant 'NORMAN'S' was a James Beard Foundation Best Restaurant in America finalist, with Norman himself recognized as a Best Chef in America semi-finalist.

A luminary in the culinary scene, Norman Van Aken was honored as one of the 'Founders of the New American Cuisine' alongside industry icons such as Alice Waters and Paul Prudhomme.

With an extensive publication history, Norman Van Aken has authored six cookbooks, conducted cooking workshops, hosted a radio show on NPR, and made numerous television appearances from CNN to Anthony Bourdain's shows.

Norman Van Aken is the Chef-Founder of 'NORMAN'S Orlando' and offers virtual cooking classes from home, showcasing his expertise in restaurants, cookbooks, memoirs, and magazine articles.