The Chef Who Put Victoria and Alberts on the Map Scott Hunnel Is Retiring

Scott Hunnel, the Chef Who Elevated Victoria and Albert’s to Icon Status, to Retire

After more than 25 years leading the kitchen at Victoria and Albert’s, James Beard Award-nominated Chef Scott Hunnel is officially retiring from his role as Culinary Director at Walt Disney World Resort.

Hunnel has been one of the most influential figures in the resort’s fine-dining history, helming the restaurant through its rise to become one of the most decorated dining destinations in the country. Under his leadership, Victoria & Albert’s earned a prestigious MICHELIN star and built a reputation for excellence that extends well beyond the theme park industry.

Related – Victoria & Albert’s in Disney World Retains MICHELIN Star Status in 2025

In his expanded capacity as the Culinary Director for Walt Disney World, Hunnel has been instrumental in overseeing dining operations and providing strategic mentorship to culinary teams at numerous resort hotels across the entire property. While his impact has been felt resort-wide, Disney has not yet named a successor to fill this high-profile role.

The departure of Chef Hunnel marks the end of a defining chapter for Victoria & Albert’s and the broader Walt Disney World dining landscape. His legacy, built over more than two decades of evolution at the Grand Floridian’s flagship restaurant, continues to shape Disney’s sophisticated approach to fine dining at every level.

Earlier this year, the promotion of Matthew Sowers to Executive Chef of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa signaled a new era for the resort’s culinary landscape. Reporting directly to Hunnel, Sowers brings over 20 years of experience gained under Hunnel’s guidance at Victoria & Albert’s to his new role, where he now oversees operations for all 13 food and beverage locations across the property.

Similarly, Miguel Santeliz was named Chef de Cuisine at Victoria & Albert’s as part of this strategic leadership transition. His appointment further highlights the robust mentorship culture Hunnel cultivated within the restaurant’s kitchen.

While Hunnel’s James Beard Award nomination solidified his status as one of Florida’s premier culinary figures, his most enduring legacy at Walt Disney World is the incredible talent he nurtured. The chefs who once trained under him are now the very leaders stepping up to define the future of Disney dining.

Have you ever dined at Victoria & Albert’s?

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