Inside the QE2 Kitchen: The Chefs Behind the Extraordinary Menus of Around the World in 80 Days
- Details
- Category: East/West Europe A&E, Lifestyle, Culture
- Published on Friday, 10 October 2025 13:41
- Written by Euro Contributing Editor
As the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) continues her extraordinary culinary journey Around the World in 80 Days, the ship's galley has become a meeting place for cultures, flavours, and talent elevating dining to a sensory experience.
Behind every menu is a story, not only of taste and tradition but of collaboration, as celebrated chefs from diverse destinations join Executive Chef Erwan Stadler aboard the legendary liner to create a unique culinary exchange.
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Chef Erwan Stadler, Executive Chef of the Queen Elizabeth 2, said: "One Ship, Eighty Destinations, Infinite Flavours. This isn't just a dining experience; it is a cultural conversation through food. Each guest chef brings the spirit of their homeland into our kitchen, and together we honour the ship's legacy of connecting the world."
With over 25 years of experience in the luxury restaurant and hospitality industry, Chef Erwan has led acclaimed kitchens across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including Germany, the UAE, the UK, Seychelles, France, Thailand, and Antigua. Known for his precision, creativity, and passion for culinary storytelling, he oversees the ambitious Around the World in 80 Days programme, curating menus that celebrate authenticity while embracing innovation.
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Under his direction, the QE2's historic Queens Grill has transformed into an ever-evolving culinary stage, each night echoing a new destination, a new culture, and a new chapter in the ship's storied legacy.
A Voyage of Culinary Collaboration
Throughout October and the months ahead, the QE2 welcomes a roster of acclaimed guest chefs whose menus celebrate authenticity, heritage, and creativity, reflecting the essence of Around the World in 80 Days.
Sunday, 12 October – Manila, Philippines | Chef Naimas Dobo
Chef Naimas Dobo brings the comforting soul of Filipino cuisine to Dubai, reinterpreting family recipes with subtle refinement. Diners can expect Ensaladang Mangga, Filipino Chicken Adobo, and Leche Flan with Turon, a loving tribute to the warmth of Manila's kitchens.
Monday, 20 October – Cartagena, Colombia | Chef Andres
From Colombia's colourful coast, Chef Andres introduces diners to the rhythm of Latin flavour, vibrant ceviches, smoky plantain dishes, and bold spice pairings that capture Cartagena's multicultural roots blending Spanish, African, and Indigenous influences.
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Monday, 27 October – Mahé, Seychelles | Chef Daniel
Representing the Indian Ocean's islands, Chef Daniel's menu celebrates freshness and simplicity, think Octopus Salad, chicken marinated in creole spices, coconut curries, and tropical desserts. Each bite evokes the gentle breeze and turquoise waters of the Seychelles.
Thursday, 30 October – Piraeus, Greece | Chef Panagiotis Raptopoulos ("Chef Panous")
From Dubai's acclaimed Ammos Greek Restaurant, Chef Panous brings his mastery of Greek cuisine to the QE2. Renowned for blending authenticity with innovation, his dishes celebrate the sun-kissed Greek flavours that transport guests to Piraeus. "Greek cuisine is about joy, sharing, and memory," says Chef Panous. "To represent Greece aboard the QE2, a ship that once sailed past our shores, is deeply meaningful, it's a return journey through flavour."
Beyond October — Culinary Horizons Ahead
The voyage continues with distinguished guest chefs in the months to follow: Some highlights include:
Friday, 21 November – Mombasa, Kenya | Chef Mohamed 'Moha' Yakat
Executive Chef at Jiko in Nairobi, Chef Moha's story is one of passion and perseverance. From steward to master chef, he honed his skills along Kenya's coast in Lamu and Malindi. His dishes celebrate Africa's spice-rich traditions that honour his homeland's bold flavours.
Sunday, 30 November – Port Suez, Egypt | Chef Mahmoud
Chef Mahmoud's creations evoke the timeless elegance of Egyptian cuisine, ranging from Hawawshi (Egyptian Meat-stuffed Pita bread) to Egyptian Fatta and Basbousa Mosaic with Rosewater Cream and Pomegranate Molasses Reduction.
Friday, 5 December – La Rochelle, France | Chef Sylvain
Chef Sylvain brings French finesse from La Rochelle's Atlantic coast — featuring delicate seafood, rich sauces, and classic patisserie, perfectly fitting the QE2's 80-day odyssey with the sophistication of France.
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Around the World in 80 Days runs from 1 October to 19 December 2025 at Queens Grill, once reserved for first-class passengers. With limited seating each evening, advance bookings are strongly recommended.
Venue: Queens Grill, Queen Elizabeth 2, Mina Rashid, Dubai
Dates: 1 October – 19 December 2025
Price: AED 125 per person including a three-course menu and one signature mocktail or cocktail
Children: Under 6 dine free; ages 6–12 enjoy 50% off
For reservations & Inquiries
Phone: +971 4 526 8835
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Visit: https://www.qe2.com/offers/around-the-world-in-80-days/
About Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, Managed by Accor
Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, managed by Accor, is a historic gem and the only floating hotel in emirates. Located in Port Rashid, in close proximity to Dubai's main attractions and shopping malls, its 447 renovated rooms and suites are carefully decorated, offering a peaceful retreat to relax and unwind.
Guests are invited to embark on a culinary voyage through the hotel's diverse dining offerings, including Lido, an all-day dining restaurant; The Golden Lion, Dubai's oldest pub; The Pavilion, an alfresco lounge; and the Queens Grill, renowned for its classic Afternoon Tea experience.
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For those seeking an event with a difference, the iconic QE2 offers multiple one-of-a-kind venues in Dubai. Included in its facilities are unique indoor and outdoor event spaces. Whether you are planning a birthday bash, an anniversary party, a wedding celebration, or any other social or corporate functions, the QE2 provides an inspiring and impressive backdrop that will delight your guests.
For reservations & Inquiries
Call +971 4 526 8888 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Or visit https://www.qe2.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/qe2dubai
Instagram: www.instagram.com/qe2dubai
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/qe2dubai