Embarking on a cruise often brings with it a promise of indulgence, relaxation, and a touch of the extraordinary. Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas delivers on all these fronts, especially when it comes to dining. Among the myriad of culinary experiences available, the Izumi Omakase experience stands out as a highlight. This eight-course, chef-curated meal offers an intimate and authentic taste of Japanese cuisine, all while sailing on the high seas. Here’s an in-depth look at this exclusive dining adventure.

Setting the Scene

Located in Central Park, the Izumi Hibachi and Sushi restaurant transforms a part of its space into an Omakase dining area. The ambiance is serene and elegant, providing a perfect backdrop for the culinary delights that await. The Omakase table, designed to seat six, offers a private and cozy setting. Whether you are with a group of friends or joining new acquaintances, the experience promises an evening of gastronomic exploration and camaraderie.

A Warm Welcome

The evening begins with a warm welcome from the host, who guides you through the journey ahead. The introductory touch includes a refreshing Yuzu Shochu welcome drink, made with 100% Yuzu juice and sake, setting the tone for the sophisticated flavors to come. This 8% alcohol beverage is both crisp and citrusy, preparing your palate for the intricate dishes that follow.

Course 1: Miso Lobster Bisque

The first course is a luxurious Miso Lobster Bisque, garnished with caviar and chunks of tender lobster. The bisque is flavorful, though not overly creamy, which might differ from traditional bisques. The lobster, however, is cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, offering a delightful start to the meal. While it might not be the best bisque ever tasted, it certainly holds its own with a solid four out of five stars for its flavor and texture.

Course 2: Sakura Carpaccio

Next up is the Sakura Carpaccio, featuring thin slices of premium fish such as salmon, tuna, scallop, and Hamachi. Each piece is adorned with delicate garnishes, resembling cherry blossoms on the plate. The fish is impeccably fresh, each bite delivering a clean, pure flavor that is both simple and profound. This dish not only excels in taste but also in presentation, earning a full five out of five stars.

Course 3: Chef’s Edo Nigiri

The Edo Nigiri course presents three pieces of nigiri: scallop, bluefin tuna, and salmon. Each piece is brushed with homemade nigiri sauce, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish. The rice is perfectly seasoned with sushi vinegar, providing an ideal base for the nigiri. The standout among the trio is the scallop, which offers a sweet and slightly briny taste that pairs beautifully with the rice. This course is another five-star triumph, showcasing the chef’s skill and the quality of the ingredients.

Course 4: East Coast Oyster

An East Coast Oyster with a spicy ponzu sauce follows. This dish is a one-bite wonder, combining the briny, salty flavor of the oyster with the tangy and spicy notes of the ponzu. The lemon adds a refreshing zest, making this a delightful palate cleanser. While not everyone might be an oyster enthusiast, this dish still manages to impress with its balance of flavors, earning a four out of five stars.

Course 5: Tamari and Nori Creamy Wasabi Tuna

Dubbed as “Japanese nachos” by the host, this dish features creamy Wasabi tuna on a Nori chip. The combination of the crunchy seaweed and the creamy, slightly spicy tuna is a textural delight. The dish is both innovative and delicious, showcasing a playful side of Japanese cuisine. This creative take on traditional flavors is a definite five out of five stars.

Sake Pairings

Throughout the meal, each course is paired with carefully selected sakes. These sakes range from floral and fruity to robust and intense, each enhancing the flavors of the dishes they accompany. One standout is the Muroka sake, known for its rich and complex profile. Sipping these exquisite sakes alongside the meticulously prepared dishes elevates the entire dining experience, adding another layer of authenticity and enjoyment.

Our final thoughts on the Izumi Omakase experience on Utopia of the Seas is it’s more than just a meal; it’s a journey through the rich and diverse world of Japanese cuisine. Each course is thoughtfully curated and beautifully presented, making every bite a new discovery. The intimate setting, combined with the chef’s expertise and the high-quality ingredients, ensures a dining experience that is both memorable and extraordinary. For those seeking a unique and elevated culinary adventure while cruising, the Izumi Omakase experience is an absolute must-try.

Check out our full review as part of our Utopia of the Seas vlog series.