The food and wine featured at each of the principal restaurants are inspired by the destinations that the ship travels to. During our stay, we had the opportunity to dine in two of the restaurants – Luminae at The Retreat and Blu. Both were totally different from one another.
Being a suite class guest, both were included in the price package. Inspired by light once again, stretching from the early morning sunshine to the moonlight reflecting on the surface of the ocean, diners can head here to Luminae for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Bright, glittering and modern, the restaurant combined with plush furnishings and an intimate atmosphere, was my absolute favourite. The food was on par too and did justice to the ‘fine dining’ label it goes by. The Maine lobster tagliatelle with roasted artichokes, tomato and lemon confit and bread crumbs most certainly raised the bar in terms of modern luxury.
Meanwhile, Blu is in sharp contrast to Luminae and is all about relaxed dining and has an open seating policy. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but I do enjoy the company of strangers from whom I can learn and take inspiration from. Our table was full of interesting people of different backgrounds who we chatted to as if they were our own friends. Our love of food and cruises connected us and the conversation flowed freely like the drinks.
Inspired by the Mediterranean, the interiors of Blu are characterised by cool, refreshing blues and large windows. The menu reflects the surroundings by offering fresh, innovative and seductively simple cuisine. It celebrates simplicity by removing fussy processes and hails natural ingredients. Perfect for ‘clean eaters’ like myself. Those watching their waistlines need to fear not here, for there are ample healthy choices to be made which do not compromise on taste.
The roasted chicken breast accompanied by lentil blini, wilted spinach and tomato-garlic emulsion was divine. The portion was too big to finish off, but that may have been the result of me having eaten consistently elsewhere throughout the day. It’s just as well there is a mile long walking and jogging track to burn it all off!
You just have to love this ship for its contemporary style and design. And although it’s not solely aimed at the tech-savvy 20 or 30 somethings, don’t expect to relax in quiet lounges listening to light music with a drink in hand. This is a ship that oozes vibrancy and is full of energy. This is a traveller’s ship as much as it is a cruiser’s. To quote T.S. Eliot: “The journey not the arrival matters”.
Celebrity Edge – Where and How?
For more information on Celebrity Cruises, and their newest ship, Celebrity Edge, visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk.