The Experience Heralds the Era of the Rat Pack, and the Cuisine Takes Center Stage

Tunes from the American Songbook Crystal Serenity’s Show Band and featured vocalist, Ballroom Dance Quartet that are reminiscent of the Sinatra and Martin heyday set the stage for the ultimate “dinner and a show” experience. The mood in the ship’s elegant Stardust Club is set, the lights dimmed, and the linens pressed as the star of Episode 11 of “Crystal Cruises Presents: A Culinary Journey Hosted by Jon Ashton” steps into the spotlight. The cuisine in any one of Crystal Serenity’s globally-inspired eateries is a highlight of the journey, masterfully prepared to showcase the flavors of the world with a gourmet twist that is decidedly Crystal. But in this episode, and on select “Black Tie Optional” evenings on Crystal Serenity voyages of eight days or more, it’s the atmosphere reminiscent of days of Sinatra that shines.

Watch as Chef Jon Ashton and Crystal’s own expert chefs create a menu that also pays homage to this era, featuring specially prepared caviar, perfectly pink beef tenderloin, Chilean sea bass, decadent chocolate truffle cake and several other mouthwatering accoutrements. Executive Chef Werner Brenner, Chef de Cuisine David George and Executive Pastry chef Harold Neufang all lend their creativity to the classic dishes of the event.

The episode offers a glimpse into the back-of-the-house preparations beyond the cuisine as well, guided by assistant cruise director, Raphael Derkson, through the many details that make the evening magical for guests. The result of all of these preparations, culinary and otherwise, will take you back to the days when swing was king, black-tie was common for dinner on the town and champagne and good times flowed freely.

Keep following the Crystal Insider as Chef Jon and Crystal Cruises’ culinary team explore the flavors and signature cuisines of the world aboard Crystal Serenity.