Cruise review: Restaurants, bars, and lounges on Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima class ships have some new ideas about dining, and it really sets them apart.

Norwegian Cruise Lines Prima Class ships (Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Aqua) are designed to be an elegant resort holiday. We boarded the inaugural sailing of Prima and then spent seven nights on board Viva to unravel the difference the Prima Class restaurants and bars bring the cruising traveller.

To read our overall impressions, take a look at our Norwegian Prima review and Norwegian Viva review, and read on for a full breakdown of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva‘s complimentary and specialty dining.

Norwegian Prima complimentary dining

The Local Bar and Grill

They nailed the brief – it is a typical unfussy neighbourhood-style bar and eatery. The Local and the Indulge Food Hall were our favourites of the complimentary eateries. The classic American menu is perfect for lunch or an easy dinner (think burgers, dogs, cobb salad). The Reubens are the best at sea bar none.

The Local Bar & Grill, Norwegian Prima — Enjoy frozen cocktails at *Norwegian Prima*‘s The Local Bar & Grill.

Indulge Food Hall – Deck 8

The Indulge Food Hall is unusual. A bit like a Singaporean Hawker stand but eleven different cuisines from around the world with something like 77 different options. The food trucks and stalls serve up a multitude of dishes: Indian tikka from the tandoor at Tamara, pad thai or pasta from Nudls, pulled pork burgers from the Q Texas BBQ, nachos from the Latin Quarter (housed in a mini airstream food truck) and charcuterie from the Tapas food truck.

Ordering is simple. Select your items on an iPad at a table, and in about two minutes it will be delivered to your table. You don’t need to move or order through an attendant. Make a note to explore the Soleil bar at the rear of the food hall as it is the pick of the alfresco bars in our opinion.

Latin Quarter, Norwegian Prima Food Hall — Nachos, guacamole or Tostados from the Latin Quarter food truck at the Indulge Food Hall.

Hudson’s – Deck 7

An incredible space with banquettes for intimate tête-à-têtes or round tables for larger travelling parties. Classic dining rooms have a seven-day ever-changing menu. On board Norwegian Prima and Viva, the menu is the same every day – however, there are enough choices that you would be hard-pressed to get through the entire menu on a seven-day voyage. Think classic starters like Coconut shrimp and mini crab cakes (our recommendation), a design your own pasta or “entrees" (remember these are mains in the US) of steaks, beef wellington, shrimp creole or rotisserie chicken.

The Hudson decor and 360-degree views are fresh with bright white and aqua furnishing. The complimentary restaurant is a great place for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Hudson's dining area, Norwegian Prima — Admire 270-degree views from floor to ceiling while indulging in specialty dishes at Hudson’s.

Surfside Cafe & Grill

The buffet, by any other name – there are no surprises here. Located where all buffets are found, on the top deck near the main pool, we couldn’t justify eating here when there was the Indulge Food Hall. It is also a little small for this size ship.

Surfside Café & Grill, Norwegian Prima — Surfside Cafe Grill serves a complimentary buffet.

The Commodore Room – Deck 6

We did not have the opportunity to sample the Commodore room on our visit. It is a less upmarket main dining room option to Hudson.

dining at The Commodore Room, Norwegian Prima — Elegant dining set-up at The Commodore Room.

Norwegian Prima specialty dining

Across two sailings, one on Norwegian Prima and one on Norwegian Viva we have yet to try all of them (some twice). We have listed the specialty dining on board Prima Class ships in order of our personal preference.

1. Los Lobos – Deck 8

This is a lively space for a Tex Mes feast. The guac made at the table is always a winner and we love great fajitas, all washed down with a few classic margs. We are coming back to try the Cochinita Pibil (slow braised pork in bitter orange served on shredded banana leaf) next time.

Los Lobos, Norwegian Prima — Los Lobos serves traditional Mexican food with a twist.

2. Le Bistro – Deck 7

Snail, tartare, crab roulette, goat’s cheese croquettes, coq au vin and de boeuf… there is nothing that is not classic French on the menu. The steak tartare on board Prima and Viva was executed brilliantly both times. On board Prima the fruits de mer was similarly excellent. On board Viva the Carré D’Agneau Rôti Et Souris D’Agneau Aux Saveurs Marocaines Viva (lamb chops and shank meat in Moroccan spices) was a classic French heavy main.

The accompanying wine list was a good mix of American, European and South American whites with a more extensive list of quality reds.

Le Bistro, Norwegian Prima — Le Bistro is a must if you’re planning a romantic dinner.

3. Cagney’s Steakhouse – Deck 6

The Norwegian Cruise Line signature steakhouse available on all ships in the fleet does exactly what it says on the tin, classic all-American steak house. Start with a lobster bisque, wedge salad or jumbo shrimp. Choose from the classic steak options; rib eye, filet mignon, petite fillet mignon and New York strip. Two lovely touches at Cagney’s. Once you have ordered meat of choice, the waiter appears and offers you a selection of steak knives to use.

The wine list comes on an iPad with full a description, tasting notes and the ability to compare several wines and even have them emailed to you for further exploration at home.

dining setup at Cagney's Steakhouse, Norwegian Prima — Satisfy your steak cravings at Cagney’s Steakhouse.

4. Onda by Scarpetta – Deck 8

The speciality fine dining restaurant’s menu is mostly Italian classics – think burrata, carpaccio, crudo, pizza and every kind of pasta. But the protein-heavy secondi are not particularly Italian, except perhaps the veal Milanese.

Onboard Norwegian Prima we could have had several helpings of the tagliatelle with lobster, tomato, spring onions and spicy bread crumbs but were disappointed to be off the menu on Norwegian Viva. The scialatielli with shrimp, clams, mussels and calamari in white wine garlic sauce was a great alternative option.

indoor seating, Onda by Scarpetta at Norwegian Prima — Dine modern Italian dishes at Onda by Scarpetta.

5. Nama Sushi and Sashimi – Deck 7

Yes, the sushi and sashimi are as you would expect. But Nama also offers hot and cold fusion Japanese dishes like tuna pizza (tuna on a tortilla), tempura and karaage. Sushi rolls US$7-$16, sashimi US$11-$12

Nama Sushi and Sashimi, Norwegian Prima — *Norwegian Prima*‘s contemporary sushi house. (Image: Steve Millay)

6. Palomar

A seafood-focused Mediterranean restaurant, Palomar was creating a buzz with other cruises – claiming to be the best dining option on board. Starters from US$8-$19 and mains from US$32-$45

Palomar, Norwegian Prima — Dine seafood dishes at Palomar for an epic evening.

7. Food Republic

Food Republic is relaxed global street food in one spot. The eclectic dining option include sushi, schnitzel, nachos, dumplings, pad thai and Peruvian beef skewers.  A la Carte, but as a guide, pad thai is US$19.

Food Republic, Norwegian Prima — *Norwegian Prima’s* Food Republic is designed with a minimalistic dining interior.

8. Hasuki – Deck 7

Japanese teppanyaki in a beautiful setting.  $US49 pp.

Hasuki, Norwegian Prima — Hasuki serves athentic Japanese cuisine.

Norwegian Prima bars

There are a number of fantastic bars and lounges on Norwegian Prima. We have listed them in order of our favourites.

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1. The Local – Deck 8

The Local, Norwegian Prima — Cool and chic interior at The Local.

As stated earlier, this is our pick for a relaxed post-shore trip drink and nibble or for watching your favourite sporting matches. Classic bar eats like wings and burgers are on offer.

2. Syd Norman’s Pour House – Deck 7

This is a great performance space for contemporary music and where the Rumours show is held. If you recognise Go Your Own Way and Never Going Back Again then make a point of seeing the show. But it is popular so my advice is to line up 40 minutes before showtime.

3. Improv at Sea – Deck 7

As the name suggests the comedy performance space also doubles as a nightclub and party bar. Keep an eye on the daily schedule and you will find a party to relive your youth.

