Cruising Aboard The Ruby Princess, Part 4: Unexpected Culinary Delights

A Foodie’s Guide to Unforgettable Meals at Sea

Hey fellow cruisers! So, Part 4 of our Ruby Princess adventure is here, and guess what? We’re diving headfirst into the delicious world of food! In the previous installments, we explored the ship’s amazing activities, stunning views, and the overall vibe. But this time, we’re all about the culinary journey – from the elegant main dining room to the hidden gems tucked away in less-traveled corners of the ship. We’ll spill the beans on everything from the upscale specialty restaurants (with all the juicy details on reservations and price tags) to the casual, grab-and-go spots perfect for a quick bite between adventures. Get ready to drool over descriptions of mouthwatering dishes and dreamy desserts. We’ll also share some tips on navigating dietary restrictions, budgeting for those onboard culinary indulgences, and even share some sneaky strategies for stretching those cruise dining dollars. So grab your napkin, because this culinary cruise is about to set sail!

Key Insights from Our Ruby Princess Culinary Adventure

Diverse Dining Options: The Ruby Princess offers a wide array of dining experiences, from elegant fine dining to casual buffets and hidden culinary gems, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Exceptional Food Quality: The quality of food was consistently high across all dining venues, exceeding expectations for a cruise ship experience.
Impeccable Service: The onboard staff provided outstanding service, always friendly, attentive, and accommodating to individual needs and dietary restrictions.
Dietary Needs Catered For: The ship offers a substantial selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with staff happy to adapt dishes to suit specific requirements.
Memorable Culinary Journey: The overall dining experience was truly unforgettable, a delicious and enjoyable highlight of the cruise.

1. Setting Sail: Recap of Our Ruby Princess Journey (So Far!)

Hey everyone, and welcome back to our Ruby Princess saga! If you’re just joining us, welcome aboard! In Part 1, we dove into the embarkation process, sharing our first impressions of this beautiful ship and settling into our cabin. We gushed over the stunning ocean views and explored some of the ship’s amazing amenities. Part 2 was all about the onboard activities – think exhilarating water slides, relaxing spa treatments, and even some surprisingly fun trivia nights! We definitely discovered that there’s never a dull moment on the Ruby Princess. And in Part 3, we explored the amazing array of entertainment options available – from Broadway-style shows to live music and even some pretty epic comedy acts. We were constantly entertained and the schedule was jam-packed with fun! Now, we’re incredibly excited to finally share Part 4 – the part you’ve all been waiting for: the food! Get ready for a delicious adventure as we delve into the incredible culinary experiences we had onboard, from casual snacks to elegant fine dining.

A Glance Back at Parts 1-3

Before we dive into the mouthwatering details of our Ruby Princess culinary adventures, let’s quickly recap our previous escapades! In Part 1, we chronicled our embarkation experience – the excitement of boarding, getting settled into our cabin, and soaking in those first breathtaking ocean views. We explored the ship a little, getting our bearings and marveling at the sheer size and beauty of the Ruby Princess. You can check out all the details and see some awesome photos here: [Insert Link to Part 1]. Part 2 saw us fully embracing the ship’s lively atmosphere. We had a blast trying out various activities, from swimming in the pool and lounging by the sun deck to participating in the ship’s fun trivia contests and enjoying the numerous bars and lounges. For a full rundown of our active adventures, click here: [Insert Link to Part 2]. Finally, in Part 3, we explored the amazing onboard entertainment. We witnessed dazzling Broadway-style shows, tapped our feet to live music, and even had a few laughs at the stand-up comedy performances. Want to relive the fun? Catch the highlights here: [Insert Link to Part 3]. So, if you’re ready to trade our earlier tales of high-seas thrills and entertainment for gastronomical delights, let’s get cooking!

Setting the Scene for Culinary Adventures

Now that we’ve relived the fun and excitement of our earlier adventures aboard the Ruby Princess, it’s time to shift our focus to something equally thrilling: the food! Seriously, the culinary scene on this ship was a major highlight of our entire trip. We’re not just talking about your typical cruise ship fare; we’re talking about a diverse range of dining experiences, each offering something unique and memorable. From casual bites perfect for grabbing between activities to elegant, sit-down dinners, we explored it all. Get ready for a delicious deep dive into the culinary treasures we uncovered, and believe us, there were many!

