This alternative dining event is one of the best culinary experiences at sea and it is only offered by Princess Cruises. In fact the Chef’s Table was recognized by the Seatrade Insider Cruise Awards as being a forward thinking concept in the F&B Hotel Operations category. Here’s what to expect.
Princess Cruises Behind the Scenes Galley Tour
- Meet the Executive Chef - The evening begins with the Maitre D’ escorting the private group to the galley to meet the Executive Chef for a behind-the-scenes galley tour during the bustling dinner preparation. This is unusual since most galley tours are held during quieter daytime hours.
- Snacks in the Galley - Enjoy French Champagne and hors d’ oeuvres while the Executive Chef goes over the special menu created exclusively for the Chef’s Table guests. These pre-dinner snacks may include items such as Foie Gras (a French delicacy made from duck liver) or Ceviche (a citrus-marinated seafood appetizer); it varies, just like the main menu.
- Different Menu Every Time - The alternative dining experience continues as the Maitre D’ then escorts the guests to a reserved table in the main dining room. The gastronomic tasting menu encompasses numerous dishes that come out one after another. Don’t expect the same menu from one ship to the next, it’s whatever the chef creates special for the evening.
- Sample Items on Menu - Items may include a flambé of skewered pork tenderloin, a Bloody Mary sorbet, grilled lobster tails, filet mignon, lamb chops, risotto, market veggies, and a parfait for dessert. Red and white wines are selected by the Maitre d’ to perfectly pair with each course of the meal.
- Culinary Trade Secrets Exposed - With each course comes its own detailed explanation of preparation, ingredients, and special features. The Chef rejoins the group during the dessert course to discuss the meal, share culinary secrets, and answer questions.
Book the Princess Cruises' Chef's Table
- Can Only be Booked Onboard - Interested foodies can only reserve this culinary experience once onboard their ship. Passengers can book through the Pursers’ Desk or by phoning the onboard dining reservations number (DINE line). One can also speak with the Maitre D’ on the first evening of the cruise in the dining room.
- When to Make Reservations - Culinary enthusiasts should reserve this dinner immediately upon embarking the ship. Only 10 lucky guests are able to take part in the Chef’s Table and it’s only offered a couple nights per cruise. According to Rai Caluori, Princess’ executive vice president of fleet operations, “It’s sold out every cruise.”
The evening begins at 6:30 p.m., at which time the group is escorted to the galley. The whole experience lasts between 1-1/2 hours to 2 hours. The cost is $75 per person and includes champagne with hors d’oeuvres and the multi-course meal with wine pairings.
To remember the unique, culinary evening experience, a photographer comes by the table during the dinner and takes pictures of the group. One photo with the Chef is complimentary as well as a personalized autographed copy of Princess’ best selling cookbook, Courses - A Culinary Journey.
Renee Ruggero - Renee is a published travel writer and cruise industry insider with more than 1,000 days on cruise ships, visiting over 50 countries.