4. Soleil Bar – Deck 8

As the name suggests, Soleil is the sun in Spanish. This is the bar for sunset drinks. Find it tucked behind the Indulge Food Hall. Take a seat in the alfresco seating or lounges and enjoy the wake view as the sunsets with your favourite drink.

5. Observation Lounge – Deck 17

The library-like lounge at the stern of Deck 17 this is a retreat into quiet time. During the day there is coffee and snacks to be had while relaxing with a book on the comfy lounges.

Towards the evening the bar opens up and is again a quiet space for a drink and nibble without the buzz of the rest of the public spaces.

6. The Metropolitan – Deck 7

The Metropolitan is a sustainable bar where Norwegian has made an effort to reuse and repurpose organic waste into the basis of cocktails. Take for example the Primadonna cocktail which takes banana skins and combines them with sugar and cinnamon to create a banana syrup which is then combined with walnut bitters and Fleur de Cana Eco Rum. Other such innovations include the Watermelon twist which turns watermelon skin into a syrup, and the Croissant Mai Tai which transforms stale almond croissants into an orgeat.

The Metropolitan bar, Norwegian Prima — The Metropolitan is *Norwegian Prima*‘s first-ever sustainably-focused bar.

7. Belvedere Bar – Deck 6

Probably the most intimate and moody bar, this is the place for a pre or post-dinner drink without the crowds or noise.

8. Prima Speedway Bar – Deck 18

Tucked under the go-kart track with great views of the wake, the bar is one of the least visited and can be a great quiet place when the ship is busy.

9. Penrose Bar – Deck 6

Tucked into the bottom deck of the atrium the Penrose Bar is very Vegas with pokies imbedded in the bar.

10. Whiskey Bar – Deck 7

The Whiskey Bar offers great after-dinner nightcap whiskey if the Belvedere Bar is a little busy or too moody. During the day the Whiskey Bar is a great place to have your coffee from Starbucks below.

11. Vibe Beach Club – Deck 17

Finally, there is the adults-only Vibe Beach Club bar which forms part of the exclusive Vibe Beach Club and commands a US$249 for a week’s access. As the name suggests, it has a beach club vibe with alfresco lounges and banquettes.

Vibe Beach Club, Norwegian Prima — Two plunge pools, a bar and plenty of sun loungers at the Vibe Beach Club.

From sophisticated new sleeper trains and opulent hotel openings to the exploration of new frontiers, we’re now finding ourselves in our own gilded era of travel. These 21st-century travel experiences are leading the way.

If we were to turn back the clock 100 years, there was a real romance to travel – the dawning of a glamour-filled jet age, refined rail sojourns and first-class cruising where the voyage itself trounced the destination.

We’re feeling a similar excitement in the air about travel in 2026. Think state-of-the-art cruise liners allowing access to destinations formerly off-limits, resort launches where avant-garde architecture takes centre stage, and a return to the days of luxury locomotives. This reoccurrence of the advances, adventure and elegance of a bygone era has not only come full circle; it’s now superior.

How? Travel has become more mindful, intentional and accessible. This includes environmental initiatives by operators determined to leave less impact on the planet and a shift towards a deeper cultural exchange with the local communities we visit. Whether it’s exploring previously hard-to-reach cities such as Uzbekistan’s Khiva, staying with a family to experience village life in Nepal or discovering new frontiers in Antarctica, our round-up of ‘new golden age’ travel experiences is a snapshot of how we are travelling today, as well as into promising new horizons.

Exploring the emerging city of Khiva

The walled inner city of Khiva, Uzbekistan. (Credit: Getty/Mlenny Khiva)

Uzbekistan’s Silk Road city of Khiva used to be off the radar for many travellers, but 2026 has changed all that. You can thank a new bullet train service connecting Khiva to Bukhara and Samarkand, slashing the trip from the capital of Tashkent from 15 hours to under eight. Add renovations to Urgench International Airport, and interest in this fascinating city is rapidly on the rise.

Quick to react has been Golden Eagle Luxury Trains and The Samarkand Express which have added Khiva to their 2026 rail itineraries, while Cox & Kings has included the Central Asian city to its multi-country 2027 ‘Stans’ itinerary.

