Today, we're straying slightly off the beaten path of the usual travel destinations, and instead, setting sail into the delectable seas of onboard dining with Virgin Voyages. Yes, you heard it right! I’m leaving the terra firma behind and stepping into a culinary wonderland that floats.
Now, for those who imagine cruise ship fare to be an endless buffet of same-old, same-old, buckle up my friends, because Virgin Voyages has tossed that stereotype overboard. With a plethora of palatable options, from the succulent seafood and steak of The Wake, to the high-end Mexican cuisine at Pink Agave, and the lively and adventurous Korean BBQ at Gunbae (don't miss that free first shot of soju!) - this is not your grandma's cruise ship dining.
But we're not stopping there, no siree! Prepare for a journey through gourmet vegan options at Razzle Dazzle (with a sneaky meat menu for you carnivorous sailors), to the tongue-tingling, carb-laden deliciousness of Extra Virgin's Italian offerings. For the snack-happy voyagers, we've got ice cream parlors, pizza joints, social clubs, and yes, even noodle bars. Yes, it's a floating feast, and yours truly, along with my adventurous foodie crew - Ciara, Joe, and my love, Calum - have tried, tested, and are ready to dish the deets on the absolute must-tries!
We didn't hit every spot - even with a week onboard, there are only so many meals one can consume - but we've got the inside scoop on Razzle Dazzle, The Wake, Extra Virgin, Gunbae, Lick me till Ice Cream, The Dock, The Galley and The Pizza Place. Whether you're planning to embark on 'The Irresistible Med' with Virgin Voyages or just daydreaming about it, we've got the lowdown to make your dining experience a five-star voyage. Get ready, dear readers, to set sail into a sea of flavors!
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The Galley: A Smorgasbord of Delights to Start (and End) Your Day!
So, my travel-hungry friends, let's dive straight into the culinary heart of Virgin Voyages - The Galley. And before we get too deep, let's set the record straight - food on board is *mostly* complimentary, and yes, that includes all the mouth-watering delicacies you'll find at The Galley.
Imagine a bustling marketplace, brimming with delectable offerings from food-truck-style carts, each one a delightful surprise of culinary creativity. The Galley is this and so much more. It's your one-stop gastronomic haven for a quick bite, a hearty meal, or that all-important caffeine hit. From a bakery overflowing with the aroma of fresh bread, to a panini shop, a burger grill, a taco shack, a sushi bar complete with bento boxes, and even a noodle bar - The Galley is a riot of tantalizing tastes and aromas. And did I mention the 24-hour American diner? No matter the time of day (or night), you're all set for a feast!
Our mornings were inseparable from The Galley. We got hooked on the oh-so-fluffy French toast, it was so good we might have had it for dessert too. But speaking of desserts, let me drop a sweet truth bomb on you - they have a dessert shaped like a little blue boat! Adorable and delectable, it's a must-try. And if you're a fan of the classic campfire treat, brace yourself for the S'mores-inspired dessert. Pure bliss, I promise.
Now, let me talk about one of the many luxuries that The Galley offers – the refillables. Yes, folks, up until midnight you can quench your thirst with unlimited refills. Talk about service that keeps on giving!
And the best part about The Galley is the variety, not just in food, but also in how you can order. Whether you're being served at your table, or you're tapping away on your mobile for some online ordering, or you're at one of the many food carts, The Galley caters to your every whim and fancy.
But before I forget, let's give a shoutout to Noodle Around. It's like a little piece of NYC's Chinatown, right here in the middle of the ocean. Chef Waki Ng’s award-winning noodles are truly slurp-worthy. So, order up your bowl and let those rich, savoury flavours dance on your tongue. And yes, I have loads of drool-worthy pictures to share, so brace yourself for some serious food envy!
In essence, The Galley was more than just a dining spot. It was our beginning, our end, and sometimes, our in-between. It's where we fueled up for our next adventure, where we satiated our late-night cravings, and where we tried, tasted and fell in love with flavours from around the world. Virgin Voyages, you certainly know how to make sailors' taste buds set sail!
The Wake: A Nostalgic Nautical Nosh
Darlings, I'd like to transport you to the glamorous realms of The Wake, the ship's high-end seafood and steakhouse. Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of the mid-20th-century chophouses, The Wake is as much an experience as it is a place to dine. It combines sophistication and nostalgia, all while offering stunning views of the ship's trail - an Instagram-worthy backdrop if I ever saw one!
