freestyle dining cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Freestyle” Dining Explained. Included Food, Speciality Restaurants and More…

If you’re setting off on your first cruise – or your first cruise with a new cruise line, the dining options can be confusing!

I always like to know how things work before I cruise, so below I have explained the dining options onboard NCL ships.

Dining on NCL is easy, it’s “Freestyle.” This basically means it’s more like eating in a normal land-based restaurant.

You can just turn up at the restaurant when you are ready to eat, you don’t have to eat at a set time.

On some cruise lines, you are given a set dining time. You eat at the same time in the same place every day. Not on Norwegian Cruise Lines!

If you are alone or dining as a couple, you may have to table share with others if you are sailing on a traditional cruise line.

To find out about cruising with a “traditional cruise line” watch the video below. I cruised with Fred Olsen “In Search of the Northern Lights” and had a wonderful time! It was a very different experience than that of cruising with a relaxed line like NCL though …

Freestyle Dining

“Freestyle Dining” basically means that you don’t have a set time to eat dinner, you can show up at the restaurants whenever you like.

You’ll go to the desk at the entrance to the restaurant, there they will scan your room keycard and ask you how many people will be eating.

You will then be shown to a table.

Why I love Freestyle Dining:

• You can sit in different areas of the restaurant each night – meaning that you’re not always stuck with the same view.
• You’re not forced to make polite conversation with table mates that you didn’t choose! This honestly is my worst nightmare. You are still free to dine with whoever you want – but there is no pressure to table share with strangers.
• You meet different waiters and other members of the restaurant staff every night.
• You can eat when you’re hungry! I love the freedom of being able to decide when I want to eat and where.

Freestyle Dining – Free Restaurant Options

Main dining room.

• If you’re like me, and like researching your cruise ahead of time you may see the abbreviation “MDR” used.
• This stands for “Main Dining Room.” There will be at least one, but sometimes up to three ‘Main’ dining rooms. These restaurants usually serve the same menu.

• Each cruise ship will have a large buffet which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They are technically not 24 hours but I don’t think I have ever gone to the buffet and been unable to find food.
• The buffet usually goes around both sides of the ship. If one side is closed – changing from breakfast to lunch for example – the other side will be open.
• The food in the buffet is usually really good, much better than anything I’ve ever had on a land-based all-inclusive holiday.
• It can get pretty busy at peak times.

A Pub Or Bar With Food Of Some Sort

• On most NCL ships there is some type of pub or bar serving food. On some ships, it is “O’Sheehans” on newer ships it is called “The Local.”
• The pub/bar serves Traditional pub grub like Buffalo Wings or Burgers.
• The pub is a great alternative to the main dining room, and I sometimes find myself going there between meals…

Speciality Dining

NCL have a LOT of speciality dining restaurants available at an extra charge.

I personally very very rarely use speciality restaurants. I just can’t justify to myself spending the extra when I have already paid for the included cruise food.

I find the food in the main dining room/buffet/other options to be more than enough for me.

When eating in a speciality restaurant you should book in advance, they fill up incredibly quickly and the best slots won’t be available for very long.

You can book the table on your phone, on your TV in your stateroom and on the interactive boards around the ship. You can also book via the cruise ship App.

Most of the restaurants, (Cagney’s Steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, Teppanyaki and the French, Mexican and Italian restaurants) are paid for on a charge “per meal” basis.

Dining Packages

NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion offers an included Speciality Dining Package. The number of speciality meals you can have depends on the length of your cruise.

Speciality Dining Packages are also available to buy – but you must purchase at least 2 meals – and the maximum you can buy is 14 speciality meals

At the time of writing the cost of these range from $99 for two speciality meals to $469 for fourteen.

A 20% gratuity and speciality service charge will be automatically added to the cost of that package.

Speciality Dining Packages are honoured in the following restaurants: American Diner, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic, Italian, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Moderno Churrascaria, Pincho Tapas Bar, Q Texas Smokehouse, Raw Bar, Seafood, Sushi and Teppanyaki. Norwegian Cruise Line

Find out about all the food I ate on Norwegian Prima – from the buffet to speciality dining restaurants in the video below:

There are no formal nights on NCL.

NCL have “Dress Up or Not Nights” where some people do like to dress up.

Find out what I like to wear when I cruise in the article below:

Cruise Dress Examples – (Everything I Wear Onboard: Emma Cruises)

You won’t look out of place if you do dress up – but if you want to dine in jeans every day that is completely fine too.

There are some rules. You can’t eat in the Main Restaurant in swimwear but that really is about it – as long as you are dressed then all is well. Technically the dress code is called “Smart Casual.”

Find out more about Norwegian’s wonderful food in the video below:

Before You Go

Find out about cruising when you have a food intolerance in the article below:

Cruising with a food intolerance

Despite all the wonderful food on offer, gaining weight on a cruise is not inevitable. Find out what you can do to avoid it here:

Avoid Cruise Ship Weight Gain – 7 Easy Things You Can Do

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

This FREE guide shows you everything you need to know to find your perfect cruise line.

Thursday 6th of April 2017

Hi Thank you for all the heads up, really useful informations!

We are taking my mum on the Norwegian epic this summer to celebrate her 80th and this is our very first cruise holiday ! Not sure what to expect as I have read so many negative comments. I also booked directly through NCL as I thought that would be the cheapest options but I know subsequently that the local travel agent can do it about £500 cheaper for the same deal but hey you live and you learn so I won't let that to ruin my mum's special celebration!

Any other tips you can give us to help this to be a very special holiday for my mum? We are staying in the Haven so hoping the service would be good?

Emma Le Teace

It may be worth phoning Norwegian and talking about that! They won't lower the price but I know quite a few people who have got free onboard credit when they've found a price cheaper elsewhere. Got to be worth a go!

The epic is such a funky ship, the shows will be amazing. My main tip would be make sure that you book the shows as early as you can, you don't want to miss out!

If you're staying in haven the service will be incredible! I've never made it up there myself but I've heard amazing things. What a way to start your first cruise, in the haven! You'll have an absolutely amazing time.

Please feel free to message me on Facebook or tweet me if you think of anymore questions. I was on the epic a couple years ago.

Have a fantastic time, glad this article was of use.

NCL best bits | Cruising isnt just for old people

Sunday 26th of March 2017

[…] NCL’s freestyle dining explained […]

Josiah Christian

Friday 20th of January 2017

How long were the wait times you experienced for NCL's freestyle options? Immediate seating usually? 15-30mins? longer?

emmaleteace

I don't think I've ever waited for more than 10 minutes, it's usually immediate seating. They do have those things which you can take away which buzz when your tables ready though so some people must use them.

I guess it's because I'm normally in a small group of 2 or 4 that I've never had to wait very long, I also normally eat pretty early.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

How exactly does freestyle dining work on Norwegian?

By geckoshan , May 25, 2017 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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I've cruised a few times before but this will be the first time on Norwegian (Getaway) and I'm a little confused at how the dining works. At first I thought I had it straight (no set dining times in the main/complementary restaurants, you just turn up and ask for a table and if they don't have one free they give you a thing that notifys you when one is free), but they have just released bookings for restaurants and shows on board and the main dining rooms are apparently available for booking. Is there anyone who has recently been on a Norwegian ship and can explain how this works in practice? I would really rather not book a table every night if I don't have to (I really like the idea of freestyle) but I would rather book if the alternative is not being able to eat when I prefer due to everyone else having booked.

I'd really appreciate any advise you could give me on this.

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No need to prebook MDR's unless you're in a party of 12+. You'll not wait long

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BostonGal35

we hate to wait so we always book everything ahead, including MDRs.

Hello I've cruised a few times before but this will be the first time on Norwegian (Getaway) and I'm a little confused at how the dining works. At first I thought I had it straight (no set dining times in the main/complementary restaurants, you just turn up and ask for a table and if they don't have one free they give you a thing that notifys you when one is free), but they have just released bookings for restaurants and shows on board and the main dining rooms are apparently available for booking. Is there anyone who has recently been on a Norwegian ship and can explain how this works in practice? I would really rather not book a table every night if I don't have to (I really like the idea of freestyle) but I would rather book if the alternative is not being able to eat when I prefer due to everyone else having booked. I'd really appreciate any advise you could give me on this. Thanks!

You can make reservations in the main dining room if you want, but that sort of defeats the purpose of Freestyle. However, for the specialty restaurants, reservations are recommended.

OP, NCL "Freestyle" may mean you are free to wait for a table.

If you refuse the table next to the kitchen door and wait for better, you are free to miss the evening show.

But, who cares(except you)?

You are also free to bribe the maitre d .

Just keep your sense of humor.

Making a reservation for the MDR does not guarantee that you will not have to wait. I had reservations for the MDR on the Gem and they made me still wait in line. It was silly. They told me that reservations were not needed.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

They told me that reservations were not needed.     Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That is true. I have waited in line lots of times without a reservation.

Ergates The Ant

Just off the Jade. Didn't use the extra charge restaurants, but was a bit worried about getting tables for 2 in the MDR at a convenient time. I booked a random time on line in advance, just to be safe. On the first evening, we decided to head to the buffet instead. So I went down to the desk in Alizar to tell them I would not need the table I had reserved. I was told firmly that I didn't need / didn't have a reservation, the restaurant didn't work like that, just come when you want.

Later in the week, I went to the desk and was seated straight away, no problems, no wait. I did hear that things might be easier on the smaller ships like the Jade, for instance, there was no need and no option to book seats for the theatre. You may get a different opinion regarding the large ships.

If you eat during popular dinner times (7ish) or wait to eat after the early show lets out, there is a chance you might have to wait.

Remember, all three dining rooms serve the same food. Unless you specifically want one over the other, you can see if waits are less elsewhere.

On the Getaway in March, we waited one night to get into Tropicana. It was Norwegian Night Out, right around 7:00. We wanted to eat in Tropicana because of the entertainment and we waited about 20 minutes or so (we were a party of three). They did have people walking around serving glasses of champagne to those who were waiting.

Unless you know you have a show to make later than night, I wouldn't bother making reservations for MDRs. We don't plan on making any for our next two cruises.

Just off the Jade. Didn't use the extra charge restaurants, but was a bit worried about getting tables for 2 in the MDR at a convenient time. I booked a random time on line in advance, just to be safe. On the first evening, we decided to head to the buffet instead. So I went down to the desk in Alizar to tell them I would not need the table I had reserved. I was told firmly that I didn't need / didn't have a reservation, the restaurant didn't work like that, just come when you want. Later in the week, I went to the desk and was seated straight away, no problems, no wait. I did hear that things might be easier on the smaller ships like the Jade, for instance, there was no need and no option to book seats for the theatre. You may get a different opinion regarding the large ships.

Very Nice Post.

Just off the Jade. Didn't use the extra charge restaurants, but was a bit worried about getting tables for 2 in the MDR at a convenient time. I booked a random time on line in advance, just to be safe. On the first evening, we decided to head to the buffet instead. So I went down to the desk in Alizar to tell them I would not need the table I had reserved. I was told firmly that I didn't need / didn't have a reservation, the restaurant didn't work like that, just come when you want. Later in the week, I went to the desk and was seated straight away, no problems, no wait. I did hear that things might be easier on the smaller ships like the Jade, for instance, there was no need and no option to book seats for the theatre. You may get a different opinion regarding the large ships .

Me thinks the larger ships are the issue here; when most pax want to be at the same place, at the same time.

Very Nice Post.     Me thinks the larger ships are the issue here; when most pax want to be at the same place, at the same time.

Never had a problem just walking up to the MDR on the breakaway during prime. Longest wait was like 5-10 minutes.

grandmarnnurse

I sailed the Getaway in January, our first on a NCL ship, and LOVED Freestyle Cruising! We just showed up where we wanted to eat, and once at Savor, they told us we could wait a few minutes for a table or there was tables free across the hall at Taste. We went over to Taste, and were seated immediately. Another time, both Taste and Savor were busy. We were told we could wait at the bar with the buzzer, or go up to the Tropicana Room (the largest of MDR) because they had open tables, so that's what we did. We never waited for any table. Now for our cruise this January, there will be 16 of us, as opposed to just the two of us, so it would be next to impossible to get seating for that many at the same time, so I will reserve one or two large tables in advance.

Let me add that besides the MDRs, we found the Getaway had the best buffet we ever had at sea! Add in how they bring out "late night snacks" which is a pretty big assortment of foods in the buffet every night from 9:30-11:00pm! Wonderful! And RCCL or Carnival don't come anywhere near the caliber of 24 hour full menu offerings that NCL offers at O'Sheehan's Irish Pub! Fabulous!! You will love it!

We really enjoyed the Waterfront--sitting out there having cocktails and relaxing, watching the waves!

Don't forget the late evening parties up in Spice H2O! Make sure you bring glow sticks, etc from home for the Glow Party one night on your cruise!

Forgot to say that when I was seated in the MDR at about 6.15pm, the first thing the waitress asked was if I was planning to attend the 7.30 pm show. As I was only having a main course and dessert, she laughed and said I should be fine. I got the impression that they are used to trying to ensure passengers got served promptly if they had a deadline to meet.

KeithJenner

It is quite simple really.

Freestyle means that you have the choice of where you want to eat and (within certain limits), when. There is no allocated seating or anything like that, it is your decision.

However, it doesn't mean that you can decide what you want to do and be guaranteed of being able to do it straight away.

If you choose a speciality restaurant then you may find that there are no spaces available, whether just at that time or at all that day. That's why it is best to have reservations.

In the MDRs you will get in, but there may be a wait if it is busy. There may also be a wait for you to get to the desk to ask for a reservation, whilst they deal with the people in front of you.

A reservation won't avoid the wait to get to the desk, but it should mean that there is a table available for you when you get there. Without a reservation you may find that you have to wait for a short while for a table to come free.

In my experience, we have never waited more than a few minutes for a table in the MDR (although we tend to eat fairly early).

As stated above, if you are in a big group then reservations are probably useful as there are limited tables. Otherwise I would only recommend booking if being told that a table will be ready in 15 minutes will be a major problem to you. Personally I'd rather keep the freedom to decide.

It's no different to eating in a relatively popular restaurant on land. You will probably be seated promptly, but if you happen to turn up at a busy time then there may be a delay.

2ManyCruises

The only time I would suggest making a reservation for the MDR is on Thanksgiving Day. The past few years we've cruised Escape/Getaway over the holiday and the Manhattan room is nearly impossible to get in without one.

Completely agree with all the above comments so I won't bother repeating.

