Holland America Unveils Mediterranean Bistro Concept for Rudi’s Sel de Mer

Holland America Line brings a fresh Mediterranean twist to its popular Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant. The revamped concept will debut aboard the Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Koningsdam in January and February 2025.

HAL Koningsdam at Canada
(Photo courtesy of Doug Parker / Cruise Radio)

The updated venue aims to capture the charm of a relaxed Mediterranean bistro, blending coastal elegance with a modern dining experience.

The culinary team, led by Chef Rudi Sodamin, has crafted a menu highlighting the vibrant flavors of Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. Guests can expect dishes rich in olive oil, fresh herbs, vegetables, and citrus—all staples of Mediterranean cuisine.

New table settings and ambiance enhancements will further immerse diners in the region’s culinary culture.

“The new Mediterranean bistro concept allows us to diversify the menu at Rudi’s Sel de Mer and showcase the beautiful flavors and fresh ingredients synonymous with the region,” said Michael Stendebach, Holland America Line’s vice president of food, beverage, and rooms divisions.

Elevated Dining Experience

Elegant Mediterranean bistro interior with white tablecloths, red cushioned chairs, and wood accents. Tables are set with plates, glasses, and cutlery. A large, colorful mural is visible on the wall of Rudi’s Sel de Mer on Holland America, and the ceiling features recessed lighting.
(Photo via Holland America Line)

The dining experience at Rudi’s Sel de Mer remains a standout, priced at $55 per person or included in the “Have It All” premium package.

The revamped menu is categorized into starters, mains, and desserts, ensuring a memorable journey for every diner.

Starters:

  • Burrata and Prosciutto: Cherry tomatoes, thyme, olive oil
  • Nicoise Salad: Seared tuna, preserved lemon oil dressing
  • Warm Garlic Shrimp: Olive oil, butter, lemon, basil
  • Wild Mushroom Soup: Truffle oil, crème fraiche, scallion churro
A bowl of creamy mushroom soup, reminiscent of the flavors at Rudi’s Sel de Mer, is poured from a silver pitcher into a white bowl. The soup, featuring bread pieces, mushrooms, and green herbs, rests elegantly on a matching plate against a pristine white background.
Wild Forest Mushroom Soup (Photo via Holland America Line)

Main courses:

  • Greek Spiced Lamb Chops: Lemon chickpea purée, fava beans, Garlic Jus
  • Fresh Spaghetti Fruits de Mer: Tomato, tiger prawns, crab, scallops, mussels, clams
  • Seafood Cioppino: Crab, squid, shrimp, scallops, mussels, grouper, potatoes
  • Vegetable Bourguignonne: Mushrooms, carrots, shallots, red wine, miso-celeriac purée
The left image showcases a rack of lamb with herbs, nestled among broad beans, carrots, and cherry tomatoes on a puree bed. On the right, Rudi’s Sel de Mer delights with a seafood stew featuring shrimp, mussels, and clams in a red broth with crusty bread—true Mediterranean Bistro elegance aboard Holland America.
Greek Spiced Lamb Chops and Seafood Cioppino (Photo via Holland America Line)

Desserts:

  • Chocolate Hazelnut Volcano: Raspberries, Frangelico cream
  • Salted Caramel St. Honoré: Vanilla puff pastry, choux paste, chantilly
  • Warm Strawberry Tarte Tatin: Sugar puff pastry crust, caramel, crème fraiche

The menu also includes artisanal cheeses, homemade sorbets, and sides like bistro fries and ratatouille, ensuring options for every taste.