Feasting at Sea: Norwegian Viva Dining Guide

Your guide to every bite—from filet mignon to fresh pizza—plus tips, menus, and favorite meals onboard.

Welcome to my Norwegian Viva dining guide, where I’m sharing everything you need to know about eating onboard—from steakhouse splurges to late-night snacks. If you’ve ever cruised before, you know food is a big part of the experience—and on the Norwegian Viva, it’s a highlight all its own. During our 7-day Southern Caribbean cruise, we tried as many places as possible, and this post breaks down what’s included, what’s worth booking, and our group’s favorite bites.

Specialty Restaurants on Board: A Norwegian Viva Dining Guide Favorite

If you want to upgrade your dining experience, this Norwegian Viva dining guide walks you through all the specialty restaurants worth trying. These venues come at an extra charge unless you’re using a dining package—and they fill up fast, so reservations are a must.

Cagney’s Steakhouse

Classic American steakhouse vibes with a cozy, club-like feel. I ordered the filet mignon cooked perfectly medium-rare, paired with truffled mashed potatoes and a glass of red wine. It was one of the standout meals of the trip.

Onda by Scarpetta

Modern Italian with standout pastas, creamy polenta, and a surprise favorite: the pizza. Wood-fired with a crisp crust and bold flavors, it held its own alongside the handmade pasta and burrata.

Los Lobos

A lively Mexican restaurant where the Carne Asada and Enchiladas de Mole stole the show. Add in tableside guacamole and a spicy margarita and you’ve got yourself a party.

Le Bistro

French cuisine in an upscale, intimate setting. The Duck à l’Orange was a rich, perfectly cooked dish, and the presentation across the board was elegant and thoughtful.

Nama Sushi & Sashimi

Fresh, beautifully plated sushi and sashimi. Perfect for a lighter meal or for sushi lovers looking for a high-quality option at sea.

Hasuki

Teppanyaki-style dining with chefs who cook at your table—flair, fun, and flying shrimp included. The food was great, but the show made it extra special.

Food Republic

A fusion-style spot offering small plates from around the world—dumplings, bao buns, sushi, and skewers, all ordered via tablet. Casual, flavorful, and fun for sharing.

Palomar

Norwegian’s Mediterranean seafood venue. Think grilled octopus, lemony pastas, and fresh fish in a serene, coastal-inspired setting.

Included Restaurants: Your Guide to Free Dining on the Norwegian Viva

The Viva’s complimentary dining options were genuinely impressive—varied, high-quality, and available at all hours of the day.

Hudson’s & The Commodore Room

These two main dining rooms share the same rotating menu, offering nightly specials alongside always-available classics. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served here. Hudson’s boasts sweeping ocean views, while The Commodore Room is slightly more intimate. Dishes like prime rib, seafood pasta, and chocolate lava cake were group favorites.

The Local Bar & Grill

Open 24/7 and perfect for breakfast or casual comfort food. The English breakfast here became a morning ritual—think eggs, sausage, toast, hashbrowns, and baked beans. We also loved the wings, burgers, and brownie sundaes for late-night cravings.

Indulge Food Hall

A food court-style venue with global small plates—salads, noodles, kebabs, pastas, and more—ordered via tablet and brought right to your table. It’s fast, flavorful, and feels like a specialty dining experience (but it’s included!).

Surfside Café & Grill (Buffet)

The buffet delivered all the staples—omelets, fresh fruit, carving stations, themed nights, and dessert spreads. Pro tip: go during off-peak times to skip the crowds and snag a window seat.

Room Service

Available 24/7 with a small fee (except for continental breakfast). Great for balcony mornings or post-midnight snacks.

Best Bites of the Week

A few standouts from our group of 20:

• Filet Mignon at Cagney’s
• Pizza at Onda
• Carne Asada at Los Lobos
• Duck à l’Orange at Le Bistro
• Singapore Street Noodles at Indulge Food Hall
• Chicken Piccata dinner and Eggs Benedict at Hudson’s
• English Breakfast at The Local

Dining Tips for Your Viva Voyage

• Book specialty dining early—especially for peak hours.
• The dining package is worth it if you plan to try multiple specialty restaurants.
• Indulge is a hidden gem—don’t miss it!
• The Local and Hudson’s serve breakfast—great alternatives to the buffet.
• Dress codes are relaxed, but a polished look is nice for Le Bistro or Palomar.
• Penrose and Observation Lounge are perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
• Menus rotate in Hudson’s and The Commodore Room, but staples remain.

One Last Toast to the Viva

This Norwegian Viva dining guide proves that the ship delivers on every level—but food was one of the most memorable parts of our cruise. With so many flavors, styles, and venues to explore, every meal felt like part of the adventure. If you’re planning a cruise on the Viva, come hungry—and bring stretchy pants.

Want to see the full cruise experience?
Read our full Norwegian Viva Southern Caribbean recap
Grab my Cruise Packing List