The news earlier this week that Scott Hunnel, the longtime chef de cuisine at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, had been promoted to the position of executive chef for the entire property raised questions about whether he will continue in his role at the critically acclaimed fine dining restaurant.
Hunnel told Scott Joseph’s Orlando Restaurant Guide that “this is still my baby” and that he has no plan to walk away from the restaurant he has steered for 21 years. Still, with all the extra duties, one wonders just how hands-on he will be. Even he said in a phone interview on Monday that he forsees bringing in a chef de cuisine who will work under his supervision. (Early wagering has the nod going to Thomas Hill, who has been Hunnel’s sous chef at Victoria & Albert’s for about as long as Hunnel has been there.)
The news also reminded me that the Chef’s Table, the most coveted restaurants seats anywhere in the Southeastern United States, has recently been renovated. Above is a photo of the new space.
The only question now is if you’re lucky enough to book the chef’s table for your very very special occasion, who will be the chef on the other side cooking your dinner?