La Dolce Vita Orient Express appoints decorated chef to lead culinary programme

La Dolce Vita Orient Express has appointed decorated chef Heinz Beck to lead the train’s culinary programme ahead of its launch next spring.

German-born Beck is renowned for his interpretations of Italian cuisine and oversees Rome’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, La Pergola.

Cuisine on the 1970s and 1980s-inspired train will “honour Italy’s diverse culinary heritage”, with each of the eight itineraries out of Rome featuring a “personalised menu celebrating regional specialties, from Sicilian arancini to Venetian tiramisu”.

Samy Ghachem, general manager of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, said: “The appointment of chef Heinz Beck represents a remarkable alignment of vision and excellence. His unparalleled culinary mastery, innovative blend of tradition and modernity, and ability to craft unforgettable dining experiences perfectly embody the essence of la dolce vita.

"Under his expert guidance, dining aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express will be a grand celebration of Italy’s gastronomic diversity, and we have the utmost confidence that he will create something truly exceptional for our guests."

Beck added: "The La Dolce Vita Orient Express project represents for me and the Beck and Maltese Consulting team a wonderful opportunity to create a new path to disclose the Italian gastronomy culture. Guests will have the chance to discover our beautiful country not only through its landscapes but also through our menus: from the early morning until the midnight snacks.

"We want to spread the Made in Italy knowledge in a new way, showcasing the different traditions of each region so the passengers will be able to create a stronger and deeper connection with the territory.”

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is on sale now. One-night itineraries start from €3,500 per person in a deluxe cabin and €4,700 per person in a suite.

The launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express will be followed by the openings of the first two Orient Express hotels: Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice.