New Era for Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Belmond unveils a new gastronomic era for the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe, with the appointment of Jean Imbert as head chef of the world’s most famous train. 

Chef Imbert realizes his dream of becoming part of the iconic train’s legacy. His vision is to elevate the culinary experience for guests journeying through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. 

A Culinary Voyage: Simplicity Perfected
Blending this 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’ own cabin, to lunch, afternoon tea, 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 color palette and history of each carriage. 

Seasonality and Provenance
Cementing existing relationships with local farmers and producers, while forging new connections with specialist artisans along the route, Chef Imbert will transform the finest ingredients into original menus over the course of the train’s calendar, as the seasons change. 

A Story Written with Passion 
“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, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe. 

Pascal Deyrolle, General Manager, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe says, “We are so excited to be inviting Jean Imbert to cast his creative magic on the entire culinary offering onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Sophisticated dining is a key pillar of the journey, and our guests build special memories around the food they eat, from breakfast in their cabins, to the formal dinner on board. Jean Imbert is bringing a new level of culinary excellence – keeping the legend and mystery of the world’s most famous train alive.” 

About Belmond 
Belmond has been a pioneer of luxury travel for 46 years, building a passion for authentic escapes into a portfolio of one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring destinations. 

Since the acquisition of the iconic Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has continued to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, taking discerning global travelers on breathtaking journeys. Its portfolio extends across 24 countries with 45 remarkable properties that include the illustrious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, remote beach retreats like Cap Juluca in Anguilla; Italian hideaways such as Splendido in Portofino; or unrivaled gateways to world natural wonders such as Hotel das Cataratas inside Brazil’s Iguazu National Park. From trains to river barges, safari lodges to hotels, each unique property offers an incomparable experience with its own story to tell. The essence of the Belmond brand is built upon its heritage, craftsmanship and genuine, authentic service. Belmond sees its role as custodians of timeless heritage, dedicated to preserving its assets through sensitive ongoing restoration plans. Belmond is part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.