For All Tastes
A dozen distinct dining venues range from fine Italian to a classic steakhouse, and MSC is mixing things up with its new Flexi Dining style, which allows guests to pre-select a time slot for dinner in the sophisticated main dining rooms, but also have the ability to change that time on a whim. Traditional two-seating dinners are also still available, and Yacht Club guests, who dine in their own dedicated restaurant, choose from free-time dining or reservations.
Casual dining is available in the airy Marketplace Buffet (where an emphasis on fresh, locally inspired fare makes a quick lunch shine with ingredients like fresh-made mozzarella) as well as at the Atmosphere Bar South where poolside classics including pizza and burgers rule the day.
Specialty restaurants, which offer à la carte pricing, include Butcher’s Cut modern American steakhouse; the new Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar concept starring Japanese cuisine; and Eataly – Ristorante Italiano, featuring fine Italian cuisine as well as a sumptuous Chef ’s Table experience. Other decadent treats include the Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolaterie where you can watch (and smell!) fabulous concoctions being created by chocolatiers in an open kitchen, and a very popular Crepes and Gelato shop is available for more sweet-tooth moments.
Cruisers with a health focus will be happy to hear about the Wellness Experience, which features healthful dining options at every meal. And stop by Bamboo Bar for a vibrant, healthy juice or smoothie (I loved the zesty Green Power).
And whether your drink tastes run to a frothy pint or a perfectly chilled glass of Champagne, you’ll have no shortage of choices — 20 in fact — when it comes to cocktail hour. My favorite was the Meraviglia Bar & Lounge where craft cocktails have clever names (try the Je Suis St. Germaine). The Sports Bar and the Brass Anchor Pub offer low-key hangouts, while you might want to hit the glamorous Sky Lounge or Horizon Bar for an elegant cocktail.