Oceania Cruises Brings Back Its Iconic French Dining Experience on the New Allura™ Ship
Oceania Cruises is elevating its onboard dining once again by reintroducing the celebrated French restaurant, Jacques, aboard its forthcoming vessel, Allura™, scheduled to debut in July 2025. Originally designed by the legendary Chef Jacques Pépin, this dining venue promises an exceptional culinary journey that honors the timeless elegance and rich heritage of French gastronomy. This eagerly awaited addition underscores Oceania’s dedication to delivering world-class gourmet experiences at sea, reinforcing its status as a pioneer in luxury cruise dining. As excitement builds for Allura™’s maiden voyage, epicureans and seasoned travelers alike are keen to experience how Jacques’ legacy will be reimagined within this sophisticated new setting.
Jacques Returns: A Masterpiece of French Cuisine on Board Allura™
The revival of Jacques aboard Oceania’s newest ship marks a triumphant return for one of cruising’s most beloved French restaurants. Known for its authentic flavors and refined ambiance inspired by classic Parisian bistros, Jacques offers guests an immersive taste of France at sea. The menu—meticulously crafted under Chef Pépin’s guidance—showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers whenever possible, ensuring freshness and sustainability.
Guests can anticipate signature dishes such as:
- French Onion Soup Gratinee – A heartwarming starter featuring slow-caramelized onions topped with melted Comté cheese.
- Confit de Canard – Succulent duck leg cooked low and slow until tender-crisp, paired with golden roasted potatoes.
- Crêpes Suzette Flambéed Tableside – Thin pancakes bathed in a zesty orange liqueur sauce ignited before your eyes.
Beyond exquisite cuisine, Jacques boasts an interior design that evokes the charm of a traditional Paris café while incorporating modern touches to create an inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners or celebratory gatherings.
Savoring Authenticity: Signature Plates & The Essence of Dining at Jacques
As anticipation grows ahead of Allura™’s launch next summer, Oceania Cruises proudly reinstates Jacques—a tribute to Chef Pépin’s culinary artistry that invites guests into a world where tradition meets innovation. Diners will enjoy expertly prepared classics reflecting France’s diverse regional flavors alongside contemporary interpretations designed to delight modern palates.
Highlighted menu selections include:
- Boeuf Bourguignon – Tender beef braised slowly in robust Burgundy wine with pearl onions and mushrooms.
- Escargots à la Bourguignonne – Delicate snails baked under garlic-herb butter crusts.
- Tarte Tatin aux Pommes – Caramelized upside-down apple tart served warm with crème fraîche dollops.
- Lorraine Quiche Traditionnelle – A savory custard pie filled with smoky bacon lardons and Gruyère cheese.
Dining at Jacques transcends mere food; it embodies the spirit of French culture through impeccable service paired with thoughtfully curated wines from renowned regions such as Bordeaux (red blends ideal for duck dishes), Burgundy (Chardonnay complementing seafood), and Champagne (sparkling wines perfect alongside fresh oysters). This harmonious blend ensures every meal is not only delicious but also culturally enriching.
| Wine Region | Description & Style | Savory Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux | Sophisticated red blends featuring Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon | Duck Confit & Beef Bourguignon |
| Burgundy | Crisp Chardonnay highlighting minerality & fruitiness | Bouillabaisse & Escargots |
| Champagne | < td >Elegant sparkling wines offering bright acidity td >< td >Fresh Oysters & Crêpes Suzette td > tr >