Victoria & Albert’s is the first restaurant owned and operated by a U.S. theme park to be awarded the prestigious award.
Matthew Sowers, Chef de Cuisine, shared that the star is “a dream come true and a culmination of what we’ve been building toward since Chef Scott Hunnel took the helm at Victoria & Albert’s over 25 years ago.”
Hunnel still provides mentorship across the Disney Resort Hotels at Walt Disney World Resort, but it is Sowers that now leads the culinary team spending 20 years at the restaurant. Sowers shared that Disney is instrumental and breaking down barriers about the worlds perception of fine cuisine only belonging in cities.
“Our intention is to forge unforgettable memories for all.”
Disney History
Victoria & Albert’s opened in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in 1988 and has long been providing guests an amazing dining experience.
The stunning resort introduced one of the most elegant locations in Florida with a breathtaking lobby, Victorian-theming, shimmering chandeliers, and more.
Israel Pérez, Maître d’Hôtel, shared that “our belief is that good food and good service will always be fashionable.”
The new recognition may drive more interest in this already popular restaurant. “It has never been about how many guests we serve but about our intentional focus on each detail of the dining experience,” Pérez noted. “The goal to be creative and hospitable does not end with this prestigious recognition.