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For Chef Kent Rathbun, Rome isn’t just a destination — it’s a second home, a place where flavors tell stories and every meal is an experience. While the Kansas City-born, four-time James Beard Award-nominated chef has left his mark on Texas with acclaimed restaurants like Abacus and Jasper’s, it’s the Eternal City that continues to inspire him.
Chef Rathbun speaks of Rome with the reverence of a man who has eaten his way through its winding streets, savoring the city’s rich culinary traditions and vibrant food culture. From rustic trattorias to Michelin-starred marvels, he’s found a deep connection to Italian cuisine — one that subtly influences his own cooking philosophy.
In this exclusive conversation, Chef Rathbun shares how his travels have shaped him, what he loves most about Rome, how he looks forward to hosting guests aboard Seven Seas Grandeur®, and the lessons he brings back to his own kitchens.
First off, the food is amazing, but it’s also the experience of being surrounded by so much history and beauty that truly makes Rome special. What inspires me the most is the deep-rooted tradition of passing down recipes through generations. These aren’t just recipes; they’re pieces of history, preserved and perfected over centuries by families who take immense pride in their culinary heritage.
When you’re in Italy, a lot of what’s in the markets and on the menu is what’s in season. I try to incorporate that into my menus as well. Speaking of traditions, my mother and grandmother kept a vegetable garden, just like I do now. And there’s something really special about being able to pull tomatoes in the summer or broccoli in the winter to create fresh flavors.
If you're looking for an authentic Roman dining experience, Antica Trattoria Pizzeria Due Colonne is a must-visit. As a chef, I always seek out places that honor tradition, and this trattoria does exactly that. It’s a warm, family-run atmosphere, but you’re only a few steps away from the Pantheon. If you love truffles, like me, you’ll be in heaven with their pasta.
Listen, if you’re having a hard time finding gelato in Rome, you’ve gone too far. It is impossible to have a bad scoop.
Yes! There is a great rooftop bar and restaurant at the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel. It’s called SEEN by Olivier and it has the best panoramic views overlooking the stunning Piazza della Repubblica. It's the perfect spot to sip on a signature cocktail while taking in the city’s timeless beauty. For those who appreciate a glass of champagne — which I’m sure many of Regent’s guests do — the hotel’s Champagnerie cocktail bar has an intimate terrace where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly or a meticulously crafted drink.
I would take them on a nighttime tour of the Colosseum. There’s something truly magical about experiencing this iconic landmark under the glow of the moon, away from the daytime crowds. Walking through its ancient corridors, imagining the roar of the gladiators and the energy of the spectators, feels almost surreal in the quiet of the evening. The soft lighting enhances the grandeur of the ruins, making it an unforgettable and almost cinematic way to step back in time and feel the pulse of Rome’s extraordinary history.
Step off the well-worn tourist trails. Beyond the bustling piazzas and postcard-famous eateries lies the real heart of Roman cuisine — family-run trattorias, hidden osterias and neighborhood gems where tradition is served with every plate. If you only follow the crowds, you’ll never taste the real Rome. So, take a detour down the quiet cobblestone alleys, trust the scent of simmering sauces and let yourself discover the kind of meal you’ll be talking about long after you leave the Eternal City.
I’m absolutely thrilled to be hosting the Epicurean Spotlight on Cuisine aboard the luxurious Seven Seas Grandeur. This voyage is all about celebrating bold flavors and the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. Guests can look forward to live cooking demonstrations, exclusive tastings and immersive food experiences that showcase the incredible ingredients and techniques that define this region’s cuisine. I can't wait to share my passion for Mediterranean flavors with guests as we explore fantastic cities like Toulon, Valletta, Mykonos, and, of course, Rome.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has consistently delivered ultra-luxury travel experiences with the very best value for over thirty years. Aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet®, enjoy unrivaled onboard space, unforgettable shoreside excursions, incomparable culinary experiences, and exceptional Heartfelt Hospitality™.
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