in the know
Left: The Italian-themed Toscana restaurant on Oceania Allura
NEWS IN BRIEF image: VRX Studios. words: stacy books; amy mutscher
FOOD & WINE ICONS TAKE THE HELM
Oceania Cruises announces chefs from the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program as godparents for its new ship Oceania Allura
I n an industry first, culinary-focused Oceania Cruises has named a group of chefs as ceremonial godparents of a ship. Alumni from Food & Wine magazine’ s Best New Chefs program— which has recognized over 400 emerging culinary stars since 1988— will christen the Oceania Allura. Many have gone on to become industry icons, such as Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, Nobuyuki‘ Nobu’ Matsuhisa and Nancy Silverton.
“ The soul of Oceania Cruises has always been deeply rooted in extraordinary cuisine,” said Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises.“ By naming Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni as the godparents of Oceania Allura, we’ re paying homage to the future of food and the creative forces driving it forward.”
The Oceania Allura, the luxury line’ s eighth ship, continues the brand’ s commitment to the culinary arts with an industry-leading ratio of one chef for every eight guests. The ship’ s Grand Dining Room will debut over 270 new recipes, and a dozen Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes have been added to the menu at pan-Asian venue Red Ginger. The Oceania Allura will also feature the return of Jacques, Oceania Cruises’ signature French restaurant, with updated menus and dishes like beef tartare prepared tableside. For guests who want a more immersive experience, the ship’ s Culinary Center offers more than 60 different cooking classes at sea.
Two Best New Chefs cruises will debut on Oceania Allura in 2026, with special menus, cooking demonstrations and culinary experiences taking place both on board and in port.
“ Food & Wine Best New Chefs have helped to shape the future of dining through their creativity, innovation and bold ideas for more than three decades,” said Hunter Lewis, editorin-chief of Food & Wine.“ Oceania Cruises shares that same spirit, making this a meaningful opportunity to honor the lasting impact these chefs have had on the culinary world.”
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