Excellence on Board: Umi Uma by Crystal Cruises
We first experienced this restaurant on board the Crystal Symphony during its inaugural cruise, being impressed and enthralled long before many recognized the quality and innovation it offered.
Recently, during the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami, Umi Uma was recognized as the Best Restaurant by the awards presented at F&B@Sea. This acknowledgment is undoubtedly well-deserved by Crystal Cruises for the dedication they’ve poured into this restaurant, which stands as the flagship of the fleet’s revamped ships and their intriguing culinary offerings. In the vast landscape of luxury cruises, excellence manifests in increasingly refined and innovative forms. In this scenario, Crystal Cruises has stood out for its consistent pursuit of perfection and the introduction of new standards in the cruising industry.
Umi Uma Restaurant
Umi Uma Restaurant
The recently revamped fleet has based its philosophy on reinvigorating hospitality, elegant furnishings, and attentive, impeccable service. Both the Crystal Symphony and the Crystal Serenity offer a luxurious environment where guests can fully immerse themselves in the comfort and pleasure of sailing the world’s most fascinating seas. In this endeavor, culinary excellence and the richness of the variety offered on board represent an essential part that has now received its first well-deserved recognition.
On board the Crystal Symphony, the pleasure of the journey extends beyond breathtaking views and first-class amenities to the dining table. With a selection of restaurants ranging from gourmet delights to regional specialties, every meal on board the Crystal Symphony is an opportunity to explore the flavors of the world in a particularly curated setting. The main restaurant, Waterside, offers a refined culinary experience with a menu spanning from classic international cuisine to contemporary creations made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. For those wishing to explore regional specialties and authentic flavors, the Silk Kitchen & Bar offers a unique culinary experience with dishes inspired by Asian culinary traditions presented with a touch of creativity and sophistication. From Chinese cuisine to Thai cuisine, each dish is a celebration of the flavors and traditions of Asia.
But the gastronomic delights on board the Crystal Symphony are not limited to the main restaurants. Guests can also choose from a wide range of casual options, including the Marketplace, a gastronomic market offering a variety of gourmet dishes, from fresh salads to gourmet sandwiches, prepared on the spot with premium ingredients. For an even more exclusive culinary experience, the Vintage Room offers a themed gourmet dinner accompanied by a selection of fine wines, curated by expert sommeliers to enhance the flavors of the dishes prepared by the renowned onboard chefs.
Umi Uma Food
Umi Uma Food
Umi Uma Food
The Japanese restaurant Umi Uma stands out as a true haven for lovers of Asian cuisine. The name means “sea horse” in Japanese, evoking the elegance and refined culinary craftsmanship that can only be found aboard Crystal Cruises ships. Guests can enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for cruises of 11 days or less. For cruises of more than 11 days, two complimentary reservations will be included. Additional reservations can be confirmed on board for a nominal fee, subject to availability. Reservation is always required, but there is much flexibility in both timing and possible days.
Located in a privileged position within the ship, this restaurant offers guests a sensory journey through the rich culinary tradition of Japan and Asia. As soon as guests enter, they are greeted by a refined and welcoming atmosphere, characterized by a combination of contemporary design and traditional Japanese elements. The décor, with shades of dark wood and touches of ruby red, creates an ambiance that evokes a sense of calm and serenity, perfect for an unforgettable culinary experience.
The beating heart of Umi Uma is represented by its eclectic menu rich in gastronomic delights. Guided by the expertise of their skilled chefs, guests can indulge in a wide range of traditional Japanese and Asian dishes. Among the must-try options are the sushi and sashimi classics, characterized by freshness and precision in preparation. Umi Uma offers a variety of hot and cold dishes, including crispy tempura, aromatic noodles, and Asian specialties.
Umi Uma Food
Umi Uma Food
Umi Uma Food
The experience at Umi Uma also offers the opportunity to sit at the sushi bar, where guests can witness the masterful preparation of their favorite dishes by talented chefs. This interactive experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the art and precision behind the creation of the perfect sushi, while being pampered by the fresh and tailor-made creations that emerge from the counter. Guests can indulge in a variety of creations, from classic nigiri bites to more elaborate rolls, presented with a touch of flair but also rigorous tradition. Dishes such as tuna tartare with avocado and teriyaki sauce or sake-marinated salmon carpaccio are perfect examples of how the restaurant distinguishes itself for its ability to surprise and delight its guests with original and memorable creations. Behind the menu lies the legendary Chef Maestro Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy “signature” dishes such as Nobu’s Black Cod, Grilled Chilean Sea Bass, or Wagyu Beef Fillet.
“Crystal is known for its award-winning food and beverage program, which offers an authentic culinary experience with efficient and personalized service, and we are proud that UMI UMA presents our innovative fusion cuisine, blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients,” the chef himself said at the launch of the brand’s two ships.
Umi Uma Restaurant
A dinner at Umi Uma represents much more than just a meal; it is a complete culinary experience that captures the essence and beauty of Japanese and Asian cuisine. Thanks to its combination of refined atmosphere, impeccable service, and exceptional dishes, Umi Uma confirms itself as an indispensable gourmet stop for Crystal Cruises guests who wish to experience moments of pure luxury and culinary delight on the high seas.
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