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Mint
09-07-2025
- Mint
I pitted an AI robot massage against the real thing
The spa attendant ticked off a few instructions ahead of my 11:15 a.m. massage. Change into this wetsuit-like outfit. Pull your hair back. Hit the start button whenever you're ready. 'It'll do a couple onboarding things,'' she said, 'and then you're good to go.'' Onboarding? Was this a new-hire orientation or a hotel-spa appointment? I had signed up for a new robot massage at the W Scottsdale. The 241-room hotel in the city's downtown entertainment district recently added Aescape, an AI-powered machine touted as the next generation of massage. Robots aren't new to hotels. You've probably seen them cleaning, delivering room service or gliding through the lobby. Now they're coming for the spa. Aescape (the A is silent) has massage tables at a handful of hotels, including the Four Seasons Resort Orlando in Florida and the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, Calif. They are also popping up in other cities at fitness centers and day spas. There are no deepfake concerns with AI massages. You can see the massage table and the giant white arms with fat paws ready to pound your back. The question for spa guests: How does the robot compare to a professional spa massage therapist and is the value there? That's where your trusty travel columnist comes in. I tried both at the same W Hotel Away spa, 24 hours apart. The Aescape massage, 60 minutes, was $120. My 50-minute de-stress massage was $190, $228 with service charge. Both did the trick in their own ways. But let's just say Erik, my real massage therapist, doesn't have to worry about job security. Maybe you've plopped into one of those Sharper Image massage recliners or high-tech massage chairs at an airport lounge or mall. Get those images out of your head. The Aescape robot massage at the W was set up like a traditional spa appointment. There was a treatment room, table and background music. Except there's no massage therapist and you disrobe not to your undies but the tight-fitting loungewear Aescape provides. The company says it's designed to limit things getting bunched up during the automated massage. It also helps the robot read your body during body scans. (Mine told me my left foot was out of position at one point.) Customers start the massage face down on a wide massage table, peering through the traditional face pillow to an iPad-like screen below. 'Welcome, Dawn," mine said, and noted I was there for the 60-minute total back, glutes and hamstring massage. The device is the massage control center. It's where you adjust the pressure, pick the music, move on from a particular body part and heart any robot move you particularly like. I found this all pretty distracting. But that's probably because it was my first time and I was taking mental and voice notes for this column. (The company says there's a way to set it and forget it and simply enjoy the massage. It's called immerse mode.) I'll admit to taking a few deep breaths during the first minutes the robot was pressing deep into my back. Yes, I was thinking about the online comments from naysayers who feared getting crushed. The worries went away after I reduced the pressure level. The robot can't reach two areas that are most enjoyable for me, the head and neck. And, in this particular case, I had a wicked stiff neck that needed attention. So I was more than done with the back section 30 minutes in when the robot turned to my sore glutes and hamstrings. (You don't turn over on these massages, either; the entire time is spent face down.) The glutes-and-hamstring section was the best part of the massage. A bonus: I rocked out to AC/DC's 'Thunderstruck" as the robot worked out the kinks. You don't find that soundtrack diversity during traditional spa massages. I even turned up the pressure past the halfway mark. When it was done, I wouldn't say I was in that dreamy, postmassage haze—but I was more relaxed. Another plus: My hair wasn't a greasy mess and I didn't have to shower off any oils or lotions. I didn't even have to check out because it was prepaid through Aescape. Given the areas it doesn't reach, though, 60 minutes was too long for me, even on the company dime. And I don't think the value proposition is there, either. (Two young guests checking out spa treatments that same day asked if the robot massage was free!) An Aescape spokeswoman says the price includes extras like access to the hotel's popular pool. David Cronin, general manager of the W Scottsdale, said a comparison between traditional massages and a robot massage misses the point. The robot massage isn't designed to replace humans, he says. They are for people who maybe don't want the personal touch of a massage therapist or just need a 30-minute recovery after a hard workout. The shorter massages have been popular, he says, with guests and locals. He's a cyclist and says that's the sweet spot. For an extra 70 bucks plus tip, I'll take all the extras that came with my traditional massage. That one started with robe, slippers and a hand-delivered elixir made with three juices, spearmint tea and prickly pear syrup while I waited for my appointment. The biggest extra, of course: Erik. The hulking message therapist has worked at the W for three years. He won me over as soon as the clock started in treatment-room six. His hands and elbows dug into everything that hurt ('It's going to feel worse before it feels better,'' he warned early on) and the head and foot massages were the treats they always are. I was just a few doors down from the robot's home at the hotel, but miles away, mentally and physically. When time was up, Erik was waiting outside my door with a glass of cold water. The robot only asked me to rate the massage (4 out of 5) and simply told me to remove my belongings from the table to make way for the next guest. Write to Dawn Gilbertson at
USA Today
01-07-2025
- USA Today
Cool off and slow down at these 14 family resorts with the best lazy rivers
I'm never one to turn down the peace and quiet of a lazy river on a busy family vacation. It's probably where you'll find me, my husband, and any of the other parents we're traveling with whenever we're at a resort, while our teenagers are off racing down waterslides or otherwise avoiding their parents. But not all lazy rivers are created equal. The best ones offer enough inner tubes so there's always one available when you're ready to float, along with a ride that feels more like a meandering journey than a quick loop. Bonus points for fun features like music, lights, and a uniquely themed design. Here are my picks for the best hotels with lazy rivers in the US that are loaded with kid-friendly features and parent-pleasing perks. LAZY RIVERS AROUND THE WORLD: 11 best all-inclusive resorts with lazy rivers in Mexico and the Caribbean 1. Fairfield Inn & Suites Pensacola Beach Pensacola Beach, Florida The new Fairfield Inn & Suites Pensacola Beach is home to one of the largest lazy rivers on the Florida Panhandle. At 315 feet long, the 60,000-gallon water ride takes you past palm trees, three waterfalls, and the resort's zero-entry pool. Book one of the King Beachfront Suites that include bunk beds for the kiddos, then spend your days at the pool area or on the white-sand beach. RESORT REVIEW: I've been to every Beaches Resort: Here's why I think it's worth the money A complimentary hot breakfast is available each day, and Fish Heads bar and grill offers fish tacos, cheeseburgers, and tropical cocktails with views of the Gulf of Mexico. (You can always work off your dining excesses at the fitness center overlooking Santa Rosa Sound.) The 11-story, 209-room resort also considered function along with fun; it was built with windows that can withstand Category 5 hurricane winds and structural pilings that go down more than seven stories to help it withstand any storm that comes its way. 2. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort Orlando, Florida Take your next theme park vacation up a notch with a stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. The hotel's on-site Disney Planning Center, complimentary motorcoach transportation to the parks, and early theme park entry make visiting the Magic Kingdom or Hollywood Studios a breeze. But when you need a break from the rides and shows, the AAA Five Diamond resort offers amenities like the five-acre Explorer Island water park. It's at the water park where you'll find a lazy river with spray cannons, a waterfall, and a rapids section, along with two waterslides, a splash zone, and a zero-entry pool. Grownup guests will appreciate the on-site spa, golf course, and the resort's Michelin-starred rooftop Capa Steakhouse, while the younger members of the family will love spending time at the complimentary kids and teen clubs. 3. Camelback Lodge Tannersville, Pennsylvania You can have fun all year round at Camelback Lodge, which is part of Camelback Resort in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains. The eight-story mountain hotel is home to two lazy rivers, one of which is at the seasonal Camelbeach, the Pocono Mountains' largest outdoor water park. At Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, it's always 84 degrees and the sun shines through North America's largest Texlon transparent roof. In addition to braving more than a dozen waterslides here, you can also grab a tube and float down The Lost River. Sound effects, LED lights, and features like waterfalls and arching sprays add some excitement to the nearly 500-foot not-so-lazy river. The resort also features another indoor fun zone with an arcade, rock-climbing wall, ropes course, and bumper cars, and adventure awaits outdoors on the mountainside no matter the time of year. More mountain vacation ideas: 4. Kingsmill Resort Williamsburg, Virginia You can go back in time by visiting Colonial Williamsburg but still enjoy modern luxuries with a stay at Kingsmill Resort. Situated on the historic James River, the condominium resort offers standard guest rooms along with a range of multi-bedroom options for families of all sizes. At the seasonal River Pool, there's a winding lazy river that overlooks the real one nearby, as well as a waterslide and pool bar. You can also enjoy another outdoor pool and an indoor pool at the resort's Sports Club, which recently went through a multimillion-dollar renovation. Kingsmill is well-known for its three 18‐hole championship golf courses, but it also offers 15 tennis courts, a full-service marina, and a spa. 5. Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach Panama City Beach, Florida The 5,000-square-foot lazy river at the Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach takes you on a route that travels alongside the hotel's Gulf of Mexico beachfront. The length of almost two football fields and more than 81,000 gallons, the lazy river boasts a zero-depth entry and underwater speakers providing a splashtastic soundtrack. The resort also offers a kiddie pool, water playground, and lagoon-style pool where dive-in movies are screened in the evening (from March 1 to October 1). Gulf-front rooms all have private balconies, and other amenities include a spa and fitness center, daily activities for kids ages five to 12, and four on-site restaurants that take the stress out of deciding where to eat. 6. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa San Antonio, Texas Situated on 300 acres of historic ranch land, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa feels like an escape but still provides close proximity to attractions like SeaWorld San Antonio and the San Antonio River Walk. But it might be hard to leave the resort's five-acre water park that offers heated pool options year-round. The lazy river was designed to give riders the experience of floating on a Texas river, with a dark bottom and live oak trees lining the winding route. A two-story waterslide, multiple pools, and FlowRider wave simulation machine add to the fun, and other resort amenities include a full-service spa, 27-hole golf course, walking and biking trails, and evening s'mores by a campfire. Recently renovated guest rooms and five new luxury villas blend Texas charm with modern updates. 7. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Koloa, Hawaii Lava rocks line the lazy river at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, which floats past waterfalls and secret caves. That's just one way to get wet at the resort, where you can also take a dip in a multi-level pool complex and a saltwater lagoon with a sandy beach and 'islands' to swim to. And the white sands of Poipu Beach are just a short walk or drive away. Rooms and suites with lots of tropical touches offer garden, mountain, or ocean views, and the hotel's restaurants serve dishes made with sustainably sourced ingredients from local vendors. Families can learn more about Hawaiian culture and traditions at the on-site luau and the resort's cultural center, which offers lessons in hula dancing, playing the ukulele, and making flower leis. 8. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Ko Olina, Hawaii Combining the magic of Disney with the beauty of Hawaii, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa makes for a pretty special place for a family vacation. It's not surprising that the island resort offers lots of fun ways for kids of all ages to make a splash. Within the expansive Waikolohe Valley pool area, the Waikolohe Stream lazy river flows past rock formations, caverns, and springs inspired by Oʻahu's natural landscape. You can grab a tube or enter the stream in a more dramatic way by shooting down the Tubestone Curl waterslide. There are also splash zones and a private snorkeling lagoon to explore, plus beach activities, Disney character experiences, a luau, and all kinds of other family fun to be had at the resort. 9. The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa may be situated within the Sonoran Desert, but it's still possible to make a splash by heading to the resort's Adventure Water Park. A lazy river flows through the area, and you can make a float even more mellow by reserving the Tommy Bahama Relaxation Reef, a private 'island' within the river with chairs for lounging. A 110-foot waterslide and FlowRider simulator offer more high-speed thrills, and the resort's pools are the perfect place to head after a round of golf or spa treatment. A kids club offers activities for four- to 12-year-olds, while campfires and s'mores, a resort-wide scavenger hunt, and the nearby Kierland Commons outdoor dining and shopping center offer more fun for the whole family. 