AT SEA ON THE CELEBRITY MILLENNIUM — One question the millions of us who love cruising face is…
Are specialty restaurants worth the cover charge?
There’s no final answer, as Regis Filbin wouldn’t say. To some, paying $10 to $35 per person for an upscale night of dining is well worth it, particularly if it’s a special occasion. To others, when food is free everywhere else on the ship, why pay extra?
On this 14-night cruise, we decided to find out what you get for a $35 price tag. The Olympic is the Millennium’s haute cuisine. Here’s what we discovered, and you be the judge:
• The service is extraordinary. The maitre d’s, waiters, bus boys and sommeliers almost read your mind — they’re at the table the instant you think you might want something.
* There are unexpected treats integrated with your courses…palenta, sorbet, exquisite little sweets.
* The always-friendly waiters are even friendlier. Told that I was especially fond of seafood and wanted to have something swimming as an appetizer, the head chef de rang (Okan Belir) said he would bring a special dish but wouldn’t say what. It turned out to be one he created himself in 2006, a Mediterranean seafood plate that was exceptional. Then Okan said he’d gladly make it for us again — if we visit him at his home in western Turkey. How friendly is that?
• The quality of food is definitely a cut above what’s being served in the dining room or buffet. I had lobster thermidor and Nancy had steak and lobster. They both exceeded our high expectations.
* The wine list is more than the high-end varietals you would expect. Imagine picking out what you think is the right wine and having the sommelier talk you into another one, for $7 less!
* In cruise ship specialty restaurants, the emphasis is clearly on “special.” So, does that word apply to the other person in YOUR stateroom?
That’s it…I’m done.