Making an entrance here is no casual affair. The grand staircase descends into a world that harks back to the Madison Avenue ad men's three-martini lunches - minus the cigar smoke, thank heavens! It's a scene straight out of a Mad Men episode, but with a fabulous 21st-century twist, ensuring the "men" in "Mad Men" now includes women too.
Now, I hear you asking, "But Sara, what about the food?" Well, my dear readers, the pictures and the menu are coming soon, so hold onto your sailor hats. As a quick heads up, whilst the drinks aren't all free (you'll need a bar tab for those alcoholic concoctions), coffee, tea, and soft drinks are complimentary, which is rather splendid, I must say!
My own experience at The Wake was a bit of a mixed bag. While the ambiance was utterly delightful, the food, unfortunately, didn't quite live up to the setting. I tried the steak, expecting to be wowed, but instead found myself dreaming of the steak at Razzle Dazzle, the vegan restaurant of all places. A culinary curveball, wouldn't you agree?
Now, let's take a moment to discuss the dessert debacle. Imagine finding a hair in your sweet finale! Not the kind of surprise anyone wants. On the bright side, I did receive a complimentary drink as an apology, which was a nice touch.
Despite these culinary missteps, The Wake offered a lovely setting for a brunch with friends and the romantic date night I'd always dreamed of with my beloved Calum. And yes, a food baby was born and splendid photos were captured, so all was not lost.
A quick tip for my fellow sailors considering The Wake: the seafood platter is an additional cost. And considering the already hefty price tag of the cruise, it might be best to save your pennies for other experiences on board.
In essence, The Wake offers a sophisticated dining experience wrapped in a veneer of old-world charm. Although it didn't quite hit the culinary high notes I had hoped for, it still delivered in terms of atmosphere and sheer elegance.
Razzle Dazzle: A Vegan Haven That Even Carnivores Can't Resist
Let's pivot now, dear food-loving friends, to a place of culinary wonder that manages to marry the seemingly disparate worlds of health-conscious dining and indulgent comfort food: Razzle Dazzle. Whether you're seeking a light salad, dreaming of coconut milk fairy toast, or even hankering for a juicy steak, this gem on Virgin Voyages has got you covered.
Inspired by the camouflaging pattern painted on WW1 warships, Razzle Dazzle isn’t just about blending in. Quite the opposite, in fact. With a 'naughty or nice' menu that breathes new life into classic comfort food, this place offers a gastronomic party from morning to night, making it one of the most vibrant spots on the ship.
But here's the real kicker, folks: While The Wake prides itself on its steak, it was actually the steak at Razzle Dazzle that stole the show. Yes, you read that right! A steak from a primarily vegan restaurant was a standout. Calum tried the secret menu steak and, I kid you not, it was one of the most exquisite things we had on board. Plus, the rainbow cinnamon dessert sticks? To die for!
Razzle Dazzle really did dazzle us with its efforts to cater to every palette, every preference, and every dietary requirement. I wish we had found time to dine there more than once. If there's one takeaway from our experience, it's this: great food doesn’t discriminate, and neither should we. So whether you're vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, or a full-blown carnivore, there’s always a place for you at the table on Virgin Voyages.
Gunbae: Where Grilling Meets Good Times and Even Better Company
Pack your appetite, sailor, because we're taking a culinary voyage to Gunbae, Virgin Voyages' answer to interactive dining and vibrant Korean BBQ. Picture this: you and five other voyagers (who may just be friends you haven't met yet) gathered around a communal table with a hot plate at the center. It's teppanyaki but with an exciting Korean twist!
At Gunbae, meals aren't just about feasting on delectable Korean cuisine, they're about social engagement and creating lasting memories (IRL, but hey, if you want to 'gram it, go for it!). In fact, every meal kicks off with a Korean drinking game, complete with a complimentary shot of soju – an offer that this gal can't resist! It's a brilliant ice-breaker and a fantastic way to toast to new friendships. As Virgin Voyages aptly put it, “go ahead and roast the master while they roast the meat.”
The food? Absolutely top-notch. With the interactive, hands-on meat grilling, even the most novice of chefs (like yours truly) can feel like a master in no time. The quality and taste of the dishes left us with satisfied bellies and craving for more.
And then, there's the wonderful people you meet. Like the delightful couple from London, on their first holiday together as girlfriends. Their energy and love for each other was palpable and added an extra dash of sparkle to the entire experience.
So here's the thing, sailors, Gunbae isn't just a restaurant, it's a social event, a place where food and friends meet in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Plus, let’s not forget that enticing free shot of soju – believe me, I’ve got the pictures and videos to prove it!
Keep scrolling for more on our gastronomical adventure aboard Virgin Voyages, and as they say in Korea, "Gunbae" – cheers to good times and even better company!
The Pizza Place: Handcrafted Delight, One Slice at a Time
Let me tell you about the irresistible charm of The Pizza Place on board Virgin Voyages. It's the kind of spot where you can ditch the concept of pre-cooked pizza sitting under heat lamps and embrace the pure joy of customizing your own Italian masterpiece. Your taste, your rules - from the dough to the cheese, to the spice of cracked pepper or a dollop of creamy ricotta - the choice is yours. Or if you're feeling a little less adventurous, pick from the classic menu and kick back in the beach club-inspired surroundings.
Calum and I found ourselves drawn to this late-night, post-drink, hunger-busting haven almost daily. The aesthetic - white and pastel-colored furniture interspersed with navy-striped accent pillows, along with hammocks outside - makes for a laid-back, fun atmosphere. Perfect for devouring slices of delicious pizza with the sound of the sea as a backdrop.
And, oh, let's not forget that cute little buzzer they give you. It buzzes when your pizza is hot and ready, like a dinner bell beckoning you to partake in your fresh-from-the-oven feast. I swear, every time it buzzed, my heart did a happy little jump of anticipation.
Until then, let's raise a slice to the little things in life that make it extra cheesy, extra delicious, and extra memorable.
A quick aside note! Virgin Voyages do delivery - you can do it through the app when on board! We got soup, steak, sauces, sweets and cakes, and we only had to pay a 3 dollar fee!
Pink Agave: An Unexplored Spicy Soirée
Let's talk about the one that got away, sailors - Pink Agave, an upscale Mexican experience that I regretfully missed out on during this voyage (but don't worry, our friends went and told us *all* the goss). Inspired by the vivacious culture and tantalizing food scene of Mexico, this place promises to deliver more than just your typical taco.
The buzz around the ship was that it’s a truly shareable, social, and spicy fiesta. Imagine being transported to the bustling streets of Mexico City, enveloped in an explosion of local flavors, right from the heart of our floating haven. A place where the largest selection of tequila and mezcal at sea is at your fingertips, and DJ beats are the backdrop to your culinary adventure.
Although I didn’t get to taste the cuisine myself, the vibrant energy and buzz surrounding Pink Agave were undeniably infectious. Plus, the enticing photo op just before you step into the place? An Instagram dream come true, trust me!
So, my fellow food voyagers, if you ever find yourself aboard Virgin Voyages, do give Pink Agave a try. It's on top of my to-do list for my next cruise with Calum. Here's to future exploration, and may your dining adventures always be filled with flavor, fun, and an extra dash of spice!
Extra Virgin: An Italian Tryst Worth Embarking On
Let's take a moment to chat about Extra Virgin - the divine Italian sanctuary aboard Virgin Voyages, deeply rooted in the age-old traditions of Italian cuisine. A place where carb dreams become a delightful reality, and the taste of homemade pasta can turn any moment into a celebration. Though I haven't had the pleasure of dining here myself, my mates Ciara and Joe swear it's 'bloomin' lovely!
Extra Virgin is all about regionally inspired food and a culinary experience as rich in culture as it is in flavor. From shared antipasti to succulent grilled meats and fresh seafood, the eatery's offerings sound like a gastronome's dream come true. And the cherry on top? Or should I say, the gelato on top? An Affogato cart boasting homemade Italian ice cream that you can't resist!
Not to forget, starting your evening with a traditional Italian aperitivo or wrapping it up with a satisfying digestivo is all part of the immersive experience. My friends' glowing reviews and my own anticipation make Extra Virgin a must-try during my next cruise with Calum. So, here's a toast to the Italian culinary escapade that awaits us, filled with pasta, gelato, and amore!