10. Marriott Marquis Houston Houston, Texas Book a room at the Marriott Marquis Houston and you'll be close to downtown Houston's sights and attractions like Discovery Green and Daikin Park (where the Houston Astros play). You can get a bird's-eye view of the area from the sixth-floor Altitude Rooftop and Pool, where you'll find the hotel's one-of-a-kind Texas-shaped lazy river. It takes about 15 minutes to complete a circuit, and while the kids are afloat the grownups can take a dip in the infinity pool, sip a cocktail from the rooftop High Dive restaurant, or just stretch out in a lounge chair or private cabana. Comfortable rooms and suites, five on-site dining options, a fitness center, and spa make the hotel a great choice for everyone in the family. 11. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa Rancho Mirage, California Beat the Palm Springs heat at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa's Splashtopia water park. A 425-foot lazy river encircles the park, which also features two 100-foot waterslides, a cliff-side hot tub, water-play zones with fountains and sprinklers, and a grill serving poolside eats and drinks. Guest rooms and suites are done up in Spanish Colonial style, and the resort also offers several restaurants and bars, 27 holes of championship golf, 20 tennis courts, 20 pickleball courts, a spa, and seasonal kids and family activities. It's a great home base for exploring local sights and attractions like The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. 12. JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa Phoenix, Arizona AquaRidge WaterPark at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa serves as an oasis within the Sonoran Desert resort. You can take it easy while floating along the Canyon Creek Lazy River or make a bigger splash at the three new multi-story waterslides. This summer, the new AquaNights experience includes extended hours for the waterslides and lazy river, plus glow-themed programming around the resort like character dance parties and sing-alongs. A total of five pools help guests cool off after a match on the 17 lighted pickleball courts, a round of golf, a bike ride around the resort, or a class at the fitness center. Book a patio firepit room for some special family time in the evenings, dine on Southwestern cuisine at Tia Carmen restaurant, and check the resort's activities guide for fun ways to spend time together as a family. 13. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa San Antonio, Texas There's a lot to explore in Texas's scenic Hill Country, but there's also a lot to explore within the nine-acre River Bluff Water Experience at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa. An 1,100-foot lazy river meanders around the water park, while the Pedernales River water experience features a current that mimics the flow of a natural river. Waterslides and multiple pools add to the refreshing fun, including a sand-beach pool where the kids can construct castles on the 'shore.' Head to the spa when you want to slow down, or get everyone moving on the running and walking trails, at the fitness center, or on the tennis and basketball courts. A glamping suite package at the resort adds to the fun, complete with an in-room tent that sleeps two to three people and gifts for young guests like a Texas longhorn stuffed animal. 14. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Maui, Hawaii You'll be thankful there's a lazy river at the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool area at Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, because you'll need the break from all the action. Just check these stats: Nine pools spread over six levels. Seven waterslides. A rope swing. A swim-up bar. And the world's first water elevator. Wailea Beach also awaits, where the whole family can snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard. You'll definitely need a relaxing float after experiencing all of that. All rooms and suites have undergone a recent refresh, and a new cultural center offers experiences like hula and Hawaiian language lessons and a garden tour of the resort. Grand Wailea also recently launched its Keiki Club cultural and activity program for young guests, where kids can take part in arts and crafts, games, cultural workshops, and exploratory adventures. Cool off and slow down at these 14 family resorts with the best lazy rivers in North America originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations. If you buy an item through a link in our content, we may earn a commission.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Bayern sporting director praises Woltemade, but winger a priority
Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund attends a press conference at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort to introduce new signing Tom Bischof, ahead of the club's first Club World Cup group match against Auckland City. Sven Hoppe/dpa Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund has spoken glowingly about Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade, but a move for the Germany under-21 star looks unlikely with the Bundesliga champions concentrating on a new winger. "Nick is playing very well and is in top form. He is a young German player who is very, very interesting," Freund told reporters at the Club World Cup in the United States. Advertisement The 23-year-old Woltemade, who is tall but good with his feet, started June playing for Germany seniors in the Nations League and has top scored with five goals at the Under-21 European Championship in Slovakia. Depending on his development, Woltemade could be an option for Bayern if Harry Kane decides to head back to England at the end of the coming season, as some media reports have speculated. Bayern midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović recently said he would welcome Woltemade at the Allianz Arena For now, Bayern need to replace winger Leroy Sané, who is moving to Galatasaray on July 1. Thomas Müller is also departing after the Club World Cup, so a wide player who could deputize too for Kane upfront is prized - especially after Mathys Tel was allowed to join Tottenham permanently. Advertisement Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams, Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, AC Milan's Rafael Leão and Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens have all been linked in the media with Bayern. Head of sport Max Eberl has left Freund in the US to go back to Europe to work on transfers. "Lots of talks are going on currently," Freund added, saying his boss would be back for the last 16 game against Flamengo in Miami Gardens on Sunday. "We will see what the next few weeks bring. What is important is that we do the right thing. There is no concrete timetable. But we are working on it."
USA Today
24-04-2025
- Health
- USA Today
6 must-visit spas in Orlando to hit after the theme parks
Advertisement The Himalayan Salt Room at the Waldorf Astoria Spa in Orlando is the ultimate way to relax – Photo courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Orlando A trip to Orlando's theme parks always promises an action-packed vacation — the kind of vacation that requires a vacation. Instead, plan some relaxation time after the parks at one of the must-visit spas in Orlando. Think soothing tired feet, easing aching muscles, and leaving the noise, mouse ears, lines, and crowds behind. These six Orlando resort spas offer treatments and experiences that will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated after a day — or days — of doing all the things. Orlando spa resorts for post-theme park bliss There's no shortage of resort spas that offer a full-service experience for guests, even if you aren't staying on property. Waldorf Astoria Spa The Waldorf Astoria Spa in Orlando features an amazing array of treatments – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Located within the Walt Disney World Resort, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers a sophisticated experience in its 24,000-square-foot spa. The facility features 22 treatment rooms, a whirlpool, steam room, and sauna, as well as a tranquility lounge with zero-gravity loungers. The Waldorf Astoria Spa is also the first spa in the state of Florida (and one of only seven in the U.S.) to have its own Himalayan Salt Room. Himalayan salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, can be used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, allergies, colds, ear infections, and even jet lag. The spa's salt therapy includes dry salt scrubs to treat conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. The Salt Solace Room offers a unique experience that combines inhalation therapy with a massage, resulting in a full-body reset. In addition to the spa's included amenities, spa guests can enjoy the resort's fitness center and outdoor pool on the day of their treatment. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando Spas in Orlando, including at the Four Seasons Resort, are made for relaxing and rejuvenating – Photo courtesy of The Four Seasons Orlando The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers private outdoor relaxation spaces and access to an adults-only pool. The 18 treatment rooms, including two couples' spaces, provide a range of services, from facials and exfoliating treatments to bodywork and massage. Advertisement Try the signature Honey Healing Treatment, which uses honey from the resort's bees to provide an antimicrobial, immune-boosting massage that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized. This is one of the only spas in the region to offer IV drips and peptide therapy, providing targeted results such as detoxification, improved joint health, and restored energy. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando, Grande Lakes The pool at the Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando will melt all the theme park stress away – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando At 40,000 square feet, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Grande Lakes, is one of the largest in the region. With an outdoor lap pool, spa cafe, fitness center, and full salon, this Orlando resort spa is ideal for post-park relaxation. The comprehensive menu of treatments includes massage, facials, and bodywork, as well as wellness experiences such as the energy balancing treatment and sound therapy, which utilizes Tibetan singing bowls. Signature therapies incorporate CBD, local Florida ingredients, and herbs from the resort's organic garden. The ultimate treatment for melting stress and restoring calm is the spa's Grande Indulgence Massage, which includes a full body massage, scalp treatment, hot stone enhancements, and keratin gloves for the hands and feet. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Mandara Spa in Orlando feels like a Balinese temple – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is a Balinese-inspired spa that feels worlds away from its location inside the bustling hotel. Features include a tea garden, a sitting room decorated in Balinese style, and a meditation garden with a signature Meru temple. We recommend the Fire and Ice Massage, which incorporates hot stone massage using cool gels and warm paraffin, all designed to detoxify the body and soothe aching muscles. For a treatment inspired by the local landscape, try the Florida Orange Blossom Body Polish, an antioxidant-rich body polish crafted with sweet Florida oranges. This Orlando spa also offers Normatec Leg Recovery, a leg treatment that increases circulation and relieves leg soreness. It's a quick and reasonably priced way to boost recovery and ease sore muscles from a day spent on your feet. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Spa at The Alfond Inn The Spa at Alfond Inn is a destination for its treatments and tranquility – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Located just north of Orlando in Winter Park, The Spa at The Alfond Inn is one of the region's most popular destinations. You could spend an entire day there. The spa features seven treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, experiential showers, a tranquility room, an outdoor pool with private cabanas, and a spa cafe. For the ultimate in relaxation, the Stress, Sleep, and Pain CBD Ritual combines exfoliation, CBD-infused massage, and a hydrating body wrap to promote rest and recovery. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Conrad Spa at Conrad Orlando Conrad Spa in Orlando features side-by-side soaking tubs and couples' treatments – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Conrad Orlando is the only luxury hotel located within the 1,100-acre Evermore development, part of the Walt Disney World Resort. Perched above a water garden inspired by Florida's natural springs and local fauna, Conrad Spa has an expansive outdoor space that includes a water garden, vitality pool, relaxation area, and hydrotherapy tubs. Inside, the spa boasts 11 treatment rooms, including two specifically designed for couples. Among the many body, facial, and massage treatments, one treatment sure to ease your weary bones is the Blanket of Calm massage. The 80-minute body, face, and scalp massage utilizes sound therapy and breathwork to release tension and restore the body's inner peace. For a fully immersive experience, stay overnight in one of the hotel's wellness guest rooms, which have direct access to the spa garden and hydrotherapy pools. Spa guests not staying at the resort receive complimentary valet parking on the day of their treatment, in addition to access to the spa pools and amenities.
Yahoo
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Florida keeps shining with a new Two Starred restaurant in expanded 2025 selection
The recently expanded MICHELIN Guide Florida selection has been revealed for 2025 and it features one new Two MICHELIN Star restaurant and four new One MICHELIN Star restaurants. The full selection was announced this evening at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort. ORLANDO, Fla, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sorekara in Orlando receives Two MICHELIN Stars Two restaurants earn a MICHELIN Green Star and four earn One Star Selection includes three new destinations: Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater The recently expanded MICHELIN Guide Florida selection has been revealed for 2025 and it features one new Two MICHELIN Star restaurant and four new One MICHELIN Star restaurants. The full selection was announced this evening at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort. In total, 31 restaurants were awarded Stars by the anonymous Inspectors, with Sorekara in Orlando being the newest Two MICHELIN Starred restaurant. This year's selection also welcomed two new Green Stars in Miami with EntreNos and Stubborn Seed being recognized for their efforts in sustainable gastronomy. The full selection, including Bib Gourmands and recommended restaurants, totals 172 eateries spanning 39 cuisine types. 