September 5, 2025

Winter Park’s Ômo by Jônt Named Best New Restaurant Finalist

News Summary

Ômo by Jônt, a tucked-away restaurant in Winter Park, gains prestige as the only Florida finalist for the James Beard Awards’ Best New Restaurant. Since its opening in February 2024, it has excelled with its high-end Japanese seafood. Chef Ryan Ratino leads a 16-seat dining experience that emphasizes intimate connections and exceptional culinary offerings, setting a high standard in Florida’s evolving culinary scene. As the awards ceremony approaches in Chicago, Ômo by Jônt continues to garner attention for its excellence.

Winter Park Recognized at Prestigious Culinary Awards

Ômo by Jônt, a notable restaurant nestled on a tucked-away side street in Winter Park, has been named the only Florida finalist for the Best New Restaurant award at the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards. This recognition marks a significant achievement for the restaurant, which opened its doors in February 2024 and has quickly gained acclaim for its unique culinary offerings and intimate dining experience.

Exceptional Culinary Offerings

Ômo by Jônt is celebrated for its experiential tasting menu, which emphasizes high-end Japanese seafood. The restaurant’s signature dish, the Wagyu Chūtoro Croustade, was recently highlighted during a complimentary tasting event that showcased the restaurant’s unique philosophy of crafting memorable and meaningful culinary experiences. Guests also indulge in a Champagne toast upon arrival, setting the tone for a luxurious dining affair.

Among the standout dishes featured on the menu are the Pork Hano Donko Steam Bun, Key West pink shrimp, and creamy Bafun Uni. The offerings also include a delectable selection of duck paired with Nanatsuboshi Rice, featuring snow crab, maitake mushrooms, and drizzled truffle for an exquisite finish.

Intimate Dining Atmosphere

The restaurant prides itself on its intimate seating arrangement, with only 16 seats available for diners. This setup fosters a personal connection between the chefs and guests, enhancing the overall experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted menu reflect a commitment to providing an extraordinary dining event that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Recognition and Aspirations

Chef Ryan Ratino, who leads the culinary team at Ômo by Jônt, has expressed that being a finalist for the James Beard award feels like a full-circle moment for him and his team. As a young aspiring chef, Ratino dreamt of dining on Park Avenue, and now his restaurant stands as a symbol of that ambition realized.

Ômo by Jônt’s selection as a finalist for the Best New Restaurant award also marks the second consecutive year it has received this honor from the James Beard Foundation, which seeks to celebrate and elevate food culture along with those who contribute significantly to it.

All-Star Line-up of Finalists

In addition to Ômo by Jônt’s achievement, the James Beard Awards also feature Sue and Jason Chin of Good Salt Restaurant Group in Orlando, who are finalists for the Outstanding Restaurateur award. Last year, the noteworthy Filipino fine-dining restaurant Kaya, also located in Orlando, was a finalist for the Best New Restaurant category, showcasing the increasing prominence of Florida’s culinary scene.

Upcoming Awards Ceremony

The highly anticipated James Beard Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Chicago in June of 2025. As restaurants from across the nation compete for recognition, Ômo by Jônt’s accomplishments have set a high standard in the culinary landscape of Florida, drawing attention to the state’s vibrant and evolving food culture.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER

ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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