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Explora Journeys Partners with Chef Emma Bengtsson from Aquavit NYC on EXPLORA I

Explora Journeys Partners with Chef Emma Bengtsson from Aquavit NYC on EXPLORA I

New cruise line Explora Journeys has tapped chef Emma Bengtsson to bring her unique culinary creations to EXPLORA I‘s Anthology restaurant.

Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s luxury cruise line, has announced a partnership with renowned chef Emma Bengtsson and Aquavit NYC. The culinary collaboration will bring an innovative dining experience to cruisers aboard EXPLORA I.

Chef Emma Bengtsson’s distinctive culinary creations will take center stage at Anthology, one of the 11 dining venues offered on EXPLORA I. With the collaboration, Chef Bengtsson becomes the first female and US-based chef to showcase her talents at Anthology.

The Anthology restaurant aboard EXPLORA I (image courtesy of Explora Journeys)

Guests will have the privilege of savoring her curated menu from October through March, with the esteemed chef herself joining a 9-night sailing on October 3, 2023, from Québec to New York City.

Related: Explora Journeys Makes Debut in the US as EXPLORA I Sets Sail in NYC

About Chef Emma Bengtsson

Emma Bengtsson is celebrated for her innovative approach to classic dishes, drawing inspiration from Scandinavia and the vibrant flavors of New York City. Her culinary philosophy places a strong emphasis on sustainability and a deep respect for locally sourced ingredients.

A trailblazer for women in fine dining, Bengtsson is not only the first female Swedish chef but also the second US-based female chef whose restaurant was awarded two Michelin stars. Her commitment to simplicity and sustainability aligns with Explora Journeys’ ethos of sustainable, locally sourced dining experiences, creating what they call a ‘Culinary Ocean State of Mind.’

“Chef Bengtsson is an inspiration in the culinary world, and we couldn’t be more delighted to welcome her on board EXPLORA I. Anthology offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience for our guests, and we have already received outstanding feedback from our guests on this exceptional venue,” Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, said in a press release.

Chef Emma Bengtsson will create menus for EXPLORA I‘s Anthology restaurant (image courtesy of Explora Journeys)

Bengtsson also shared her enthusiasm, saying, “I’m thrilled to partner with Explora Journeys to create a menu that reflects the values I share with the brand. I have always had a deep appreciation for local cuisines and sustainably sourced ingredients, so I look forward to bringing these aspects to Anthology and showcasing progressive techniques combined with traditional fare for an outstanding dining experience.”

Chef Bengtsson’s menu at Anthology features local ingredients

Chef Bengtsson’s menu at Anthology will mirror the essence of her cuisine at Aquavit, emphasizing the use of top-notch ingredients and showcasing Scandinavian flavor profiles achieved through techniques like smoking, pickling, fermenting, and curing.

Chef Bengtsson’s Caviar and Potato dish at Aquavit (image courtesy of Explora Journeys)

EXPLORA I‘s Anthology restaurant is a culinary stage where guest chefs collaborate with Franck Garanger, Explora Journeys’ Head of Culinary, to craft menus that showcase global cuisines. Dishes are complemented by wine pairings curated by renowned winemakers.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with Chef Emma Bengtsson and her team at Aquavit to create this incredible menu for EXPLORA I’s guests. Showcasing the creative blend of Scandinavian influences and the vibrant flavours of New York City, this truly follows our ethos of connecting cultures and continents through culinary discoveries,” said Garanger.

Guests aboard EXPLORA I can anticipate a meticulously crafted menu featuring fresh ingredients primarily sourced from local producers.

Anthology is a for-a-fee specialty restaurant aboard EXPLORA I, and offers a tasting menu for $210 per person (€190). A wine pairing can be added to the meal for $82 per person (€75).

The restaurant offers both indoor and al fresco dining options in an intimate yet elevated atmosphere.

More news about Explora Journeys

What do you think of Chef Emma Bengtsson’s new partnership with Explora Journeys? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Carrie Ann Karstunen