We recently sent a luxury expert to sail on EXPLORA II, a lavish cruise ship from Explora Journeys. Not only is Explora Journeys well known for its upscale amenities and indulgent inclusions, but the cruise line’s onboard dining experience is said to be worldly and sophisticated. Here our expert shares her thoughts on the culinary scene aboard this inspiring ship.
Marble & Co. Grill
Marble & Co. is where dinner becomes an event. Beautifully cooked steaks, bold flavors and a warm, intimate space make this a restaurant you want to settle into and stay awhile.
Marble & Co. Grill
The atmosphere feels classic and cozy, dark and moody, bringing you into a traditional polo club basement bar or steakhouse, and it quickly became one of those places we kept talking about after we left.
The crushed fingerling potatoes topped with Calvisius Oscietra caviar was easily the dish of the restaurant and possibly the ship. Once people learned we had dined at Marble & Co., the first question was always the same: did you try the potatoes with the caviar? Comforting and indulgent in equal measure, it was one of those quietly legendary plates everyone seemed to be talking about, and for very good reason.
Sakura
Sakura
Sakura was all about balance and restraint, and it delivered every time. The must-order for us was the Wagyu beef tataki. Beautifully sliced and marbled, rich yet light, and perfectly seasoned, it set the tone for the rest of the meal immediately.
We also loved the sushi: clean, fresh and consistently excellent across the board. Sakura was one of those meals that left us satisfied, but not overly full, and already thinking about when we could return. There is also nothing wrong with sitting under the cherry blossoms dreaming of when you will take a trip to Japan!
Med Yacht Club
Med Yacht Club brought classic Mediterranean flavors to the table in the best way. The Ibérico ham and croquettes were instant favorites. Traditional Spanish comfort food done exactly right, crisp on the outside and rich inside, they were impossible not to love.
Med Yacht Club
The Dover sole was another standout. Simply prepared, delicate and full of flavor, it was traditional Mediterranean cuisine at its best. This restaurant was the only place we ate at twice since walk-ins are welcome, and clearly someone forgot to make reservations for one of our evenings. It was nice to see that there are choices for restaurants on board, and if you do not have a reservations, you can still partake in finer dining.
Anthology: A Must-Try Experience
Nearly all dining onboard EXPLORA II is included, which makes exploring the restaurants feel effortless. The one restaurant not included is Anthology, but it is absolutely worth experiencing at least once during your sailing.
Anthology offers a classic fixed menu with an optional wine pairing. We truly enjoyed the evening and were more than satisfied by the time we left. After the amuse-bouche, six beautifully paced courses followed, along with a few thoughtful surprises throughout that kept the experience feeling special. It was indulgent and left us full, happy and genuinely impressed.
Emporium Marketplace
Emporium Marketplace
The Supporting Cast
Emporium Marketplace deserves recognition for exceeding expectations. Open, airy and thoughtfully laid out, it felt nothing like a traditional buffet. The variety was impressive! The food in the Explora Lounge also delivered. Whether it was a light bite between meals or something quick before heading out for the afternoon, the quality here for the afternoon was a personal favorite.
Dining aboard EXPLORA II never felt repetitive. Each restaurant had its own identity, both in menu and atmosphere, which kept meals exciting throughout the journey. For travelers like us who genuinely build trips around food, that matters. The result was an elevated culinary scene that was not intimidating, creating an exciting food experience for everyone onboard.
