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August 26.2025
2 Minutes Read

Meet Chef Janaina Torres: Godmother of Celebrity Xcel Celebrating Global Cuisine

Celebrity Xcel Godmother Janaina Torres in a commercial kitchen.

The Announcement of Janaina Torres as Godmother

Celebrity Cruises recently made an exciting announcement: Janaina Torres, a celebrated Brazilian chef, is set to be the godmother of Celebrity Xcel. Recognized for her outstanding culinary contributions, Torres was named Best Female Chef in the World 2024 by World’s 50 Best. Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, expressed enthusiasm about Torres's appointment, highlighting her impressive commitment to celebrating global cultures through innovative culinary experiences.

What Makes Janaina Torres a Trailblazer?

Janaina relies on a unique approach to cooking that emphasizes a no-waste philosophy, blending her rich heritage with a purposeful mission to promote sustainability in the culinary arts. As she explains, “I’ve always believed that fine dining should be accessible, not intimidating. Food brings us together, connecting us through new flavors, traditions and shared memories.” This perspective resonates deeply with Celebrity's mission, which is all about connecting diners with culture through extraordinary food experiences.

The Inaugural Season Ahead

The Celebrity Xcel is poised for its inaugural season beginning November 16, 2025, with Torres christening the ship during an official naming ceremony. This new cruise ship will offer seven-night itineraries sailing from Fort Lauderdale to stunning destinations including The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026, the ship will set sail for its inaugural European season, showcasing the wonders of the Mediterranean.

Her Impact on Brazilian Cuisine

Torres isn’t just a chef; she’s a cultural ambassador. Co-owning the renowned restaurant A Casa do Porco in São Paulo, she promotes Brazilian food and culture on a global scale. Her latest venture, a gastronomic-cultural project called À Brasileira, is dedicated to researching, valuing, and uplifting Brazilian cultural heritage through food. With this project, Torres fortifies her role as a champion of Latin American cuisine, ensuring that the culinary world recognizes the rich traditions and flavors of Brazil.

What This Means for Food Lovers

For culinary enthusiasts and cruise lovers alike, Janaina Torres’s involvement brings an exciting dimension to the overall experience aboard Celebrity Xcel. Passengers can expect an array of cultural and culinary experiences that celebrate not only Brazilian traditions but also the diverse flavors of the world. With enhanced itineraries that include stops at iconic destinations, travelers are positioned to not only enjoy beautiful sights but also delicious food that tells a story.

Conclusion: Embrace the Culinary Journey

As we anticipate the launch of Celebrity Xcel and the significant moment of Torres christening the ship, it's clear that this collaboration is more than just an honor; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the joy that food brings people together. This dynamic partnership invites everyone to explore the broad horizons of dining and travel, urging food lovers to embrace new flavors, engage in culinary experiences, and enjoy the journey ahead. Let’s celebrate this exciting era for Celebrity Cruises and look forward to what Chef Janaina Torres will bring onboard!

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