I have never booked and never had to wait more than 5 minutes :-)

I've written about my experience (and love of) NCL's freestyle dining here: http://cruisingisntjustforoldpeople.co.uk/2017/01/18/ncls-freestyle-dining-explained/

Hope that helps :-)

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Heya!   Completely agree with all the above comments so I won't bother repeating.   I have never booked and never had to wait more than 5 minutes :-)   I've written about my experience (and love of) NCL's freestyle dining here: http://cruisingisntjustforoldpeople.co.uk/2017/01/18/ncls-freestyle-dining-explained/   Hope that helps :-)     Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Wow - that was great.

Always remember to Washy Washy Happy Happy when you enter MDR.

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Rambling Russells

Uncategorized · April 10, 2024

Freestyle Dining at its Finest on the Norwegian Spirit of the Seas

Ahoy, fellow rambling foodies! Today, we set sail on a gastronomic journey aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Spirit of the Seas. Without a doubt, this vessel is renowned for its freestyle dining concept and an array of dining options that cater to every palate. Join us as we navigate culinary seas and explore diverse offerings that make dining here a feast for the senses.

The incredible food on our very first cruise exceeded our expectations, there simply is too much to list! The Spirit of the Seas provided so many offerings that we didn’t have enough days to sample them all!

Freestyle Dining on the Spirit of the Seas

One of the hallmarks of the Norwegian Cruise Line, offers the concept of freestyle dining. This provides passengers with the flexibility to dine when, where, and with whom they please. This innovative approach sets the stage for a culinary adventure that adapts to the individual preferences of each passenger.

Main Dining Rooms

The Spirit of the Seas also boasts elegant main dining rooms that serve as the culinary heart of the ship. These sophisticated spaces, with their stylish decor and 270-degree views, offer an exquisite backdrop for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Moreover, as you peruse the dinner menu, you’ll discover an extensive selection that showcases the culinary prowess of the ship’s chefs.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Anytime Snacks

Passengers can both relish in continental breakfasts, and embark on a taste journey. With lunch options that span the globe, you’ll indulge in delightful choices that range from Norwegian classics to international favorites. The main dining rooms ensure that every meal is a celebration. To be sure, you can have everything from a New York strip steak to a bowl of French onion soup.

Specialty Restaurants

For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive dining experience, the Spirit of the Seas also offers specialty restaurants. These surely elevate the culinary scene. From French delights at Le Bistro to the savory flavors of Los Lobos, each restaurant brings its own unique charm to the table.

• Le Bistro:  The ship’s premier French restaurant, Le Bistro offers an elegant setting for those with a taste for the finer things. With a-la-carte pricing and classic French dishes, this is the perfect venue for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. And yes, the panoramic view is amazing.
• Los Lobos:  Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Mexico at Los Lobos, the ship’s specialty Mexican restaurant. Lively shared tables showcase the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. Accordingly, Los Lobos promises a fiesta for your taste buds.
• Teppanyaki Room:  For a dining experience that combines skillful culinary performance with delicious Japanese cuisine, the Teppanyaki Room is a must-try. Watch as chefs expertly prepare your meal on a large steel grill. Then they turn your dinner into a captivating show.
• Q Texas Smokehouse:  Embrace flavors of the American South at Q Texas Smokehouse. Here, the aroma of smoked meats fills the air. With a variety of meal combinations and a rustic atmosphere, this specialty restaurant is indeed a haven for barbecue enthusiasts.
• Ocean Blue:  Indulge in the bounty of the sea at Ocean Blue, the ship’s seafood-centric specialty restaurant. This restaurant features the freshest catches and a choice of pasta and vegetarian options. Ocean Blue surely promises an oceanic delight.

Complimentary and Casual Dining on the Spirit of the Seas

While specialty restaurants offer an elevated dining experience, the Spirit of the Seas also provides a variety of complimentary dining options and casual eateries for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Blue Lagoon:  For a laid-back dining experience with a view, the Blue Lagoon offers a diverse menu of comfort food. Open 24/7, this casual eatery is the perfect spot to satisfy late-night cravings from burgers to noodle bowls.
• Garden Café:  The Garden Café, a bustling marketplace of flavors, caters to all tastes with its diverse array of dishes. Additionally, the menu offers everything from fresh fruit to made-to-order omelets. This complimentary dining option ensures that passengers have access to an array of culinary delights.
• Raffles Court:  Explore a variety of international cuisines at Raffles Court. Undeniably different themes and culinary traditions come to life. This casual eatery is a go-to spot for passengers looking to embark on a culinary adventure in a lively setting.
• Ice Cream and Sushi Bar:  Indulge your sweet tooth at the Ice Cream Bar. Here you can savor a selection of delectable frozen treats. Meanwhile, the Sushi Bar offers passengers the chance to enjoy expertly crafted sushi and other Japanese delights.

Dining Packages and Beverage Venues

To enhance the onboard culinary experience, the Spirit of the Seas offers various dining packages and beverage options.

• Dining Packages:  Passengers can opt for dining packages that allow them to explore multiple specialty restaurants at a discounted rate. Whether it’s a three-night culinary exploration or an extended gourmet journey, these packages provide flexibility and savings for those looking for a variety of dining experiences.
• Beverage Venues:  The Spirit of the Seas ensures that passengers have access to a variety of beverage options. Choose different bars, from specialty coffees to a wine bar offering a curated selection of wines. These venues cater to different preferences and ensure that passengers can savor their favorite drinks throughout the cruise.

Meeting Rooms and More

The Spirit of the Seas goes beyond traditional dining options by offering meeting rooms and additional venues that can be transformed for special occasions or private events. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone with friends and family or hosting a corporate gathering, the ship provides versatile spaces for various events.

Always Something New

In the spirit of continuous improvement, the Spirit of the Seas regularly introduces new restaurant additions and culinary innovations to keep passengers excited about their dining experiences in their freestyle dining. From updated menus to entirely new venues, the ship ensures that there’s always something fresh and exciting on the culinary horizon.

Foodie Events and Experiences

To add an extra layer of excitement to the dining experience, the Spirit of the Seas curates culinary events and experiences that showcase the talents of the onboard chefs and create memorable moments for passengers.

• Chefs’ Original Dishes:  Of course passengers have the opportunity to savor chefs’ original dishes during their cruise, providing a unique and exclusive culinary experience that goes beyond the standard menu offerings.
• Freestyle Cruising Events:  Embracing the concept of freestyle cruising, the Spirit of the Seas hosts events that celebrate the ship’s commitment to providing passengers with the freedom to customize their cruise experience, including their dining choices.

Dining on The Spirit of the Seas and Her Sister Ships

The Norwegian Spirit, a beloved member of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, is celebrated for its innovative approach to dining. To be sure, as part of the Norwegian fleet, it joins the ranks of other iconic ships, including the Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, and Norwegian Getaway.

• Norwegian Prima:  As the newest addition to the fleet, the Norwegian Prima introduces passengers to a world of culinary excellence. With the latest innovations in dining venues and an emphasis on providing passengers with the best value for their cruise fare, the Norwegian Prima promises a culinary experience like no other.
• Norwegian Bliss:  The Norwegian Bliss, with its myriad of dining options, indeed showcases the cruise line’s commitment to providing passengers with a diverse array of culinary delights. From the upscale dining experience at Cagney’s Steakhouse.

We absolutely loved our first cruise. If you would like some more information about cruising, HERE’s some more information from our experiences and research.

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‘My time’ dining vs. traditional dining on a cruise: Which should you choose?

Let's talk about traditional dining versus "my time" dining (also known as flexible, anytime or freestyle dining). Even if you've cruised a few times, do you really understand your mealtime options and what to choose?

An acquaintance, who is not a new cruiser, confessed to me that she only recently learned that meals in the luxurious-looking main dining rooms on cruise ships are included in the cruise fare. She had previously thought the phrase "anytime dining" referred only to eating in the buffet area whenever she wanted.

While it's true you can eat in the buffet anytime it's open, flexible dining (by whatever name your cruise line calls it) specifically refers to the main dining room. It's one of the standard complimentary dining options on every cruise ship. Whether you select to eat at the same table at the same time each night or opt to take your chances on any available table during the dining room's open hours, you never have to pay to eat in your ship's grand dining hall.

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Don't let the complexities of cruise ship dining plans keep you from enjoying all the great food your ship has to offer. Here, I'll walk you through the ins and outs of "my time" versus traditional dining, as well as how these dining concepts came to be and how to choose the best meal plan for your trip.

A brief history of cruise ship dining concepts

For a bit of history of the dining concepts used by most mainstream cruise lines, you have to go back a couple of decades. In the past, all cruise ships served dinner at two fixed times, dubbed early and late seatings. Everyone was assigned to one of the seatings, and they'd sit at the same table, with the same dinner companions and waiters, for the duration of their cruise.

That concept began to evolve in the early 2000s when Norwegian Cruise Line introduced Freestyle Dining. Rather than have everyone assigned to arrive at specific times, cruisers were allowed to show up to eat whenever they wanted during the dining room's hours of operation. NCL's Freestyle Dining also heralded the modern version of specialty restaurants, so not only could passengers eat at the time of their choosing, but at whichever eatery suited their fancy each evening. It was a stunning change to the long-running system previously used.

The idea took hold. After considerable fine-tuning of the dining concept over the years and plenty of variation among cruise lines, the industry standard now is that most ships allow you to choose either the traditional early or late dining options or a flexible option with open seating and no set dining time.

Traditional dining

Traditional dining includes an assigned table and your choice of an early or late dinner time. Though what constitutes "early" and "late" varies by cruise destination, on most cruise lines, the early seating is usually set to a specific time between 5 and 6 p.m., while the late seating might be as early as 7:45 (Carnival Cruise Line) or as late as 9 p.m. (MSC Cruises, which has three traditional seatings on some ships).

You can opt into this traditional plan when you book your cruise, and the decision-making ends there. When you arrive for your cruise, you'll be handed a cruise card marked with your dining room name and deck number, dining time and possibly even your table number.

From that point, each evening you will show up at your table at the appropriate time. If your travel group spans several cabins and you want to dine together, you should coordinate your choices before booking, then ensure that the reservations are linked. It's wise to have someone in the group stop by the restaurant on boarding day to make sure the group will be seated together.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

If you're just a couple or a small travel party, the dining team may assign you to a table by yourself or place you at a large table with cruisers you don't know. You can ask for dining time and table changes once on board, but the restaurant staff may or may not be able to accommodate requests.

Cruisers who prefer traditional dining say they prefer it over flexible options partly because they feel it allows them to get to know their waitstaff, which is not always a guarantee with "my time" dining. Others feel it's better simply because once you know where your table is on the first evening, there's no standing in line to be seated unless you arrive before the doors open.

There are reasons to think twice about set seating. An early dinner often leaves you with no time to wind down and dress for dinner, especially when the ship has a late departure from port and you want to make the most of your time ashore.

Also, if you're cruising in a time zone just a few hours different from your norm, you might find you're hungry at the wrong times for traditional fixed dining. Alaska is the worst for me. I'm not hungry enough for the early seating but hangry by the time the late seating rolls around. Flexible options work best for me on those itineraries.

'My time' dining

On cruise lines that offer both traditional and flexible dining, you generally opt into the flexible dining program at the time of booking. Your stateroom keycard will list you as a flexible dining passenger and note your assigned dining room.

Lines that offer both a traditional and anytime dining program will usually separate the two groups into different dining rooms or different areas of a large dining room. Menus are identical for both groups, so don't worry about missing out.

Here's where it gets a little confusing. On most lines, prior to sailing, those who opt into flexible dining can make main dining room reservations for each night of the cruise. Do you have to make reservations? The answer is a resounding no, unless you have a large group wanting to dine together.

Think of it like dining out at a restaurant on land. You can show up at your leisure and wait in line for a table, or you can make a reservation and possibly be seated more quickly. On a cruise ship, those with reservations may be offered a priority line, sometimes even a separate section of the dining room. Those without reservations will still be seated, but during a rush you may have to wait a few minutes (or even an hour) for a table to open up.

One big plus for flexible dining is that you can make specific table requests each night. You might have to wait a bit longer for that window table for two, but if it's important to you, it might be worth the wait.

Some cruise lines only offer flexible dining options. Norwegian's modern version of Freestyle Dining has no fixed dining times; you can dine anytime you wish during a venue's hours of operation. Reservations are not required but are "highly suggested." These can be made pre-cruise online in your MyNCL planner or on board, subject to availability.

Princess Cruises recently changed its dual system to a single system called Dine My Way. You can dine at the same time, same table every night, or change it up on a daily basis, but you need to make advance reservations for your preferred mealtimes. Changes are made in the Princess MedallionClass app.

People who rave over flexible dining options often have a serious aversion to sitting with strangers or prefer to dine with different people each night. Let the maitre d' know your preferred table size. Families with small children love the ability to eat around the schedule that works for their family on any given day.

One last advantage of flexible dining (and it might be the deciding factor for some) is the ability to book spa appointments during the traditional dining times. Especially on big ships where the spas stay open late, flexible dining allows you to dine around your spa time, not the other way around.

On the other hand, you might think twice about selecting "my time" dining if the cruise line's shows are a priority for you. On cruise lines that offer both traditional and flexible dining, the show schedule is likely to match the traditional time frames to allow as many people as possible to attend the shows. Dining between the two traditional times would cause you to miss the early show, if there are two performances, and the entire show on nights when there's only one performance.

Also, if you feel like you are queuing in enough lines already, you might be happier with a traditional dining time. Flexible dining always involves lines, even when you make reservations. On a good night, at a late evening arrival time, your wait might be minor, but on a megaship with 3,000-plus people wanting to be seated at 6:45, you could find yourself waiting for an extended time.

Specialty dining

Making plans to skip the main dining room in favor of a specialty restaurant or dining rooms exclusive to your stateroom category does not alter your ability to choose either a traditional or "my time" style of dining in the main dining room. You don't even need to let the wait staff know you plan to dine elsewhere. (In most cases, the maitre d' will have access to your specialty reservations, so they will not be expecting you, but if you have tablemates, it's a courtesy to let them know.)

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

It's perfectly OK to choose traditional dining as your main option but make a 7:30 reservation in a specialty restaurant one night, plus try out the suites-only dining room a few nights (if you have access). You can usually see the menus in advance, either in the app, on interactive screens in your stateroom or posted near the restaurants themselves.

Cruise line offerings

Several cruise lines offer both flexible and traditional dining in the main dining room.

Carnival offers a flexible plan called Your Time Dining that uses pagers to let you know when your table is ready. Carnival's website states that "advance table reservations are not accepted," but recent Carnival cruisers report being able to use the app to let the dining room know they are on their way to speed up their wait time most nights.

