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Rudi Sodamin’s artful seafood spot set for Carnival’s Mardi Gras

Rudi Sodamin and Team.jpg
Rudi Sodamin (third left) discussing his menu for Rudi's Seafood with team chefs
A new seafood restaurant designed by culinary artist Rudi Sodamin will be among the varied dining options aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras when it debuts next summer.

Instagram-worthy

Sodamin’s reputation for curating innovative dining experiences will lend itself to Rudi’s Seagrill to offer dishes as artistic as they are flavorful. In addition to an extensive selection of seafood entrees and sides, there will be several dishes presented as playful ‘food faces’ that double as Instagram-worthy pieces of art. 

‘We wanted to offer our guests a new and exciting dinner-time option that is as sophisticated as our steak houses but takes our tradition of fun to the next level,’ said Cyrus Marfatia, VP culinary and dining for Carnival. ‘Rudi’s Seagrill will feature next-level seafood delicacies and showcase Rudi’s innovative artistry and “plates with personalities” where guests can feast their eyes on a new personable presentation every time they dine.’

Fun and engaging

Sodamin added: ‘I believe the quality of a restaurant starts on the plate, so with Rudi’s Seagrill, I want guests to enjoy the food and feel connected to their meals in a fun and engaging way.’

The menu will feature a selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts presented as food faces including big eye tuna, grilled branzino, seared scallops and apple cheese cake.

Diners can also choose from a full menu including crab cake, salt-roasted prawns, broiled lobster tail and chocolate truffle cake. There will be plenty of non-seafood alternatives, as well.

Holland America Line master chef

Sodamin serves as Holland America Line’s master chef, is a member of a number of prestigious culinary organizations including the Club des Chefs des Chefs and has authored a dozen cookbooks including ‘Food Faces’ which features 150 images of his edible creations. The book and other merchandise will be sold on board Mardi Gras.

Situated on Deck 8 between La Piazza and Summer Landing, Rudi’s Seagrill will offer an 80-seat indoor dining room with warm lighting and stylish design elements as well as an alfresco area on The Lanai. The restaurant will offer a fun and immersive atmosphere with Sodamin’s food face-themed artwork front and center and highlights including fish-shaped ‘Gurgle Pots’ that make comical gurgling sounds when poured.

The venue will carry a reservations fee in line with Carnival’s other full-service specialty restaurants.