Oceania Cruises appoints its two Master Chefs from France, Chef Alexis Quaretti and Chef Eric Barale, as executive culinary directors.
They succeed Jacques Pépin, legendary chef and founding father of Oceania Cruises' culinary philosophy, The Finest Cuisine at Sea.
Pépin will remain a crucial part of Oceania Cruises in his new role as executive culinary advisor. He will also continue to collaborate with Oceania Cruises through the important philanthropic work of the Jacques Pépin Foundation. Oceania Cruises has been a key partner and supporter of the foundation since its inception.
“It is truly extraordinary to have two Master Chefs from France leading our culinary team,” said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “Chefs Alex and Eric represent the next generation of our culinary innovation and will continue to evolve our gastronomic history, carrying on Jacques’ incredible legacy.”
Jacques Pépin commented: “I am very proud to pass the torch to these two phenomenally talented chefs who have worked alongside me for the past twenty years. It is a true pleasure to see the culinary innovation of the line flourish year after year, and I look forward to continuing to champion Chefs Alex and Eric by being here for any advice or guidance they may need. I am eager to dedicate more time to my charitable projects through the Jacques Pépin Foundation.”
Oceania Cruises is the only cruise line that has two Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, as both Chef Alex and Chef Eric have been included in the prestigious ranking of Maîtres Cuisiniers de France.
Both chefs are long-time members of the culinary team; Eric was one of the first members of the Oceania Cruises culinary family, and Alex joined shortly thereafter in 2004. Their complementary skills, experience, and shared vision create a perfect partnership to protect and further develop the line's culinary heritage.
“With the launch of Allura in 2025, we will have eight ships in the fleet and more than 40 restaurants constantly cruising the world, and having these two talented culinary chief executives at the helm means we can maintain our laser focus on serving The Best Cuisine at Sea,” Del Rio added.
Chefs Alex and Eric will join a cast of world-renowned chefs attending the upcoming Jacques Pépin Foundation Gala taking place in New York on April 4.
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