Check out Khiva’s preserved inner-walled fortress, the first UNESCO site in Uzbekistan, explore ancient minarets and ornate mausoleums, and try traditional fare at Terrassa Cafe & Restaurant. Looking for fancy digs? The Mercure Khiva is due to swing open its doors later in 2026.

Riding the rails on the Eastern & Oriental Express

inside the Eastern & Oriental Express — Onboard the train, rich fabrics are complemented by elm, cherrywood and teak marquetry. (Credit: Ludovic Balay)

Recapture the romance of rail travel through the tropics of Southeast Asia on the refurbished Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia.

The resurgence of train travel reflects how we are travelling today – slower and with a new appreciation for both scenery and cultural exchange. Include a large dollop of old-world glamour, and the three-night Wild Malaysia tour truly delivers. Winding its way deep into the Malay jungle, the journey makes plenty of pit stops for exploration along the way.

Having been resurrected from a 1970s sleeper, the luxury locomotive now comes replete with plush interiors of hand-cut marquetry dressed in oriental silks and embroidery – there’s even a Dior Spa. Watch the world go by from the Observation Car, indulge in fine wining and dining, kick up your heels in the Piano Bar, then snooze it all off in your sumptuous sleeper car.

Embracing Mother Nature in Peru

Travelling to Peru is like stepping into a kaleidoscope of contrasting cultures and landscapes. Whether you’re learning about shamanic natural remedies in the pre-Inca Colca Valley, cruising the wilds of the Amazon on a luxury river ship or discovering firsthand why the contemporary capital of Lima is celebrated for its culinary and artistic scenes, there are myriad reasons why this colourful country is topping wish lists.

One such experience is the Ultimate Peru by River and Rail journey (five days) by Abercrombie & Kent, available in 2026. This incredible river cruise allows you to truly connect with the jungle rhythms of the Amazon via skiff and on foot with in-the-know local guides, and includes nights onboard newly launched luxury riverboat Pure Amazon, an A&K Sanctuary.

Spot exotic creatures such as sloths, macaws, piranhas, and pink dolphins on the daily excursions, before juxtaposing these wild encounters with a return to pure pampering on the boat.

Seeking sustainable community experiences in Nepal

tharu woman — Tharu woman and master weaver Parbati Chaudhary in Bhada Village. (Credit: Bheem Thapa)

While Nepal has traditionally attracted visitors to traverse its majestic mountains – Everest and Annapurna in particular – travel experiences in this beautiful Himalayan nation are expanding.

Home stays, where you reside with Nepali families and take an active part in their daily lives, are a growing attraction. It’s a win:win for local youths – who took their country back after bloody protests in 2025 – wanting to stay in Nepal rather than moving abroad for work, as well as foreigners seeking a deeper cultural experience. Nepali women, Indigenous people and marginalised castes are also benefitting from home stays, upping the feel-good factor even further.

Leading the charge is Community Home Stay Network, which links travellers to local-family hosts. Travel off-the-beaten path to homes in areas including Tharu in the south, learn how to cook Nepali style, and take part in traditions such as making moonshine, dancing and weaving straw handicrafts.

Exploring new frontiers in Antarctica

an ice window at Wilhelmina Bay — A breathtaking ice window captured at Wilhelmina Bay on the Antarctic Peninsula. (Credit: Renato Granieri)

Gone are the days when a trip to Antarctica meant a perilous voyage through the Drake Passage on a vessel holding the mere essentials. Innovative cruise ships now offer a smooth and sophisticated passage to the White Continent, as well as experiences formerly off-limits.

Abercrombie & Kent’s 19-day Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands: Holiday Voyage captures it all. Spot breaching whales and gracefully gliding albatrosses from the deck, before stepping onto this Narnia-like landscape with daily Zodiac excursions. Observe adorable penguin and fur seal colonies, visit Antarctic communities that were previously too remote, and get so close to colossal icebergs that you’ll feel humbled by their scale.

