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In Focus: F&B@Sea

Ambassador outlines Ambition’s dining experiences and venues

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Chef’s Table: An intimate, exclusive dinner experience where nine courses are served alongside five paired wines
Ambassador Cruise Line revealed the multiple dining venues appearing on board second ship Ambition and the various gastronomic experiences available. 

Currently in dry dock at Lloyd Werft, Bremerhaven to undergo furnishing and environmental upgrades, the ship will be launched and renamed at a May 11 ceremony at the Port of Tyne, Newcastle. A day later, the maiden voyage begins.

Dining venues to suit every mood

Bob McGowan, head of guest experience, Ambassador Cruise Line, said, ‘On board Ambition, there are dining venues for every mood - from traditional afternoon teas to gala dinners alongside the ship’s captain – providing ample opportunity for guests to be surprised and delighted throughout their journey.’

He explained that the dining concepts and menus have been carefully designed by the executive chef team, ‘with guest experience at the heart.’  

‘Following a strong food and beverage customer satisfaction score of 92% on board Ambience we have ensured that we’ve taken on valuable guest feedback and learnings when conceptualising the offerings on Ambition,’ he stated. 

‘We can’t wait to welcome guests onboard to experience our superb dining offering, and we look forward to hearing their feedback.’ 

Ambassador’s first ship Ambience launched a year ago.  

Buckingham Restaurant & Holyrood Restaurant 

Inspired by authentic and quality dining, the Buckingham & Holyrood Restaurants are intended to provide passengers with buffet and a la carte options providing something for everyone. 

Traditional British cuisine is on the menu, such as Sunday roast, shepherd’s pie, and oven-roasted turkey breast, as well as dishes such as ballotine of Gressingham duck confit, paella Valenciana and wild mushroom velouté with truffle essence.

Breakfast and lunch are typically served on an open seating basis, giving passengers flexibility on when to dine. At dinner, Ambassador operates two sittings, which can be requested during booking.

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Holyrood Restaurant

Lupino’s 

Lupino’s specialty restaurant pays homage to departed Ambassador employee Michelle Lupino. Working with renowned interior designer Guri Blindheim, Lupino’s is a Mediterranean-style restaurant providing dinner in a relaxed, al-fresco environment. Sharing-style platters of Mediterranean salads, mezze and more are offered.

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Lupino’s Restaurant

Saffron

A speciality Indian fine dining restaurant serving dinner, the a la carte Saffron is set in a more intimate setting, offering a personalised service and flavourful Indian foods such as Thali, curries, specialist breads and desserts. A supplement applies to dine. 

Chef’s Table 

Featuring multi-course a la carte dining and the option for wine pairings, Chef’s Table is an intimate, exclusive dinner experience hosted every other night. Serving nine courses of carefully-curated dishes, plus five matched wines, it involves the executive chef talking passengers through the makings and inspiration behind each course in an intimate VIP dining area. A supplement of £89.00 applies to dine with spaces limited, and reservations can only be made on board. 

Borough Market 

Taking inspiration and serving cuisines from all over the world, casual self-serve style eatery Borough Market features buffet stations with flavours from all corners of the globe, allowing passengers to craft their own dining experience. Fresh Italian pastas, Asian stir-fries, colourful salads and more can be selected. Passengers are able to visit Borough Market when it suits with food – breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner – served throughout the day.

Alfresco Grill 

For those wanting a casual meal and alternative from Borough Market, the Alfresco Grill serves burgers, hot dogs, pizzas and chips. 

Beverages 

Extensive beverage menus listing a range of wines, beers, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks will be available at various locations around the ship. Drinks can be ordered at Cavern, the ship’s live music venue, with cabarets, game shows and quizzes. Alternatively, cocktail bar Clifton Lounge is suggested for passengers wanting a pre-dinner drink with classical music. 

Consulate Bar can be found poolside, with additional bars on board consisting of Angel Bar, Purple Turtle Wine Bar and Pendennis Bar. 

Dietary requirements

According to Ambassador, it will cater to a range of dietary requirements and preferences – passengers  are instructed to advise the guest services team ahead of their cruise.