Royal Caribbean 's My Time Dining plan uses optional reservations with separate lines for those who reserve a seating time. Sister line Celebrity Cruises' options are a bit confusing. Its traditional dining plan is named Celebrity Select Early or Late, and its flexible dining is dubbed Celebrity Select Anytime. This latter plan offers advance reservations and separate lines for those who walk up without reservations.

Holland America calls flexible dining As You Wish Dining, with reservations accepted but not required. MSC Cruises calls its nontraditional dining plan My Choice Dining. This option is only available to guests who book the Aurea or Yacht Club experience; passengers selecting the Bella or Fantastica packages can only access set-time dining.

In addition to Princess and Norwegian, which have dropped set-seating dining options, upscale lines like Windstar Cruises, Viking and Oceania Cruises do not utilize set dining times, tables or dining companions, nor do luxury cruise lines. Most of these accept main dining room reservations made by calling the maitre d' or have dining rooms so spacious they can accommodate all walk-ups with no wait. Advance reservations on these lines are especially useful for group dining.

All cruise lines expect reservations for sit-down specialty restaurants.

Related: 12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

Bottom line: 'My Time' dining vs. traditional dining

Traditional dining, when it's offered, is a great option for large groups traveling together. There's no last-minute quibbling over dinner reservations and whether the group can get a table together. Everyone knows ahead of time when they'll be eating and which dining room and table to go to for dinner.

Flexible dining — whether called My Time, Anytime, Freestyle or something else — works for those for whom the early or late traditional times aren't ideal or those who want to eat at different times each night depending on the day's schedule. Cruising with children is one reason some people prefer to keep all dining options flexible. The same holds true for travelers who pack their cruise days with every available activity.

The bottom line when it comes to traditional versus "my time" dining is to choose what works best for you and your travel companions on any given cruise. Some people choose traditional dining when they travel with groups of friends and family and the flexible plan when they travel with only one partner or with children. Others stick with one or the other on every cruise.

Either way, cruise lines want happy cruisers. Giving you choices of how and when your main dining room experience is scheduled is one way to keep everyone satisfied.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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• Norwegian Freestyle Cruising
• Itineraries
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Freestyle Cruising Onboard Norwegian Cruise Line

Freestyle Cruising, introduced by Norwegian, rippled through the cruising industry, and similar arrangements are now de rigueur for other companies. Few, however, match the versatility Norwegian offers. Rather than a by-the-numbers experience, Freestyle Cruising lets each traveler have a unique vacation, down to dining and entertainment.

With this cruise-your-way concept, what factors can travelers control onboard an Norwegian Cruise ship?

Travelers have multiple options for meals regardless of cruise ship. Choose from four-course meals off menus in two dining roofs, buffet-style dining, multiple cafes, grills, takeout, original dishes, desserts, and pastries. Depending upon venue, travelers have the option of dressing up or going casual, and seating is not set. On top of this, Norwegian Cruise Line offers 24-hour in-room dining.

Specialty dining is in addition to all complimentary meals. On board Norwegian Cruise ships , find churrascarias, sushi, Italian and French restaurants, and Chicago steakhouses.

Entertainment

Accommodations

Luxurious, spacious rooms are available in all price ranges for a Norwegian cruise, with 24-hour butler and concierge service available. On top of this, however, passengers get a choice of a wide variety of living arrangements. Opt for luxury with several Haven suites and penthouses. Or, if a cruise is part of a relaxing escape, go with a temporary spa suit. Rounding out the possibilities are balconies, ocean views, and inside studios.

Both Direct Line Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line offer several early and last minute package deals. Those planning a European vacation further can take advantage of Norwegian's cruise-tour packages to Europe, which encompass not only the cost of the cruise but hotels, some meals, airfare, and sightseeing.

If Freestyle Cruising appeals to you, why not schedule your next vacation onboard a Norwegian cruise ship? Get discounts and packages or make reservations with Direct Line Cruises today.

For the BEST SERVICE

In planning your vacation, norwegian cruise line ~ tips for all ships ~ freestyle dining.

Norwegian has a great concept called “Freestyle” Dining.   What’s great about it is choices are made by YOU as to where you want to dine nightly.   What’s bad about it is if you’re not “in the know” most of the best stuff will pass you by!

If you’ve cruised before on another line with early or late “traditional” dining, then you’re used to showing up at the same dining room, at the same time, and sitting at the same table every night with the same dining partners.    Freestyle is not like that.

The overall concept of Freestyle Dining is that you get to choose when and where to dine each night.   HOWEVER, there are some good tips you should know before you go!   To eat at a specific time in the regular, free, dining room you should have a reservation.   Just like a restaurant near you home, it’s a first-come, first-served concept.   And, if you reserve ahead, you will have a shorter wait time or none at all.  

On each ship there are free dining rooms and other free quick service places and the buffet.   There is never a reason to pay for food on a cruise if you don’t want to.   However, also on each ship are various upscale restaurants that have a per-person service charge.   Some ships have more than others.   But if you want to try one on your cruise on any day of the sailing, then you should go directly to the dining reservations desk, or call the dining reservations number from the phone in your cabin, and make those reservations as soon as you can.  The new rule on NCL is that you can make reservations 48 hours in advance, or, specifically, first thing Tuesday morning for Wednesday night, etc.   The alternative restaurants are usually small, and they will sell out and not take further reservations very quickly.   You probably won’t be able to walk up to one if you’re feeling like Japanese tonight, or French, or whatever.   Take some time before you go to read about your ship and it’s restaurants online, look at your itinerary, and plan out however many of these alternative dining experiences you want on your cruise to try these special restaurants.  

If you choose not to plan ahead, NCL has great plasma screens all over their ships that show you 1) all the restaurants and if they’re open right now; 2) how full they are for walk-ups on a color-coded bar graph.   You can refer to these at any hour to see where you can go eat breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack at any time.   The colors are green, yellow and red, like a stoplight.   If it’s red, don’t bother walking over there without a reservation.   Save yourself the trouble!

See a sample from my Pride of America cruise below:

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• Cruise Advice

Norwegian Cruise Line Dining Guide (Menus)

Doug Parker

• December 20, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its Freestyle Dining concept, which gives guests the freedom to dine whenever and wherever they want.

Freestyle Dining on Norwegian Cruise Line

There are no set dining times or pre-assigned seating so guests can dine in the Main Dining Room, a specialty restaurant, or a casual buffet at their convenience.

• Main Dining Room:  The Main Dining Room is the largest dining venue on NCL ships, offering a variety of American and international cuisine. The menu changes daily, but guests can always expect to find a variety of meat, seafood, vegetarian, and vegan options.
• Specialty Restaurants:  NCL ships offer a variety of specialty restaurants that feature different cuisines from around the world. Some of the most popular specialty restaurants include Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse), Onda by Scarpetta (Italian), Teppanyaki (Japanese), and Cagney’s Steakhouse. Prices for dinner at specialty restaurants vary depending on the restaurant, but they typically range from $29.95 to $49.95 per person.
• Buffet Restaurants:  NCL ships also offer a variety of buffet restaurants that offer a casual dining experience. Buffet restaurants typically offer various food items, including salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and desserts.

(Note: Because the selections at the buffet change daily, there is no set menu.)

Cagney’s Steakhouse 

Found on : Every Norwegian ship

Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Cruise Line ships offers a traditional American steakhouse dining experience. The menu has USDA Prime Certified Angus Beef steaks alongside seafood and vegetarian options.

Mouth-watering appetizers such as jumbo lump crab cakes, shrimp cocktails, and lobster bisque are also available. Additionally, diners can choose from delectable side dishes like mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and asparagus.

The atmosphere at Cagney’s Steakhouse is elegant and sophisticated, with dark wood accents and dim lighting. The restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list, which features a variety of red and white wines from around the world.

Cagney’s Steakhouse is not complimentary. It is an a la carte restaurant, meaning you pay for each item you order. 

Prices vary depending on your order, but entrees typically range from $30 to $50.

Cagney’s Menu 

—STARTERS—

• CRAB CAKE $19 Radish Salad | Lemon Mustard Cream
• JUMBO SHRIMP TRIO $19 Classic Cocktail Sauce
• AHI TUNA TARTARE* $18 Wasabi | Pickled Ginger | Green Onions
• OYSTERS ROCKEFELLER* $18 Mornay Sauce

—SOUPS & SALADS—

• LOBSTER BISQUE $14 Roasted Lobster Morsels
• BAKED ONION SOUP $11 Gruyère Cheese Crouton
• THE ICEBERG WEDGE $11 Roma Tomatoes | Garlic | Spring Onions | Blue Cheese Bacon | Bits | Choice of Dressing
• CAESAR $9 Romaine Lettuce | Parmesan Cheese | Anchovies | Croutons
• BEEFSTEAK TOMATO $11 Sweet Onions | Balsamic Vinaigrette

—FEATURED SELECTIONS—

• SLOW ROASTED PRIME RIB 16 OZ* $39 Au Jus Certified Angus Beef®
• SURF & TURF* $55 Filet Mignon 8 oz | Lobster Tail  | Certified Angus Beef® ($25 Dining Package Supplement)
• DOUBLE-CUT AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS 12 OZ* $43 Pearl Barley Risotto | Red Wine Sauce
• DOUBLE-CUT PORK CHOP 14 OZ* $29 Roasted Sweet Potato | Apple-Brandy Grain Mustard Sauce

—GRILLED CLASSICS—

• RIBEYE 16 oz* $39
• PETITE FILET MIGNON 5 oz* $31
• FILET MIGNON 8 oz* $41
• PORTERHOUSE 20 oz* $47 ($20 Dining Package Supplement)
• NEW YORK STRIP 12 oz* $39

• Chimichurri
• Port Wine Jus
• Steak Sauce
• Maître d’ Butter
• Yuzu Togarashi

—SEAFOOD—

• CEDAR PLANK STEELHEAD TROUT* $33 Applewood Bacon | Creamed Leeks | Red Wine Sauce
• GRILLED JUMBO SHRIMP SKEWER $36 Grilled Asparagus | Sautéed Mushrooms Garlic Herb-Drawn Butter
• GRILLED FISHERMAN’S PLATTER* $45 Shrimp | Scallops | Calamari | Branzino | Crab Cake Mustard Remoulade | Sweet Chili Dip

*Add a Lobster Tail to any Entrée $25

• BAKED RUSSET POTATO
• POTATOES AU GRATIN
• PEARL BARLEY RISOTTO
• TRUFFLE MASHED POTATOES
• PARMESAN DUSTED TRUFFLE FRIES
• ONION RINGS
• GRILLED ZUCCHINI
• CREAMED SPINACH
• STEAMED BROCCOLI
• SAUTÉED GARLIC MUSHROOMS

—DESSERTS—

• RASPBERRY CRÈME BRÛLÉE $12 Florentine Crunch | Chocolate Twist
• SEVEN LAYER CHOCOLATE CAKE $12 Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream
• APPLE PIE $12 Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream
• “OMG” CARAMEL-BUTTERSCOTCH CHEESECAKE $14 Vanilla Custard
• WARM BLUEBERRY OATMEAL CRISP $12 Phyllo Tuile | Vanilla Ice Cream

Food Republic 

Found on : Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Prima, and Norwegian Viva

Food Republic on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant serving various Asian-inspired street food dishes. The menu features a variety of small plates, ranging from sushi and sashimi to dumplings and noodles. The atmosphere is casual and upbeat, with a vibrant décor and open kitchen.

Food Republic is an à la carte restaurant, meaning each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $3.50 to $13.99 per dish, with an average price of around $7. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Food Republic is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a casual and affordable meal with various Asian-inspired dishes.

Please note that Food Republic is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests must pay for their meals separately.

Food Republic’s Menu

—SUSHI BAR—

• DYNAMITE ROLL $17 kanpachi tempura | avocado | black sesame | dynamite sauce
• ROCK SHRIMP ROLL* $18 spicy tuna | avocado | mango | spicy aioli
• CRISPY SALMON ROLL* $17 salmon | avocado | cream cheese | panko | eel sauce | spicy aioli
• TIGER ROLL* $19 spicy tuna | shrimp tempura | crab | avocado
• SPICY PACIFIC SALMON ROLL* $18 sesame sriracha | cucumber | masago roe
• DRAGON ROLL $18 broiled eel | avocado | shrimp tempura | crab | eel sauce
• CALIFORNIA ROLL $15 crab | avocado | cucumber
• VOLCANO ROLL* $16 crab | torched salmon | avocado | cucumber | lava sauce
• ALASKAN SUMMER ROLL $14 crac | rice noodles | nuoc cham

—HAND HELDS—

• EDAMAME $8 bbq salt
• THAI CHICKEN LETTUCE WRAPS $13 belgian endive | cucumber salad | sesame | sprouts tamarind & peanut dipping sauces
• PORK BELLY BAO $14 bao buns | sesame soy glaze | Japanese cucumber
• TUNA PIZZA* $16 crispy tortilla | aioli | chives | maldon salt | truffle oil
• KANPACHI WONTON TACOS $15 kanpachi ceviche | jalapeño | radish | avocado
• FIRECRACKER SHRIMP $15 thai sweet chili sauce

—SHARING IS CARING—

• GRILLED SHISHITO PEPPERS $10 white miso | dancing bonito flakes
• TIJUANA STREET FRIES $9 pork carnitas | queso fresco | avocado | salsa verde | pico de gallo
• SPICY KOREAN FRIED CHICKEN $14 rice | radish cabbage slaw
• PORK LOIN SCHNITZEL $14 honey mustard | spicy chorizo | radish
• SALT # PEPPER CALAMARI $14 shichimi | crispy garlic | smoked soy | serrano pepper
• TUNA POKÉ NACHOS* $16 wonton chips | seaweed | avocado | jalapeño | spicy mayo | eel sauce
• AHI TUNA STACK* $16 avocado | pomegranate | puffed black rice | red radish | lime cream
• KANPACHI CRUDO* $13 lemongrass romesco | roasted peppers | almonds

—GRILL REPUBLIC—

• CHICKEN TERIYAKI $14 ginger | sesame seeds | scallions
• PORK BELLY $14 butterscotch miso | corn powder
• PERUVIAN BEEF SKEWERS $15 rustic aji panca sauce | key lime
• LAMB KALBI GUI* $19 lamb chops | minted doenjang | pear | red radish
• BLACK COD SKEWERS $14 cilantro | lemon miso
• ELOTE MEXICANO $14 corn on the cob | tofu cream | queso cotija

—NOODLES, RICE, SOUPS—

• SHRIMP PAD THAl $21 rice noodles | tamarind sauce | peanuts | nuoc mam bean sprouts | lime
• THAI STEAK AND NOODLE SALAD $17 marinated striploin | lo mein | mango | cabbage | peanuts coconut | honey lime dressing
• KIMCHEE FRIED RICE $16 charred pork | pineapple | snow peas | sesame seeds (ADD CHICKEN +2) (ADD SHRIMP +3) (ADD STEAK* +4)
• VIETNAMESE PHÓ’ TÁI $19 lean beef | rice noodles | beef broth | thai basil | cilantro
• RAMEN WITH BBQ PORK BELLY $19 lemongrass broth | cilantro

—DUMPLINGS—

• PORK BELLY + SCALLIONS $8 spicy su-shoyu dipping sauce
• PASTRAMI + SAUERKRAUT $9 white cabbage soy | 1000 Island aioli
• SHIITAKE & WATER CHESTNUT $8 sriracha kewpie mayo | sesame

—SUGAR PUMP—

• GREEN TEA JAR $9 chocolate brownie | green tea mousse | chocolate crumble | ganache
• CHOCOLATE BLACK FOREST $9 kirsch soaked chocolate cake | vanilla schlag | black cherry compote
• DECADENT LIEGE WAFFLE $9 caramelized bananas | nutella | hazelnuts | whipped cream
• DARK AND STORMY’ BABA AU RHUM $9 pineapple | ginger caramel | whipped cream

Hasuki Japanese Steakhouse 

Hasuki: Japanese Steakhouse on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves teppanyaki-style Japanese cuisine. Teppanyaki is a style of Japanese cooking in which food is grilled on a large iron griddle.

