Crystal is known for its ultra-luxury voyages and a strong gastronomy focus. Guests simply love Umi Uma by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. They’re also eagerly anticipating the new Beefbar by Riccardo Giraudi later this year. Now, Crystal is upping its gastronomic game via another new chef partnership.
Foodies will soon be savoring new Osteria d’Ovidio menu items created by Michelin-Star Chef Massimiliano Alajmo and his brother Raffaele Alajmo. (Photo of Osteria d’Ovidio above by Susan J. Young).
What’s to know? First, Massimiliano Alajmo is the youngest chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars. He’s also retained that honor for an unprecedented 22 years. Raffaele Alajmo is a culinary expert and maître des lieux of the Alajmo group. The two brothers own several acclaimed restaurants in Italy.
So, the new Osteria d’Ovidio menu items will focus on the heritage of Italian cuisine. Look for an approach that blends tradition and innovation. Crystal hasn’t yet revealed menu choices. The line says those will be unveiled at a later date.
But Crystal says the chef partners will work directly with Crystal’s culinary experts. One goal is to ensure that fresh, local ingredients and specialty items from Italy are sourced for all dishes. Also look for new specialty wine pairings for the chef-designed Osteria d’Ovidio choices.
New Gastronomy Focus: Beyond the Ship
“One appealing facet of this new culinary partnership also extends beyond the ships,” emphasizes Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel. “So, guests sailing on appropriate Mediterranean itineraries will also have options for dining at the Alajmos’ flagship restaurants in Italy.”
Here’s the scoop! Crystal’s sister brand Abercrombie & Kent will offer new shore excursions with a gastronomy focus. Those will take Crystal’s guests to Le Calandre in Padua and Grancaffe & Ristorante Quadri in Venice.
One highlight of the Venetian restaurant is its Quadri bar. That offers a collection of high-quality spirits and cocktails curated by Raffaele Alajmo who is a noted martini aficionado. How about a signature spritz made with Barbaresco Chinato and tonic water?
Gastronomy Focus: Overseeing 14 Restaurant Kitchens
Overall, Chef Massimiliano Alajmo oversees the kitchens of 14 restaurants. Besides the two eateries mentioned above, others are in Treviso (H-FARM) and Cortina, Italy, plus Paris, France, and Marrakech, Morocco.
In addition, Alajmo group has its own line of gastronomic products as well as an events company.
“We are incredibly honored to collaborate with Chef Massimiliano Alajmo and his brother Raffaele,” says Cristina Levis, CEO, A&K Travel Group. She adds: “Their culinary mastery aligns perfectly with our vision.” The goal, she says is to provide “unparalleled dining experiences to our guests.”
For more information on the Alajmo group, here’s the link to the culinary group’s website: To check out all of Crystal’s offerings, visit its website.
“And if you love a strong gastronomy focus on vacation, be sure to contact us,” says Pavlus’ Steudle. “We can assist in planning your perfect Crystal vacation. Just use the helpful contact information below.” Bon appetit on the high seas!
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