This post was inspired by a reddit post by u/itchypoopsarethebest to the Virgin Voyages subreddit. Featured image credit: Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages continues to push the boundaries of the cruising experience, striving to meet the diverse tastes of modern travelers. Among the myriad reviews celebrating this innovative cruise line, one post by u/itchypoopsarethebest has captured the community’s attention, offering an in-depth look at the new Test Kitchen menu. Their culinary journey, filled with detailed descriptions and stunning photos of each dish, provides a unique and intriguing perspective on what Virgin Voyages has to offer in terms of gourmet dining.
In their engaging post, u/itchypoopsarethebest shares a series of photos in the comments section, each accompanied by a brief description of the dish. This visual feast, paired with lively discussions from fellow Redditors, sheds light on the highs and lows of this avant-garde dining option. Whether it’s the beautifully roasted eel or the refreshing watermelon jalapeño sorbet, their account offers valuable insights for anyone curious about trying the Test Kitchen on their next cruise.
Join us as we explore the detailed recount of u/itchypoopsarethebest’s dining adventure, alongside the lively community feedback found in the comments of their Reddit post. Through these collective experiences, we’ll uncover what makes the Test Kitchen a noteworthy—and sometimes polarizing—part of the Virgin Voyages experience. Discover the culinary innovations and diverse opinions that shape this unique dining venue, and see if it might be the perfect fit for your next voyage.
Taste Testers Unite: Tasting the New Test Kitchen Menu
The community on the Virgin Voyages subreddit provided a wealth of insights and opinions on the new Test Kitchen menu shared by u/itchypoopsarethebest. Let’s dive into their experiences and thoughts, complete with descriptions of the dishes and reactions from fellow sailors.
Amuse Bouche and Tuna Tarte
u/itchypoopsarethebest started with an amuse bouche and tuna tarte. The amuse bouche, presented as a delicate tartlet filled with finely diced tuna, showcased a refined yet simple start to the meal. The presentation was praised for its elegance and bite-sized appeal, setting a positive tone for the courses to follow.
Cheese Course
Next up was the cheese course, a staple in gourmet dining. The cheese course continued the meal with a sophisticated touch. The dish, featuring a tart filled with creamy cheese and garnished with vibrant flowers and microgreens, was not only visually stunning but also balanced in flavors.
Scallops
The scallops were another highlight of the menu. According to reviews, this dish featured beautifully seared scallops paired with a savory broth and prosciutto. The delicate presentation and the balance of salty and savory elements were highly praised. The dish stood out as a testament to the chef’s skill in harmonizing flavors and textures, making it a gastronomic masterpiece
Eel Dish
The eel dish sparked significant discussion. u/The_swede_26 inquired about the dish, to which u/itchypoopsarethebest responded with a detailed review. They noted that while the top of the eel was nicely roasted, the bottom had a “disgusting slimy texture.” They rated it 5/10 for taste but praised the presentation. This dish was polarizing, with u/Unhappy_Macaron3523 mentioning execution issues, citing the frozen eel as an example.
Chicken Course
The chicken course received mixed reactions. This dish, often featuring a beautifully cooked piece of chicken accompanied by seasonal vegetables, showcased the Test Kitchen’s commitment to quality and innovation. Reviewers noted that the chicken was well-cooked and complemented by a flavorful sauce. However, some found the presentation and combination of ingredients to be a bit unconventional
Watermelon Jalapeño Sorbet
The watermelon jalapeño sorbet garnered mixed reactions. u/theyweregalpals initially mistook the white crème for something else, but it was revealed to be jalapeño sorbet with strawberry syrup. u/ColdFusionPT declared it “fucking delicious,” while u/itchypoopsarethebest shared that their wife loved it, despite their personal dislike. The table next to them had similar positive reactions, though it wasn’t a unanimous hit.
Yuzu Dessert
The yuzu dessert also divided opinions. u/TaffyTool found it “absolutely horrible,” likening it to a sugary grocery store dessert. u/thatsnuckinfutz was curious about the dish, and u/itchypoopsarethebest explained it consisted of lemon cookies, yuzu pudding, whipped cream, and dehydrated vanilla crème. Despite its sweetness, the detailed description helped demystify the dessert.
Vegetarian Menu C
The discussion also touched on the vegetarian menu C. u/Wise-Ad6240 was interested in this option, and u/artangelx shared that it included an eggplant alternative for the eel and a butternut squash with sage gnocchi main course.
