For travellers seeking exceptional dining experiences at sea, Oceania Cruises continues to set new benchmarks in luxury cruising. The cruise line, renowned globally for its dedication to culinary excellence and sophisticated voyages, has announced the exciting return of its signature French restaurant, Jacques, aboard its latest ship, Allura™, set to launch in July 2025. Named in honour of the iconic chef Jacques Pépin, Jacques has come to represent Oceania Cruises' pledge to deliver "The Finest Cuisine at Sea," offering passengers a uniquely refined dining experience.
A Culinary Legacy with Chef Jacques Pépin
Jacques Pépin is not only widely celebrated as a culinary legend but also revered as the founding figure of Oceania Cruises' culinary philosophy. Serving as the line's original Executive Culinary Director, Pépin’s vision and expertise have deeply influenced every menu aboard the fleet. His distinctive culinary style fuses classic French cooking techniques with contemporary flavours and presentations, consistently impressing guests aboard Oceania Cruises' vessels Marina™ and Riviera™.
Introducing Jacques on Allura signifies a significant expansion and enhancement of Oceania Cruises’ acclaimed culinary portfolio. Moreover, the beloved Jacques restaurant will also debut on Vista™, Allura’s sister ship, in October 2025. This strategic expansion ensures more guests across the fleet’s larger ships will enjoy access to Pépin's celebrated dining concept, complementing other fleet favourites such as the Polo Grill steakhouse, Italian-inspired Toscana, and pan-Asian dining experience, Red Ginger.
Fresh Twists on Beloved French Classics
In celebration of Jacques' launch aboard Allura, Oceania Cruises' Executive Culinary Directors and acclaimed Master Chefs of France, Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale, are closely collaborating with Chef Pépin to breathe fresh life into the restaurant’s menu. Their creative collaboration aims to introduce delightful new dishes while thoughtfully retaining and enhancing beloved favourites that have defined the Jacques experience since its inception, ensuring a dynamic culinary offering.
Chef Pépin himself expressed enthusiasm about "experimenting with delicious new dishes," providing fresh interpretations and presentations of classic favourites. Among the standout new dishes, guests will delight in a sophisticated duck with a Grand Marnier-infused orange sauce and a carefully prepared veal medallion with a morel sauce. Responding to evolving culinary preferences, Jacques will significantly expand its vegetarian offerings, ensuring memorable dining experiences tailored to diverse palates.
Those with a sweet tooth will be particularly thrilled, as Jacques will feature classic French desserts like Crêpes Suzette and decadent profiteroles, expertly served tableside from an elegant dessert trolley. This theatrical presentation adds to the indulgence and interactive atmosphere, making dessert at Jacques a memorable finale to a refined dining experience.
Enhancing the Parisian Bistro Experience
Dining at Jacques aboard Allura promises more than outstanding food; guests will enjoy heightened authenticity and elegance through enhanced tableside service. Signature dishes like the classic beef tartare will be expertly prepared tableside, providing diners with an immersive, interactive experience that truly elevates the Parisian bistro atmosphere.
Further enriching the dining environment, Jacques introduces meticulously curated new crockery, glassware, and silverware, reinforcing the French tradition of "l'art de la table". These thoughtful and luxurious details emphasise the artistry of table settings and service, turning every meal into a refined and celebrated event, truly embodying French dining traditions.
Oceania Cruises' Commitment to Culinary Innovation
Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, highlighted Jacques as a meaningful representation of the cruise line’s celebrated past and ambitious future. Del Rio explained, "Our beautiful new ship, Allura, represents Oceania Cruises' dazzling future but also honours our history." The addition of Jacques showcases this thoughtful blend—celebrating Oceania Cruises' unwavering passion for extraordinary culinary experiences while constantly innovating and evolving to offer passengers fresh, unforgettable voyages.
With exclusive culinary offerings like Jacques aboard Allura, Oceania Cruises continues to craft unforgettable journeys defined by exquisite flavours, refined luxury, and authenticity. Begin crafting your ideal culinary adventure by exploring the extensive options available on S.W. Black Travel Cruise Planner.
Discover captivating itineraries and bespoke onboard experiences designed for discerning travellers who seek the pinnacle of culinary excellence. Visit our Cruise Planner to transform your dream voyage into reality.
Embark on Your Culinary Adventure
To experience Jacques aboard the sophisticated Allura, or to explore other unique cruising opportunities, get in touch with a travel consultant. Whether you're an experienced cruiser or embarking on your very first voyage, Oceania Cruises warmly invites you to indulge in unparalleled culinary delights at sea.
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