After being welcomed aboard Viking Orion with a glass of bubbles, Michael and I headed straight to make a reservation at Manfredi’s so we could try for ourselves their famous ribeye steak.
Manfredi’s Italian restaurant is one of only two restaurants on Viking’s ocean cruise ships which require a reservation. The other is the Chef’s Table which offers a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings inspired by the lands through which you are travelling. At all other venues, you can simply turn up and be seated either on your own or with friends.
Although we had heard rave reviews about Manfredi’s, it still managed to exceed our expectations. The steak (served simply with grilled lemon) was one of the best we’ve had, the prawn risotto was cooked perfectly and their pasta is all made fresh. As soon as we were seated, we were served a little bowl of parmesan cheese chiselled fresh from a large wheel along with a selection of bread served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
We managed to try all ten dining venues and we weren’t once disappointed by the cuisine or impeccable, friendly service. I should mention at this time that you will not pay a cent for any onboard venues including 24-hour room service. Beer and wine during lunch and dinner are also complimentary – however, we upgraded to the Silver Spirits package.
We began most days with a breakfast of fresh berries with mascarpone followed by a plate of smoked Norwegian salmon in the main dining room. At other times we would just duck to the bar in the atrium for a quick coffee and a fresh pastry before heading ashore.
If we were feeling peckish after our morning shore excursion, we would indulge in a traditional afternoon tea of delicate sandwiches, sweets and scones served in the serene Wintergarden under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood with live entertainment.
One of the highlights was the delicious brunch served on the pool deck whilst anchored amongst the islands in Ha Long Bay. The crew amazed us with a feast of king prawns, crayfish, king crab claws, Norwegian salmon and so much more.
I recommend allowing the chefs at the Pool Grill to whip you up one of their gourmet burgers served with fries and coleslaw – I guarantee you’ll be back! The waffles in Mamsen’s is also a must and the suksessterte cake was my favourite!
I could talk for days about my Viking cruise! If you would like to learn more, we invite you to join us and Alister Burn from Viking Cruises in November. Phone 66521833 for details about this exclusive event.
