When I embarked on my solo journey aboard the Scarlet Lady, one of the highlights I eagerly anticipated was writing my review of The Test Kitchen. As someone who enjoys both photography and culinary adventures, I was thrilled when the maitre d’ noticed my solo status and camera gear. They graciously offered me a seat at one of the high tops, strategically positioned so I could watch one of the chefs meticulously craft dishes. This thoughtful gesture added a layer of intimacy and connection to the meal, making me feel less like a lone diner and more like an invited guest at a chef’s table.
The Test Kitchen is not your typical dining experience, and that’s part of what makes it so special. The menu, if you can call it that, is minimalist, listing only the main ingredients for each of the six courses. This approach invites a sense of anticipation and wonder, as each dish arrives as a beautifully plated surprise. For someone like me, who enjoys trying new things, this was a delightful adventure. However, I can see how it might be daunting for those who prefer to know exactly what they’re getting.
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Throughout the meal, I took my time savoring each course, and as you’ll see in the video above, I rated each dish based on my personal taste and the overall experience it provided. The courses ranged from innovative to outright surprising, with some combinations that might initially seem unusual but turned out to be harmonious on the palate.
A Surprising Palate Cleanser
One dish, in particular, took me by surprise: the blue cheese dish. Now, I don’t actively seek out blue cheese—it’s not a flavor I usually crave. But as a palate cleanser during this multi-course meal, it absolutely blew me away. The blue cheese was transformed into a semifreddo, a mousse-like delicacy paired with citrus oil, pears, and pecans. It was creamy, rich, and had a delightful balance of flavors that completely shifted my perspective on this often divisive cheese. It’s safe to say that this unexpected delight was one of the highlights of my dining experience at The Test Kitchen.
One aspect of The Test Kitchen that really stands out is how polarizing it can be. During my cruise, I spoke with several fellow sailors about their experiences. It was interesting to note that there was a clear divide—people either loved the experience or didn’t care for it at all. There wasn’t much middle ground. I believe this speaks to the boldness of The Test Kitchen’s concept; it’s a place for culinary exploration, which naturally won’t appeal to everyone. Some of the dishes push boundaries and challenge conventional tastes, which is exactly why I loved it. But I can understand why others might find it a bit too experimental.
There’s Always The Galley
For those who found The Test Kitchen a bit too adventurous or who didn’t leave fully satisfied, I always remind them of the numerous other dining options available on board. Virgin Voyages is known for its diverse and plentiful dining venues, so if you’re still hungry after your experience at The Test Kitchen, you won’t have a hard time finding another meal that suits your taste. Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite at The Galley or indulging in some comforting pizza, there’s something for everyone on board. It’s one of the great things about cruising with Virgin—you can step out of your comfort zone with something new, but you’re never far from a meal that feels like home.
As I prepare for my next cruise on the Valiant Lady this October, I’m already planning to dine at The Test Kitchen again. I’m curious to see how the experience might differ on a different ship and perhaps with a different menu. I’ll be sure to provide another review after that voyage, as I believe this restaurant offers something new and unique each time.
My solo dining experience at The Test Kitchen was not just about the food—it was about the atmosphere, the anticipation, and the opportunity to try something completely outside the norm. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys a culinary challenge, I can’t recommend it enough. However, if you’re a picky eater or prefer more traditional dishes, this might not be the dining experience for you. But that’s the beauty of Virgin Voyages—there’s something for everyone, whether you’re adventurous or not.
Stay tuned for my next review in October, where I’ll dive back into the world of The Test Kitchen on the Valiant Lady. Until then, take a look at my cabin tour on Scarlet Lady below:
