A shared passion for tradition, flavour and celebration underpins a new exclusive partnership between Princess Cruises and the world’s most famous butcher, Dario Cecchini. The collaboration introduces a new speciality improvised bistro, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, on board the next-generation Sun Princess, which will debut in February 2024.
Passed down from father to son for eight generations and with more than 48 years of experience, Cecchini is known around the world for its butchery and restaurants in the Tuscan village of Panzano, Italy. Featured on Netflix’s popular Chef’s Table, Cecchini is known for his care and responsibility for animals and for bringing respect back to butchery by using all cuts of meat and using his grandmother’s recipes, which he fell in love with as a boy.
The Butcher’s Block by Dario, located on Deck 9 of the new Sun Princess, comes to life as an impromptu speciality experience with a large, communal, family-style table serving up a carnivore’s paradise. This specialty dining experience promises perfectly grilled beef and steak, including Cecchini’s signature cuts.
In addition, the cruise line’s signature steakhouse, Crown Grill, will feature a refined, upscale menu designed by Cecchini. The menu proudly features the coveted “Bistecca Alla Fiorentina”, a distinctive Florentine steak prepared on the bone and sourced directly from the prestigious Antica Macelleria Cecchini butchery in Panzano.
“Princess’ culinary offerings embody a rich Italian heritage, combining a shared passion for family recipes, vibrant social dining and a love of celebrating every day of life,” said Cecchini. “My life as an artisan butcher is deeply meaningful because I have a deep respect for the gift of the animal and I make sure that this shines through when guests enjoy my new restaurant and the delicious menus that sail around the world on the beautiful Sun Princess.”
In addition to The Butcher’s Block by Dario and Crown Grill, which elevate Sun Princess’ culinary offerings, previously announced specialty restaurants include Kai Sushi, a modern sushi bar; Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, a Princess favourite serving freshly made Italian pastas and unique dishes; Umai Teppanyaki, another Sun Princess exclusive offering a fusion of teppan cuisine and showmanship; and The Catch by Rudi, by renowned chef Rudi Sodamin, featuring treasures from the sea.
“Princess is committed to creating the finest experiences for guests of all cultures, tastes and preferences,” said John Padgett, President, Princess. “From fine dining to casual, from indulgent to healthy, guests will love what Sun Princess brings to the table.”
Throughout Sun Princess, guests will be treated to 29 new and distinctive dining and lounge options, offering savoury journeys, entertaining dinners, sumptuous sips and satisfying snacks. Also new to Sun Princess is Horizons, the three-level main dining room that elevates the traditional main dining experience with stunning views, natural light, art sculptures and memorable service from friendly waiters.
The 175,500-tonne, 4,300-guest Sun Princess, currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, will also offer an array of exciting new entertainment and activities, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites in a wide range of categories.
With the most balconies and sun decks of any Princess ship, guests can enjoy the sunshine and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean from the comfort of their stateroom. The Dome, a transformative entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, is the perfect place to relax, and Arena! is an evolution and the most technologically advanced Princess theatre design.
Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion, extending Princess’ leadership position in providing the exceptional personalised experiences typical of small ships while enjoying only the best amenities of large ships.