MICHELIN Star for Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World
Hey Disney foodies! For anyone familiar with the world of fine dining and theme parks, an extraordinary achievement has unfolded at Walt Disney World. Victoria & Albert’s, a longstanding gem within Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, has been awarded its first-ever MICHELIN Star. This accolade not only marks a significant milestone for Victoria & Albert’s but also for Walt Disney World, as it becomes the first restaurant directly operated by the park to receive such a distinction. Let’s take a deeper look at the MICHELIN Star for Victoria & Albert’s.
The Journey to Stardom
Victoria & Albert’s is no stranger to the culinary spotlight. For over two decades, this elegant restaurant has been mesmerizing guests with its multi-course dining experience, blending extraordinary flavors and top-tier ingredients from around the globe. The dedication to quality extends beyond the food, with a world-class wine collection boasting over 500 selections and an expert team of sommeliers to guide diners through each pairing.
The culinary mastery at Victoria & Albert’s is spearheaded by Chef de Cuisine Matthew Sowers, whose nearly two decades at the helm have been marked by innovative menu creation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Pastry Chef Ally Rogers complements the savory with the sweet, leading a talented pastry team that enhances the overall dining experience.
Recognition Well-Deserved
The achievement of a MICHELIN Star for Victoria & Albert’s is seen as long overdue by many admirers and culinary critics. The restaurant’s unique distinction as the sole Florida venue and one of only 26 in the United States to concurrently hold the AAA Five Diamond (since 2000) and Forbes Travel Guide Five Star awards (since 2018) speaks volumes of its commitment to excellence. Additionally, its recognition by Wine Spectator and Florida Trend further underscores its culinary prestige.
The MICHELIN Guide itself has praised Victoria & Albert’s for its intimate setting and the “kind of magic” rarely seen in today’s dining scene. Chef Sowers’s approach to cooking is described as contemporary and globally influenced, with dishes that range from New Zealand langoustine tarts to bold venison carpaccio “sandwiches” accompanied by cherry-cola bordelaise.
A Culinary Symphony
Visiting Victoria & Albert’s is likened to attending a leisurely three-hour waltz, masterfully orchestrated by a seasoned brigade of servers. This restaurant is not just about food; it’s about an immersive experience that captures all senses. From the detailed coffee and tea service to the comprehensive water and wine lists, every element is curated to enhance the guest’s journey through flavors and aromas.
Beyond the Star
The accolades for Victoria & Albert’s don’t end with the MICHELIN Star. Maître d’Hôtel Israel Pérez was awarded the 2024 Florida Service Award, a testament to the exceptional service that complements the culinary excellence. This recognition by MICHELIN, paired with the leadership and innovation shown by the entire team, from stewards to chefs, highlights the collaborative effort that is integral to the restaurant’s success.
The Future of Fine Dining at Disney
The recognition of Victoria & Albert’s by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide sets a new standard for theme park dining worldwide. It serves as a beacon for aspiring culinary professionals and establishes Walt Disney World not just as a destination for entertainment, but also as a serious contender in the global culinary scene. With this MICHELIN Star, Victoria & Albert’s has truly put Walt Disney World on the culinary map, promising an enchanting and flavorful adventure to all who dine there.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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