2. Beyond the Main Dining Room: Unexpected Culinary Gems

While the main dining room on the Ruby Princess offers a fantastic dining experience, we discovered that some of the best culinary adventures were waiting to be discovered beyond its elegant doors. We’re talking about those hidden gems, the less-traveled paths to deliciousness that often get overlooked. Our exploration took us to unexpected corners of the ship, revealing a world of casual eateries and specialty restaurants that truly surprised and delighted us. We stumbled upon charming cafes perfect for a quick coffee and pastry, vibrant buffets brimming with international flavors, and even some surprisingly upscale spots offering a more intimate and refined dining experience. The variety was incredible, and honestly, we were blown away by the quality of food available beyond the main dining room.

Discovering the Specialty Restaurants

One of the highlights of our Ruby Princess culinary journey was definitely exploring the ship’s specialty restaurants. These weren’t your everyday dining experiences; they were truly special occasions! We started with Sabatini’s, an Italian trattoria that felt incredibly authentic. The food was divine – think perfectly cooked pasta, succulent seafood, and incredible desserts. It was a bit pricier than the main dining room, around $[Insert Price Range] per person, but the quality and ambiance were well worth it. Reservations are highly recommended, and you can usually book them through the cruise line’s app or website well in advance. Beyond Sabatini’s, we also checked out [Name of Another Specialty Restaurant, if applicable – e.g., a steakhouse or a seafood restaurant], which offered a different culinary adventure. This one had a [Describe the Ambiance – e.g., more casual, lively, romantic] atmosphere and [Describe the food – e.g., incredible steaks, fresh seafood]. The pricing was similar to Sabatini’s, around $[Insert Price Range] per person. Again, reservations were a must!

Casual Dining Options: A Casual Affair

While the specialty restaurants were definitely a treat, we also spent a good chunk of time exploring the more casual dining options on the Ruby Princess, and we were pleasantly surprised! The main buffet was a highlight, offering an incredible variety of food – from classic American fare to international dishes like flavorful curries and delicious sushi. The quality was surprisingly high, much better than we expected from a typical cruise ship buffet. There were always fresh options, and they kept the food stocked throughout the meal times. Beyond the main buffet, we found some great little casual eateries scattered around the ship. These were perfect for grabbing a quick and tasty bite between activities. We particularly enjoyed [Name a specific casual eatery, if applicable, and describe what they offer – e.g., the poolside grill with its juicy burgers and fresh salads, or a casual pizza place]. The variety and convenience of these spots made them a go-to for us throughout the cruise.

3. Taste Buds Tango: Unique Dishes and Flavors

Let’s talk about the food that truly blew us away – the dishes that sparked a taste bud tango! At Sabatini’s, the [Specific Dish – e.g., Lobster Ravioli] was a revelation. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the lobster was succulent, and the sauce was simply divine. It was a dish we dreamt about long after the cruise ended. Then there was the [Specific Dish from another location – e.g., Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa] from the poolside grill. The salmon was cooked to perfection, and the sweet and tangy mango salsa was the perfect complement. The unexpected combination of flavors was incredible. We also have to mention the [Specific Dessert – e.g., Chocolate Lava Cake] from the main dining room – rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible. It was the perfect ending to a perfect meal. These are just a few examples; honestly, there were so many memorable dishes, it was hard to pick just a few!

A Culinary Highlight Reel: Our Favorite Dishes

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – our absolute favorite dishes from the Ruby Princess! First up, the aforementioned lobster ravioli from Sabatini’s. The presentation was elegant – perfectly portioned, with vibrant green basil leaves artfully arranged on the plate. Each bite was an explosion of flavor; the creamy lobster filling was rich and decadent, the pasta was perfectly al dente, and the sauce was the perfect touch of savory deliciousness. Then there was the surf and turf from the main dining room. The perfectly seared filet mignon was cooked to a juicy medium-rare, sitting proudly beside a succulent, perfectly grilled lobster tail. The contrast in textures and flavors was incredible. And let’s not forget the desserts! The chocolate lava cake, a classic for a reason, was rich and intensely chocolatey, with a molten center that oozed decadence. The presentation was simple yet effective, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream perfectly complementing the warm cake. Each dish was not only delicious but also a visual masterpiece.

Exploring International Cuisine

One of the things that truly impressed us about the Ruby Princess was the sheer variety of international cuisine available. It wasn’t just a token nod to global flavors; it was a genuine celebration of diverse culinary traditions. The buffet, in particular, was a melting pot of tastes. We feasted on flavorful Thai curries, delicately spiced Indian dishes, and authentic Mexican tacos. Each dish was bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant spices. Beyond the buffet, the specialty restaurants also offered international flair. Sabatini’s, as we mentioned earlier, was a testament to Italian culinary excellence. We also discovered [Name a specific restaurant or mention a specific international dish from another restaurant, e.g., a fantastic sushi bar offering fresh, expertly prepared sushi, or a French bistro with delectable pastries and rich sauces]. The sheer range of options meant there was something for everyone, no matter their taste preferences or dietary needs. This international culinary adventure was one of our favorite aspects of the entire cruise experience.

