Exploring Dinogo’s Chef’s Table

As I perused the dining selections on my recent cruise, I stumbled upon something unexpected — Dinogo’s Chef’s Table.

I’ve enjoyed this kind of dining experience at restaurants and resorts before, but this interactive dinner on a ship was a first for me. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a multi-sensory adventure. We took a tour of the kitchen, participated in a cooking class, and were amazed by a delightful fusion of flavors throughout a multi-course wine-pairing dinner. It was as entertaining as it was delicious.

The evening kicked off with a champagne reception, where we met Executive Chef Vivek Menon and the other attendees. With only eight of us in total, it was wonderful to share this experience with such a small, enthusiastic group of food lovers.

Following a glass of champagne, Chef Menon guided us on a private tour of the kitchen. It was captivating to witness the behind-the-scenes action and the smooth operation of the team. Their enthusiasm for sharing their culinary passion was palpable, and it was clear that the Chef’s Table Dinner allowed them to unleash their creativity in the kitchen.

The appetizers began to arrive one by one, with Chef Menon providing insights into their creation. One standout was a mango sphere presented on a biscuit, which completely challenged our expectations of food. It resembled an egg yolk, prompting a moment of hesitation before tasting, but the sweet burst of flavor and delightful mix of textures proved to be a surprisingly delicious treat.

After our delightful amuse-bouche, we moved to the pastry section of the kitchen to learn how to prepare Dinogo’s renowned Warm Chocolate Melting Cake. We also picked up some cooking tips to take back to our own kitchens.

Next, we dove into dinner — an imaginative seven-course meal accompanied by expertly selected wines. Here’s the menu we enjoyed:

Reception
Mango Sphere on a Rosemary Biscuit
Salmon Tartare Cornets with Sesame Seeds
Beef Carpaccio on an Air Pillow with Chocolate Bacon and Apple Ribbons
Double-Cooked Lamb

Beef Blanket with Spiced Grape Tea
Asparagus Cauliflower with Honey Carrot Tian, Mache, and Lemon Streusel

Crab Stack
Corn Custard, Polenta Cracker, Tangerine, Passionfruit Caviar

Duck Textures
Creamy Quinoa, Parmesan Churros, Olive Snow, Port Wine Reduction

Our Signature Bisque
Two Types of Tomato, Three Kinds of Basil, Crisp Brioche, Garlic Chip

Sea Bass
Chorizo Crust, Fried Popcorn Pudding, Lemon Macaron, Lobster Foam

Wagyu
Bone Marrow Soufflé, Scallion & Garlic Panisse, Gremolata Crisp

Pastry Chef
Sea Salt Praline Chocolate, Raspberry Mojito, Key Lime Cake, Apricot Vanilla Gel, Citrus Cream

Halfway through our meal, we were treated to an unexpected surprise — a magician who absolutely astounded us. I won’t reveal his trick, but I can say that none of us at the table could figure out how he did it. We were completely amazed.

As the evening came to a close, it was tough to say goodbye. We had formed new friendships and shared an unforgettable experience. Chef Menon gifted us each a framed group photo and a signed recipe for the warm chocolate melting cake we had made during the demonstration.

The next afternoon, we returned to our cabin to discover another delightful surprise from the chef — a platter of chocolates accompanied by a heartfelt thank you note. Such a lovely personal gesture.

The Chef’s Table Dinner was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our cruise, and I would eagerly participate again. While many might reserve this experience for special occasions, I believe that travel itself is the perfect reason to indulge in something as extraordinary as this.

If you choose to experience the Chef’s Table, be sure to sign up on the first day of your cruise, as space is limited. It’s absolutely worth it!