Windstar Cruises Introduces Basil + Bamboo: A Fusion of Mediterranean and Asian Cuisines
Windstar Cruises is elevating its culinary offerings with the introduction of Basil + Bamboo, a new dining experience that blends Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. This innovative concept will make its debut aboard the Star Breeze this month before expanding across the fleet in 2025. It will also be a key attraction on Windstar’s newest yacht, the Star Seeker, set to launch in December.
Basil + Bamboo promises an intimate dinner experience where guests can savor fusion flavors. The menu features a diverse array of dishes, including:
- Miso soup
- Tuna tartare
- Sampler of sashimi, nigiri, and maki
- Miso black cod with pea purée
- Jamón ibérico de Bellota with pickled wood ear mushrooms
- Free-range young chicken served with artichokes and yuzu kosho
For dessert, guests can indulge in citrus olive oil cake with lemon cream or chocolate caramel crémeux paired with ginger-cinnamon hibiscus ice cream topped with sake caviar.
Stijn Creupelandt, Windstar’s Chief Operations Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to exceptional dining: “In introducing Basil + Bamboo, we’re striving to continue offering our guests exceptional dining that complements the luxurious feel of our vessels.” Aligning with the James Beard Foundation, Windstar’s onboard experiences will guide diners through varied flavors.
On Star Seeker, guests will also have access to four other dining options, including the main room Amphora, the casual Yacht Club, and the Star Grill. A 24-hour complimentary room service menu is also available, ensuring a diverse culinary journey throughout the cruise.
A Closer Look at Basil + Bamboo’s Culinary Experience
Dining at Basil + Bamboo offers an exclusive atmosphere with limited seating, making reservations essential. The menu showcases a thoughtful fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors, starting with appetizers like miso soup and tuna tartare. Sushi enthusiasts can enjoy a sampler plate of sashimi, nigiri, and maki.
Main entrees include standout dishes such as:
- Miso black cod with pea purée
- Jamón ibérico de Bellota paired with pickled wood ear mushrooms
- Free-range young chicken with Jerusalem artichokes and yuzu kosho
For dessert, guests can indulge in:
- Citrus olive oil cake with lemon cream
- Chocolate caramel crémeux with ginger-cinnamon hibiscus ice cream and sake caviar
Have you ever wondered how these unique flavor combinations are created? The chefs at Basil + Bamboo carefully balance traditional ingredients with innovative techniques to craft each dish, resulting in a truly memorable dining experience.
Enhancing Windstar’s Culinary Landscape
Basil + Bamboo enhances Windstar’s diverse culinary landscape, complementing established venues such as Amphora, The Yacht Club, and Star Grill. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience:
- Amphora: Features a rotating menu crafted by James Beard guest chefs
- The Yacht Club: Offers a relaxed setting for casual bites
- Star Grill: Focuses on barbecued and grilled delicacies, providing a distinct smoky offering
The inclusion of 24-hour room service aboard the Star Seeker and other vessels allows guests to enjoy meals from the comfort of their suites. This service enhances Windstar’s commitment to personalized experiences.
By integrating Basil + Bamboo into its dining options, Windstar diversifies its culinary offerings and merges Mediterranean and Asian flavors. This addition invites guests to explore global cuisines throughout their voyage, creating a truly immersive dining experience at sea.
What new flavors are you most excited to try on your next cruise?
- Windstar Cruises. New Ships. Windstar Cruises website.
- Windstar Cruises. Dining Choices. Windstar Cruises website.