Quantum of the Seas…..this changes everything! (part 4 of 5 – Dining)

There are just over 19 eateries on board Quantum of the Seas. 9 are speciality restaurants and therefore incur a charge whilst 6 are additional casual dining areas and the remaining 4 are used for dynamic dining. Dynamic Dining is something new to Royal Caribbean and for me takes away the last bastions of what a cruise is about which is dining with the same dining companions every night and getting to know your fellow traveller. There is no longer a main dining room and no longer set sittings everything is open dining but a word of warning make sure you pre book all your dining times as the queues were horrendous.

DYNAMIC DINING

There are four main dynamic restaurants where you can dine. Reservations are supposedly not required but if you turn up at 7pm then be prepared to have to wait.

Chic (open for Dinner)

Chic is a restaurant that exudes sophistication and dishes are contemporary in style. Signature dishes include Beef Carpaccio, Mint-crusted lamb, Pan-roasted diver scallops and plum crepe mille-feuille.

 

Silk (open for Dinner)

For fans of Asian cuisine this is the perfect opportunity to try out dishes from India to Vietnam. Signature dishes include Vietnamese Tacos, Curried Lamb, Crispy Beijing Duck and Cardamon Pot Au Creme.

American Icon Grill (open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

A traditional American steak house serving authentic US dishes. Signature dishes include New England Clam Chowder, Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Surf n Turf and Peanut Butter  & Jelly Trifle.

The Grande (open for Dinner)

The Grande in essence is a formal dining room and dress must reflect this. The dishes here are the ultimate in luxury. Signature dishes include Lobster Bisque, Chateaubriand Wellington, Chicken a la Orange and Red Velvet Cheesecake.

It is important to mention again that personally I think you need to make your reservations before you board the ship and be on time or else you will miss your slot!

 

ADDITIONAL DINING VENUES

There are a selection of additional dining venues where in the main there are no charges however be careful as places such as La Patisserie do charge per item but it is clearly marked.

Cafe @ Two 70 (open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

This is located just outside the stunning Two 70 lounge and is where you can grab a picnic-style meal. Signature dishes include Hot-pressed sandwiches, custom-made salads, home-made soups and chocolate cake.

 

Windjammer Market Place (open Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and 24 hour grill)

This is Royal Caribbean’s long-standing favourite and signature dishes include fresh-prepared panini, rotisserie chicken, all-day breakfasts and cakes.

SeaPlex Doghouse (open Lunch and Dinner)

The kids will love this after a hard morning on the dodgems! Serving a variety of sausages with toppings in fluffy buns it’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat.

Sorrentos Pizzeria (open Lunch and Dinner)

Another Royal Caribbean classic serving wood-fired pizzas when only pizza will do.

 

La Patisserie ( open as per Cruise Compass)

Serving a variety of pastries and danish as well as speciality teas and coffees for a small charge.

 

 

Cafe Promenade (open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

This is a pavement style cafe serving freshly baked cakes and sandwiches.

SPECIALITY DINING

Finally we move on to the money makers for Royal Caribbean. there is no need to dine here as the other venues are adequate but if you do feel like splashing the boat out then make sure you pre book.

Jamies Italian (open Lunch and Dinner)

The menu is simple and stylish and signature dishes include Crab and Avocado Bruschetta, Sausage Pappardelle and Jamies Italian Signature Porchetta.

Wonderland (open Dinner)

this is Royal Caribbean’s quirky restaurant where you can prepare to be delighted by the whole experience. signature dishes include Liquid Lobster, Tempura Salmon Caviar and Citrus Mochi Clouds.

Izumi (open Lunch and Dinner)

Izumi has contemporary surroundings and authentic Japanese details and serves Chicken kara-age, Steamed Shrimp Shu Mai, Nabeyaki Udon and Mochi Ice Cream.

 

Chefs Table (open Dinner)

This is an intimate affair for a maximum of 16 guests. Five courses are paired with expertly selected wines with both chef and sommelier on hand to wax lyrical on their choices.

Chops Grille (open Dinner)

A signature dining experience on Royal Caribbean now for 10 years. Boasting the best dry-aged steaks at sea, plus fresh seafood and an impressive selection of salads.

Devinly Decadence (open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Healthy eating from celebrity chef, Devin Alexander, serving dishes such as Chorizo Lasagne and pulled-pork tacos.

Johnny Rockets (open Lunch and Dinner)

A firm favourite for families with hamburgers and creamy milkshakes served in an authentic 1950’s eatery complete with neon signage.

Michaels Genuine Pub (open Lunch and Dinner)

This is an american gastro pub with dishes being served tapas style. Signature dishes include Chile Chicken Wings, Slow-roasted pork sliders. Polenta Fries and S’more Brownies.

Coastal Kitchen (open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner for Junior Suite guests and above only)

This is the perfect balance of healthy and delicious with a mix of Mediterranean and Californian cuisine. Signature dishes include Sea Bass Ceviche, Spice- rubbed rib eye and Herb-crusted chicken.

My final thoughts are:

– make sure you pre book your dining whatever you decide unless you want to queue

– the menus in the dynamic dining restaurants do not change at all during your cruise

My personal opinion is that Royal Caribbean have restricted the dining by introducing dynamic dining with set menus in order to maximise their profits in the other speciality dining restaurants. I found the quality of the food to be excellent but really on the menus in the dynamic dining restaurants only one or two dishes that I would eat which makes it restrictive on a 14 night cruise.

 

For more images of the ship please visit here: Quantum of the Seas Images