The Dock: The Mediterranean Sun Deck Delight
Let's sail to The Dock, the ultimate open-air lounge that offers more than just stunning vistas. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu that whispers sweet nothings of seaside perfection, this place is a blissful marriage of the chill vibes of Ibiza and the rustic-chic ambience of Brazilian resorts.
In the mood for some wind-in-your-hair relaxation and optional sun-kissed moments? Then The Dock is your haven. Imagine kicking back with a chilled glass from their curated rosé or spritzer menu, indulging in leisurely mezze bites, all while soaking in the serene surroundings.
I managed to snap a couple of fab pictures here (get ready for some serious #TravelEnvy). Plus, for those who prefer to take their gastronomic journey indoors, there's The Dock House, serving up the same scrumptious food and drinks but within the comfort of a cozy interior setting.
Whether you're an outdoor aficionado or an indoor enthusiast, The Dock provides an idyllic setting to relish some tantalizing bites and unwind until your next adventure calls. Until then, sit back, relax, and let The Dock take you on a deliciously indulgent journey.
The Test Kitchen: Where Gastronomy Gets Wild
Fellow sailors, have you ever dreamt of going on a wild culinary adventure? If yes, welcome to The Test Kitchen, where the plate is a playground and every meal a thrilling experiment! Modeled after Escoffier's Ma Cuisine, The Test Kitchen isn't your average eatery – it's a dynamic mix of an unconventional cooking school and a laboratory-like restaurant.
The chefs here are culinary maestros, and they've mastered the art of keeping their patrons guessing. Every dish is a surprise – the only hint is an ingredient list, but how they're woven together into a dish, well, that's where the magic happens. From innovative cooking techniques to artistic presentations and unexpected flavors, this place takes you on a wild ride through the uncharted territories of taste!
For those of you interested in dabbling in mixology or coffee labs, The Test Kitchen has got you covered. You'll have the chance to mix, brew, and experiment with different methods and components for some truly unique results.
While we didn't give it a shot this time (let's just say we prefer to know what's on our plate), for the daring and adventurous eaters out there, The Test Kitchen could be a goldmine of peculiarly exciting gastronomic experiences. So, are you up for the challenge?
Dive into the fascinating world of The Test Kitchen, where the unexpected is the norm and the culinary boundaries are pushed to the max. Bon Appétit, daredevils!
Endless Gastronomic Adventures: A Taste Bud Odyssey Aboard the Valiant Lady
As we sailed off into the sunset on the last day of our gastronomic adventure aboard the Valiant Lady, we couldn't help but look back at our week full of culinary delights with a touch of nostalgia. Endless refills, food that set off fireworks on our taste buds, and a crew that catered to our every whim and need with an unforgettable blend of efficiency, charm, and genuine warmth.
I've traveled far and wide, but this experience aboard Virgin Voyages has carved a unique spot in my memory. The flavors, the aromas, the exceptional service, the creativity – I genuinely feared that by the end of the journey, I'd morph into a smore, so irresistible was their rendition!
While we traversed the world of tastes on board, it was the hard-working staff, always ready with a warm smile and a helpful hand, that truly stood out. The chefs, wait staff, everyone - their dedication and meticulous attention to detail were inspiring. Every allergy (hello, coconut here!) was catered to with exceptional care. Whether you're a carnivore or a vegan, a social butterfly or a lover of solitude, an epicurean or a fast-food fan, they made sure your experience was nothing short of extraordinary.
The spectrum of dining options was jaw-dropping. From the bustling Galley to the intriguing Test Kitchen, from the flavorful offerings at Gunbae to the indulgent slices at The Pizza Place – there was something for everyone. And even though I found an unwelcome guest in my dessert at The Wake (a hair, of all things!), the grace with which the staff handled it has remained etched in my memory.
Free food might sound typical for a cruise, but what sets Virgin Voyages apart is the sheer quality and variety. Five-star food, crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, served with finesse and style – it's an experience that is second to none.
As we disembarked, one thing was clear: this wasn't a farewell. It was a see-you-soon. The enticing lure of another culinary journey aboard the Valiant Lady was too strong to resist. So, to all the food lovers out there, trust me when I say this – Virgin Voyages is a culinary dream come true, a gastronomic love story that never ends. And for Calum and me, the countdown to our next delicious journey has already begun. Bon Voyage, fellow foodies!
That's all for this post! If you've been on a Virgin Voyages cruise before and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!
P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.