Epicureans sure have it good these days.
The food movement is rapidly gaining global momentum and if you don't know how to cook good food, then it's not hard to find somewhere that sells it.
Master Chefs the world over are taking advantage of the trend, with the latest being Jacques Pepin, who will open Jacques - his first ever restaurant at sea - onboard Oceania Cruises' new 1,258-guest Marina, scheduled to launch in late 2010.
Pepin's namesake restaurant will draw inspiration from bistros in his home town of Lyon and the fabled bistros of Paris. "The cornerstone of any great dining experience is freshly prepared, simple dishes that are as visually pleasing on the plate as they are on the palate," according to Pepin.
Guests entering the restaurant will be greeted by the aroma of freshly roasted chicken, duck and lamb wafting from the grand rotisserie. Custom Jacques Pepin signature china, antique flatware and Lalique glassware adorn the tables while chandeliers fashioned from crystal decanters add a whimsical shimmer to the room. An art collection comprised of some of Pepin's favorite personal pieces and original works Pepin created especially for Marina, grace the room and adds a warm, personal touch.
"As we designed the culinary experience aboard Marina, a restaurant by Jacques Pepin was at the top of our guests' wish lists," said Bob Binder, Oceania Cruises' president. "Jacques will present a traditional French dining experience in a casually elegant fashion."
Pepin is the host of award-winning cooking shows, author of more than 20 cookbooks and has served as personal chef to numerous heads of state. As the Executive Culinary Director for Oceania Cruises, Pepin has brought his cuisine and unique artistry to the gourmet restaurants onboard Marina's sister ships Regatta, Insignia and Nautica.
Marina has been purposefully designed for epicureans with 10 dining venues, including six open-seating, gourmet restaurants.