Silversea‘s Antarctica Fly Cruise voyages will soon include a stay at The Cormorant at 55 South, the southernmost hotel on Earth purpose-built to bring uncompromised comfort to guests travelling to Antarctica.

When it comes to protecting this fragile eco-system, the future is also looking bright: HX Expeditions has partnered with the University of Tasmania to create a world-first educational course allowing cruise guests to dive into Antarctic science and sustainability, while A&K pours funds into conservation efforts and uses energy-efficient hybrid ships – all in trademark luxury, of course.

Indulging in New Zealand’s exceptional dining

Ayrburn, Queenstown — The Ayrburn precinct serves up delicate dishes.

By welcoming the Michelin Guide to sample Aotearoa/New Zealand’s finest gastronomy for the first time, our cousins across the ditch have now become serious players on the world culinary scene.

And there’s never been a better time to experience NZ’s greatest gastronomy with the inaugural guide currently going to press. Sample haute cuisine in Queenstown with a side serving of theatrics by culinary director Paul Froggatt at Essence in the new ROKI Collection hotel, and pull up a chair at Amisfield for its delicious degustation experience under new chef Sung Peng, with the world-renowned restaurant slated to reopen in July.

And it’s not just Queenstown holding all the culinary cards. The Michelin inspectors travelled to rate the best epicurean artistry in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, Te Whanganui a Tara/Wellington and Ōtautahi/Christchurch against the world’s most renowned restaurateurs (bring loose pants).

Bedding down at design-led hotels and farm stays

a woodfired sauna at Azuma Farm Koiwai — A woodfired sauna deepens the meditative state at Azuma Farm Koiwai. (Credit: Azuma Farm Koiwai)

New grand dames on the global hotel stage are receiving a standing ovation for their triumphant 2026 openings.

Return to old-world elegance at the Orient Express Venezia, a reimagined former 15^th-century royal residence set in Venice’s Palazzo Dona Giovannellii. It certainly makes for a regal stay, with grand Neo-Gothic windows and restored Baroque splendour blending seamlessly with modern luxury flourishes. Also bringing the fantasy factor is France’s Zannier Île de Bendor on a petite private island off the Provençal coast. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea – and with three luxe, design-led accommodation concepts to choose from – this resort exudes golden-era glamour.

In a breath of fresh air, we’ve also seen an uptick in farm stays. Trade the urban rush for a rambling rural retreat at Sibbjäns, Sweden’s first boutique farm stay, or opt for horseback riding followed by woodfired saunas on the sprawling eight-hectare Azuma Farm Koiwai in Japan.

Cruising the Danube on a festive Eastern Euro adventure

The magical Pécs Christmas Market in Hungary. (Credit: Emily Murphy)

Dreaming of a white Christmas? While floating past snow-dusted, fairytale cities on a river ship in Eastern Europe makes for an amazing voyage, when you add the magic of Christmas the whole experience becomes, well, more magical.

From twinkling trees and tinsel to red-nosed reindeer and wreath decorations, the festivities greet you the moment you step aboard AmaMagna by AmaWaterways. The ship then spirits you away along the Lower Danube for a seven-night Gems of Southeast Europe adventure from Romania to Hungary.

Explore Bulgaria’s medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo, glide into the dramatic Iron Gates crossing into Serbia; and sip on fine wines at Croatia’s Kast Winery (one variety made famous by Queen Elizabeth II). The highlight? For many it’s wandering the shimmering Christmas markets in Hungary’s Pécs. Peruse stalls selling unique handicrafts, try the traditional treat of kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and warm your cockles with a cup of mulled wine.

Delving into the buzzing city of Beijing

Lama Temple, Beijing — Calm and chaos at Lama Temple in Beijing. (Credit: Natasha Bazika)

Walking the line between its imperial past and a frenetic, futuristic present – Beijing is an exciting city to dive into.

If you want to be centrally located, the palatial Peninsula Beijing is hard to beat. From here, strap in at street level for a stroll among the city’s famed hutongs (ancient alleyways), pausing to taste traditional delicacies such as jianbing (savoury breakfast crepe) and dumpling soup. Then scope out the narrow lanes dotted with siheyuan courtyard homes (there are only 1000 left), and if you love to shop, head to Taikoo Li Sanlitun for a mix of luxury brands and local labels.

