Windstar's Wind Surf Cooks Up French Flair with New Stella Bistro

Windstar Cruises revealed an exciting new restaurant, the Stella Bistro, aboard its flagship the Wind Surf.

Formally known as Degrees, the new dining room will have a French twist and contemporary, modern design.

The name, derived from the Latin word for star, was selected as a tribute to the restaurant's special dining experience, unique to the fleet as Stella Bistro will on only be on Wind Surf.

The entirely new French inspired menu features entrees such as Coquille St. Jacques Provenale, a seared, skewered scallops dish served on pappardelle and tossed with artichoke hearts, spinach and capers in a light, white wine sauce; or the Roasted Magret of duck, a duck breast and duck confit on cherry sauce paired with parisienne potatoes, and French beans.

Other menu items, inspired by the seasonings and flavors used in French cooking, include escargots bourguignon; cream of wild mushroom soup; and goat cheese souffl. Dessert is a decadent affair with dishes such as apple aumoniere, a combination of apples, marzipan and honey baked into a filo pastry and served in vanilla custard; or chocolate Napoleon, the famous French pastry that consists of layers of soft, crunch and creamy chocolate and praline.

The Stella Bistro is part of the comprehensive enhancement program currently underway on Windstar's 310-passenger Wind Surf. She will return to service on December 1st, 2012.

The Wind Surf will have updated decor in the public areas, complete with new furnishings, upholstery, art, lighting, wall coverings, carpeting, ceiling finishes, window treatments, and floor coverings. The enhanced color palette combines sand and marine shades to contrast with the warmth of wood finishes, elevating the look and feel to a casual elegance.

Other enhanced areas include: The AmphorA Restaurant and Compass Rose -- with fresh contemporary furnishings, new flooring, and comfortable chairs. Lounge Bar will receive sleek, contemporary furniture to match the new tawny, color palette giving a friendly ambiance. Reception Area will be decorated with a new alabaster centerpiece and pendent lighting. The Pool Bar is set to be redesigned with a variety of seating options and new awning. By evening the deck transforms into the romantic Candles, where on-deck, candlelit dinners are served. Yacht Club will be refreshed with new furnishings.

The Windsurf's first voyage after her extensive renovation will set sail from St. Maarten on December 1st, 2012 for a 7-night Yachtsman's Caribbean Cruise.