As Florida’s culinary community descended on the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort., chefs, restaurateurs, and food lovers mixed, mingled, and wondered which chefs and restaurants would receive recognition for their hard work, dedication, ambition, and commitment to culinary excellence. For the City Beautiful, 2025 Michelin Guide Florida rewarded one restaurant with a coveted two-star distinction and raised Orlando to a higher position on the culinary destination radar.
When the Michelin Guide arrived welcomed Florida to its esteemed program in 2022, the first set of restaurants balanced expected accolades from famous Miami restaurants and a few surprises from Orlando and Tampa. This year, the program expanded to include Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and St. Petersburg. In 2026, the entire state will be part of the program.
While the celebrated L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon retained its two Michelin stars for the fourth consecutive year, the iconic Miami restaurant had another restaurant join its celebrated ranks. This year, Sorekara, an Orlando restaurant, earned the two-star rating to many people’s delight.
In a statement provided to media, Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides said, “Florida has proven to be an international culinary destination, with the expansion to three new cities and five restaurants being welcomed into the Michelin Star family in this year’s Selection. Our anonymous Inspectors continued to be delighted by Florida’s culinary community, and we congratulate all of the chefs and restaurants being honored in this year’s selection.”
In total, 31 restaurants were awarded stars. From Soseki to Ômo by Jônt, Orlando was well-represented. More importantly, the breath and depth of the restaurants prove that the City Beautiful is a culinary destination. Theme parks might delight with their visually compelling and whimsical offerings, but the culinary excellence can be found close to those turnstiles.
Sorekara is a wonderful example of a restaurant team that blends impeccable hospitality with a journey through culinary storytelling. Located in Baldwin Park, Chef and owner William Shen invites guests to appreciate Japan’s 72 micro seasons. Through imaginative and flavorful storytelling, guests travel, both literally and figuratively, through the dinner. It is an experience that few will forget.
Given that Sorekara’s Austin Joseph received the Michelin Outstanding Service Award, it is clear that this culinary experience is impeccable. Attentive service is a given at a Michelin awarded restaurant, but the Sorekara team does more.
While Sorekara has limited seatings, it is worth booking that reservation. People who travel for a culinary experience will appreciate this concept.
The numerous recognitions for Orlando’s vibrant dining scene proves that the city’s culinary community is striving for excellence. Given that both locals and tourists crave both high and approachable food choices, it is vital to showcase these chefs and their concepts. No one is saying that the Mickey pretzel should be forgotten or the Crooked Can beer needs to be put back in the refrigerator.
The best culinary destinations offer something for everyone. The 2025 Michelin Guide recognitions prove that fine dining has a place in Orlando.