The close of the culinary leader’s nearly three-decade career with Disney marks the end of an era for fine dining across Walt Disney World Resort.

Resort Culinary Leader Retires, No Replacement Announced

Scott Hunnel is retiring from his position as Walt Disney World’s culinary director, bringing to a close a long career that left a major mark on Disney dining.

Best known for his decades leading the upscale Victoria & Albert’s restaurant at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Hunnel helped guide the luxury venue into national prominence, with recognition that elevated its status far beyond its theme park dining contemporaries.

The leadership change highlights the broader influence he had across the resort. In addition to overseeing culinary operations at multiple Walt Disney World hotels, Hunnel played a major role in mentoring the next generation of chefs at the Grand Floridian.

Recent promotions involving fellow Victoria & Albert’s chefs, Matthew Sowers and Miguel Santeliz, suggest that many Cast Members currently stepping into larger roles were shaped by the culture and standards Hunnel established.

While Disney has not yet named a successor, his retirement signals the a major shift for both Victoria & Albert’s and Walt Disney World’s dining offerings.

During his tenure as a leader with the Victoria & Albert’s team, Hunnel helped to craft the restaurant’s now-renowned legacy, eventually culminating in Disney’s first-ever MICHELIN star. It remains the first and only restaurant owned and operated by a U.S. theme park to hold a MICHELIN star.

Victoria & Albert’s first opened in 1988. In 2022, it was refurbished and received a refreshed menu. Currently, the restaurant offers two curated tasting menus of “exquisite culinary creations” made with fresh, sustainable ingredients.

The Victoria & Albert’s menu shifts seasonally, so returning guests always get a new, unique experience. The courses are inspired by the culinary team’s travels, cultural backgrounds, and personal stories.

Watch our full review of the restaurant and once-in-a-lifetime experience:

Have you had a chance to dine at Victoria & Albert’s? Tell us about your experience on social media.

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