LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 13, 2026) – Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at Walt Disney World Resort continues its tradition of developing and elevating the talented leaders who have shaped the restaurant’s success. Matthew Sowers, chef de cuisine at Victoria & Albert’s, has been promoted to executive chef of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Sowers, reporting to Culinary Director Scott Hunnel – who led Victoria & Albert’s for over 25 years – will oversee culinary operations and teams across the 13 food and beverage locations at Grand Floridian, including Victoria & Albert’s, where he will continue to have a hand in the exquisite culinary creations curated each evening.
“True to the continual evolution of Victoria & Albert’s, my new role as executive chef will allow me to guide the future of the restaurant alongside Chef Miguel Santeliz while also broadening my impact across the talented culinary team at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa,” said Chef Matthew Sowers.
From cook to chef de cuisine of the MICHELIN-starred restaurant, Sowers has spent more than 20 years cultivating creativity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie as the foundation of a world-class hospitality team at Victoria & Albert’s. He has dedicated many of those years to mentoring chefs to perform at the highest global standard, including Chef Miguel Santeliz, who now steps into the role of chef de cuisine.
Over his two decades at Walt Disney World, Miguel Santeliz has grown through a wide range of culinary experiences. He began as a sous chef intern in the Walt Disney World Professional Management Program, later contributing his talents at several signature restaurants, including Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort, and for the past three years, the acclaimed Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
Since 2022, Santeliz has worked closely with Chef Sowers at Victoria & Albert’s and has played an instrumental role in developing and crafting the menus for the fine‑dining restaurant Remy aboard Disney Cruise Line, collaborating with three-MICHELIN-star Chef Arnaud Lallement of L’Assiette Champenoise.
“Victoria & Albert’s has built an incredible legacy, and it’s a true honor to carry that forward,” said Chef Miguel Santeliz. “I’m humbled by the responsibility, excited to lead this talented team, and eager to keep pushing the boundaries of creativity.”
In his new role as chef de cuisine, Santeliz will lead the Victoria & Albert’s team of exceptional chefs, continuing the restaurant’s legacy of artistry and innovation.
To learn more about Victoria & Albert’s or to make reservations, please visit DisneyWorld.com.
About Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is a world-class entertainment and recreation destination featuring four of the world’s most popular theme parks, two thrilling water parks, nearly 29,000 hotel rooms, a professional and amateur sports complex, golf courses and Disney Springs – a 120-acre shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Since 1971, Walt Disney World has delivered legendary guest service and one-of-a-kind experiences that make it the world’s premiere vacation destination where families create magical memories together.