John McGuire A shared passion for tradition, flavor and a love of celebration underscore an exclusive new partnership between Princess Cruises and the world’s most famous butcher, Dario Cecchini. This collaboration introduces a special new makeshift bistro, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, aboard the next-generation Sun Princess, premiering in February 2024.
Passed down from father to son from generation to generation, Cecchini has more than 48 years of experience. It is known worldwide for its butcher shop and restaurants in the Tuscan village of Panzano, Italy. Cecchini, protagonist of the popular Netflix series “Chef’s Table”, is known for his care and responsibility towards animals and for restoring respect for the butcher shop by processing all the cuts of meat he immersed himself in according to his grandmother’s recipes The person in love at the time was a child.
Dario’s Butcher’s Block on Deck 9 of the new Sun Princess comes to life with a special makeshift experience with a large family-style communal table serving carnivore heaven. This unique dining experience guarantees perfectly cooked grilled meats and steaks, including Cecchini’s signature cuts.
Additionally, the line’s signature steakhouse, Crown Grill, features a refined and exclusive menu by Cecchini. The coveted “Bistecca Alla Fiorentina” appears proudly on the menu; a characteristic Florentine steak, prepared on the bone, directly from the renowned butcher shop Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano.
“‘Princess’ culinary offering embodies Italy’s rich heritage and combines a shared passion for family recipes, vibrant convivial dining and a love of celebrating every day of life,” said Cecchini. “My life as an artisan butcher is of great importance because I have great respect for the gift of animals and ensure that it is showcased as customers enjoy my new restaurant and delicious menus while on board the magnificent Sun Princess sail around the world. “
In addition to Dario’s The Butcher’s Block and Crown Grill, which complement Sun Princess’ culinary offerings, previously announced specialty restaurants include modern sushi bar Kai Sushi; The Princess’s favorite Italian Trattoria Sabatini serves fresh Italian pasta and unique dishes; Umai Teppanyaki, another luxurious Sun Princess offering a combination of teppan cuisine and showmanship; and “The Catch by Rudi” by famous chef Rudi Sodamin with treasures from the sea.
“Princess is committed to providing the best experiences for guests of all cultures, tastes and preferences,” said Princess President John Padgett, “from fine dining to casual, from indulgent to healthy.” Guests will delight in the, what the Sun Princess brings to the table.
At Sun Princess, guests enjoy 29 new unique restaurants and lounges that offer delicious travel experiences, entertaining meals, savory sips and satisfying snacks. Also new to Sun Princess is Horizons, a three-story main dining room that takes the traditional main dining experience to a new level with beautiful views, natural light, artistic sculptures and unforgettable meals prepared by friendly staff.
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyards in Italy, the 175,500 ton capacity Sun Princess will accommodate 4,300 guests and will also feature a range of exciting new entertainment and activity offerings, as well as luxurious cabins and suites in a variety of categories.
With the most balconies and terraces on any Princess ship, guests can enjoy the sun and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean from the comfort of their own cabin. The Dome, a transformative entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy! It is the most technologically advanced development and design of the Princess Theater.
Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion that will extend Princess’ leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences typical of small ships while enjoying only the best large ship amenities.
Inaugural 2024 Sun Princess cruises to the Mediterranean, Europe and Caribbean are on sale now. Visit Cruise Trip planner to get booked on a Princess cruise!