General Feedback
The community had varied opinions on the Test Kitchen overall. u/MixAway wondered if it was the lowest-rated restaurant, to which u/neko and u/Unhappy_Macaron3523 agreed, citing execution issues and a mismatch with diners’ expectations. u/FasterFeaster noted the polarizing nature of the dishes and praised the flexibility in choosing courses.
u/burritos0504 provided a detailed comparison, suggesting that Razzle Dazzle might actually be the least favorite restaurant. They shared a personal experience where they found the restaurant heavily promoted through elevator screens and table tents, yet the actual dining experience was disappointing. Despite planning to visit Razzle Dazzle based on these promotions, the food they received ignored allergy and sensitivity notes, leading to multiple dishes being sent back. The positive experience with the host and the attempt to cater to their needs did not compensate for the overall poor execution of the dishes.
First-Timer Concerns
u/DungeonsAndDeadlifts expressed concern about whether the Test Kitchen was worth it for their first cruise. u/Next-Remove-1774 suggested combining the Test Kitchen with the Ship Show to create a satisfying meal experience. u/SpiritualDuck1721 and u/AlpsSea6222 echoed this sentiment, highlighting the overall dining experience and the backup options available if diners weren’t satisfied.
Alternative Menus and Customization
u/Pretty_You5158 asked about mixing and matching courses from different menus. u/itchypoopsarethebest clarified that while this isn’t typically allowed, some accommodations might be made for vegetarian requests. They also noted the possibility of menus cycling during the food and drink festival, though definitive answers were unavailable.
Through these community insights, it’s clear that the Test Kitchen’s new menu offers a diverse and adventurous dining experience, though not without its controversies. Whether you’re a foodie looking for something unique or a cautious diner seeking more familiar flavors, the Virgin Voyages Test Kitchen promises a memorable culinary journey.
Discovering The Test Kitchen: A Culinary Lab at Sea
Virgin Voyages’ Test Kitchen is more than just a dining venue—it’s a gastronomic journey that pushes the boundaries of traditional cruise cuisine. This section delves deeper into what makes The Test Kitchen a unique and memorable experience for sailors.
A Laboratory-Inspired Dining Experience
The Test Kitchen is designed to resemble a laboratory, complete with bright lights, metal tables, and chrome accents. This contemporary setting sets the stage for a meal that’s both innovative and unexpected.
Dynamic Six-Course Menu
The six-course menu is a central feature of The Test Kitchen. Instead of a traditional menu, guests receive a list of six primary ingredients, with each course remaining a delightful mystery until served. This approach allows diners to experience the chef’s creativity without preconceived notions.
Highlighted Techniques:
- Sous-vide Cooking: Ensures precise temperature control for perfectly cooked proteins.
- Smoke Presentation: Adds a dramatic flair and deepens the flavor profile.
- Foam Applications: Provides a unique texture and visual appeal to dishes.
Community and Interaction
One of the unique aspects of dining at The Test Kitchen is the interaction with the culinary team. Guests often have the opportunity to engage with chefs and servers, learning about the inspiration and techniques behind each dish. This interaction adds a personal touch to the dining experience, making it more memorable and informative.
Pairing Options
For an additional fee, The Test Kitchen offers curated wine and cocktail pairings to complement each course. These pairings are carefully selected to enhance the flavors of the dishes, providing a comprehensive culinary experience.
Pairing Options Include:
- Wine Pairings: Selected wines that match the flavor profile of each dish.
- Cocktail Pairings: Innovative cocktails designed to complement the courses.
- Mocktail Pairings: Non-alcoholic options for those who prefer a different kind of beverage experience.
The Test Kitchen on Virgin Voyages is not just a meal—it’s an adventure that challenges traditional dining norms. With its laboratory-inspired setting, dynamic menu, and innovative techniques, it offers a unique experience that appeals to adventurous eaters and culinary enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone looking to try something new, The Test Kitchen promises a memorable dining journey at sea.
Embark on Your Culinary Adventure with Virgin Voyages
The Virgin Voyages Test Kitchen offers a unique and memorable dining experience that sets it apart from traditional cruise ship cuisine. From the laboratory-inspired setting to the dynamic six-course menu, every aspect of this restaurant is designed to surprise and delight the senses. The community insights and detailed dish reviews from fellow sailors highlight the highs and occasional lows, providing a comprehensive look at what you can expect.
Whether you’re intrigued by the elegant tuna tarte, the creamy and vibrant cheese course, the beautifully seared scallops, or the refreshing and unique watermelon jalapeño sorbet, The Test Kitchen promises a culinary journey like no other. The interaction with the culinary team and the thoughtful pairing options further enhance this exceptional dining experience.
Ready to embark on your own Virgin Voyages adventure? Book your next cruise with Smart Sail Voyages and experience the magic of The Test Kitchen firsthand. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to explore the world while indulging in cutting-edge cuisine.
Set sail with us and discover the future of cruising with Virgin Voyages. Book now and let Smart Sail Voyages make your dream vacation a reality!
