The legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond Train, Europe has announced Jean Imbert as the new chef.
Belmond is welcoming a new gastronomic era with the appointment of Jean Imbert as the chef at the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Launching on the rails from the first journey of the 2022 season, Chef Imbert realises his dream of becoming part of the iconic train’s legacy, elevating the culinary experience for guests journeying through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes.
Blending the iconic train’s gastronomic heritage with his passion for fresh seasonal produce, prepared classically and with precision, Chef Imbert creates beautiful moments of culinary perfection in motion; from intimate celebrations in a private Grand Suite to an entire takeover of the train’s glamorous art-deco carriages.
Chef Imbert’s new concept spans all of the train’s culinary menus and experiences; from breakfast served in the comfort of guests’ cabin, to lunch, afternoon tea, and elegant canapés during aperitivo hour in 3674 Bar Car, the social heart of the train, and an exquisite dinner. In addition, indulgent ‘Cabin Service’ delicacies are served around the clock.
Jean has also re-designed the atmosphere and visual identity of the three 1920s restaurant cars, (L’Oriental, Etoile Du Nord, and Côte d’Azur), to reflect his vision whilst maintaining their golden era of travel look and feel. Collaborating with some of the most renowned interior experts. New mood lighting casts a warm, candle-lit glow across tables laid with crisp white tablecloths and sparkling silver cutlery, bespoke art-adorned French porcelain dinnerware and unique menu designs reflect the distinct colour palette and history of each carriage.
“To be written into the story of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a childhood dream come true. I genuinely feel as though the stars have aligned for me to have this once in a lifetime opportunity, and I am looking forward to sharing my deep passion for the train, through food, with our guests in this season and for years to come”, says Jean Imbert, Chef of Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond Train, Europe.
