Cruise dining has come a long way from dull buffets and cold hot dogs. Today, there are exciting dining options like teppanyaki, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine readily available on cruise ships.
Having traveled on eight different ships, I’ve enjoyed a lot of cruise food. Let me share my six favorite restaurants on board, where you can indulge in delicious meals during your travels.
1. Chicken Korma at Norwegian Prima’s Indulge Food Hall
Say goodbye to typical buffets! At the Indulge Food Hall on the Norwegian Prima, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat meals for free. This venue is equipped with digital screens at each table, allowing guests to order from a variety of seven food vendors.
Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad and soup or a hearty chicken biryani, there are about 50 options to choose from, including noodles, Latin dishes, and Texas barbecue. After multiple visits during my stay in 2022, I found myself craving their chicken korma repeatedly!
2. Grilled Sardines at Silver Ray’s SALT Kitchen
If you’re looking for local flavors, SALT Kitchen on the Silver Ray offers a unique dining experience. With a menu that changes daily based on the ship’s location, the restaurant highlights regional dishes.
During a test sailing in Lisbon, I enjoyed the beautiful grilled sardines and savory octopus. Dessert options included travesseiros, a popular pastry from Sintra, Portugal. While you may not fully capture the local dining vibe in a short port stop, the flavors are definitely worth experiencing.
3. Vegetable Dumplings at Silver Ray’s Silver Note
Another gem on Silver Ray is Silver Note, a small-plate restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere complemented by live music. As you enjoy dishes like vegetable dumplings presented in a stone bowl, the sounds of classic jazz create a delightful backdrop.
Don’t miss the gourmet offerings like grilled octopus or beef tenderloin, and leave room for dessert—it’s sure to impress!
4. Pappardelle Bolognese at Norwegian Prima’s Onda by Scarpetta
Onda by Scarpetta is a must-try for Italian food lovers. The pappardelle bolognese is rich and comforting, making it a standout on the menu. The combination of flavors will have you asking for more, and the atmosphere is perfect for a special evening.
If pasta isn’t your thing, the restaurant also offers delicious pizzas and classic Italian desserts like tiramisu.
5. Lobster Tempura at Regent Seven Seas’ Pacific Rim
For a taste of East and Southeast Asian cuisine, head to Pacific Rim aboard Regent Seven Seas cruise line. The menu includes delightful dishes like lobster tempura and unique takes on traditional favorites like Mie Goreng.
This upscale venue brings a touch of luxury to your meal, with beautifully crafted dishes that highlight the best of Asian flavors.
6. Prime Rib in Royal Caribbean’s Main Dining Room
Surprisingly, one of my favorite meals was in the main dining room of Royal Caribbean. While the menu usually features standard fare, the prime rib here is exceptional. It’s tender and flavorful, definitely worth ordering during your cruise.
This dining room provides a fine balance of comfort and luxury, making it an excellent choice when you want a nice dinner without the extra cost.
As cruising becomes more popular, dining options continue to improve. With these amazing restaurants at sea, your next cruise could be a remarkable culinary journey!
Check out this related article: West Middlesex Parish Marks Milestone: Join Us in Celebrating Our Food Pantry’s Anniversary!
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