News Summary
Orlando has been recognized in the culinary world with the 2025 Michelin Guide Florida ceremony, celebrating its first two-star restaurant, Sorekara. With nine Michelin-starred restaurants now, including Ômo by Jônt, the city’s food scene is gaining international acclaim. The event reflects a remarkable transformation in Orlando’s dining landscape, highlighting the creativity and dedication of local chefs and restaurants. As a foodie destination, Orlando continues to attract attention while showcasing a unique array of culinary experiences.
Orlando’s Culinary Scene Shines Bright with Michelin Stars
Orlando has officially stepped into the spotlight of the culinary world! The 2025 Michelin Guide Florida ceremony took place at none other than the stunning Four Seasons Resort located right in the magical Walt Disney World. This event was a grand celebration that not only recognized excellence in dining but also kicked off a new chapter for Orlando’s bustling restaurant scene.
A Historic Triumph for Sorekara
In an exciting twist, Orlando celebrated its very first two-star Michelin restaurant, Sorekara, nestled in the charming Baldwin Park area. This isn’t just any old achievement; it makes Sorekara only the second restaurant across all of Florida to earn this remarkable distinction. The very first to accomplish this feat was L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon in Miami. Michelin inspectors were absolutely charmed by Sorekara, hailing its offering of “a surprising and delightful culinary journey that revels in turning expectations on their head.” This glowing praise truly showcases the dedication and creativity put forth by the talented culinary team.
At the helm of Sorekara is the visionary Chef William Shen, who crafted an innovative, Japanese-inspired tasting menu that has left diners more than satisfied. Adding to the restaurant’s accolades, General Manager Austin Joseph also received the prestigious 2025 MICHELIN Guide Florida Service Award, highlighting the exceptional service provided by the staff. This honor reflects the collective effort and passion that defines Sorekara’s operations.
Ômo by Jônt Joins the Ranks
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Winter Park is now home to Ômo by Jônt, an offshoot of Chef Ryan Ratino’s acclaimed D.C. restaurant, which was awarded one Michelin star. The MICHELIN Guide praised this delightful establishment for its brilliant fusion of classic French techniques with pristine Japanese ingredients, creating a unique dining experience that is hard to match.
Orlando’s Expanding Michelin Family
As of April 2025, Orlando proudly boasts a total of nine Michelin-starred restaurants! This year, the 2025 Michelin Guide recognized an impressive 59 dining spots throughout the city. Among these, nine have earned star ratings, while 15 have received the coveted Bib Gourmand title, highlighting their affordability without skimping on quality. A noteworthy addition to the Bib Gourmand list features gems like Smokemade Meats + Eats, Bánh Mì Boy, Coro, and UniGirl.
In addition to the Bib Gourmands, newly recommended restaurants such as Nami, Bar Kada, Gyukatsu Rose, Kai Kai, and Walala Hand-Pulled Noodle House further solidify Orlando’s position as a rising culinary destination.
Recognition and Growth
The significant recognition from the MICHELIN Guide highlights how Orlando’s culinary scene is not only enhancing its local charm but also gaining international attention. The city is becoming a formidable competitor in the dining space, often compared to the likes of Miami. This transformation is something that Visit Orlando’s President and CEO celebrated, emphasizing the role of culinary arts within the community.
As the buzz around the restaurants continues to grow, many owners have shared their gratitude for the recognition and stressed the importance of their contributions to Orlando’s diverse dining landscape. It’s clear that hard work, creativity, and the spirit of collaboration have paved the way for impressive growth and remarkable eating experiences in the city.
With such a vibrant array of talented chefs and thrilling culinary adventures, Orlando is not just a city—it’s a food lover’s paradise!
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Additional Resources
- Visit Orlando: Orlando’s Michelin Restaurants
- Orlando Weekly: Michelin Approved Restaurants of 2025
- WFTV: Michelin Guide Expands Orlando’s Culinary Acclaim
- Orlando Sentinel: Three Michelin Stars Awarded to Orlando 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michelin Guide