Found on : Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva

At Hasuki, guests sit around a teppanyaki grill and watch their chef cook their meal. The chefs are highly skilled and put on a show as they cook, flipping food in the air and cracking jokes.

The menu at Hasuki features a variety of teppanyaki dishes, including shrimp, steak, chicken, and vegetables. Guests can also choose from a variety of sushi and sashimi rolls.

The atmosphere at Hasuki is lively and interactive. The chefs are engaging and makes sure everyone is having a good time. The restaurant is also decorated in a traditional Japanese style, with dark wood and paper lanterns.

Hasuki is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $15.99 to $39.99 per dish, with an average price of around $25. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Hasuki is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a fun and interactive dining experience with delicious Japanese cuisine.

Please note that Hasuki is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests must pay for their meals separately.

Hasuki’s Menu

All meals include edamame, soup, salad, choice of entrée and dessert.

Cover Charge $59

SOUP & SALAD

• Miso Soup: mushrooms | dashi | tofu | wakame
• Seaweed Salad: ginger dressing
• Please select one entree below. Served with garlic fried rice | grilled vegetables | creamy mustard | and ginger-garlic dipping sauces.
• New York Strip*: beef striploin
• Chicken Yaki Udon: chicken breast | udon noodles
• Seafood* : jumbo shrimp | sea scallops | calamari
• Teriyaki Glazed Tofu: seasonal vegetables
• Vegetable Yaki Udon: seasonal vegetables | udon noodles

COMBINATIONS

• Asuka* : new york strip | jumbo shrimp
• Kamakura* : new york strip | chicken breast
• Yamato: chicken breast | jumbo shrimp
• Edo* : sea scallops | jumbo shrimp
• Green Tea Cake: cashew nut brittle or Fruit Sashimi: sliced exotic fruits

Indulge Food Hall 

Found on: Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima

Indulge Food Hall on Norwegian Cruise Line is a food hall-style dining venue that features a variety of cuisines from around the world. Guests can choose from a variety of stations, including:

• Nudls: Noodles from Asia, Germany, and Italy
• Tapas: Spanish tapas
• Q Texas Smokehouse: Texas barbecue
• The Latin Quarter: Latin-inspired appetizers
• Seaside Rotisserie: Grilled and skewered meat
• The Garden: Salads
• Tamara: Indian
• Just Desserts
• Just Ice Cream
• Coco’s: Gelato, shakes, and sundaes

Guests can order food from any station and have it delivered to their table. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with a variety of seating options to choose from.

Indulge Food Hall is complimentary for all Norwegian Cruise Line guests.

Indulge Food Hall is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a casual and affordable dining experience with a variety of food options. It is also a great option for groups with different dietary needs.

Indulge Food Hall’s Lunch Menu

• JAMÓN :  Dry-cured country ham
• CHORIZO : pork | smoked paprika
• MANCHEGO : sheep’s milk cheese
• IDIAZABAL : sheep’s milk cheese
• DATILES CON ALMENDRAS : bacon wrapped medjool dates | macrona almonds | blue cheese
• PAN CON TOMATE : country bread | garlic tomato
• MONTADITO DE CANGREJO : country bread | crab meat
• PATE DE PATIO : country bread | duck rillette
• TORTILLA ESPANOLA : egg | potato and onion omelet

• FRENCH ONION SOUP : gruyere cheese crouton 
• ROASTED TOMATO SOUP : creme fraiche
• ROMAINE & KALE : feta | tomatoes | red onions | cucumbers | za’atar spiced breadcrumbs | citrus dressing
• SPINACH CAESAR : parmesan | garlic croutons | caesar dressing
• COBB* : turkey | bacon | boiled eggs | iceberg lettuce | cucumber | tomato | blue cheese | red wine vinaigrette
• MESCLUN : avocado | red onion | tomatoes | tortilla strips | fresh lime | cilantro-jalapeno vinaigrette

GRILLED ADD ONS

• herb-marinated flank steak | blackened tuna | teriyaki tofu | chicken
• INDONESIAN NOODLE SOUP : ginger chicken dumpling | bell peppers | long noodles
• SINGAPORE STREET NOODLES : rice noodles | carrot | bell pepper | cilantro | onion | bean sprouts
• PAD THAI : shrimp | green onion | peanut | cilantro | tamarind
• TAGLIATELLE : bolognese
• GERMAN SPAETZLE : herb mac & cheese
• PESTO GNOCCHI : asiago | potato | pine nuts

THE LATIN QUARTER

• COCTEL DE MARISCOS : zesty mix of fresh seafood | tomato | lime juice | hot sauce | plantain chips
• TOTOPOS : crispy corn nachos | refried beans | guacamole | crema mexicana | monterey jack
• GUACAMOLE : jalapeno | tomato | onion | cilantro | tortilla chips
• TUNA TOSTADA* : ahi tuna | chipotle aioli | avocado | pickled cucumber
• CRAB TOSTADA : celery | mint | red onion | cilantro aioli
• MUSHROOM TOSTADA : shitake | huitlacoche | goat cheese | cilantro | pickled onion

TEXAS SMOKEDHOUSE

TEXAS TEASERS

• DEVILED EGGS : maple sugar glazed bacon
• FRIED GREEN TOMATO : bacon | red pepper jam | butter lettuce | blue cheese crumbles

FROM THE PIT

All items from the pit are served with coleslaw, chunky potato salad and pickles

• PITMASTER PLATTER : beef brisket | pork spare rib and smoked chicken | barbecue sauce
• 1/2 CHICKEN : smoked chicken | barbecue sauce
• PORK SPARE RIBS : smoked spare ribs | barbecue sauce
• BRISKET : beef brisket | barbecue sauce

SIDES & SUCH

• PINTO BEANS 
• JALAPEÑO CHEESE CORNBREAD
• STEAK FRIES

ALWAYS AVAILABLE

• CHUNKY POTATO SALAD

SEASIDE ROTISSERIE

• LAMB TOP SIRLOIN* anchoiade
• PICANHA* beef top sirloin
• TENDERLOIN* beef filet | Café de Paris butter
• DUCK BREAST* bacon wrapped
• PORCHETTA :  majoram chimichurri
• PINEAPPLE : cinnamon | brown sugar

——

• ROASTED EGGPLANT SALAD tomato | onions | capers | chili flakes
• QUINOA & KALE TABBOULEH tomato | mint | parsley | lemon juice
• CHICKPEA SALAD couscous | cucumber | tomato | edamame
• POTATO SALAD mustard | sour cream | vinegar | parsley | chive

La Cucina is a specialty restaurant on Norwegian Cruise Line that serves authentic Italian cuisine. The menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, such as spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, and chicken parmigiana.

There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan options available. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a traditional Italian trattoria décor.

La Cucina is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $15.99 for a starter to $39.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

La Cucina is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a delicious and authentic Italian dining experience. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Please note: La Cucina is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests will need to pay for their meals separately.

La Cucina’s Menu

ZUPPA / ANTIPASTI / INSALATE

• PASTA E FAGIOLI $7 Cannellini Bean Soup | Pancetta | Pasta
• ANTIPASTI DI SALUMI MISTI, FORMAGGI E VERDURE $12 Salami | Capicola | San Daniele Prosciutto | Mortadella | Parmesan Cheese | Pickled Vegetables | Olives
• BURRATA “CAPRESE” $14 Heirloom Tomatoes | Basil
• BRESAOLA $12 Thinly Sliced Air-Dried Beef on Arugula | Lemon and Olive Oil Dressing
• CALAMARI FRITTI $12 Marinara Sauce
• INSALATA MISTA $10 Mixed Greens | Cherry Tomatoes | Fennel | Carrots | Artichokes | Strawberries
• INSALATA DI RUCOLA E GRANA $10 Arugula Salad with Parmesan Cheese Shavings | Lemon and Olive Oil Dressing
• INSALATA CON PERE, NOCI E GORGONZOLA $10 Mixed Greens | Pear | Walnuts | Gorgonzola Cheese | Choice of Dressing

PASTA & RISOTTO

Available in Entrée size for $5 additional

• SPAGHETTI CARBONARA $16 Pancetta | Egg Yolk | Black Pepper | Pecorino Cheese
• BEEF LASAGNE AL FORNO $22 Beef Bolognese | Parmesan Cheese | Mozzarella Cream Sauce
• FETTUCCINE ALFREDO CON FUNGHI $16 Button Mushrooms | Parmesan Cheese | Parsley
• RAVIOLI DI GAMBERI CON SALSA DI ARAGOSTA DRAGONCELLO $24 Shrimp Ravioli | Lobster Tarragon Sauce
• GNOCCHI DI PATATE AL PESTO $15 Potato Dumplings | Creamy Basil Pesto Sauce
• RISOTTO AI FUNGHI DI BOSCO $18 Wild Mushroom Risotto
• 12-INCH MARGHERITA $15 Mozzarella | Fresh Tomatoes | Basil
• PROSCIUTTO E ARUGULA $16 Mozzarella | Prosciutto | Arugula
• SALAME PICCANTE $18 Mozzarella | Pepperoni | Basil
• VEGETALI $16 Mozzarella | Peppers | Onions | Mushrooms | Black Olives | Garlic
• MEAT LOVERS $19 Mozzarella | Pepperoni | Sausage | Ham | Mild Peppers | Onions

• SALMONE GRIGLIATO CON CREMA DI CANNELLINI E CROCCANTINO DI PROSCIUTTO* $29 Grilled Salmon | White Beans | Crispy Cured Ham
• GAMBERI FRA DIAVOLO $32 Sautéed Shrimp | Spicy Tomato Sauce | Linguini
• CARTOCCIO DI DENTICE ROSSO AI FRUTTI DI MARE $39 Red Snapper Livornese Style | Shrimp | Clams | Mussels | Cherry Tomatoes | Herbs | Potatoes | Braised Fennel | Black Olives
• SCALOPPINA DI VITELLO MARSALA* $32 Sautéed Veal Scaloppini | Dry Marsala Sauce | Mushrooms
• FILETTO DI MANZO AL PEPE VERDE* $39 8 oz Beef Tenderloin | Green Peppercorn Sauce | Blue Cheese Ravioli
• POLLO CACCIATORE $26 Chicken Simmered in Fresh Tomatoes | Rosemary Garlic Sauce | Peppers | Onions
• OSSO BUCCO ALLA MILANESE $32 Braised Veal Shank | Lemon | Garlic and Parsley Gremolata | Saffron Risotto

• TIRAMISÚ Lady Fingers | Espresso | Mascarpone Cream
• PANNA COTTA ALLA VANIGLIA Blackberry Marsala Compote | Meringue Crunch
• CANNOLI Sweet Ricotta Filling | Pistachios | Chocolate | Tutti Frutti
• TORTA DI RICOTTA CON CREMA AL LIMONE Ricotta Cheesecake | Lemon Curd | Milk Chocolate Sauce
• TORTA DI CIOCCOLATA E LAMPONI Chocolate Tartlet | Raspberry | Pistachio | Vanilla Sauce

Le Bistro 

Found on : Every Norwegian ship except for Norwegian Encore and Pride of America

Le Bistro on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves classic French cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, such as escargots, filet mignon, and duck confit. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, with white tablecloths, dim lighting, and live piano music.

Le Bistro is an à la carte restaurant, meaning each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $12.99 for a salad to $39.99 for a steak. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Le Bistro is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a special dining experience with delicious French cuisine. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a great place to celebrate a romantic occasion or enjoy a fine dining meal.

Please note that Le Bistro is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests must pay for their meals separately.

