Explora Journeys partners with Chef Claude Le Tohic to curate culinary experience

Explora Journeys has partnered with Chef Claude Le Tohic, a Chef-Partner of O' by Claude Le Tohic in San Francisco, to curate a new culinary experience for guests on board EXPLORA I.

His experience features multiple Michelin-starred establishments, including Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand where he earned three Michelin stars.

Anthology – a one-of-a-kind dining experience aboard EXPLORA I – introduces Le Tohic as the venue’s latest guest chef.

Every three to four months, Explora, MSC Group’s new luxury lifestyle brand, reveals a new partnership at this special experience – the only restaurant on board the 461-suite vessel that costs extra.

Chef Claude Le Tohic is the third guest chef to showcase his culinary talents at Anthology, one of 11 culinary experiences on board the ship.

Guests can enjoy his curated menu from March until June 2024.

VIDEO: “We needed something like this”: Agents unpack EXPLORA I's "homes at sea" with Explora Journeys

"As we continue to redefine luxury ocean travel, Anthology stands as a testament to our commitment to delivering unparalleled culinary experiences at sea. Chef Claude Le Tohic's presence elevates this series to new heights, bringing a harmonious fusion of French sophistication and West Coast flavours onboard EXPLORA I,” said Alban Gjoka, vice-president of food and beverages at Explora Journeys.

Collaborating with Gjoka and Franck Garanger, Explora Journeys' Head of Culinary, Chef Le Tohic introduces signature dishes that celebrate modern French cuisine, blending classic techniques with California's finest produce. 

Highlights on the menu include: Cannelloni of Scallop with an extravagance of black truffles, Parmesan foam and pastoral salad or his signature A5 Japanese Wagyu vegetables bouquet with black garlic condiment.

Chef Le Tohic's culinary journey began in Northern France, where he honed his skills at multiple Michelin-starred establishments, including Jamin, Chef Robuchon's first three Michelin-star restaurant in Paris.

READ MORE: On Location: “Ocean state of mind,” activated - PAX, agents unpack EXPLORA I with Explora Journeys

Claude Le Tohic, inspired by the mantra "Cook as if you were doing it for your loved ones. Make sure to infuse it with passion," conveyed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating in a news release: "I am delighted to partner with Explora Journeys in crafting a menu that resonates with the principles I hold dear. My passion for regional flavours and responsibly sourced ingredients aligns perfectly with the ethos of the brand.”

"I anticipate infusing Anthology with innovative culinary methods intertwined with time-honoured recipes, promising an exceptional dining venture imbued with heartfelt passion."

Anthology costs $190 Euros (about $283 CAD) per person or $265 Euros (about $395 CAD) per person if you include a wine pairing option.

EXPLORA I will spend the spring in North America and the Caribbean Sea before returning to the Mediterranean for summer 2024. 

PAX had an opportunity to experience EXPLORA I with travel advisors in late 2023. Click here to read our coverage.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.