Out Of This World Dining
By Roberto Valle
Dinner Among The Stars
For those looking for a truly out-of-this-world dining experience, a French company may have just the ticket, offering luxury and fine dining on the very edge of space.
The company, Zephalto, says it will soon begin offering low-carbon, stratospheric balloon rides high above the Earth’s surface, more than 80,000 feet into the atmosphere, complete with a gourmet meal served from the craft’s highest vantage point.
Six passengers and two pilots will ride in the Celeste, a pressurized capsule designed by architect Joseph Dirand who created the Balmain, Balenciaga and Givenchy fashion boutiques in Paris, and Loulou, the restaurant at the Louvre.
While the chefs for the voyages have yet to be announced, Zephalto’s founder, Vincent Farret d’Astiès, is dedicated to providing Michelin-star quality and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“The view and overall journey remain the central focus of the offering, allowing guests to appreciate and take in the beauty of their surroundings,” he promises.
The Celeste, hoisted by a balloon, will slowly rise above the planet, traveling twice as high as most jetliners, followed by a stop at cruising altitude for an aperitif, a gourmet meal, and plenty of time for photos and selfies from a 75-foot observation window.
The Celeste will then gently descend back to terra firma after a six-hour total voyage certain to leave adventurous diners starstruck.
Photos Courtesy Of: CNES, Zephalto