Le Bistro’s Menu

• STEAK TARTARE AU COUTEAU* $19 hand-cut beef | traditional garnish | grilled baguette
• ESCARGOTS À LA BOURGUIGNONNE $16 herbed garlic butter
• PÉTONCLES DUBARRY, HUILE DE TRUFFE* $16 pan-seared bay scallops | cauliflower velouté | truffle oil

Soupes et Salades

Soups & Salads

• SOUPE À L’OIGNON GRATINÉE $9 baked onion soup | beef consommé | gruyère cheese | crôutons
• SOUPE AUX QUATRE CHAMPIGNONS $9 cream of mushroom soup
• CROMESQUIS DE CHEVRE $14 goat cheese croquettes | beets | granny smith apple | arugula | rosemary infused honey
• SALADE D’ENDIVE $14 belgian endive salad | roquefort cheese | toasted walnuts
• FILET DE BOEUF ROSSINI* $49 ($10 dining package supplement) beef tenderloin | foie gras | fondant potato | mushrooms | perigord sauce
• CÔTE DE PORC RÔTI* $35 roasted pork chop | green peppercorn sauce | twice-fried potato | seasonal vegetables
• CARRÉ D’AGNEAU RÔTI ET SOURIS D’AGNEAU AUX SAVEURS MAROCAINES* $46 braised shank and roasted lamb chop | moroccan spices | dried fruits | sweet potatoes | cilantro
• FILET DE CANETTE RÔTI* $35 roasted maple leaf duck breast | glazed carrots | sweet peas | mashed potatoes | orange sauce
• COQ AU VIN $29 red wine braised chicken | mushrooms | potatoes | pearl onions | bacon

Fruits de Mer

• SOLE GRENOBLOISE* $45 sautéed dover sole | lemon-caper butter | crôutons | chateau potatoes
• FILET DE LOUP DE MER* $39 mediterranean sea bass | black olive tapenade | crushed lemon potatoes artichoke | tomato confit | zucchini | pesto
• HOMARDTHERMIDOR $49 ($25 dining package supplement) lobster thermidor | mushroom cream sauce | pilaf rice
• NAPOLEON DE LÉGUMES $27 napoléon of portobello mushrooms and vegetable puff pastry | goat cheese | red pepper | sweet potato | beurre blanc sauce

Patisseries

• FRAISIER $12 strawberries with diplomat cream and pistachio-almond sponge cake
• MARQUISE AU CHOCOLAT $12 70% dark chocolate cremeux | rice crunch | chambord raspberry sauce
• MARRONS ET CLEMENTINES $12 chestnut bavarian cream | citrus filling | sables crunch
• POIRE BELLE-HÉLÈNE $12 fortified wine poached pear with spices | vanilla ice cream and warm chocolate sauce
• ILE FLOTTANTE $12 airy meringues pillow floating in vanilla crème anglaise | raspberry coulis
• ASSIETTE DE FROMAGE $13 cheese selection of camembert | goat cheese | roquefort | muenster
• CRÈMES GLACÉES ET SORBETS $9 assorted ice cream flavors: vanilla | chocolate | strawberry and lemon sorbet

Los Lobos 

Found on: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Sun, and Norwegian Viva

Los Lobos on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves modern Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including guacamole made tableside, tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with a colorful décor and upbeat music.

Los Lobos is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $3.99 for tortilla soup to $19.99 for a carne asada dinner. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Los Lobos is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a delicious and authentic Mexican dining experience. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a fun night out.

Please note that Los Lobos is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests must pay for their meals separately.

Los Lobos’ Menu

ANTOJITOS / APPETIZERS

• GUACAMOLE FRESCO EN MOLCAJETE $15 Prepared Table Side | Jalapeño | Tomato | Onion | Cilantro | Lime
• QUESO FUNDIDO $12 Melted Mix of Mexican Cheeses Sprinkled with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds and a Drizzle of Agave
• SOPA DE TORTILLA $8 Smoky Tomato Broth | Shredded Chicken | Queso Fresco | Onions | Avocado | Crispy Corn | Tortilla Strips
• QUESADILLA DEL PUESTO $11
• Corn Masa Quesadilla | Queso Oaxaca | Goat Cheese | Zucchini | Corn Truffle | Sesame Salsa Macha
• COCTEL MIXTO* $15 Tiger Shrimp | Scallop | Fish | Spicy Citrus Tomato Sauce | Avocado | Lime | Cilantro
• TIRADITO DE ATÚN* $17 YellowFin Tuna | Tamarind | Aguachile | Toasted Sesame | Green Onion

ENSALADAS | SALADS

• MIXTA $12 Chopped Greens | Jicama | Corn | Watermelon Radish | Queso Fresco | Avocado | Cilantro Vinaigrette
• DE LA CASA $12 Baby Greens | Avocado | Queso Fresco | Toasted Sesame Seeds | Tortilla Strips | Balsamic Honey Vinaigrette
• 3 CORN TORTILLAS SERVED WITH GUACAMOLE & SALSA
• POLLO ADOBADO $17 Spicy Dry Rubbed Rotisserie Chicken | Roasted Avocado | Salsa Casera
• BISTEC CON QUESO* $19 Flank Steak | Crispy Queso | Chihuahua | Tomatillo Salsa | Cilantro | Onion
• CAMARONES ‘BLT’ $19 Shrimp | Garlic Butter | Bacon | Pico De Gallo | Lettuce | Chipotle Glaze Green Onion

ENCHILADAS & BURRITOS

• ENCHILADAS DE MOLE $18 Tortillas | Rotisserie Chicken | Queso Oaxaca | Mole | Onions | Crema | Toasted Sesame Seeds
• BURRITO ROJO $25 Refried Beans | Red Rice | Queso Fresco | Cilantro (Choice of: Chipotle Seasoned Ground Beef | Chicken Tinga | Shredded Pork with Salsa Verde)

DE LA PARRILLA | FROM THE GRILL

SERVED WITH CORN TORTILLAS

• CAMARONES $33 Grilled Shrimp | Chile DeÁrbol Marinade | Micro Greens | Citrus Avocado Salad
• PESCADO AL ESTILO NAYARIT* $33 Grilled Market Catch | Spicy Red Adobo | Salsa Verde | Green Beans | Escarole Salad
• CARNE ASADA A LA YUCATECA* $32 Achiote Marinated Flank Steak | Escabeche Onions | Mexican Rice | Refried Beans | Sweet Plantains

ESPECIALIDADES DE LA COCINA | HOUSE SPECIALTIES

• COCHINITA PIBIL $27 Pork Slow Braised in Bitter Orange Juice with Annatto Seeds | Served Shredded on Banana Leaf | Corn Tortillas
• MEJILLONES BORRACHOS $29 Mussels | Spicy Tomato Broth | Chorizo | Mezcal | Hoja Santa | Grilled Crusty Bread
• CHILE RELLENO $19 Roasted Poblano Pepper | Quinoa | Apple | Raisins | Roasted Corn Rice Pilaf | Herb Salad | Cascabel Tomato Salsa
• FAJITAS $27 Hand-Made Corn Tortillas | Grilled Onion & Bell Peppers ( Choice of: Chicken | Shrimp | Carne Asada*)

ACOMPAÑAMIENTOS | SIDES • $7

• TORTILLAS Corn
• PLÁTANOS Sweet Plantains
• ARROZ ROJO Red Rice
• JICAMA SLAW Cabbage | Nopales | Jalapeños | Red Onion | Spiced Vinegar
• ELOTES CALLEJEROS Grilled Corn on the Cob | Queso Cotija | Mayonnaise | Chiltepin
• FRIJOLES REFRITOS Refried Beans

POSTRES | DESSERTS • $11

• CHURROS Dulce de Leche Caramel
• CHOCOFLAN Caramel Sauce
• PASTEL DEL TRES LECHES Coconut Cream
• TARTALETA MAYA Guava Gel | Spicy 72% Chocolate Ganache

SORBETES | SORBETS • $11

• FLOR DE JAMAICA | HIBISCUS Lime | Salt
• GUAYABA | GUAVA Coulis
• MARACUYA | PASSIONFRUIT Piloncillo Syrup

Moderno on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves Brazilian-style churrasco barbecue. Churrasco is a type of cooking in which meat is skewered and grilled over an open fire.

Found on : Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Star, Norwegian Sun, and Pride of America

At Moderno, guests are served a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, pork, and lamb, that are cooked to their liking. The meat is served tableside by gauchos, who are traditional Brazilian cowboys.

In addition to the churrasco meat, Moderno also features a salad bar and a dessert bar. The salad bar features a variety of fresh vegetables, pasta salads, and cheeses. The dessert bar features a variety of Brazilian desserts, such as brigadeiros, flan, and mousse.

The atmosphere at Moderno is lively and festive, with a Brazilian-inspired décor and music. The restaurant is also known for its excellent service, with the gauchos being particularly attentive to their guests.

Moderno is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. The cost of dining at Moderno is a flat $59 cover charge + 20% gratuity. This entitles guests to unlimited rounds of meat served tableside, as well as many trips as they want to the salad bar and dessert bar.

Moderno is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a delicious and authentic Brazilian dining experience. The lively atmosphere and attentive service make it a great place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a fun night out.

Moderno’s Menu

Nama sushi .

Nama Sushi on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves fresh, contemporary sushi and sashimi. The menu features a variety of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi dishes, as well as a selection of hot appetizers and desserts. The atmosphere is modern and stylish, with a sleek décor and open kitchen.

Nama Sushi is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $5.99 for a two-piece nigiri to $29.99 for a specialty roll. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Nama Sushi is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a delicious and authentic sushi dining experience. The fresh ingredients and creative dishes make it a great place to try something new or simply enjoy your favorite sushi classics.

Please note that Nama Sushi is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests will need to pay for their meals separately.

Nama Sushi’s Menu

SUSHI ROLLS

• SHOJIN $12 asparagus | tomato | lettuce | avocado | cucumber
• CRISPY SALMON* $17 salmon | avocado | cream cheese | panko | eel sauce
• RAINBOW* $17 crab | tuna | yellowtail | salmon | shrimp | cucumber | tobiko | avocado
• YELLOWTAIL* $17 kanpachi | crab | yuzu juice | truffle oil | green soy paper | aonori tempura flakes
• SPICY TUNA* $11 shichimi aioli | garlic ponzu | chives
• CALIFORNIA $9 crab | avocado | cucumber
• SHRIMP TEMPURA $9 avocado | mango | spicy mayo
• BBQ EEL $9 cucumber | eel sauce

• KANPACHI* $13 yellowtail
• AHI* $13 yellowfin tuna
• UNAGI* $13 eel
• SAKE* $13 salmon

COLD DISHES

• KANPACHI SASHIMI* $14 ponzu | serrano pepper | cilantro
• TUNA PIZZA* $16   crisp tortilla | garlic aioli | chives | maldon sea salt | truffle oil
• TUNA WONTON VOLCANO* $13 wonton chips | seaweed | avocado | jalapeño | eel sauce
• BEEF STRIPLOIN CARPACCIO* $15 thinly sliced | yuzu ponzu | hot oil | shiso leaf
• KINGFISH TARTARE* $16 caviar | spring onion | wasabi dashi
• TUNA TATAKI SALAD* $17 mixed greens | garlic ponzu dressing
• SALMON NASHI* $16 asian pear | miso
• “TATAKI KYURI” CUCUMBER SALAD $9 toasted sesame seeds | miso | ginger
• NORI BISTRO CHIPS $8 tapioca chips | yogurt chive sauce
• “KARAAGE” – FRIED CHICKEN $14 sake | sweet soy | kewpie mayo
• ROCK SHRIMP TEMPURA $18 spicy gochujang aioli
• PINEAPPLE CARPACCIO $9 lemongrass syrup | pomegranate
• MOCHlICE CREAM $9 green tea | mango

Ocean Blue on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves seafood dishes from around the world. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, such as lobster rolls, sea scallops, and grilled branzino.

There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan options available. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with white tablecloths, dim lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the ocean.

Found on : Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Joy

Ocean Blue is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $15.99 for a starter to $39.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Ocean Blue is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a special dining experience with delicious seafood cuisine. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a great place to celebrate a romantic occasion or simply enjoy a fine dining meal.

Please note that Ocean Blue is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests will need to pay for their meals separately.

Ocean Blue’s Menu

• AHI TUNA AND AVOCADO TOWER* $18 Pomegranate Soy Sauce
• CRAB CAKE $19 Tartar Sauce | Lemon
• BLAZING SHRIMP $15 Crispy Shrimp | Spicy Chili-Lime Mayonnaise    
• PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS* $21 Caramelized Pork Belly | Anise Spiced Soy Glaze

SOUPS & SALADS

• CLAM CHOWDER $9 Chopped Clams | Diced Potatoes | Bacon | Celery | Thyme | Cream      
• GUMBO $9 Gulf Shrimp | Andouille Sausage | Broiled Chicken | Jasmine Rice
• ICEBERG WEDGE $9 Blue Cheese | Cherry Tomatoes | Bacon | Red Onion | Blue Cheese Dressing
• ROASTED BEETS $11 Tri-Color Beets | Goat Cheese Cream | Truffle Dressing

FROM THE LAND

Served with a choice of two sides

• SURF AND TURF* $58 8 oz Filet Mignon | Lobster Tail Certified Angus Beef® ($25 Dining Package Supplement)
• 8 OZ FILET MIGNON* $43 Certified Angus Beef®
• ROASTED BRICK CHICKEN $29 Jalapeño-Cilantro Chimichurri
• ROASTED CAULIFLOWER STEAK $24 Ras al Hanout | Almonds | Grapes | Capers | Parsley

Add a Broiled Lobster Tail to any Entrée $25

Add a Shrimp Skewer to any Entrée $15

SEAFOOD SPECIALTIES

• COLD WATER LOBSTER 1 1|2 lbs $49 Steamed or Grilled | Drawn Butter ($25 Dining Package Supplement)
• SEAFOOD LINGUINI* $36 Shellfish Cream Sauce | Shrimp | Calamari | Mussels | Scallops | Mushrooms | Cherry Tomatoes | Arugula
• CIOPPINO* $44 Lobster | Shrimp | Scallops | Clams | Mussels | Tomato-Lobster Broth | Rustic Baguette
• FISHERMAN’S PLATTER* $39 Fried or Grilled | Catch of the Day | Shrimp | Calamari | Scallops | French Fries | Coleslaw | Remoulade
• BEER BATTERED FISH AND CHIPS* $29 Alaskan Cod | French Fries | Coleslaw | Tartar Sauce | Malt Vinegar

SIMPLY GRILLED FISH

Served with Roasted Provençale Tomato, Lemon, and your choice of Signature Sauce. Served with a choice of two sides.

GRILLED FISH

• NORWEGIAN SALMON* $35
• AHI TUNA* $37
• NORTH ATLANTIC COD* $39
• BLACK SEA BASS* $39
• Mâitre D’ Butter
• White Wine Lemon Butter
• Tartar Sauce
• Mango Peach Chutney
• FRENCH FRIES
• JASMINE RICE
• HOUSE-MADE COLESLAW
• SEASONAL VEGETABLE MEDLEY
• STEAMED ASPARAGUS Hollandaise sauce

DESSERTS $12

• VALRHONA DARK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE Dark Chocolate Sorbet | Salted Caramel Popcorn
• VANILLA CHEESECAKE “IN A JAR” Raspberry Compote | Graham Crackers
• FRENCH APPLE TART A LA MODE Puff Pastry | Golden Apple | Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
• KEY LIME MERINGUE PIE Sweet Dough | Confit Lime Zest
• HOUSEMADE SORBETS Dark Chocolate | Strawberry | Basil | Lime Arlette Crunch

Onda by Scarpetta 

Found on : Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Prima, and Norwegian Viva

Onda by Scarpetta on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves modern Italian cuisine from renowned New York City chef Scott Conant. The menu features a variety of dishes, such as spaghetti pomodoro, lobster ravioli, and grilled branzino.

