The food experience on ships is one of the reasons I love cruising. I love to be able to enjoy a variety of foods, all to an exceptional quality. Norwegian Encore does just this, with a whole range of cuisines to appeal to everyone all day, every day.
Complimentary dining
Breakfast
There are a number of complimentary offerings on board Encore. During the morning you can enjoy a variety of choices in the Garden Café, from a full English, to continental, pancakes or eggs your way. It has everything you could want to get you started for the day.
If you fancy something a little more formal, you can enjoy table service in one of the main dining rooms, where you can enjoy made-to-order dishes such as eggs benedict and other delicious offerings. Yum!
Another option is the local bar and grill located above the main atrium. This bar/diner is open all day and serves a variety of different food across the day.
If you fancy something a little lighter there are a number of other options across the ship. My personal favourite is in the Observation Lounge. Here you’ll find a number of continental options. Sit back with a few pastries and a coffee and watch the world go by, or as you come into a new port of call.
Lunch
Similar to breakfast, there’s a host a complimentary offerings for lunch, whether that’s a sit-down meal in the main restaurants, a buffet approach in Garden Café or other options at the Local Bar and Grill, such as fish and chips, hot dogs and fully loaded tortillas.
Dinner
For dinner, head to one of the main dining rooms on board. There are three to choose from. Firstly, Taste and Savor located near the main atrium. These are quite cosy restaurants, with lots of nooks to enjoy a meal. If you fancy something more grandiose, head to the Manhattan Room. Styled like a New York supper club, this gorgeous space overlooks the wake of the ship. Expect live music as you dine away. If you fancy something less formal, you can head back to the Garden Café to the Local Bar and Grill.
Speciality Dining
Speciality dining is something Norwegian always does very well at. Not only is there a lot to choose from, but it’s also all exceptional.
Onda by Scarpetta
New to Encore is Onda. This new take on Italian food looks to combine classic, freshly made Italian dishes with signature seafood dishes. The menu features a prime selection of raw and cooked seafood, delicious vegetable dishes, classic Italian entrees – including Scarpetta’s famous Spaghetti Tomato and Basil – and the very best in Italian desserts. I had the opportunity try some of the food on offer and it was truly delicious.
Food republic
Arguably my favourite restaurant on board Norwegian Ships, Food Republic, by Pubbelly Boys, has a great take on Asian fusion. Order a wide selection of delectable dishes from the on-table iPad and enjoy tapas-style in an enclosed part of The Waterfront. Take a look below for a sample of the offerings
Ocean blue
If seafood is your thing, then take a look at Ocean Blue. This elegant seafood dining experience is located both on Oceanplace 678 and extended to The Waterfront. The added connection with the sea is a great addition to this venue.
Teppanyaki
One of my favourite dining options anywhere and on any ship is the Teppanyaki. If you like dinner with a show, then you’ve come to the right place. Enjoy an interactive experience where Hibachi chefs serve a range of options, all freshly cooked in front of you in a playful manner. Why not try the Asuka, a tender filet mignon served with grilled shrimp?
Le Bistro
Fancy some authentic French cuisine? Look no further than Le Bistro. Set within an upscale, yet intimate venue, expect a signature dining experience with white glove service and a rich tapestry of French offerings. It’s the ultimate in indulgence on board. On top of this, Le Bistro is located apart from the main body of speciality restaurants giving it an exclusive feel with amazing views over the ocean.
Q Smokehouse
Q is a restaurant that debuted on Norwegian Bliss in 2018. It’s the line’s take on a smokehouse concept. Expect traditional BBQ fare with a tasty selection of smoked brisket, ribs, chicken, sausages and mouth-watering sides, as well as live contemporary country music across the evening. All washed down by some yummy cocktails.
Cagney’s Steakhouse
Norwegian’s signature steakhouse, Cagney’s is the perfect spot to enjoy your favourite cut of steak alongside mouth-watering sides.
Los Lobos
Los Lobos is the Norwegian Mexican speciality restaurant. Expect Mexican dishes with a modern twist. Why not try the freshly made guacamole, alongside quesadillas, tacos and enchiladas? Why not order a few things and share between yourselves?
The Diner
Located near the main pool, The Diner is also a great spot to enjoy some American favourites in a casual setting. Perfect if you’re enjoying yourself by the pool.
After so much food why not wash it down with a drink in one of the many bars on board? Encore features a whole host of different bars to suit all tastes, wants and wishes. Whether it’s enjoying a fine whiskey or cognac in Whiskey’s, wine in The Cellars Wine Bar, a cocktail in the Atrium or some of the best mojitos I’ve ever had at the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Have I whetted your appetite yet? Of these, my favourite has to be the District Brewhouse. Situated at the end of the Waterfront, this glass-enclosed space has amazing views alongside a huge range of beers, ales and other drinks. It’s always lively whether during the day, or with live entertainment at night.
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