Golden Eagle Luxury Trains is delighted to announce the exclusive engagement of celebrated British chef Joseph Rawlins aboard its upcoming Istanbul to Paris journey, departing 5 September 2025.
Launched earlier this year, this new rail tour places a strong emphasis on exceptional food and wine as it weaves through six European countries. Highlights include a private tasting at a family-owned Champagne house in the heart of France’s Champagne region, culminating in a grand arrival into Paris.
Joining the journey aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express, Chef Rawlins will further elevate the renowned onboard dining experience. His award-winning restaurant, La Popote, earned a coveted place in the Michelin Guide in December 2022, praised for its refined yet approachable cuisine. A graduate of Gordon Ramsay’s Tante Marie Culinary Academy with a Cordon Bleu Diploma, Rawlins trained at Artichoke and spent seven years in Paris under the mentorship of Guillaume Delage, protégé of Pierre Gagnaire.
Named Chef of the Month by Cheshire Life Magazine, Rawlins is known for his commitment to using seasonal ingredients that, in his words, “taste like they should.” This philosophy will be brought to life on board, with exclusive menus that combine classic French sophistication with the vibrant flavours of local European produce.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Joseph Rawlins, Head Chef and owner of the acclaimed La Popote, for this special culinary adventure,” said Natasha Baker, Managing Director of Golden Eagle Luxury Trains. “His passion and expertise in French cuisine will bring a distinctive elegance to our onboard offering – including our signature eight-course Gala Dinner inspired by local flavours along the route. As a family-owned business, we’re proud to support like-minded artisans, whether abroad or close to home in Cheshire.”
The September departure will also feature an exclusive dessert masterclass onboard, where guests can don their apron, learn the secrets behind the stunning dishes crafted in the kitchen on wheels and how to recreate them.
Limited spaces are available for this immersive culinary journey. Golden Eagle Luxury Trains packages are fully inclusive of private en-suite rail accommodation, all meals and drinks, personal cabin attendant service, guided off-train excursions, gratuities, transfers, premium hotel stays before and after the tour, and the services of a UK-registered doctor onboard.
The Istanbul to Paris voyage departs 5-12 September 2025, with prices starting from $17,595 USD per person. Find out more here: Istanbul – Paris – Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
