The Cellar aboard EXPLORA III has been selected for Travel + Leisure’s inaugural list of 25 of the world’s best new hotel restaurants and bars.

The list includes new venues aboard hotels, trains and cruise ships that the publication says are shaping how travelers eat, drink and experience destinations.

The Cellar was selected from approximately 120 venues across 17 countries, according to Explora Journeys.

The wine-focused venue houses more than 1,000 bottles, including well-known labels, smaller producers and rare vintages available by the glass. Guests can also order food created to complement the wines.

Travel + Leisure described The Cellar as a welcoming space rather than a venue designed only for wine experts. Its writer visited the venue aboard EXPLORA III and highlighted its wine-bar-style menu, which included seared wagyu, goat-cheese profiteroles and a waffle topped with caviar. 

EXPLORA III entered service in July 2026 as the third ship in the Explora Journeys fleet.

The recognition also highlights the work of the ship’s sommeliers, culinary team, restaurant staff and provision department. Maintaining a collection of more than 1,000 bottles at sea requires careful storage, inventory management and knowledge from the crew members presenting the wines to guests.