Cover Chef Jean Imbert (Photo: Boby Allin)

Belmond has announced that chef Jean Imbert, of Plaza Athénée fame, is coming on board as chef for Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train

Belmond has announced that Jean Imbert will come on board the world's most famous train—Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train—as its new Chef.

Imbert is certainly having a moment. In January, he took over from Alain Ducasse at the iconic Plaza Athénée restaurant in Paris. And in March, he was appointed as the chef at Monsieur Dior, the new in-store restaurant on Avenue Montaigne.

With Belmond, Imbert will create beautiful culinary experiences for passengers as they travel through some Europe's most spectacular landscapes—whether it's an exquisite private dinner in one of the Grand Suites, canapés during aperitivo hour in the 3674 Bar Car or a celebratory takeover of the train's art-deco carriages. 

Imbert has also redesigned the atmosphere and aesthetics of the three 1920s restaurant cars on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Named L’Oriental, Etoile Du Nord, and Côte d’Azur, the reimagined spaces will be a reflection of the 40-year-old chef's contemporary vision whilst paying homage to the train's golden era of travel. Think mood lighting, and French porcelain dinnerware adorned with custom artwork. 

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So what's on the menu? Imbert, who is known for his elegant take on seasonal cooking, will harness his relationships with local farmers and producers while forging new connections with artisans along the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express route, transforming the finest ingredients into one-of-a-kind menus as the seasons, regions and cuisine change along the way. 

“To be written into the story of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a childhood dream come true," says Imbert. "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."