Ship Eats Aboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
By:
T S
On
19/10/2023Reading time:
14 min
Summary:
Cruise dining has typically featured conventional dining rooms and buffets, but Virgin Voyages has casted a new net into the seas. Come on board with us to explore what this voyage offers with over 20 dining choices, all included in your with your fare!
In this blog post, I am thrilled to share my recent dining experiences aboard the Scarlet Lady, which was nothing short of a gastronomic revelation. Allow me to take you on an immersive journey, helping you to understand what it's like to dine on this magnificent vessel. We'll delve into the impressive array of dining options available, offering insights into what you can anticipate and what you should be ready for. With over 20 restaurants, each catering to distinct tastes and preferences, the Scarlet Lady is a food lover's paradise. The best part? Every delectable morsel and culinary adventure included in your cruise fare, with no additional charges. It’s a gastronomic adventure you won't want to miss.
Virgin Voyages - What's Different
Virgin Voyages revolutionizes the dining experience by breaking free from conventional cruise norms. Say goodbye to crowded buffets and rigid dining schedules and say hello to the innovative Virgin way of dining. Embarking on a Virgin cruise, you'll find that dining on the high seas mirrors the freedom and flexibility of dining on land.
When it comes to enjoying the finer dining establishments, pre-booking is the key. Just as you would on terra firma, you can reserve your preferred dining times in advance. This can be done through the Virgin Voyages App or with a First Mate, starting 45 days before your departure. Sailors booked in Mega RockStar and RockStar Quarters are able to secure reservations 60 days in advance. However, if you prefer spontaneity, live in the moment. Walk-ins and same-day reservations are welcome but are not guaranteed. To make the most of your voyage, I strongly recommend pre-booking reservations for each restaurant. This way, you can savor the unique flavors and atmospheres of all the establishments.
The Galley
The Galley on Virgin Voyages is a unique dining destination, offering a fresh take on cruise ship cuisine. The galley replaces the traditional buffet with several individual concepts functioning as a food court. The Galley reminded me of a high-end mall food court. Most concepts would allow you to walk up and order from each or if you wanted to be served, you could sit at a booth and request table service by raising the flag on your table tent! Your table tent also has QR codes for the various concepts that allow for table service.
The Galley boasts a dedicated bakery and pastry shop, a panini shop, a burger grill, a taco shack, a sushi bar with bento boxes, a noodle bar, a soup and salad stand, a 24-hour American diner, as well as a variety of drink stations. Did I mention that on Virgin you do not have to pay extra for a soda package? It’s included in the fare!
Check out all of the shops below:
Hot off the Press - is a charming spot for breakfast and lunch, making it a go-to for those in search of a quick and savory bite. Their menu features a tempting array of open-faced and toasted sandwiches, sure to tantalize your taste buds. It's important to note that most options are pre-made, which somewhat limits your ability to customize. However, some standout selections include the delectable Toasted Peanut Butter and Jelly, the indulgent open-faced Banana and Nutella creation, and the satisfying toasted Turkey and Swiss sandwich.
Noodle Around -is a must-visit for breakfast and lunch, offering delectable ramen dishes. Although the menu remains consistent during the voyage, the spicy tonkotsu ramen, accompanied by a side of sushi from the Benton box, proves to be a filling and flavorful choice.
Let's Taco Bout It - open for breakfast and lunch, offers a variety of tacos, although they didn't quite hit the mark for me. The corn tortillas used for the tacos seemed a bit dried out. However, the breakfast avocado burrito more than compensated for it.
Pop Star - is your destination for delicious popsicles. Among the delightful options, my personal favorite was the Banana and Chocolate popsicle. For an added treat, you can even pair it with some bubbly.
Diner & Dash - brings the classic American diner experience to the sea, offering a range of comfort food options. You can enjoy omelets for breakfast, a BLT for lunch, and hearty chicken and potatoes for dinner.
Burger Bar - caters to the burger aficionados with juicy and fresh options that include Classic American burgers, The Impossible Burger, and even a daily specialty burger.
Well Bread - is your go-to for delectable pastries and flatbreads.
The Sweet Side - a delightful haven for those with a sweet tooth. You can enjoy breakfast pastries in the morning and indulge in desserts for both lunch and dinner. Fresh fruit is available throughout the day, and the S'more jars are an absolute favorite.
