Florida’s Culinary Landscape Shines with New MICHELIN Stars
The culinary scene in Florida has reached new heights as five restaurants were awarded MICHELIN Stars in a recent ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the state’s gastronomic reputation. Among the honorees, Sorekara in Orlando stands out as the Sunshine State’s second-ever recipient of the coveted Two Star award. This recognition highlights the innovative spirit and dedication to excellence that defines Florida’s dining landscape.
New Two Stars
Sorekara, Orlando
At the heart of Orlando’s Baldwin Park, Sorekara offers an intimate chef’s counter experience that transports diners through Japan’s 72 micro seasons. Chef and owner William Shen has crafted a tasting menu that is both whimsical and deeply rooted in tradition. Each dish is a surprise, with highlights that include a playful homage to a 7-Eleven snack run and a refined take on traditional nigiri. The menu features ingredients like madai and kegani sourced from Hokkaido, showcasing an elegance that permeates the multi-course meal. With only a few nights of service and a single seating, Sorekara promises an exclusive and unforgettable dining experience.
New One Stars
Chef’s Counter at MAASS, Fort Lauderdale
Nestled within the luxurious Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale, Chef’s Counter at MAASS offers a unique dining experience with a view of the open kitchen. Under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino and Chef David Brito, the tasting menu is a contemporary tribute to French techniques infused with Japanese ingredients and local Florida flavors. Signature dishes include a seared diver scallop over truffle puree and a creative twist on chicken noodle soup, finished with a velvety broth. The meal concludes with a delightful kakigori dessert, making it a well-rounded culinary journey.
Itamae Ao, Miami
In the heart of Midtown, Itamae Ao is a 10-seat counter that redefines Nikkei cuisine under the direction of Chef Nando Chang. This restaurant within a restaurant showcases a bold tasting menu that emphasizes acidity and spice, often featuring leche de tigre. Dishes like lobster bisque with sweet potato gnocchi and creamy rice with Hokkaido scallops highlight the chef’s commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients, including whole fish flown in from Japan.
Konro, West Palm Beach
At Konro, Chef Jacob Bickelhaupt and sommelier Nadia Bickelhaupt create an intimate dining experience that celebrates umami-rich flavors. Located in a mixed-use building, the restaurant features a menu that begins with inventive snacks, such as foie gras mousse in a chicken-skin cone. Signature dishes include barley risotto with enoki mushrooms and binchotan grilled wagyu, each showcasing the chef’s creativity and attention to detail. The meal culminates in a refreshing coconut and passion fruit sherbet, ensuring a memorable finish.
Ômo by Jônt, Winter Park
Inspired by Chef Ryan Ratino’s acclaimed D.C. restaurant, Ômo by Jônt brings a refined dining experience to Winter Park. The restaurant offers three tasting menus that range from affordable to luxurious, each highlighting classic French techniques paired with pristine Japanese ingredients. Dishes like chawanmushi with braised sweet potato and scallops prepared in two ways demonstrate the kitchen’s skill and seasonal focus, while the chocolate and hazelnut kakigori serves as a fitting tribute to the meal.
New Green Stars
In addition to the prestigious MICHELIN Stars, two restaurants were awarded Green Stars for their commitment to sustainability. EntreNos and Stubborn Seed, both located in Miami, exemplify the integration of eco-friendly practices into their culinary philosophies, showcasing how fine dining can align with environmental responsibility.
Full List of MICHELIN Star Restaurants in Florida
The recent awards have expanded Florida’s roster of MICHELIN Star restaurants, which now includes:
Two Stars
One Star
- Ariete, Miami
- Boia De, Miami
- Camille, Orlando
- Capa, Orlando
- Chef’s Counter at MAASS, Fort Lauderdale
- Cote Miami, Miami
- Ebbe, Tampa
- Elcielo Miami, Miami
- EntreNos, Miami
- Hiden, Miami
- Itamae Ao, Miami
- Kadence, Orlando
- Konro, West Palm Beach
- Kōsen, Tampa
- Koya, Tampa
- Le Jardinier Miami, Miami
- Lilac, Tampa
- Los Félix, Miami
- Natsu, Orlando
- Ogawa, Miami
- Ômo by Jônt, Winter Park
- Papa Llama, Orlando
- Rocca, Tampa
- Shingo, Coral Gables
- Soseki, Winter Park
- Stubborn Seed, Miami Beach
- Tambourine Room by Tristan Brandt, Miami Beach
- The Surf Club Restaurant, Surfside
- Victoria & Albert’s, Orlando
Green Stars
The recent MICHELIN awards not only celebrate culinary excellence but also highlight Florida’s vibrant and diverse food culture, making it a destination for food enthusiasts from around the world.