4. Sweet Surrender: Dessert Delights Aboard the Ruby Princess

Let’s be honest, no culinary journey is complete without a proper exploration of the sweet stuff! And the Ruby Princess certainly didn’t disappoint in the dessert department. From the moment we stepped onboard, we were surrounded by tempting treats. The main dining room offered a rotating selection of classic desserts – creamy cheesecakes, rich chocolate cakes, and decadent pies. Each dessert was beautifully presented and incredibly delicious. But the real star of the show was the pastry shop. This little haven of sweetness offered an array of pastries, cakes, cookies, and other delightful goodies, all freshly baked and incredibly tempting. We indulged in everything from flaky croissants and buttery Danish pastries to beautifully decorated cupcakes and decadent chocolate truffles. The variety was staggering, and the quality was exceptional. We found ourselves making multiple visits throughout the day, often just to sample a few extra sweets!

The Pastry Chef’s Masterpieces

We have to give a huge shout-out to the incredibly talented pastry chefs on the Ruby Princess! Their creations were nothing short of masterpieces. We were particularly impressed by the variety and the artistry involved in each dessert. The chocolate éclairs, for example, were light and airy, with a perfectly balanced ratio of cream filling to choux pastry. The delicate layers of a Napoleon cake were perfectly crisp, offering a lovely textural contrast to the creamy custard filling. And the macarons? Oh, the macarons! Each tiny shell was a burst of flavor, with a perfectly smooth and delicate texture. The various flavors – from classic pistachio and vanilla to more adventurous combinations like salted caramel and raspberry – were all expertly crafted and incredibly delicious. We even saw the pastry chefs at work a few times, and their precision and passion were truly inspiring. They clearly took immense pride in their creations, and it showed in the exceptional quality of their work.

Sweet Endings to Perfect Meals

Let’s be honest, dessert isn’t just an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the overall dining experience. On the Ruby Princess, the desserts were the perfect punctuation mark to every meal. Whether it was a casual lunch or a more formal dinner, ending the meal with a sweet treat elevated the entire experience to a new level. The richness of a chocolate lava cake perfectly complemented the savory flavors of a delicious steak, while the lightness of a lemon tart provided a refreshing contrast to a rich pasta dish. The desserts weren’t just about satisfying a sweet craving; they were carefully chosen to enhance and balance the overall meal. They were a chance to savor a different kind of flavor profile, and a delightful way to end a meal on a high note.

5. Beyond the Food: Ambiance and Service

The food was incredible, but the overall dining experience on the Ruby Princess went far beyond just the dishes themselves. The ambiance in each dining venue played a huge role in shaping our enjoyment. The main dining room, with its elegant décor and soft lighting, created a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. It was the perfect setting for a special occasion dinner. In contrast, the more casual eateries had a more relaxed and lively vibe, ideal for a quick and easy meal between activities. The variety in atmospheres was wonderful, allowing us to choose the perfect setting to complement our mood and the occasion. But beyond the ambiance, the service was truly exceptional. The staff were incredibly friendly, attentive, and efficient, always going the extra mile to ensure we had a wonderful experience. They were knowledgeable about the menu, happy to offer recommendations, and always willing to accommodate special requests. Their positive attitudes and dedication to customer service significantly enhanced our overall dining experience.

The Ambiance of Different Dining Venues

One of the things we loved about the Ruby Princess’s dining options was the diversity of atmospheres. The main dining room was definitely the most formal setting, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The lighting was subdued, the tables were elegantly set, and the overall feel was sophisticated and refined. It was the kind of place where you felt compelled to dress up a little, and the atmosphere encouraged conversation and a more leisurely dining experience. In contrast, the buffet was all about casual fun. The atmosphere was vibrant and bustling, with a constant hum of conversation and the clinking of cutlery. It was a great spot to grab a quick and easy meal, or to sample a variety of dishes without feeling any pressure. Then there were the more casual eateries scattered throughout the ship – these offered a relaxed and informal setting, perfect for a quick lunch or a light snack. These spaces often had a more open and airy feel, sometimes with outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the ocean views.