The Daily Mix - ensures you have access to healthy bites all day long. They offer a range of breakfast items such as bagels with various spreads, oatmeal, toast, cereal, and yogurt. During lunch and dinner, you can craft your own salad with endless options. They also have a selection of soups for you to savor.
Bento Baby - specializes in Japanese bento box favorites. They offer traditional Japanese breakfast choices as well as bento boxes for lunch and dinner.
Quick-Eze -provides pre-made wraps, salads, and an assortment of grab-and-go options, perfect for those on the move.
Tap That Cold, Hard, and Hot - Additionally, you'll find several self-service drink stations offering soft drinks, juice, tea, and coffee. They even have stations for wine, beer, and cider. It's important to note that alcoholic beverages come with an additional charge.
It's important to note that while The Galley is open 24/7, the operating hours of individual shops may vary. Whether you're in search of a quick snack, a leisurely breakfast, or a hearty lunch, The Galley is your go-to destination for satisfying your cravings during your Virgin Voyages adventure. Another great thing about The Galley is no reservations required!
The Main Course
Now, let's delve into the main dining experience onboard Virgin Voyages. It's a departure from the traditional cruise setup, as there are no main dining rooms or fixed seating times. Instead, you have the freedom to choose from a selection of six remarkable restaurants, each offering menus that rival, and often surpass, specialty dining options found on most other ships.
The Wake
This is the go-to for fans of an elevated steakhouse experience. The restaurant not only boasts stunning details throughout but also offers breathtaking views of the ship's wake. It's the perfect spot for a romantic meal, whether during a sunset or sail away. Consider upgrading your meal to Surf and Turf or indulge in the many seafood options available on board. The Wake is a popular choice, so advance reservations are a must, especially if you're planning a special occasion.
Razzle Dazzle
This vegetarian-forward restaurant is a visual and culinary delight. Drawing inspiration from the World War practice of painting Dazzle lines on ships to confuse binoculars, the restaurant makes a striking impression. The menu is equally exciting, featuring creative options like Fairy bread on its brunch menu, indulgent vegetarian burgers, and playful twists on pub classics like Fish and Chips. For meat enthusiasts, there's a naughty menu with plenty of irresistible options.
Pink Agave
An onboard Mexican restaurant, Pink Agave offers authentic Mexican tacos, nachos, and a tapas-style Mexican-inspired menu. The restaurant boasts an iconic entrance, an intimate atmosphere, and plush furnishings, making it a fantastic choice for both couples seeking a romantic meal and groups looking to celebrate. Don't miss the succulent Cochinita Pibil smoked pork, and be sure to try the Milhojas dessert, a tantalizing blend of Tamarind, Passion Fruit, and Pineapple on the lightest puff pastry.
Gunbae
This unique offering is a Korean BBQ experience, where you grill your food right in front of you. Come hungry, as the food is abundant and served rapidly. A highlight here are the outstanding chicken wings, which alone are worth a visit. Gunbae also includes a fun drinking game, setting the tone for a lively and social dining experience. Just remember 3, 6, and 9 - You got this!
Extra Virgin
If you're a pasta enthusiast, Extra Virgin is your Italian dining destination. What's particularly noteworthy is that all the pasta is freshly made onboard. Their sharing board course is perfect for group dining, and you can also order a variety of Antipasto to share. Favorites here include the Potato Gnocchi and the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, and you can conclude your meal with a delightful affogato and a cheeky Limoncello.
The Test Kitchen
This gastronomy laboratory onboard Virgin Voyages offers a unique and upscale dining experience. Food is served in unexpected ways, challenging your perception of what cuisine can be. The menu outlines key ingredients, and over six courses, you're taken on a culinary journey sure to surprise and delight. Don't miss the drink pairing menu, where you can select wine, beer, soft drinks, or cocktails to accompany your meal, making the beverage experience just as exciting as your culinary adventure.
Looking for more?
Lick Me Till … Ice Cream – This quirky spot isn't just one of the best-named venues onboard; it's also a standout feature of Virgin Voyages. Offering a delightful selection of gelato as part of your cruise fare, you can pick your preferred cone type or opt for a cup if you prefer. Keep an eye out for rotating flavors to try something new.
