What are the new restaurants on Oceania Sonata? Here’s everything we know about La Table and Nikkei Kitchen, debuting August 2027.
Oceania Cruises has long held the title of serving “The Finest Cuisine at Sea,” and with the upcoming debut of Oceania Sonata in August 2027, the luxury cruise line is doubling down on that promise. The first vessel in the all-new Sonata Class will introduce two never-before-seen dining experiences that push the boundaries of what’s possible in shipboard gastronomy: La Table par Maîtres Cuisiniers de France and Nikkei Kitchen.
These additions represent more than just new restaurants. They signal a bold new chapter for a cruise line that has built its entire identity around culinary excellence and destination-rich itineraries.
Having recently sailed aboard Oceania Allura during her pre-inaugural voyage, we experienced firsthand why Oceania has earned its reputation for exceptional dining. From the veal Milanese at Toscana to the olive oil sommelier service and perfectly prepared sea bass at Red Ginger, every meal reinforced why food-focused travelers choose Oceania over other premium cruise lines. The announcement of La Table and Nikkei Kitchen suggests that Oceania Sonata will raise that bar even higher.
La Table: The Only Restaurant at Sea Endorsed by the Master Chefs of France
La Table par Maîtres Cuisiniers de France is being billed as “the most exclusive fine-dining restaurant at sea,” and the credentials back up that claim. It will be the only restaurant at sea approved by the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France (MCF), the prestigious institution dedicated to promoting French culinary arts for over a century.
What makes this even more remarkable is that Oceania’s executive culinary directors, Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale, have both been inducted into the MCF. This makes Oceania the only cruise line in the world with two Master Chefs of France overseeing its culinary program. That level of expertise doesn’t exist anywhere else on the water.
The intimate 18-seat venue will feature a rotation of menus created by Chefs Quaretti and Barale in collaboration with specially invited Master Chefs of France from around the world. A wine experience surcharge will apply for La Table, setting it apart from Oceania’s other included specialty restaurants.
For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, La Table will also host the Dom Pérignon Experience, a six-course tasting menu paired with three vintage champagnes from the legendary house.
Chef Quaretti shared his passion for the project: “These restaurants are not just simply new onboard venues; they are the embodiment of Chef Barale’s and my shared dedication to our culinary craft, and we are so excited to share more about these special experiences in the coming months. La Table has allowed us to create a dining experience that honours the heritage of French gastronomy, a cuisine that we are passionate about, and propels it forward. With the addition of Nikkei Kitchen, we’re able to celebrate bold, global flavours in unexpected, fresh ways.”
Nikkei Kitchen: Where Peru Meets Japan
The second new concept, Nikkei Kitchen, draws inspiration from a fascinating culinary tradition that emerged in the late 19th century when Japanese immigrants settled in Peru. They began adapting traditional Japanese recipes with native Peruvian ingredients, and an entirely new cuisine was born. Now Oceania is bringing this dynamic flavor profile to sea.
Developed in collaboration with chef Gustavo Sugay, who brings more than 20 years of experience in Nikkei cuisine, the menu will highlight fresh seafood, bright citrus, umami-rich soy-based sauces, and the distinctive heat of Peruvian peppers. Sugay is no stranger to Oceania guests; he has already introduced a collection of 12 Nikkei dishes to the line’s signature pan-Asian restaurant, Red Ginger, over the past year. The dedicated Nikkei Kitchen aboard Sonata represents the natural evolution of that successful experimentation.
The restaurant’s bright and airy interior will feature a modern, open kitchen design that echoes the fresh, light dishes served each evening. It’s a space built to celebrate the time-honored customs of both Peruvian and Japanese cultures while embracing culinary experimentation.
Nikkei Kitchen will be a capacity-controlled experience that remains part of Oceania’s always-included specialty dining options, available on a first-come basis with no reservations required. This accessibility reflects the cruise line’s commitment to delivering exceptional value alongside exceptional food.
Oceania: Building on a Legacy of Culinary Excellence
Oceania Sonata will feature a total of twelve dining venues, blending beloved favorites with these innovative new concepts. In addition to La Table and Nikkei Kitchen, returning restaurants include Jacques, the sophisticated French restaurant that has become a fleet favorite; Red Ginger, serving pan-Asian cuisine with bold flavors; Polo Grill, the classic American steakhouse; and Toscana, featuring Italian specialties in an elegant setting. The elegant Grand Dining Room will continue to serve as the ship’s main restaurant, offering open-seating breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Casual options round out the lineup with venues like Terrace Cafe, Waves, and the popular Baristas coffee bar.
Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, emphasized the significance of these additions: “Oceania Sonata represents an incredible opportunity to reimagine the future of our culinary programme, while still offering the culinary concepts our guests know and love. La Table and Nikkei Kitchen are emblematic of what sets Oceania Cruises apart, thanks to our ability to pair world-class culinary talent with the creative freedom that results in unforgettable dining experiences. These new culinary concepts reflect our continued commitment to innovation, and our commitment to serve The Finest Cuisine at Sea.”