The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with warm wood accents, plush seating, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning ocean views.

Onda by Scarpetta is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $12.99 for a starter to $49.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Onda by Scarpetta is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a special dining experience with delicious Italian cuisine. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a great place to celebrate a romantic occasion or simply enjoy a fine dining meal.

Please note that Onda by Scarpetta is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests will need to pay for their meals separately.

Onda by Scarpetta’s Menu

DINNER MENU

• MARGHERITA $17 mozzarella | san marzano tomato | basil
• CALZONE $19 mozzarella | san marzano tomato | spinach | eggplant | roasted peppers
• MACELLAIO $21 mozzarella | sausage | spicy sopressata | parmacotto | truffle oil | ricotta stuffed crust
• YELLOWTAIL CRUDO* $19 olio di zenzero | pickled red onion
• BEEF CARPACCIO* $21 asparagus tips | shaved parmesan | marinated white cremini mushrooms
• MARKET SALAD $14 shaved seasonal vegetables | truffle pecorino | champagne vinaigrette
• BURRATA $16 prosciutto di parma | heirloom tomato | arugula | balsamic reduction
• SHORT RIBS $21 vegetable farro risotto
• FRITTO MISTO $20 calamari | shrimp | fish croquette | zucchini | potato | remoulade
• CREAMY POLENTA $15 fricassee of truffled mushrooms
• BRAISED OCTOPUS $22 sofrito | pancetta | chickpeas | romesco
• SPAGHETTI $24 tomato | basil
• RAVIOLI $25 short rib | garlic chips | horseradish
• TAGLIATELLE $31 lobster | tomato | spring onion | spicy bread crumbs
• PAPPARDELLE BOLOGNESE $26 beef | pork | and veal ragu
• SCIALATIELLI $29 shrimp | clams | mussels | calamari | white wine garlic sauce
• MEZZELUNE $26 ricotta | spinach | preserved truffle | butter | sage

• SALMON* $35 rosemary lentils | broccoli rabe | basil oil
• BRANZINO $39 rainbow cauliflower | herb bread crumbs | lemon-caper salmoriglio
• ROASTED CHICKEN $29 seasonal vegetables | spaetzle | squash purée | rosemary jus
• TUNA* $37 string beans | red onion | shiitake | pistachio vinaigrette | carrot ginger purée
• BEEF FILET* CERTIFIED ANGUS BEEF® $43 spinach purée | potato | seasonal vegetables | natural jus
• VEAL MILANESE* $ 45 herb bread crumbs | arugula | tomato | red onion
• FINGERLING POTATOES $9 rosemary | garlic
• WILTED SPINACH $9 nutmeg
• ROSEMARY LENTILS $9 broccoli rabe | candied tomatoes
• MUSHROOM TRIFOLATI $9 garlic | parsley
• ROASTED CARROTS $9 thyme | orange | tahini

• BUTTERSCOTCH BUDINO $12 salted caramel | chocolate chip cookies | chocolate gelato
• CHEESECAKE $12 pistachio ganache | white peach sorbet
• CHOCOLATE CAKE $12 chocolate banana toffee sauce | caramel gelato
• PANNA COTTA $12 coconut | guava soup | caramelized pineapple | coconut sorbetto
• TIRAMISU $12

Palomar 

Palomar on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves Mediterranean seafood dishes. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, branzino, and lobster. There are also several vegetarian and vegan options available.

The atmosphere is casual and sophisticated, with a coastal-inspired décor and outdoor seating.

Palomar is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $15.99 for a starter to $39.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Palomar is a popular choice for cruisers looking for a delicious and fresh seafood dining experience. The casual and sophisticated atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Please note that Palomar is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests must pay for their meals separately.

Palomar’s Menu

• TUNA CRUDO* $16 Celtuce | Sunchoke | Shoyu
• OYSTERS* $14 Pickled Oyster | Watermelon Mignonette
• MUSHROOM TARTARE* $12 Fingerling Potato Chips | Black Garlic | Egg Emulsion
• GRILLED JUMBO PRAWNS $22 Endive-Fennel Salad
• GRILLED OCTOPUS $22 Fingerling Potato | Baby Spinach | Pickled Red Onion | Pimenton De La Vera
• GREEK VILLAGE SALAD $9 Tomato | Cucumber | Green Pepper | Red Onion | Feta | Olives | Capers | Parsley
• ROMAINE SALAD $9 Dill | Scallion | Japanese Cucumber | Citrus Dressing
• HEIRLOOM BEET SALAD $12 Feta Cheese | Mint | Roasted Garlic
• THALASSINI SALATA* $15 Seafood Salad: Shrimp | Scallop | Calamari | Mussels | Caper | Celery | Lemon

From the Sea

• LAVRÁKI* $34 Mediterranean Sea Bass | Chickpeas | Saffron-Carrot Puree
• FESTÓNI* $44 Sea Scallops | Prosciutto | Le Puy Lentils | Clams | Pistachio Pesto
• MONACHÓS* $39 Roasted Monkfish | Fregola | Lobster Foam | Zucchini | Semi-Dried Cherry Tomato
• DOVER SOLE* $45 Olive Oil | Lemon | Lilliput Capers | Grilled Carrots
• COLOSSAL BLACK TIGER SHRIMP $49 Baby Wild Arugula ($25 Dining Package Supplement)
• WHOLE GRILLED LOBSTER $49 Olive Oil | Lemon | ($25 Dining Package Supplement)
• WHOLE FISH FOR TWO BAKED IN SEA SALT WITH HERBS – MP Olive Oil | Lemon | Grilled Carrots

From the Land

• TOMI* $39 New York Strip Steak | Baby Romaine | Bone Marrow Butter Certified Angus Beef®
• FILET MIGNON* $42 Patates Tiganites | Bone Marrow Butter Certified Angus Beef®
• GRILLED AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS* $44 Gigantes Beans

• PATATES TIGANITES Hand-Cut Potatoes | Olive Oil | Rosemary
• POMMES PUREE Whipped Yukon Gold Potato | Fleur De Sel
• PILAF Jasmine Rice | Butter | Lime | Star Anise
• HONEY ROASTED CARROTS Ricotta | Cumin
• GRILLED ASPARAGUS Garlic | Olive Oil
• WILD ARUGULA Form Chardonnay Vinegar | Parmesan
• RADISH SALAD Daikon | Red | Black and Watermelon Radishes | Lemon | Oregano
• GIGANTES BEANS Baked Bean Stew with Tomato and Oregan o

Desserts $12

• VANILLA CHEESECAKE “IN A JAR” Raspberry Compote | Graham Crackers
• FRENCH APPLE TART À LA MODE Puff Pastry | Golden Apple | Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
• GALAKTOBOUREKO Greek Yogurt Sorbet | Orange Custard Pie
• HOUSE MADE SORBET Dark Chocolate | Strawberry | Greek Yogurt | Lime | Arlette Crunch  

Q Texas Smokehouse

Q Texas Smokehouse on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves authentic Texas barbecue. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, such as brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan options available. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with a Western-inspired décor and live country music.

Q Texas Smokehouse is an à la carte restaurant, meaning that each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $12.99 for a starter to $29.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Q Texas Smokehouse is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a delicious and authentic barbecue dining experience. The casual atmosphere and live country music make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Please note that Q Texas Smokehouse is not included in the Norwegian Cruise Line dining package, so guests will need to pay for their meals separately.

Q Texas Smokehouse’s Menu

• TEX – MEX STYLE TORTILLA SOUP $7 Red Onion | Cilantro
• DEVILLED EGGS $6 Maple Sugar Glazed Bacon
• LOADED FRIES $8 Melted Cheddar | Sour Cream | Green Onions | Jalapeños Choice of: Q’s Chili or Pulled Pork
• Q’S CHOPPED SALAD $10 Q’s Smoked Turkey Breast | Lettuce | Tomato | Cucumber | Corn | Granny Smith Apple | Avocado | Blue Cheese
• FRIED GREEN TOMATOES $6 Bacon | Red Pepper Jam | Butter Lettuce | Blue Cheese Crumbles
• LONE STAR CHILI $8 Shredded Beef | Peppers | Jalapeño | Red Onions Grated Cheddar Cheese | Sour Cream | Cilantro | Tortilla Chips
• TEXAN CRAB CAKES $15 Chilled Pimento Cream
• CRISPY FRIED OKRA $6 Cajun Remoulade

SOUTHERN ROOTS

• SWEET POTATO $5 Pecan Honey Butter | Cinnamon
• CLASSIC RUSSET BAKED POTATO $5 Butter | Sour Cream | Cheddar Cheese | Bacon | Green Onions
• LONE STAR POTATO $8 Butter | Sour Cream | Cheddar Cheese | Bacon | Green Onions | Pinto Beans Choice Of: Q’s Brisket, Diced Turkey Breast, Pulled Pork

PITMASTER PLATTER $29

1/4 lb of each: Brisket, Pork Spare Rib, Smoked Chicken, Jalapeño and Cheese Sausage.

Served with Coleslaw Chunky Potato Salad | Pickles | Barbecue Beans Jalapeño Cheese Cornbread

Served with Coleslaw | Chunky Potato Salad | Pickles Barbecue Beans | Jalapeño Cheese Cornbread

• CATTLE BRISKET $27
• BEEF SHORT RIBS $24
• HOG PULLED PORK $21
• PORK SPARE RIBS $21
• BIRD 1/2 CHICKEN $21
• TURKEY BREAST $19
• SAUSAGE JALAPEÑO AND CHEESE SMOKED SAUSAGE $15
• BEEF AND PORK SMOKED SAUSAGE $15
• SEAFOOD BROILED CITRUS HONEY SALMON* $24
• CAJUN SHRIMP SKEWERS $27

SIDES & SUCH $5

• BARBECUE BAKED BEANS
• CHUNKY POTATO SALAD CORN ON THE COB
• GRATED COLESLAW MAC N CHEESE
• MIXED SALAD
• ONION RINGS PICKLED JALAPEÑOS
• JALAPEÑO CHEESE GRITS

SWEET TEMPTATIONS $8

• AUNT JOSIE’S MASON JAR BANANA PUDDING Vanilla Wafers | Crystallized Almonds
• PEACH COBBLER Vanilla Ice Cream
• PECAN PIE Whiskey Sauce
• BREAD PUDDING Bourbon – Caramel Sauce
• WARM SKILLET BROWNIE Vanilla Ice Cream | Hot Chocolate Sauce

Tamara Dinner Menu 

Tamara Dinner on Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialty restaurant that serves authentic Indian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, such as chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, and biryani. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with traditional Indian décor and music.

Tamara Dinner is an à la carte restaurant, meaning each dish is priced individually. Prices range from $12.99 for a starter to $39.99 for an entrée. Guests can order as many or as few dishes as they like.

Tamara Dinner is popular for cruisers looking for a delicious and authentic Indian dining experience. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Tamara’s Menu

MEAT & FISH 

• SHORT RIB DOSA : braised beef short rib | cilantro | fermented rice crepe | sambar dal | onions
• ROASTED CHICKEN BIRYANI : aromatic rice | caramelized onion | caraway | mint | cucumber raita
• CHETTINAD MARINATED FISH : pan seared | coconut curry | curry leaves | carrots | bell pepper
• CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA : kashmiri chili | garlic | ginger | tomato | fenugreek
• PORK VINDALOO : marinated pork | Indian spices | tangy tomato gravy

• VEGETABLE PAKORA : crispy vegetable selection
• GRILLED SAAG PANEER : turmeric and ginger marinated paneer cheese | fenugreek | spinach | peas | tomato | onions | cilantro

RICE & BREADS 

• STEAMED RICE : basmati rice with cumin
• GARLIC NAAN : yogurt naan | ghee | garlic | cilantro
• FRESNO PEPPER CHEDDAR NAAN : yogurt naan | cheddar cheese | fresno peppers | red onions
• PAPADUM : deep fried dough | chaat masala | apple-onion chutney 

PICKLES & CHUTNEYS

• CILANTRO CHUTNEY : mint | red onion | cumin | ginger
• TAMARIND CHUTNEY : candied dates | chili cumin | ginger
• RAITA : yogurt | red onion | tomato | green | chili | cumin
• SPICY GREEN CHILI PICKLE :  assorted chilis | mustard | cumin | fennel | fenugreek
• SPICY GREEN MANGO PICKLE : mustard | cumin | fennel | fenugreek | asafoetida

The Local 

The Local on Norwegian Cruise Line is a complimentary dining venue that serves casual comfort food. The menu features a variety of dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and salads. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with a pub-like décor and plenty of seating.

The Local is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, guests can choose from a variety of items, such as pancakes, waffles, eggs, and cereal. For lunch and dinner, the menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and salads. There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan options available.

The Local is a popular choice for cruisers who are looking for a casual and affordable dining experience. The relaxed atmosphere and variety of food options make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Please note that The Local does not take reservations, so guests may have to wait for a table, especially during peak dining times.

