There are certain places that bring solace to one's soul. For me, it can be the warmth of friendship around a campfire. The cozy solitude of a mountain cabin. The Grand Floridian's lobby. A walk in an ocean breeze.
A day at sea on a luxurious cruise ship is just one of those places.
As we left Spain behind us and sailed toward our first port of Malta, time slowed. Way down. We had a 10-day schedule of foreign ports and exotic excursions ahead of us. The excitement was intoxicating.
It was Thursday, May 27 and we were aboard a magical ship in the Mediterranean. After a great night's rest courtesy of the gentle rocking motion of a ship on a calm sea, we woke to a promising day. Our first expectation of fantastic food was met almost immediately when Michael and I visited Palo (the adults only restaurant) for brunch.
I consider brunch at Palo to be a must while aboard the Disney Magic. Palo is located Deck 10 Aft and provides a 270-degree view of ocean splendor. Palo requires advance reservations and only serves guests over 18. The Northern Italian cuisine is as memorable as the view, while the exhibition kitchen evokes an exclusive experience.
The name Palo is taken from the poles of the Venice canals. And in this restaurant, the Venetian glass sparkles!
Palo is also the perfect place to enjoy romance because there is little chance that your child will have you paged while they are occupied in the Oceaneer Lab with fantastical games and activities.
Upon arriving Palo on the Disney Magic, you may be greeted by Pietro. Pietro always says our surname, LaPaglia, in the true Italian pronunciation. I look forward to that authentic welcome on every cruise. Pietro led us to a beautiful table by the window.
After placing our order for Chicken Parmesan (the best I've ever had), we toured the mouth-watering buffet tables offering pastries, International cheeses, desserts, seafood and more.
Did I mention that this is a champagne brunch?
I do believe that chocolate has magical powers too:
Upon exiting dragging ourselves out of Palo, we thanked Pietro for the wonderful table and slowly strolled toward the Oceaneer Lab to check on our son before attending a lecture on Valetta, Malta.
From the looks of it, your table had a gorgeous view! And no, I'm not referring to that dessert buffet table. ;)
My booking window for our upcoming holiday cruise just opened this past weekend and we were unable to score a Palo brunch reservation. Guess that means I'm going to be racing to Rockin' Bar D.
Looking forward to hearing all about Malta!
Posted by: Darcie - Such The Spot | 09/20/2010 at 07:02 PM