The Meridian Restaurant, which sits in the center of the ship, is a reasonably large and attractive room, with warm decor, and ample space. Breakfast and lunch and dinner (6pm–10.30pm) are served in an open-seating arrangement, so you may get a different table and different waiters for each meal. Although there are a few tables for two, most are for four, six or eight. Dinners typically include a choice of four entrées; a vegetarian entrée is also available daily.

Children have their very own menu, with “home-from-home” dishes and small portions. Dessert and pastry items will typically be of good quality, and made specifically for British tastes, although there is much use of canned fruits and jellies.

A small à la carte restaurant is an alternative dining spot (reservations are required and a per-person cover charge applies). It seats up to 45 and has superior food and service as well as a quieter, more refined atmosphere. It is located adjacent to the Meridian Restaurant, but is best entered from the aft stairway.

Instead of the more formal dining room, there is also a Lido Restaurant for a more casual setting. This is open 24 hours a day in an open-seating arrangement. Tables are set with crisp linens, flatware and stemware for dinner, when a set menu includes a choice of four entrées. Each week a themed buffet (Chinese, Indian or Mexican, depending on the cruise itinerary) may be featured for dinner. On Lido Deck, the outdoor Terrace Grill provides fast-food grilled items and pizza during the day. Note that all dining venues are non-smoking.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008