The Local’s Dining Menu

MORNING SPECIALS

All Egg Dishes Served with Choice of: English Muffin | Plain Bagel | White or Whole Wheat Toast

• AMERICAN BREAKFAST* Two Eggs Any Style | Bacon or Sausage Links | Breakfast Potatoes
• ENGLISH BREAKFAST* Two Eggs Any Style | Bacon | Sausage Links | Baked Beans | Grilled Tomato | Sautéed Mushrooms | Breakfast Potatoes
• CORNED BEEF HASH* Served with Two Eggs Any Style
• FRENCH TOAST Whipped Butter | Syrup
• HOT OATMEAL Raisins | Cinnamon Sugar
• BREAKFAST SANDWICH* Scrambled Eggs | Ham | Cheddar | Brioche Bun | Breakfast Potatoes
• HAM AND CHEESE OMELET* Smoked Ham | Cheddar | Breakfast Potatoes
• VEGETABLE OMELET* Tomato | Bell Peppers | Fresh Herbs | Mushrooms | Breakfast Potatoes
• BUTTERMILK PANCAKES Whipped Butter | Syrup
• FRUIT SALAD Sliced Melon | Pineapple | Orange Segments

ALL DAY STARTERS

• SOUP OF THE DAY Chef’s Creation
• BEEF CHILI Grated Cheddar | Sour Cream | Red Onion | Tortilla Chips
• COBB SALAD Turkey | Ham | Bacon | Mixed Lettuce | Cucumber | Tomato | Hard-Boiled Egg
• CAESAR SALAD Focaccia Crouton ( Add Grilled Chicken Upon Request)
• ½ DOZEN CHICKEN WINGS Choice of: Buffalo | Smoked BBQ | Sweet Chili
• SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE DIP Tortilla Chips
• PRETZEL BITES Beer Cheese Fondue
• GRILLED SAUSAGE SLIDERS Beer Braised Onions | English Mustard | Gourmet Roll
• LOADED NACHOS Chili con Carne | Cheese Sauce | Guacamole | Sour Cream | Jalapeños
• REUBEN Corned Beef | Swiss | Sauerkraut | Russian Dressing | Grilled Rye Bread | French Fries | Pickle Spear
• CHICKEN SALAD SANDWICH Diced Grilled Chicken | Dijon-Herb Mayonnaise | Bacon | Lettuce | Tomato | Multigrain Bread | French Fries | Pickle Spear
• TAVERN-BATTERED FISH SANDWICH Battered Cod | Tartar Sauce | Tangy ColeSlaw | Sesame Seed Bun | French Fries
• CHEESEBURGER* American | Shredded Lettuce | Tomato | Red Onion | Sesame Seed Bun | French Fries | Pickle Spear
• THE WRANGLER BURGER* Cheddar | Sautéed Onions | Bacon | BBQ Sauce | Jalapeño | Sesame Seed Bun | French Fries | Pickle Spear
• BLUE CHEESE BURGER* Spicy-Sweet Tomato Chutney | Shredded Lettuce | Tomato | Red Onion | Sesame Seed Bun | French Fries | Pickle Spear
• THE PUB HOT DOG Sauerkraut | Bacon Bits | French Fries
• CONEY ISLAND HOT DOG Melted Cheese | Chili | Onions | French Fries
• FISH AND CHIPS Battered Cod | Coleslaw | French Fries | Remoulade Sauce
• LECHÓN ASADO Cuban Roast Pork | Plantains | Rice | Black Beans
• FETTUCCINE CARBONARA Pancetta | Peas | Parmesan

• CARROT AND WALNUT CAKE Cream Cheese Icing
• APPLE PIE Vanilla Ice Cream
• BROWNIE-RASPBERRY SWIRL CHEESECAKE Whipped Cream
• HOT FUDGE SUNDAE Vanilla Ice Cream | Whipped Cream

LATE NIGHT STARTERS

• COBB SALAD Turkey | Ham | Bacon | Mixed Lettuce | Cucumber | Tomato | Hard-Boiled Egg (Choice of Dressing: Balsamic Vinaigrette | Blue Cheese | Ranch | 1000 Island)

Norwegian Cruise Line adds a 20% service charge to all specialty restaurant dining.

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Freestyle Cruising Dining

There are a huge amount activities and diversions on large cruise ships. Passengers have more options than just a set dining time followed by a theatre show, so flexibility is essential. Rounding-up the entire tour group or family for dinner is unnecessary with freestyle cruising, as there are plenty of eateries and restaurants to choose from at all times of the day and night. Freestyle cruising is a choice: traditionalists can still dress up for dinner and see the show while other passengers eat at a time that suits them.

The new generation of cruisers don’t always follow a schedule, but nor do they want to rock the boat or throw cruise traditions overboard. Cruise staff and services have adapted to the change by choice and design now that some mega ships have several ‘main’ restaurants on the same vessel. Cruise lines have responded in different ways, offering variations of freestyle dining and set dining times even in the main restaurants. Some of the largest ships have several main restaurants located on various decks to satisfy the freestyle cruise dining demand.

The ‘Freestyle Cruising’ catch-phrase introduced by Norwegian Cruise Line goes under different names on other vessels. Royal Caribbean calls the concept My Time Dining, with seating times and restaurants catering to both flexible and traditional cruise dining styles. Parents can let their kids run wild on the pool deck, solo travellers can amble to the restaurant when they are ready, and restaurant bookings can be made onboard or even prior to boarding the ships. Freestyle cruising is all about doing your own thing in your own time and not missing out on anything.

Regardless of personal style, formal-wear isn’t even practical in all cruise ship eateries anyway. There are more than a dozen fine eating venues on the big ships, with meals designed for people on the go as well as people going slow. Grabbing a burger or pizza in your bathers is a bona-fide alternative to dressing up for fine dining on modern ships built for freestyle cruising.

cruise ship cabin balcony

Freestyle Cruising Cabins

Everything on a cruise ship is connected in one way or another. After all, modern mega-ships are floating resorts, some hosting more than 5,000 passengers and 2,000 crew. People from all walks of life are enjoying cruising like never before and once again the vessels have adapted to the change. Cabin choices are extremely varied in size and designed to comfortably accommodate all cruisers. Value for money is still offered all around the vessels for the budget traveller, while expansive luxuriant suite accommodations are popular when money is no object.

Adaptability has become a cruise ship hallmark. Dozens of cabin and suite options are offered to ensure all passengers enjoy their time onboard. Accessible cabins are becoming more common, sleeping arrangements are easily reconfigured, balconies are plentiful and in-cabin services have expanded to include fast internet and connectivity for other devices. Passengers aren’t ruled by the clock with freestyle cruising, allowing them to explore the ship in their own time. Whether you want to experience everything on the vessel or simply chill out in a comfortable cabin, freestyle cruising will fit your style.

cruise ship deck

Freestyle Cruising is here to stay

The freestyle cruising concept is now the norm on large cruise ships and it’s much more than a slick marketing tool designed to sway cruise line allegiances. Freestyle cruising is actually for everyone, although it’s taken a little while for some lines to ease traditional cruise values. Reluctance to change is natural when cruising has such a proud history, but every new ship is now built with modern passenger expectations in mind.

Freestyle cruising means freedom to choose, whether it’s onboard attractions, dining times or tours while on port stopovers. Everyone likes to enjoy their own sense of adventure while on a cruise, and the ships are large and full of surprises. Freestyle cruising gives you the freedom to cruise and explore in a way that suits your style.

Robert Grant

Loves cruise tips and cruise ships. Shares his personal opinion about cruise deals and cruise tips that might help other travellers. Do let me know if you'd like to read more about certain cruise related topics.

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12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

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Some cruisers might think there is no such thing as a “dining mistake” on a cruise. A vacation at sea can be akin to a feeding frenzy, with 24/7 dining options and all the pizza, ice cream and burgers you can eat. How could you go wrong with so many food choices?

However, if you actually care to have sit-down meals at the times you prefer in the restaurant of your choice and if you want to make the most of the dining opportunities provided on the ship, there are better and worse ways to approach your vacation.

A lack of planning can lead to your being dissatisfied with the onboard culinary experience – even though your tummy is full (or possibly, overly full) of food.

I prefer to treat cruises as a week of wonderful eating — like I would a visit to a city known for its culinary offerings — rather than an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord. To optimize the experience, I avoid these 12 dining mistakes whenever possible. If you want to taste all the best things on your next cruise without ever feeling hungry or grossly full, I suggest you fix your culinary strategic errors, as well.

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Not making reservations as far in advance as possible

Cruise lines make a big deal of their multiple onboard restaurants. They neglect to mention that, like the hot new eatery in your hometown, it can be nearly impossible to get a table for four at 7 p.m. on a Saturday night — or at any reasonable dining time on any day of your sailing.

Spontaneity is nice on vacation. However, when it comes to onboard dining in specialty restaurants, a lack of advance planning will leave you dining too early, too late or not at all. If you want that perfect reservation, you’ll need to secure a table in advance.

Ideally, you will make your specialty dining reservations online before you set sail. On some ships, suite passengers get early access to the best times. Make your dinner plans as soon as you’re able. If not, make it a priority to book a table as soon as you’re on the ship.

For restaurants that don’t take advance reservations, you’ll need to strategize your evening. For example, on a recent Carnival Celebration cruise, guests needed to request a table through the line’s app if they wanted to dine at included venues, such as Chibang! or Cucina del Capitano. However, if you waited to request a table until you were ready to eat, you might have found yourself, as we did, with an hourlong wait.

If you’re able, you should put your name on a list or request a table 30 to 60 minutes in advance of when you wish to sit down, knowing you might end up eating earlier than you intended.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Missing the mid-cruise specials

On the other hand, if certain restaurants aren’t driving enough business, cruise lines will run promotions mid-cruise to entice more diners into the emptier venues. Or, the ship might run lunch or brunch specials in restaurants normally open only for dinner.

I noticed this on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore . Certain nights were designated all-you-can-eat sushi nights for a flat fee at the Kaito Sushi Bar. The Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse offered brunch on a sea day for less than its typical surcharge. If you’re interested in a nicer meal in an intimate setting for the right price, don’t forget to look for the mid-cruise specials printed in the daily newsletter.

Eating in the main dining room on the first night

It’s tradition for many cruisers to eat in the main dining room on the first night of the cruise. You’re still getting the lay of the land, and if you’ve selected assigned-seating dining, you’re eager to meet your waiters. Also, some avid cruisers remember a time when the best dishes, such as lobster, were served on the first night and don’t want to miss them – even though the cruise lines now often save their best dishes for formal night.

Because of this mindset, reservations can be easier to get in specialty restaurants on the first night of the cruise. Some lines even offer incentives if you book a table on the eve of embarkation. Carnival , for example, offers a free bottle of house wine or 50% off the regular wine list to cruisers who choose to dine in certain extra-fee restaurants on night one.

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Don’t miss out on the food and possibly a freebie by not considering a specialty restaurant for your first dinner on board.

Always eating as a family

You often see the multigenerational family cruise advice that everyone can do their own thing during the day and then come together at dinner and spend the evening as a family. This is great advice for families with teens and older children, but it’s not always ideal for little kids.

When I cruise with my children, I find our dining choices to be vastly different. My son has no use for a leisurely sit-down meal in a waiter-served restaurant. He wants to go to the buffet, grab food, eat and be done.

My picky eater daughter has no interest in a seafood restaurant, nor do I want to pay specialty dining fees for her to take two bites and declare she’s finished. (Know that many specialty restaurants will serve the regular kid’s menu of pizza and chicken tenders and not charge your children to dine.)

So on some nights, my husband and I will take the kids early to the buffet or a fast-casual restaurant before depositing them in the kids club, at which point we are free to enjoy a date night in the main dining room or in an upscale steakhouse or French restaurant on board. And everyone is happy. (I’ve even ordered room service for the kids on lines like Holland America that don’t charge.)

Forgetting about free room service breakfast

So many cruise lines have added delivery fees or a la carte pricing to their room service menus that budget-conscious cruisers have stopped considering in-room dining as an option. So it’s easy to forget that most lines have not yet slapped a price tag on Continental breakfast.

The options might not be vast, but sometimes you just want to sip a coffee and munch on some fruit or a croissant out on the balcony while you watch the sunrise. You’re always welcome to grab a more filling meal elsewhere on the ship later.

Room service is great for appeasing kids with cheerios and muffins while everyone gets ready to go up to the buffet. You can also order little boxes of cereal to keep on hand as afternoon snacks.

Sticking to the menu

Cruise ships don’t really have a secret menu like In-N-Out Burger, but sometimes galley staff can indulge you in a little creativity.

Luxury lines encourage it. Seabourn volunteered to cook my friends and me a vegetarian Indian feast, and SeaDream kept a secret stash of chocolate-chili ice cream that I could request whenever I wanted. That doesn’t mean mainstream cruise lines are hard-liners when it comes to the set menu, though.

Nearly every cruise ship I’ve sailed offers a veggie burger wherever regular burgers are found, including at private island barbecues, but you’ll hardly ever see one listed on a menu. I often ask for a side of roasted broccoli in the main dining room. The Carnival Pride staff got that one spot on, but the MSC Seashore folks delivered some sad steamed veggies I never ordered again.

Related: What not to eat on a cruise

At Royal Caribbean’s Sorrento’s pizzeria , you can request vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free pizza, even if you don’t see those choices listed on a menu.

And in the main dining room, you can always order appetizers as entrees, entrees as appetizers and get a scoop of ice cream on whatever dessert you like.

Skipping the extra-fee venues

I’m sympathetic to cruisers on a budget, as I’m often one of them. We all have to make choices about where and how we spend our vacation dollars.

Please do budget some money, if you can, to try a few of the extra-fee restaurants on cruise ships. They add variety to your onboard dining, and many offer great value for the money compared to land-based restaurants. The ambience is quieter and more intimate than in the main dining room, which can be loud and overwhelming, depending on your table.

Additionally, the food can be outstanding. I’m a fan of both Jamie’s Italian and Giovanni’s Table on Royal Caribbean , the steakhouse on Carnival, the Pinnacle Grill on Holland America and the Eden Restaurant on Celebrity Cruises .

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The best meals you can have at sea

Some extra-charge dining experiences, like teppanyaki venues and churrascarias on various cruise lines, can be more fun than the typical sit-down restaurant. You don’t have to be a foodie to get a lot of satisfaction from specialty restaurants.

Not trying new foods

Cruise ships have all your foodie favorites, whether they be juicy steaks, cheesy pizza or freshly rolled sushi. It’s easy to indulge in feel-good food, but when meals are included, I’d encourage you to live a little dangerously.

A cruise is a perfect opportunity to try something new because you can ask for something else if you don’t like it. If you haven’t ordered a ridiculous amount of food already, you can get a second entree or dessert for no extra charge. Try buttery escargot or your first baked Alaska ; Carnival routinely has frog legs and alligator fritters on the menu.

If you’re worried about food waste, order one dish for your table to share. If you love it, you can always order another.

Eating too early or too late

This dining mistake is not always something you can control. If you want set-seating dining, you’re often looking at a 5:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. dinner time, when 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. would be preferable. My problem is an early dinner leads me to go on a snacking spree before bed, when pretty much only pizza and ice cream are available. A late dinner has me hunting for food at 5 p.m. and ending up with a pre-dinner burger.

One way around this is to select a cruise ship’s anytime dining plan and figure out how to work the system to get the dining time you want. This might involve agreeing to share a table with strangers, making reservations or requesting a table at least a half-hour before you want to eat.

As I said earlier, making reservations for specialty restaurants as early as possible is the best way to ensure better dining times. Alternatively, if you’re flexible, simply go where the waits are shortest. Norwegian Cruise Line ships often have real-time displays indicating which dining venues have shorter or longer wait times for tables. Of course, the buffet and other fast-casual venues will have you eating in a jiffy.

Not hoarding snacks

You might be thinking, “But Erica, there is food everywhere on a cruise ship. Why would I hoard snacks?”

The truth is, while food is plentiful at 4 p.m. on a cruise ship, it’s not always the food I want to eat at that time. At home, I eat fruit, baby carrots or granola bars mid-afternoon.

