The lavish dining room. Photo: Walt Disney World
The dining room’s decor embraces timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from the Victorian era. The walls, adorned with soft hues of gray and gold, provide a serene backdrop for the meticulously curated artwork, each piece chosen to complement the overall ambiance of refined luxury. Overhead, a grand rotunda dome bathes the space in a warm glow.
Victoria and Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Photo: Walt Disney World
Chef de cuisine Matthew Sowers has curated a multi-course tasting menu that celebrates contemporary American cuisine with a global influence. Each dish is a symphony of seasonal ingredients, prepared with meticulous technique and presented with artistry. Sowers has spent nearly 20 years working at the restaurant.
Head sommelier Israel Perez has also dedicated over two decades to the establishment. His wine list, with a collection of over 500 wines from 35 regions, offers a sommelier-guided journey through diverse varietals and vintages that perfectly complement the tasting menus.
“Just like a dance, there are many tiny steps that come naturally after years of dedication. Everything is done with purpose, and it is beautiful when the tempo is perfect,” says Perez at the awards ceremony.
Drawing on influences from Asia to the Nordics, there are two tasting menus to choose from, a seven-course and a nine-course, from $295. Wine pairings start at $115. Each menu showcases Sowers’ masterful creativity. The second adds two main courses, offering an even more comprehensive exploration of Sowers’ culinary repertoire. This menu pushes the boundaries of flavor and technique, showcasing the chef’s ability to blend global influences with American ingenuity. It is a true chef’s table experience.
John Berko, director of food and beverage for Walt Disney World Resorts, Executive Chef Kevin Chong, Chef de Cuisine Matthew Sowers, Culinary Director Scott Hunnel and Sommelier Israel Perez, maître d’hotel at Michelin star ceremony, Tampa. Photo: Walt Disney World
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by Michelin for the innovative dining experience our team brings to life here at Victoria & Albert’s,” says Sowers. Sowers praised everyone working at the establishment, recognizing that the star is very much a team effort.
Victoria & Albert’s has a strict dress code. Guests are expected to dine in semi-formal to formal attire, and children under the age of 10 are not permitted in the dining room. Many Disney resorts offer babysitting services which can be booked in advance. 