Exceptional Service: A Shout-Out to the Crew

We have to give a huge shout-out to the incredible staff who made our dining experiences so memorable. From the moment we sat down, we were treated with warmth, friendliness, and efficiency. The waiters and waitresses were incredibly attentive without being intrusive, always checking in to ensure everything was to our liking. They were also incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, happy to offer recommendations, and even willing to accommodate special requests – they went above and beyond to make sure we had a wonderful meal. We particularly appreciated their ability to remember our preferences from one meal to the next, which added a personal touch to the dining experience. Beyond the servers, the entire crew involved in food service, from the cooks to the bussers, clearly worked together as a well-oiled machine. The level of professionalism and attentiveness we experienced was truly remarkable, and it significantly contributed to our overall enjoyment of the cruise.

6. Dietary Restrictions and Options

One of the things we often worry about when cruising is how dietary restrictions will be handled. But on the Ruby Princess, we were pleasantly surprised! They clearly catered to a wide range of dietary needs. The buffet offered plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, clearly labeled for easy identification. We were also impressed with the variety of choices available – it wasn’t just a token few items, but a substantial selection that allowed for diverse and delicious meals. Even in the specialty restaurants, accommodating dietary needs seemed to be a priority. While it was always best to inform the staff about specific requirements in advance, they were generally very accommodating and happy to adapt dishes to suit individual needs. We had friends with allergies who were perfectly catered for, and were able to enjoy many of the same dishes, slightly modified.

Catering to Special Needs: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, etc.

We were genuinely impressed by how well the Ruby Princess catered to various dietary needs. For vegetarians, there were plenty of options available across all dining venues. The buffet always had a dedicated section with a wide array of vegetarian dishes, from salads and vegetable curries to pasta dishes and veggie burgers. Many of the main dining room menu items could also be easily adapted to be vegetarian-friendly. For those following a vegan diet, the options were slightly more limited but still quite substantial, particularly in the buffet. Clearly labeled vegan options were always available, and the kitchen staff were often happy to make adjustments to certain dishes to remove dairy or other animal products. Gluten-free options were also plentiful, with dedicated gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts frequently available. We found that communicating dietary needs in advance was always helpful, especially for specialty restaurants, but even without prior notice, the staff were incredibly accommodating and did their best to ensure everyone had a delicious and safe meal.

Communicating Your Needs to the Crew

While the Ruby Princess did a great job of providing many options for various dietary needs, clear communication is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Our recommendation is to inform the cruise line about any dietary restrictions or allergies well in advance of your trip. Many cruise lines now have online forms or sections on their booking websites where you can detail your requirements. This gives the kitchen staff ample time to plan and source ingredients accordingly. For those with more complex needs, contacting the cruise line directly to speak with a member of their dietary team is a good idea. Onboard, be sure to inform your server about any dietary restrictions at the start of each meal. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about ingredients or preparation methods. Most importantly, be clear and specific about your needs, and don’t hesitate to mention any severe allergies. The staff generally appreciate this proactive approach and will do their best to accommodate you.

7. Budgeting for Culinary Indulgence

Let’s be real, cruising can be expensive, and dining can quickly add up! But with a little planning, you can enjoy the delicious culinary offerings on the Ruby Princess without breaking the bank. Before you even set sail, take a look at the cruise line’s website to get an idea of the pricing for specialty restaurants and any optional dining packages. This will help you create a realistic budget. Remember, the main dining room is included in your cruise fare, so make the most of those included meals. The buffet is also a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of foods without incurring additional costs. If you plan on indulging in specialty restaurants, consider making reservations in advance, as these often fill up quickly. Remember that those specialty dining options come with a price tag. Consider spreading your splurges across your cruise instead of indulging every night.

Understanding Pricing Structures

Understanding the pricing structure for dining on the Ruby Princess is key to managing your budget. First, remember that the main dining room is included in your cruise fare. This is your standard dining option, offering a set menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The buffet is also included and offers a wide variety of options. Specialty restaurants, however, are where the costs start to climb. These restaurants usually charge a per-person fee for each meal, ranging from $[Insert Price Range – Low End] to $[Insert Price Range – High End], depending on the restaurant and the dishes you order. This price is typically for a full dinner, and drinks are usually extra. Some specialty restaurants may also require reservations, often made well in advance. Additionally, keep in mind that drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are usually priced separately from your meals, and can add up quickly. Checking the drinks menu in advance gives you a better idea of the costs involved, letting you budget accordingly.

