Big news for foodies sailing with Holland America Line: Rudi’s Sel de Mer, already a favorite for its French-inspired fine dining, is getting a Mediterranean twist! Starting this month aboard the Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Koningsdam, this intimate dining venue will transform into a chic Mediterranean bistro. Think coastal charm, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors straight from Italy, France, Spain, and Greece.

Holland America Line’s culinary team, under the guidance of the restaurant’s namesake, Chef Rudi Sodamin, has revamped the menu with Mediterranean classics and a focus on vibrant, light cuisine. Plus, new table settings will add to the relaxed-yet-elegant vibe—perfect for unwinding after a day exploring port cities.

Council Chairman Rudi Sodamin is the creative culinary artist and master chef for Holland America Line. Internationally recognized as a food authority and one of the cruise industry's most innovative chefs, Sodamin is a member of the Academy Culinaire de France, Maîtres Cuisiners de France and Honorary Member Club des Chefs des Chefs. Sodamin has published several cookbooks, including the best-selling “A Taste of Excellence,” “A Taste of Elegance” and “A Taste of Celebration.”

Rudi’s Sel de Mer Menu

Whether you’re all about fresh seafood, love a perfectly cooked steak, or prefer plant-based dishes, the new menu has something to tempt every palate. Here’s a peek at what’s waiting for you at Rudi’s Sel de Mer:

Starters to Set the Mood

Start your meal with one of these flavorful appetizers:

  • Burrata and Prosciutto with cherry tomatoes, thyme, and olive oil
  • Nicoise Salad featuring seared tuna and a preserved lemon oil dressing
  • Warm Garlic Shrimp swimming in olive oil, butter, lemon, and basil
  • Foie Gras Torchon paired with fruit chutney and toasted baguette
  • Roasted Baby Beets topped with pomegranate, Labneh Salad, and balsamic reduction
  • Wild Mushroom Soup elevated with truffle oil, crème fraîche, and a scallion churro

Main Courses That Steal the Show

The mains are where the Mediterranean inspiration truly shines. Highlights include:

  • Greek Spiced Lamb Chops served with lemon chickpea purée, fava beans, and garlic jus
  • Seafood Cioppino loaded with crab, squid, shrimp, scallops, mussels, and grouper
  • Fresh Spaghetti Fruits de Mer featuring a medley of tiger prawns, crab, scallops, mussels, and clams in a rich tomato sauce
  • Vegetable Bourguignonne for plant-based diners, made with mushrooms, carrots, shallots, red wine, and miso-celeriac purée
  • Duck Breast À L’Orange with caramelized orange segments and thyme for a sweet-savory delight
  • Bone-In Striploin complemented by chanterelles, confit potatoes, and a Shiraz reduction

Desserts That Wow

End your meal with one of these decadent creations:

  • Chocolate Hazelnut Volcano with raspberries and Frangelico cream
  • Salted Caramel St. Honoré featuring vanilla puff pastry and chantilly
  • Floating Island with chocolate crème anglaise and toasted pistachios
  • Warm Strawberry Tarte Tatin draped in caramel and crème fraîche
  • House-made sorbet and gelato of the day
  • An artisan cheese plate served with walnut bread and fig chutney

Don’t forget to pair your meal with a side of bistro fries or gratin potatoes for the ultimate experience.

Rudi's Sel de Mer on Holland America Line's Rotterdam
Rudi’s Sel de Mer on Holland America Line’s Rotterdam

How Much Does It Cost?

Dining at Rudi’s Sel de Mer comes with a $55 supplemental charge per person—but if you’ve opted for the “Have It All” premium cruise package“Have It All” premium cruise package, it’s already included.

 

The Holland America Have It All Package: Everything You Need to Know

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