'Florida has proven to be an international culinary destination, with the expansion to three new cities and five restaurants being welcomed into the MICHELIN Star family in this year's selection,' said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. 'Our anonymous Inspectors continued to be delighted by Florida's culinary community, and we congratulate all of the chefs and restaurants being honored in this year's selection.' Here are the new MICHELIN Star restaurants, with Inspector notes from each (Inspectors' comments in full on the MICHELIN Guide website and mobile app): Two MICHELIN Stars Sorekara (Orlando; Japanese cuisine) In a world of uniformity, Sorekara proudly forges its own path. This Baldwin Park restaurant is unlike anywhere else you've been, offering a surprising and delightful culinary journey that revels in turning expectations on their head. Chef/owner William Shen's tasting menu highlights Japan's 72 micro seasons with highly original dishes infused with a sense of whimsy (note the course designed to mimic a convenience store snack run or the "nigiri"). Whether it's madai sporting a distinctive riff on tradition or a deeply savory bowl of kegani sourced from Hokkaido, there is an elegance and refinement threaded throughout the meal, which progresses through multiple rooms across several hours. Another hint that this is far from typical? Sorekara is open for one seating only a few nights a week. One MICHELIN Star Chef's Counter at MAASS (Fort Lauderdale; Contemporary cuisine) The Chef's Counter enjoys a prime spot inside the MAASS dining room at the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale, and this stylish perch facing the large, open kitchen offers a distinctive dining experience. Chef Ryan Ratino's tasting menu, in the hands of Chef David Brito, is a beautiful tribute to contemporary cooking with French techniques, Japanese ingredients, and a few Florida highlights. Ingredients take center stage in courses like the single seared diver scallop over a truffle puree. Designed as an upmarket riff on chicken noodle soup, it's finished with a velvety broth. A delicate bowl of koshihikari rice cooked in a donabe with maitake mushroom and a Comté foam is excellent from start to finish. Finally, kakigori with candied nuts and fresh raspberries is a delightful conclusion. Itamae Ao (Miami; Peruvian/Japanese cuisine) A restaurant within a restaurant, this 10-seat counter by Chef Nando Chang in Midtown looks to set a new standard for Nikkei cuisine in the region. Those familiar with the chef's past work in the Design District will take heart in how classic Peruvian-Japanese flavors as well as signature dishes have been reworked, reimagined and refined. Searing levels of acidity and spice figure prominently on this bold tasting menu, often in the form of leche de tigre. From lobster bisque with sweet potato gnocchi to creamy rice with Hokkaido scallops and parmesan, the cooking possesses style and substance in spades. Sourcing is a priority, with whole fish flown in from Japan, later to be broken down and occasionally strung up in dry-aging fridges along the wall. Konro (West Palm Beach; Contemporary cuisine) Chef Jacob Bickelhaupt and sommelier Nadia Bickelhaupt preside over this beautiful, and intimate, counter set within a mixed-use building in West Palm Beach. Bold cooking takes center stage here, where an affinity for rich, umami-packed dishes surprise diners. Meals begin with snacks; the foie gras mousse in a chicken-skin cone is a highlight. The chef's creativity is displayed in dishes like barley risotto with enoki mushrooms, caramelized crispy fried onions, and black truffle shavings, served in a golden egg. Binchotan grilled wagyu in a house-made soy sauce with a poached carrot dotted with celery root and brown butter purée evolves with each bite. A beautiful bowl of coconut and passion fruit sherbet with shortbread cookie crumble delivers a memorable ending. Ômo by Jônt (Orlando; Contemporary cuisine) Chef Ryan Ratino's lauded D.C. restaurant, Jônt, is more than just the inspiration for this offshoot. This Winter Park restaurant echoes that spirit and sensibility (think classic French techniques married with pristine Japanese ingredients), albeit with a few Florida touches. The space allows for discrete moments at each meal, while three tasting menus run the gamut from tightly edited and more affordable to loaded with luxury ingredients. No matter the selection, expect Chef Mike Commins' refined dishes punctuated by the seasons, as in chawanmushi with an autumnal twist of braised sweet potato, kombu, and a brown butter sauce. Scallop prepared two ways demonstrates the kitchen's deft hand while chocolate and hazelnut kakigori is an elegant tribute. MICHELIN Green Star EntreNos (Miami; Contemporary cuisine) Initiatives: locally sourced produce and land-based protein; sustainably sourced seafood; dinnerware crafted by Miami-based artisan; organic and biodynamic wine program; food waste repurposed into vinegars and