Tips for Staying Within Your Budget

So, you want to enjoy the amazing food on the Ruby Princess without overspending? Here are a few tips to help you stay within your budget. First, take advantage of the included dining options! The main dining room and the buffet offer a wide variety of delicious and satisfying meals without any extra cost. Plan your meals around these included options, reserving specialty dining for special occasions or as a treat rather than a nightly occurrence. Another smart strategy is to take advantage of the free water and ice available throughout the ship. This can help you avoid purchasing expensive bottled water or sugary drinks. Happy hour deals in bars and lounges can also be a cost-effective way to enjoy a drink. Finally, if you’re prone to impulse purchases at the various cafes and snack bars, try setting a daily spending limit for these extras. This helps prevent overspending on unplanned treats.

8. Final Thoughts: Culinary Memories from the Ruby Princess

Our culinary journey aboard the Ruby Princess was truly unforgettable! From the elegant main dining room to the hidden gems of casual eateries and specialty restaurants, the dining experience exceeded all our expectations. The variety was incredible, the quality was consistently high, and the service was impeccable. We were consistently impressed by the wide range of international cuisine, the dedication to accommodating dietary restrictions, and the sheer artistry of the desserts. If we had to pick just one thing that stood out, it would be the incredible service provided by the onboard staff – they made every meal a special occasion. A few key takeaways? Definitely take advantage of the included dining options, but don’t hesitate to splurge on a specialty restaurant experience or two. And remember to communicate your dietary needs clearly in advance.

Our Top Culinary Recommendations

So, what were the absolute highlights of our Ruby Princess culinary adventure? Well, for starters, Sabatini’s was a must. The lobster ravioli was a revelation – perfectly cooked pasta, succulent lobster, and a sauce that was simply divine. It’s a dish we’re still dreaming about! From the more casual options, the grilled salmon with mango salsa from the poolside grill was another standout. The unexpected combination of flavors was incredibly refreshing and delicious. And no trip to the Ruby Princess is complete without indulging in the pastry chef’s masterpieces. We especially loved the light and airy éclairs and the beautifully decorated macarons. For a quick and easy bite, the buffet always offered a surprising variety of high-quality options. But honestly, almost every meal we had was memorable; the quality and care put into every dish was evident.

Would We Cruise on Ruby Princess Again? (For the Food!)

The short answer? Absolutely! The culinary experience alone would be enough to make us book another Ruby Princess cruise in a heartbeat. The variety of dining options, from the elegant main dining room to the casual eateries and specialty restaurants, was fantastic. The quality of the food was consistently high, regardless of where we ate, and the service was exceptional. The staff were friendly, attentive, and incredibly accommodating, especially when it came to dietary needs. We truly felt that every detail of the dining experience was carefully considered and executed to a high standard. While there are other aspects of a cruise that contribute to the overall experience, the food on the Ruby Princess was truly a highlight, exceeding our expectations in every way. The delicious food, the pleasant atmosphere, and the friendly staff created a truly memorable culinary journey.

How much should I budget for specialty dining on the Ruby Princess?

Prices for specialty restaurants vary, generally ranging from $[Insert Price Range – Low End] to $[Insert Price Range – High End] per person per meal. It’s best to check the cruise line’s website or your cruise documents for the most up-to-date pricing information. Remember that drinks are usually extra.

Do I need to make reservations for specialty restaurants?

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular specialty restaurants. You can usually book these in advance through the cruise line’s website or app.

What if I have severe allergies or dietary restrictions?

It’s crucial to inform the cruise line about any allergies or severe dietary restrictions well in advance of your cruise. Contact the cruise line directly to discuss your needs and ensure they can accommodate you. Onboard, always inform your server about your dietary requirements at the start of each meal.

Are there any casual dining options besides the buffet?

Yes! The Ruby Princess offers several casual eateries throughout the ship, such as [Name a specific casual eatery, if applicable – e.g., poolside grill, pizza place]. These are perfect for a quick and easy meal.

How can I save money on dining during my cruise?

Take full advantage of the complimentary dining options like the main dining room and buffet. Limit your specialty restaurant visits, and consider happy hour deals on drinks. Bringing your own reusable water bottle can also save you money on beverages.

What are some of the must-try dishes?

Our top recommendations include the lobster ravioli at Sabatini’s, the grilled salmon with mango salsa from the poolside grill, and any of the pastry chef’s creations (especially the éclairs and macarons!).

Key Insights: Ruby Princess Culinary Experience

Cruising Aboard the Ruby Princess, Part 4: Unexpected Culinary Delights