The Dock & Dock House – The Dock, situated outdoors, and the Dock House, located on Deck 7 Aft, offer an excellent drink menu for you to enjoy while taking in the view or savoring Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The Open Fire section includes delectable options like hangar steak, grilled shrimp, and octopus. You can also relish items from the Mezze cart, such as falafel, watermelon and feta salad, and kataifi balls.
The Pizza Place – Available nearly all day and into the late hours, the Pizza Place is a great destination for lunch or a late-night meal, especially after an evening of entertainment. It's perfect for grabbing a pizza to enjoy in your room, perhaps during a movie night. You can also dine in the charming trattoria-like space, especially enjoyable while sailing at sea.
The Social Club – Found on Deck 7 Mid-Aft, The Social Club is ideal for a quick bite or a tasty shake. You can relish hotdogs, pretzels, and indulge in some fun shake flavors. They even have a small candy bar for those with a sweet tooth.
Sun Club Café – If you're a fan of poke, Sun Club Café on Deck 15 Mid-ship, port side, is your go-to place. They serve traditional poke bowls in options like tuna, salmon, arctic char, and even chicken if seafood isn't your preference.
Grounds Club – With two convenient locations, one on Deck 7 and one in the galley, Grounds Club is your all-in-one destination for...
ShipEats – Whether you want to relax in your cabin and take in the world passing by from your hammock or simply crave a late-night snack, Virgin Voyages offers Room Service known as Ship Eats. It's available for a small $5 service fee, which is waived if you order an alcoholic drink alongside your food. You can order a diverse range of snacks and light bites, catering to every appetite. Breakfast is always a popular choice, and it's a treat worth savoring at least once during your sailing. Consider ordering champagne and crafting your own mimosas to enjoy from your balcony.
The Beach Eats – For those embarking on a Virgin Voyages Caribbean voyage, every itinerary includes a day at the Virgin Voyages Beach Club. The Beach Club at Bimini offers a stunning stretch of beach and facilities, including a pool, food pavilions, bars, and water sports, all exclusively reserved for Virgin Voyages passengers when a ship docks at Bimini. It's reminiscent of a European beach club or a private Caribbean beach resort, and the entry is seamlessly included in your Virgin Voyages' cruise fare. Indulge in the delightful food menu at Virgin Voyages' Bimini Beach Club, where you can order as much or as little as you desire from options like Lechon asado, Caribbean chicken and coconut curry, West Indian pumpkin curry, and more, including a delectable Rum cake with guava sauce.
In conclusion, dining aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady is not just a culinary journey; it's a revelation of flavors, creativity, and a whole new level of sophistication. Virgin Voyages has redefined the way we experience food on a cruise. With over 20 diverse restaurants offering everything from delectable steaks to tantalizing sushi, you'll embark on a gastronomic adventure that's simply unmatched. The Virgin Way of dining, with its freedom to choose and flexibility, ensures that your dining experience mirrors that of being on land. Whether you prefer to make reservations in advance or enjoy the spontaneity of walk-ins, Virgin Voyages has you covered.
Each dining option, from the innovative Galley to the specialized main eateries like The Wake, Razzle Dazzle, Pink Agave, Gunbae, Extra Virgin, and The Test Kitchen, promises a memorable and delicious experience. Let's not forget the quirky spots like Lick Me Till … Ice Cream and The Pizza Place, where gelato and pizza await your cravings.
For a quick bite or late-night munchies, there's ShipEats, and those traveling to the Caribbean can relish the beach club delights at The Beach Eats. Virgin Voyages has truly created a food lover's paradise, and the best part is that all of these culinary delights are included in your cruise fare.
So, why should you book with Virgin Cruise Lines? Well, if you're a passionate foodie or someone seeking a cruise experience like no other, Virgin Voyages offers a culinary adventure that's hard to match. It's a vacation where every meal is a celebration, and every restaurant is an exploration of diverse tastes. If you want to take your taste buds on a journey they won't forget, Virgin Voyages is the way to go.
To embark on your next foodie venture and set sail with Virgin Cruise Lines, reach out to Spark-Venture today and we will work to book an experience that's bound to satisfy your wanderlust and your appetite for extraordinary cuisine. Bon appétit!