The Sonata Class: A New Era for Oceania Cruises
Oceania Sonata marks the beginning of an ambitious expansion for the luxury cruise line. As the first of four Sonata Class vessels scheduled for delivery in 2027, 2029, 2032, and 2035, this ship represents the next evolution of Oceania’s small-ship luxury experience. At 1,390 guests, these will be the largest ships in the Oceania Cruises fleet while still maintaining the intimate atmosphere that loyal guests have come to expect.
The vessel is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, continuing a partnership that has produced some of the most acclaimed luxury cruise ships afloat, including Oceania Marina, Oceania Riviera, Oceania Vista, and the recently launched Oceania Allura. When Oceania Sonata debuts in August 2027, she will become the ninth vessel in the fleet and set new standards for what guests can expect from upper-premium cruising.
Thirty percent of staterooms aboard Oceania Sonata will be suites, offering even more guests the opportunity to experience the highest levels of onboard luxury and personalized service. The ship will also feature new suite categories and expanded casual dining areas, responding to guest feedback about wanting more relaxed dining options on longer voyages.
Your World Included: What’s Included on Oceania Cruises?
What makes Oceania’s culinary program even more compelling is the cruise line’s “Your World Included” value promise. Unlike many cruise lines that charge premiums for specialty dining, Oceania includes all of its gourmet restaurants in the cruise fare, meaning guests can dine at venues like Nikkei Kitchen, Jacques, Red Ginger, Polo Grill, and Toscana without paying a penny extra. (La Table, with its exclusive MCF endorsement and intimate 18-seat format, will carry a wine experience surcharge.)
The inclusive experience extends well beyond dining. Here’s what’s included on every Oceania Cruises voyage:
- All specialty restaurants (except La Table on Sonata)
- Shipboard gratuities for stateroom attendants, butlers, and dining staff
- Unlimited Starlink WiFi throughout the ship
- Specialty coffees, sodas, and cold-pressed juices
- Still and sparkling Vero Water
- In-room dining available 24 hours
- Fruit smoothies, gelato, and artisan ice cream
- Group fitness classes
- Laundry services (self-service for all guests; full service for suite guests)
Additionally, guests can choose one of two curated amenities: complimentary wine and beer by the glass during lunch and dinner, or a generous shore excursion credit of up to $600 per guest depending on voyage length. This flexibility allows travelers to customize their Oceania Cruises experience based on their personal preferences.
Based on a 10-day cruise, Oceania estimates guests receive always-included amenities valued at more than $1,800 per stateroom when compared to other premium cruise lines. That’s real value that enhances every aspect of the voyage.
Why Choose Oceania Cruises? Destination-Focused Luxury
While the culinary program rightfully draws attention, Oceania Cruises has built its reputation on more than just exceptional food. The cruise line’s eight small ships (soon to be nine with Oceania Sonata) call on more than 600 ports across 100+ countries on all seven continents. From marquee cities to boutique destinations that larger ships simply cannot reach, Oceania’s itineraries are designed for travelers who want to truly experience the world.
The smaller ship size, typically carrying a maximum of 1,250 guests on current Oceania vessels, creates an intimate onboard atmosphere with exceptional guest-to-crew ratios. This translates to personalized service, shorter lines, and a more relaxed pace throughout the voyage. It’s a stark contrast to the mega-ships carrying 5,000+ passengers, and it’s exactly what discerning travelers are looking for.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of La Table and Nikkei Kitchen aboard Oceania Sonata demonstrates that even after two decades of culinary leadership, Oceania Cruises continues to innovate and push boundaries. For food-focused travelers who appreciate fine dining as an integral part of their vacation experience, these new concepts offer compelling reasons to book early for the August 2027 maiden voyage.
With the Sonata Class representing a multi-year investment in four new vessels, Oceania is clearly positioning itself for long-term growth in the luxury cruise segment. The combination of groundbreaking culinary concepts, generous inclusions, destination-rich itineraries, and intimate ship design creates a compelling value proposition that stands apart in today’s cruise market.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of Dom Pérignon paired with dishes crafted by Master Chefs of France, curious about the bold flavors of Nikkei cuisine, or simply looking for a luxury cruise experience that includes what matters most, Oceania Sonata is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated ship debuts of 2027.
Oceania Sonata: Quick Facts
When does Oceania Sonata launch? August 2027
How many guests does Oceania Sonata carry? 1,390 guests
How many restaurants are on Oceania Sonata? 12 dining venues, including 2 brand-new concepts
Is specialty dining included on Oceania Cruises? Yes, all specialty restaurants except La Table are included in the cruise fare
What is the Sonata Class? Oceania’s newest ship class, with four vessels scheduled for 2027, 2029, 2032, and 2035
Are gratuities included on Oceania Cruises? Yes, shipboard gratuities are included for all guests
What percentage of Oceania Sonata accommodations are suites? 30%
Interested in learning more about Oceania Cruises or booking a voyage aboard Oceania Sonata? As an agency that has sailed aboard Oceania Allura and experienced their culinary excellence firsthand, we’re excited to help you plan your perfect Oceania voyage. Contact our cruise specialists to explore available itineraries, current promotions, and to secure your preferred stateroom on Oceania Sonata’s inaugural 2027 season.