And it wouldn’t be a well-rounded trip to this history-rich city without experiencing its highlights reel. Admire golden-topped architecture in the Forbidden City, take a hike on the Great Wall of China and pay a visit to Tiananmen Square for both remembrance and observation on how it operates today.

Embarking on a round-the-world cruise

Can’t decide where to go on a cruise? On a round-the-world voyage you can live out all your dreams at sea.

It’s not a new idea – the first world cruise occurred more than a century ago on Cunard’s RMS Laconia in 1922 – but a reimagining. If you don’t have a spare year up your sleeve, you can now join for specific legs of the journey (unlike the 1922 trip), and ships have been modernised with sustainability measures, contemporary designs and a less formal feel.

Queen Anne, also by Cunard, cruised the world in 2026 with guests joining at handpicked ports, including in Central America for the extraordinary experience of crossing the Panama Canal. If you want the full adventure by circumnavigating the globe, Queen Anne will set sail on another world voyage in 2028.

Discovering the joys of small-group travel in Spain

Intrepid Travel's olive oil and wine tasting at Molino El Vínculo, Grazalema — Sample organic wine and olive oil on a tasting tour in Molino El Vínculo in Grazalema with Intrepid Travel. (Credit: Intrepid Travel/Tim Luck)

Small-group touring is a travel trend currently soaring, with many embracing it as an authentic, intimate and insightful way to visit a country – with VIP benefits to boot.

The small-group format, typically capped at five to 15 guests, is now accounting for around 62 per cent of group travel worldwide. And operators such as Intrepid Travel, APT Luxury Travel and Janesco Travel are among the frontrunners in this space, handling all navigation and insider experiences within an intimate group led by expert guides.

Seeking a Spanish sojourn? Small-group journeys to the vibrant southern Andalusia region are now topping bucket lists. Be mesmerised by flamenco dancers from a professional dance school (rather than touristy versions), learn how to make authentic sangria with a private class, skip queues at the Real Alcázar of Seville royal palace, and score a seat at the best Andalusian restaurants, sans waitlist.

Learning from the past in Japan

inside the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum — The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum presents a sobering dive into the nuclear event. (Credit: Eleanor Edström)

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience a war-time atomic bomb, hopefully the closest any of us will ever get is a visit to Nagasaki.

While on a cruise excursion to the Japanese city aboard the Diamond Princess, you can visit the fascinating hypocentre of the Second World War bomb dropped to widespread annihilation in 1945. While there is no doubt this is heavy material to digest on a tour, it comes with a message of hope – that the horror of a nuclear war should never happen again.

There is also much more to this 11-day Japan Explorer Cherry Blossoms with Princess Cruises voyage. Witness the world’s most active volcano in Kagoshima, join a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto and marvel at Mt Fuji in Shimizu. Also don’t miss the onsen experiences onboard the ship or its many mouth-watering local culinary offerings. Next departure is March 2027.

Supporting a typhoon-ravaged community in Vietnam

Zannier Bai San Ho — Time to kick back at Zannier Bãi San Hô. (Credit: Amber Hunter)

When typhoon Typhoon Kalmaegi ripped through Vietnam’s south-central coast in November 2025, it left a devastating trail of destruction.

And Zannier Bãi San Hô, an expansive 98-hectare beachfront resort, took a direct hit. An incredible five-month clean-up and restoration has now seen the Green Globe-certified retreat reopen, thanks in large part to the local community who rallied to help rebuild it. The support goes both ways; the 180-strong resort staff is made up of 177 locals – their livelihoods dependent on it.

You can help by simply booking a stay here. It’s hardly a punish, when you consider the beauty and luxury of this place; picture private pool villas and powder-white beaches. Take to the sapphire waters for water sports, visit local fishing villages and sweat it out at the onsite fitness centre. Or, if relaxing’s more your jam, simply loll by the pool with a good book.