The Test Kitchen Experience: Is It Worth Booking?

The Test Kitchen is Virgin Voyages’ premium culinary experience and one of the most unique dining options on board. It is a multi-course tasting menu that pushes the boundaries of cruise ship dining, and the best part? There is no extra charge for the food. Like all Virgin Voyages restaurants, The Test Kitchen is included with your voyage. But is it worth booking?

What to Expect

The Test Kitchen is an interactive dining experience where guests participate in the creation of their meal. You will find molecular gastronomy techniques, unexpected flavor combinations, and theatrical presentations. Each course builds on the last, creating a narrative around food that you simply will not find at other cruise line restaurants.

The Menu Highlights

Without giving too much away, expect courses that play with temperature, texture, and perception. A bread course that arrives as a savory cloud, desserts that look like everyday objects, and palate cleansers that challenge what you think you know about flavor. The experience typically runs about two hours with six to eight courses.

Booking Tips

The Test Kitchen has very limited seating, so book as soon as your sailing window opens. There are typically only two seatings per evening with about 30 guests each. If you miss the initial booking window, check back daily as cancellations do happen. We recommend booking for your second or third night so you can settle into the ship first.

Is It Worth Booking?

For food enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys culinary adventure, absolutely yes. The experience rivals Michelin-starred tasting menus on land, and the fact that it is included in your fare makes it a must-try. For picky eaters or those who prefer straightforward dining, other onboard restaurants like The Wake or Pink Agave may be a better fit. Our recommendation: book it at least once every voyage.