Soseki 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
- Kira Jabri
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Orlando, FL
March 18, 2026
The most heartfelt congratulations to our friends at Soseki on five incredible years!
If you have been to Soseki, then you already know. The hospitality, the food, the attention to detail, the artistry, the team, the heart. Much like another beloved Orlando establishment, it leaves us asking the same question: how is Soseki still missing a second star?
The five-year anniversary menu paid homage to so many of the restaurant’s greatest hits over the years. Honestly, this is one committee we are very glad we were not asked to sit on, because how do you possibly curate a menu when there have been that many extraordinary bites? It was so fun recognizing some of our favorites again. Hello, donut with caviar. The sake pairings deserve their own mention. Each pour introduced something new, expanding our understanding of different profiles, regions, and styles.
Soseki is 100% responsible for igniting Emma’s love of sushi and should probably create a growth chart for her at this point. Looking back at photos of her eating sushi with Mary Ellen reminds us just how long this relationship has been part of our family’s dining memories. So many of the restaurants that shaped our early travels graciously honored a reservation for four, even when the fourth guest was an American Girl doll.
But what truly sets Soseki apart is their personal touch. It is not just service, it is intention. It is the way they remember, the way they anticipate, the way they make every guest feel known. Opening the drawer to see “JFD” waiting for us was one of those moments that stops you.
Thoughtful, unexpected, and deeply personal.
We cannot thank you enough for the beautiful gifts. Our hearts are exploding. And you absolutely nailed it with “Property of Emma Jabri.” It is gestures like these that go far beyond dining they become part of our story. Thank you for not only feeding us, but for being part of our family’s journey. JFD has been a vehicle to teach Emma so much about the world, and Soseki has been a meaningful chapter in that.
The details. The precision. The care. When we return again, it will be to celebrate the second star you so clearly deserve.
Soseki
August 20, 2025
In the heart of Winter Park, Florida, tucked into an unassuming space, lies one of our most treasured finds: Soseki. What began as a culinary curiosity has now become a non-negotiable stop every time we find ourselves in Orlando. Soseki is more than just a restaurant, it’s an intimate, unforgettable experience orchestrated by the brilliant Chef Michael Collantes and his remarkable team including Chef De Cuisine Kevin Abanilla and Beverage Program Director, Benjamin Coutts. Earning and maintaining a one-Michelin star since 2022 and it is easy to see why.
After a disappointing experience at a different, well-known omakase that was notably unwelcoming toward younger guests, Emma was hesitant, convinced she was in for another uncomfortable evening. But Chef Kevin changed everything. His warm engagement, genuine hospitality, and respect for every diner, regardless of age, created a profound impact. Emma now eagerly asks to return to Soseki every time we visit Orlando, a testament to the magic that happens when exceptional cuisine is paired with exceptional kindness through service.
Chef Kevin is not only a Master of Modern Omakase but also an extraordinary storyteller. Watching him and his teamwork is like witnessing a carefully choreographed performance. Each course is presented with a wealth of knowledge, passion, and an incredible sense of connection to the ingredients. You could sit for hours simply listening to Chef Kevin, who narrates the journey behind each dish, the sourcing, the technique and still crave more. His passion is infectious, and it infuses every bite you take.
Soseki’s excellence extends beyond the plate to its meticulously curated beverage program, led by Benjamin Coutts, recipient of the 2023 Michelin Sommelier Award. Benjamin brings an unmatched depth of knowledge, creativity, and passion to every pairing selections enhance the entire omakase experience. It’s no surprise that his work has earned such prestigious recognition.
A word of advice: plan well in advance if you want to experience Soseki. The seating is extremely limited, with just a handful of seats available each night. It’s worth every ounce of the early planning it requires. And one more tip, dress warmly! Even for those of us who can tolerate cooler climates the restaurant tends to be cold. A jacket or extra layer will only enhance your comfort during the multi-course experience.
From the extraordinary flavors to the heartfelt hospitality, Soseki has captured a permanent place in our dining rotation, and our hearts.
Soseki we look forward to seeing you very soon.
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