There are moments when the universe conspires to create perfection, and Crystal’s latest culinary venture may just be one such cosmic alignment. In a collaboration that promises to elevate maritime dining to stratospheric heights, the luxury cruise line has unveiled a new menu for Osteria d’Ovidio that bears the unmistakable touch of culinary royalty: the Alajmo brothers.
Massimiliano Alajmo – who made gastronomic history as the youngest chef ever to earn three Michelin stars—along with his brother and business partner Raffaele, have crafted a menu that transforms Crystal’s Italian dining venue into a floating temple of taste. Giovanni, Raffaele’s son, led this exceptional collaboration that will grace both Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony later this northern summer.
This partnership isn’t merely about new dishes; it’s a testament to Crystal’s unwavering pursuit of culinary excellence at sea. The Alajmo brothers join an already illustrious roster that includes Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma and Riccardo Giraudi’s Beefbar, cementing Crystal’s reputation as the patron saint of sophisticated palates.
“Each dish tells a story – of passion, artistry, and the finest ingredients – creating an unforgettable dining journey at sea.”
Gunter Lorenz – VP of Food & Beverage Operations.
Three new menus
The new Osteria d’Ovidio offers three distinct menus, each a different lens through which to view Italy’s rich culinary landscape. Guests can embark on a complete tasting journey or chart their own course through these sumptuous offerings.
The “Italia” menu celebrates the country’s most beloved classics – think perfectly executed Vitello Tonnato and a soul-warming Minestrone that seems to capture the very essence of an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.
For those seeking the pinnacle of Alajmo brilliance, “Le Calandre” features signature dishes from the family’s flagship restaurant, including the transcendent Tagliolini al Fumo – egg pasta with smoked butter that seems to evaporate on the tongue leaving only memories of intense flavour.
Perhaps most intriguing is the “Venezia” menu, where Chef Max Alajmo reimagines Venetian classics with characteristic flair. The Spaghetti AOP con Bloody Mary – a playful twist pairing traditional aglio, olio e peperoncino with a mini-Bloody Mary—embodies the brothers’ ability to honour tradition while fearlessly pushing boundaries.
“Each dish we’ve created for Osteria d’Ovidio is a chapter in a story. It’s about more than just flavors; it’s about creating an experience that lingers long after the meal is over.”
Raffaele Alajmo – Restaurateur.
Continue the culinary journey ashore
True devotees can extend their Alajmo experience beyond the ship through Abercrombie & Kent’s shore excursions to the family’s acclaimed restaurants – Le Calandre in Padua, Grancaffè & Ristorante Quadri in Venice, and Le Cementine in the Venetian countryside—completing a culinary pilgrimage that spans both land and sea.
As Crystal continues redefining what luxury dining means on the open ocean, one thing becomes abundantly clear: this is not simply food; it’s a journey through Italy’s most sublime tastes, guided by masters of their craft. Buon appetito, indeed.
For more information visit the Crystal website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