While I wholeheartedly agree that a cruise is not the right time to diet, I also find that some days I can’t stomach another cookie or slice of pizza, which is what’s available between meals on board. Sometimes all I want is a simple yogurt or a bowl of grapes in the afternoon when they are nowhere to be found.

My solution: Case the breakfast buffet for healthy items and store them in your cabin’s minifridge for mid-afternoon snacking. Fruit, yogurt, muffins, hard-boiled eggs and small boxes of cereal all work to satisfy those late-day cravings without resorting to something straight from the fryer.

Or, make a PB&J at breakfast to eat later in the day. It’s an especially good strategy when you’re traveling with small children.

Wasting food

When you’re at sea, you should strike a balance between trying new things and wasting food. Food waste is a huge issue on cruise ships. The number of half-eaten room service dinners and pizza crusts I saw on my last cruise was appalling (especially since the pizza was so good).

Take small portions at the buffet, where you know you’re going to want to try a few different dishes. Pick one dessert to try, and then go back for seconds, rather than piling your plate high with all the choices. Have everyone at your table choose their own desserts rather than bringing back a pile of cookies for the table that no one actually eats.

Related: 9 best cruise ship desserts to tempt you at sea

Ask for one slice of pizza instead of two, and handle the soft-serve machine gently so you don’t end up with a towering cone you can’t finish. Don’t order room service breakfast for your friends as a prank, and don’t be afraid to say no to unwanted fries. Ask for smaller portions if you don’t eat a lot (though sometimes you can’t convince your waiter to bring you one), or share a dish with a friend.

That way, when you do genuinely want to try something and end up not liking it, you don’t feel as bad ordering a replacement dish you truly intend to eat.

Not pacing yourself

As I mentioned earlier, a cruise can be a nonstop smorgasbord if you let it. While it’s fun to give in to your guilty culinary pleasures for a day or two, a week of constant eating and fried, sugary, high-fat foods can make you feel ill.

Remember: It’s not a competition or about getting maximum value by eating all the included food offerings. It’s OK — dare I say, encouraged — to pace yourself. Don’t pick up that cookie just because it’s there. Don’t eat pizza every single day. Actively seek out a — gasp — salad to balance out the giant steak you’re eating.

Showing a little restraint will keep you from feeling bloated and gross by day four of your sailing. More importantly, it will also make the food indulgences you choose more special because you can truly appreciate those delicious meals.

Bottom line

It’s difficult to go hungry on a cruise ship, especially if you’re willing to pay for food, but it is possible to leave a meal feeling dissatisfied. No one wants that on their vacation.

A little forethought and some self-restraint go a long way toward making your onboard culinary experience memorable and enjoyable.

When you fix your cruise ship dining mistakes, you can avoid some of the frustrations surrounding access to the best restaurants and the mealtime ambience you prefer. If you can make it through a week on board without overeating or feeling hungry waiting for mealtimes, you’ll know you’ve mastered the art of cruise ship dining.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

A far cry from the buffets of old: Cruises are catering to foodies

“I’m changing the menu for tomorrow,” Joseph Kalynuik, executive chef of Windstar Star Legend, said as we walked through the Mercato delle Vettovaglie in Livorno, Italy. “I’m looking for local charcuterie, cheeses, truffles, lavender, limoncello. Look at all this!”

We were on the “Market Tour with the Chef,” a popular excursion offered on Windstar cruises. The market is beautiful, located in an historic 19th-century building, designed by the Italian architect Angiolo Badaloni, and modeled after Les Halles, the central market in Paris.

But this was more than a look-see through the historic 1894 market. Chef Kalynuik was on a buying mission, looking for the best local ingredients to include in the ship’s restaurant dishes.

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“Va bene!,” a cheese vendor said to our small group, offering us slivers of pecorino sardo al tartufo. It was aged, firm and salty, laced with the earthy taste of truffles. Kalynuik bought a kilo of the cheese, along with links of local sausages.

We trailed Kalynuik through the market, tasting and buying along the way: disks of creamy camembert, bags of fresh Meyer lemons, a variety of salumi, marinated peppers, olives and anchovies, truffle chips, and honey.

The next day the fruits of our labor were in full view. Lunch at Veranda, one of the restaurants aboard Star Legend, featured a bountiful charcuterie table, filled with the market finds. Also, on the menu were sausages with peppers and onions, truffle risotto, Bolognese fettuccine flavored with local meats and spices, and a shrimp and crab dish in a limoncello-flavored beurre blanc. Later that evening at Windstar’s Amphora restaurant, we enjoyed a warm camembert appetizer, topped with a lemon-flavored fig jam, drizzled with honey.

“Our guests are keen on trying new and adventurous dishes, predominantly local, authentic foods,” Kalynuik said. “It’s about experiencing the local culture through food.”

We’d joined a recent seven-day Barcelona to Rome Mediterranean cruise aboard Windstar’s Star Legend to check out its updated culinary offerings. Windstar is the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation , and the official cruise line for the National Health Association. On our cruise, we not only went to market with Kalynuik, but also joined his cooking class to learn how to make chicken and mushroom vol-au-vent (“Remember to coddle the cream!” Kalynuik advised) and Italian seafood chowder. We had lunch at the Star Grill by Steven Raichlen, cookbook author, TV host, and founder of Barbecue University, where we dined on bourbon-brined turkey breast, tender smoked pork shoulder, and burnt ends.

Lunch and dinner menus in the main restaurants included dishes from James Beard-winning chefs, like Annie Pettry’s glazed wild shrimp and Spanish chorizo dish, Paul Berglund’s roasted rack of lamb with preserved green and red tomatoes, Duskie Estes’s prosciutto and watermelon salad, Amy Brandwein’s grilled filet of branzino, and Irene Li’s coconut dashi clam chowder. A James Beard award-winning chef was not aboard our cruise, but Windstar has already hosted 48 James Beard award-winning chefs on board, and will host chefs Omar Anani, Tanya Holland, and Loryn Nalic on upcoming 2024 culinary cruises. They’ll conduct on-board cooking demonstrations, lead market tours, host a special multicourse dinner, and provide multiple recipes to be featured on Windstar’s menus on all its cruises.

“Not only will you get to eat their food — you’ll get to know them,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “You may even learn a few tips and tricks for being a better cook yourself, and you’ll definitely have a richer and deeper travel experience because of it.”

If we were on a gluten-free diet or committed to only healthy eating (sadly, we’re not!), there were plenty of options. Windstar, in partnership with the National Health Association, offers whole foods, plant-based, SOS (salt, oil, and sugar free) and gluten-free appetizers, soups, entrees, and desserts in all its main dining venues.

Windstar showcases what’s happening throughout the cruise industry: an across-the-board effort to upgrade culinary offerings.

“Cruise clients, particularly more seasoned and discerning sailors, are seeking a more personalized experience and elevated culinary excellence, delivered in a more comfortable ‘country club’ atmosphere,” says Elizabeth Cincotta, founder and luxury travel designer of Rising Tide Travel, which specializes in luxury cruises.

Kristin Karst, cofounder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, agrees, “Delving into regional food and wine specialties has become an important part of how travelers experience a destination,” she says. “A heightened culinary focus enables our guests to develop a deeper and more nuanced appreciation for a country, its history, culture, and people.”

Major cruise lines have responded in a big way to the demands of a more discerning and food-wise clientele. Today, it’s not uncommon for cruise lines to offer celebrity chef tie-ins, cooking classes, local market excursions, specialty restaurants, and a variety of healthy options. For example, Silversea has a new culinary program called S.A.L.T. (sea and land tours), that includes food excursions, cooking classes, chef’s tables, and an evolving restaurant that adapts to each port. Oceania, with celebrity chef Jacques Pepin as its executive culinary director, has a state-of-the-art Culinary Center, offering classes from international master chefs, immersive culinary tours (e.g., an Argentine dinner at a local’s residence, traditional Irish bread making in Belfast, or a Paella workshop in Alicante), and a host of specialty restaurants, including Toscana’s serving authentic Italian dishes, Polo Grill’s steakhouse fare, Red Ginger’s Asian flavors, French country cuisine at Jacques, and the Dom Perignon Experience at La Reserve. Regent Seven Seas has introduced its new Epicurean Perfection programming, including specialty restaurants, special tastings, deck-top regional barbecues, on-shore culinary, wine, and spirits tours, hands-on cooking classes in its state-of-the-art Culinary Arts Kitchen, and specially curated Spotlight Voyages designed around specific culinary interests. AmaWaterways, the first river cruise line member of the La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, offers at least one wine or culinary-focused excursion on all its itineraries, while others, like Essence of Burgundy & Provence and Taste of Bordeaux, include six tours designed to showcase the culinary experiences in these regions. In 2024, the cruise line will offer more than 70 wine-focused cruises.

Our winter Mediterranean cruise began in Barcelona. But it wasn’t until the final day onboard, docked in Rome, that we were able to snag a seat at Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, touted as one of the world’s youngest Michelin-starred chefs. It’s an intimate, 40-person-or-so restaurant with an open kitchen and warm, inviting vibe. We enjoyed glasses of house-made sangria and plates of Jamón Ibérico, Cantabrian anchovies and marinated olives, poached cod, and romesco pork belly. It was a far cry from the grand ballroom dinners and buffets of old.

• A kid-friendly trip to Washington, D.C.
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Diane Bair and Pamela Wright can be reached at [email protected]

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• Russian News and Stories

The Moscow metro now has a full 4G coverage

• On 19 Oct 2018

The Tele2 mobile network company became the first to build an infrastructure for 100% stations of the Moscow's metro. The high-quality 4G internet is now available on all 259 stations of the Moscow's metro, Moscow Central Circle (MCC) and monorail.

The operator has secured a 100% 4G indoor-coverage internet an all stations of the metropolitan metro, including the passageways, pavilions, and stairways. The investments into the project have exceeded 800 million rubles.

The Moscow underground is a specific infrastructure object, which has its own particularities. All works on designing, installation, and adjustment of the hardware should have been conducted exceptionally during night hours when the metro is closed for entry. A sufficient number of stations have a status of cultural heritage, thus, the network development has required additional approvement from the Department of Cultural Heritage of Moscow.

The network coverage within the metro system opens new horizons for the analysis of the "big data". Tele2 Network has analyzed the users' activity during the summer months and has indicated the busiest metro lines, which were: Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya, Zamoskvoretskaya and Kaluga-Riga lines. During the summer months, on the stations of Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya lines the subscribers have downloaded 125 TByte of internet-traffic, have made over 2 million calls with the total duration of 27 thousand hours, which equals to 3 years.

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Enjoy a four-course meal and a great bottle of wine. Or grab a burger hot off the grill. Dress up. Dress down. Sit with your friends or make new ones. Dine inside or Oceanside along The Waterfront. Only Norwegian offers the freedom and flexibility of Freestyle Dining, which means no fixed dining times or pre-assigned seating. So follow your mood, not a timetable .

Enjoy a Wide Variety of COMPLIMENTARY DINING

All of our ships offer beautifully crafted menus in up to three Main Dining Rooms, a Buffet and a variety of casual eateries. With our chef's original dishes made with the finest ingredients, your dining can be as fine or as fun as you want.

Main Dining Rooms

Choose from up to three main dining rooms serving a wide variety of delicious cuisine. Enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients.

Beyond Buffets

Our quintessential buffet is a crowd favourite for a reason. Available during breakfast, lunch and dinner, feel free to enjoy our meat carving station, made-to-order omelettes, pasta and more. Best part, it's complimentary.

24 Hour Eatery

Classic pub fare offered in a relaxed atmosphere. With popular dishes like the Reuben Sandwich and Fish n' Chips, this eatery has all your favourite comfort foods!

Indulge in Norwegian Exclusive SPECIALITY DINING

When you want a unique culinary experience, our speciality restaurants offer a variety of tastes for every palate. Now through The Norwegian Edge we are bringing an even higher standard of excellence to our dining with upgraded menus and new exciting venues. Whether you're indulging in succulent meats at Moderno Churrascaria, savouring French cuisine in Le Bistro, or enjoying fresh Mexican flavours at Los Lobos, you'll be sure to discover menus as fresh as the ingredients and cuisine that looks almost too good to eat.

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Dig into some authentic Texas BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse. All our smoked meats are infused with delicious flavours and come with all the traditional sides.

Our authentic Brazilian steakhouse is a must. Start with an impressive salad bar, but save room for skewers of slow-roasted meats carved tableside by our Pasadores.

A contemporary take on classic French cuisine. Surround yourself in chic décor and rich fare plates. Perfect for a romantic night out for the deux of you.

This delicious Asian-Latin fusion cuisine served tapas style is perfect for sharing. Food Republic is open for lunch on sea days and dinner nightly.

Dine on Italian classics prepared using the finest ingredients at La Cucina. Or explore a new wave of flavour with a fresh take on old-world fare at Onda by Scarpetta.

Gather around a shared table as a skillful chef perfectly prepares steak, chicken and seafood on a large steel grill at Teppanyaki. In the mood for sushi? Pull up a chair at any one of our sushi bars for some traditional Japanese fare, including Nama, our new contemporary sushi house offering upscale sushi and sashimi prepared by master chefs.

Bienvenido a Los Lobos, a premium Mexican restaurant celebrating traditional flavours with a modern twist. Chefs serve up new favourites like Carne Asada marinated in guajillo chiles and tequila or Tres Leches Cake with Coconut Cream.

Indulge in our newest seafood concept, Palomar, featuring flavourful Mediterranean inspired dishes and an exclusive eco-friendly wine list. Dive into an ocean of flavour with other incredible seafood options like Ocean Blue, Bayamo and The Raw Bar, serving some of the finest and freshest ingredients at sea with perfectly paired wine selections and cocktails.

Enjoy a taste of Spain's cuisine at this lively tapas bar. Sip on delicious sangria as you savour an array of small plates, like Manchego Cheese and Iberico Ham, or Cod Croquettes and Garlic Shrimp.

An American-style steakhouse where succulent choice cuts of Angus beef are incredibly flavourful and perfectly prepared. Make sure to order our famous Parmesan truffle fries.

Experience the all-new Sukhothai. Relish a stylish and warm atmosphere as the aroma of authentic Thai cuisine gently trails through the lush dining room.

Indulge your sweet tooth with decadent treats such as French macarons, chocolate bonbons and gourmet cupcakes at Coco's, Dolce Gelato, or The Bake Shop.

See What We Offer for FAMILY DINING

Freestyle Dining provides dining choices that satisfy even the pickiest eater in the family. Grab a burger hot off the grill or sit down for a four-course meal. Dress up. Dress down. You'll find more dining options than days of your cruise, and you're free to enjoy them all on your own timetable .

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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