Holland America Line is giving its Morimoto by Sea dining experience a fresh update, introducing a selection of new dishes and refined versions of guest favorites. The new menu begins rolling out across the fleet this month, ahead of Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s special Alaska sailing aboard Nieuw Amsterdam on May 8, 2027.
Morimoto, who serves as Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Ambassador, will join guests on the eight-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver, bringing his expertise and passion for fresh fish to a destination that plays an important role in the cruise line’s culinary programme.
The refreshed Morimoto by Sea menu continues to reflect the chef’s Japanese-inspired approach, combining high-quality ingredients with distinctive flavours and contemporary presentation. New additions include Shokupan Bread Service, Tan Tan Noodles, Miso Lamb Chop and Lobster Miso Soup, while Morimoto Sushi Mori has also been reimagined following the success of the Morimoto by Sea pop-up experience.
A Fresh Take on Morimoto by Sea
The new menu will debut at the standalone Morimoto by Sea restaurant aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and will also be introduced as a pop-up experience across the rest of the fleet. The rollout starts this fall, with the full fleet of 11 ships expected to offer the refreshed menu by mid-November.
The experience begins with Chef Morimoto’s Shokupan Bread Service, his take on Japanese milk bread. Recognised for its soft, pillowy texture and subtle sweetness, the bread accompanies a selection of new and returning appetizers.
Among the new starters are Popcorn Shrimp with Morimoto-style gochujang, Vegetable Wonton with Asian sesame garlic chili sauce and Lobster Miso Soup prepared with a white miso broth. Returning favorites include Pork Gyoza, Taco Two Ways and Sticky Ribs.
The selection of main courses also includes several new creations. Tan Tan Noodles are served in a red curry broth with miso-infused ground chicken, while the Miso Lamb Chop combines kombu-braised daikon with a gochujang-infused lamb jus. Butter Poached Lobster Tail is served with warm yuzu butter.
Guests can also revisit two established favorites, Japanese Curry and Morimoto Buri-Bop, the chef’s signature dish made famous through Iron Chef Japan. Completing the refreshed menu is an updated Morimoto Sushi Mori, featuring a chef-selected assortment of sushi inspired by the popular Morimoto by Sea pop-up.
“For me, great food is about more than a recipe. It’s about creating a connection through taste, texture and presentation,” said Chef Morimoto. “I’m excited for guests to experience these new dishes and then join me in Alaska, where I’ll have the opportunity to share my passion for fresh fish and connect with guests in a different way.”
Chef Morimoto to Sail to Alaska in 2027
Chef Morimoto will join Nieuw Amsterdam on its May 8, 2027, Alaska sailing, a roundtrip eight-day cruise from Vancouver, Canada. As Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Ambassador, he will highlight his passion for fresh fish during a cruise through one of North America’s most renowned destinations for seafood.
The special Culinary Ambassador sailing will give guests the opportunity to engage with Morimoto through exclusive onboard experiences and gain a closer insight into his culinary philosophy and the inspiration behind his cuisine.
The programme builds on Morimoto’s previous appearances with Holland America Line. During the 2026 Grand World Voyage, he hosted intimate dinners, a cooking demonstration and Japanese cuisine-themed trivia, offering guests several opportunities to meet the chef and discover more about his culinary background.
Similar experiences are expected during the 2027 Alaska sailing, adding a personal dimension to the partnership between Holland America Line and one of the world’s best-known Japanese chefs. At the same time, the refreshed Morimoto by Sea menu will give guests across the fleet the opportunity to experience his latest creations, whether dining at the dedicated restaurant aboard Nieuw Amsterdam or through the pop-up concept on the other ships.
Pictures courtesy of Holland America Line
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