Explora Journeys Review: Which EXPLORA I restaurants are there?

Recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing most restaurants aboard EXPLORA I. The only restaurant I didn’t manage to dine in was ‘Anthology’, an exclusive, chargeable restaurant that offers an extravagant dining experience with wine pairing and both indoor and outdoor seating. I’m sure one day I’ll be back on board to try Anthology… I’ll make sure of it!

Here's a detailed look at the other wonderful dining options I enjoyed.

Emporium Marketplace: A global buffet experience
Emporium Marketplace is open all day and it’s a buffet experience like no other. There are a variety of cuisines from all around the world to choose from, and it’s all prepared to the same high standards as the other speciality restaurants. This was my favourite place for lunch—we were in the Mediterranean in the middle of July eating some lovely salads, made-to-order burgers, perfect pizzas, hot meats, cold meats and much much more! 

Fil Rouge: Bright starts and French fancies
Fil Rouge is probably the restaurant I visited most during my cruise, and it was my preferred location for breakfast. You can order everything here, from simple toast to a full English breakfast! There were fresh fruit platters and beautiful Greek yoghurt–everything is the highest quality! It’s a delightful place to start the day in a calm and relaxed setting. In the evening, Fil rouge transforms into a French-inspired foodie’s paradise! I had some incredible, decadent meals like foie gras and lobster one night, to crab cake starters and veal wellington the next! Of course, in typical French fashion, the desserts were wonderful too.

Med Yacht Club: An elegant Mediterranean affair
The neutral theme continues in Med Yacht Club blue and circular windows to continue the obvious yacht theme. This restaurant is another gem. The central bar area is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks and the setting is just so relaxed but intimate. The cuisine is, again, knockout. They offer the finest Mediterranean cuisine such as tapas plates, fresh fish, pasta, steak and much more. It’s typically open for dinner but occasionally for lunch. My own choices included the octopus, Dover sole, tortellini and an incredible chocolate dessert.

Marble & Co.: The finest steak you can eat
When I say the finest steak you can eat, I mean it. This is a European steakhouse experience with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. The restaurant is decorated with the most amazing wall art and the lighting is expertly designed. Again, there are plenty of tables for two, but well spread out so the larger tables are easily accessible. In fact, it’s not just steak at this steakhouse—fish, pork, chicken, lamb and other meats are available! I tried their signature crushed butterling potatoes served with caviar and no words can describe how amazing it was. It was served with a black angus rib eye steak cooked to perfection. What an absolute treat dining here and wished I could have experienced it more than once—but this restaurant is so popular, so definitely book your dinner reservation in advance. 

Sakura: A pan-Asian encounter
We were very lucky to spend our last evening at Sakura. This restaurant offers the very finest pan-Asian cuisine and a completely different feeling to the other restaurants. There’s a stunning cherry blossom hanging from the ceiling with vibrant red chairs and sofas complemented by black marble tones. The menu is extensive here, there are plenty of tables for two and the sushi is of the very highest standard. I tried the dim sum to start followed by the crispy duck salad and lobster pad Thai. Dessert was a sublime lime pavlova. Again, this is one to book in advance so make sure you don’t miss the wonderful experience of Sakura, also keep an eye on Sakura as sometimes they open for lunch. 

Each dining experience on board was a journey of its own, from the diverse global offerings at Emporium Marketplace to the elegant and serene breakfasts at Fil Rouge, the Mediterranean charm of Med Yacht Club, the steakhouse excellence of Marble & Co, and the Pan-Asian perfection at Sakura.

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, these restaurants promise a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.