sauces. Stubborn Seed (Miami; Contemporary cuisine) Initiatives: ingredients sourced from Chef Jeremy Ford's 5.5-acre farm; composting program repurposes food waste to be collected and used at the farm; initiatives to reduce carbon footprint of restaurant; partnership with Compost for Life, a community compost program in the Miami Beach area. Bib Gourmand The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors gave 36 restaurants the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes eateries for great food at a great value. The full list can be found below. MICHELIN Special Awards In addition to the Bib Gourmands and Stars, the Guide announced four Special Awards:The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony is presented with the support of Capital One. Hotels The restaurants join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in Florida and throughout the world. Each hotel in the selection has been chosen by MICHELIN Guide experts for its extraordinary style, service and personality — with options for all budgets — and each can be booked directly through the MICHELIN Guide website and app. The selection for Florida features the state's most spectacular hotels, including the only private island resort in North America, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa (three MICHELIN Keys), the iconic White Elephant Palm Beach (one MICHELIN Key), or sustainability pioneers like the Hotel Greystone (one MICHELIN Key). The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now it's setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable MICHELIN Guide in North America Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2007, statewide 2019); Florida (Greater Miami, Orlando and Tampa in 2022, adding Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater in 2025,statewide in 2026); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado (2023); Atlanta (2023), Mexico (2024), Texas (2024), Quebec (2024) and the American South (2025). About the MICHELIN Guide Recognized globally for excellence and quality, the MICHELIN Guide offers a selection of world-class restaurants. The famous one, two and three MICHELIN Stars identify establishments serving exceptional cuisine that's rich in flavor, remarkably executed and infused with the personality of a talented chef. The Bib Gourmand is a designation given to select restaurants that offer good quality food for a good value – often known as personal favorites among the Inspectors when dining on their own time. The MICHELIN Green Star honors restaurants that are pioneers in sustainable Recommended restaurants and special professional awards are also highlighted by the MICHELIN Guide The MICHELIN Guide remains a reliable companion for any traveler seeking an unforgettable meal and hospitality experience. The Guide was first published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage the development of car mobility as well as tire sales by giving practical advice to motorists. Progressively, the Guide has specialized in restaurant and hotel recommendations. Michelin's Inspectors still use the same criteria and manner of selection that were used by the Inspectors in the very beginning. The restaurant selections join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay around the world. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an amazing hotel. Thanks to the rigorous MICHELIN Guide selection process that is applied independently and consistently in more than 50 destinations, the MICHELIN Guide has become an international benchmark in fine dining. All restaurants in the Guide are recommended by Michelin's anonymous Inspectors, who are trained to apply the same time-tested methods used by Michelin Inspectors for many decades throughout the world. This ensures a uniform, international standard of excellence. As a further guarantee of complete objectivity, Michelin Inspectors pay all their bills in full, and only the quality of the cuisine is evaluated. To fully assess the quality of a restaurant, the Inspectors apply five criteria defined by Michelin: product quality; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of flavors; the personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; and consistency over time and across the entire menu. These criteria guarantee a consistent and fair selection so a Starred restaurant has the same value regardless of whether it is in Paris, New York or anywhere else in the world. About Michelin North America, Inc. Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high- quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America, Inc. has approximately 23,500 employees and operates 36 production facilities in the United States ( and Canada ( About Capital One At Capital One we're on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they're passionate about, including dining, music and sports. Learn more at and CONTACT: Name: Carly Grieff Email: Job Title: Public Relations Manager
