The Brilliant Reflection - A Review of 1-12-2013 Sailing with Photos (Very Long)

[librarylady19]

This is probably a good a place as any to add some photos of the Fitness Center. Sad to say, neither of us made it here during the entire duration of the cruise. My excuse the first couple of days was the motion of the ship, after that I was too relaxed to get motivated and settled for taking the stairs and turns around the upper decks for exercise:)

 

It looked like a very nice facility for those with more dedication to their physical fitness:

 

Chilled towels - nice touch...

 

Weights:

 

I had planned to sign up for a free spinning class with my Elite coupon but never made it!

 

 

This looks scary!

Edited January 23, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

Glad our cabin wasn't below the treadmills on this cruise!

After our relaxing visit to the Persian Garden it was time to get ready for Formal Night and our first dinner at Blu.

Edited January 23, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

Once we looked presentable (nothing worse than wandering about the ship in your scuzzy clothes while others are dressed up - a complete violation of Dress Code:o) we stopped at the Molecular Bar for a pre-dinner cocktail, something that became our habit each evening (often both before and after dinner). It was without a doubt our favorite "watering hole" on the ship for many reasons.

Here we are, looking presentable:

 

 

So, why did we love the Molecular Bar: mainly the great variety of inventive drinks that were always prepared carefully (this was not the case at some of the other bars where the bartenders could certainly have benefitted from bartending refresher courses!!).

 

 

 

 

Here is the menu. Thanks to our premium beverage, we were able to try many of these during the cruise.They only serve these drinks, or other Molecular Bar concoctions that are not on this menu (such as the Choc Berry). They do not serve mixed drinks, wine, beer or even water - which was fine with us.

 

 

Edited January 23, 2013 by librarylady19

[UpcountryTravelers]

We agree! Molecular Bar became our favorite hangout spot. Especially after a night of dancing in Sky Lounge.

 

You didn't mention the "free" cookies inCafe al Bacio. That's something we had never had on a cruise before, and Rachel discovered it on day 5 of our 7 day cruise. :rolleyes: Yummy mid-afternoon treat.

Edited January 23, 2013 by UpcountryTravelers

[totoroni77]

On the Reflection in two weeks :) Looking at that Molecular Bar menu...I'm going to have to try every single cocktail! Any favorites?

[UpcountryTravelers]

On the Reflection in two weeks :) Looking at that Molecular Bar menu...I'm going to have to try every single cocktail! Any favorites?

 

Black Mamba and Scorpion's Kiss. :)

[Freq Traveler]

Sounds like the smaller cubes mentioned earlier on this thread would do the trick for the bedside tables. Thank you SO VERY MUCH for your GREAT review!

[njw000]

Hi, I am loving you fabulous reviews, thank you so much. Do you know what the average drink price is in the Molecular bar? Trying to decide between classic or premium package for our Feb. 23rd trip aboard the gorgeous Reflection. Thanks!

[Lois R]

Hi, I am loving you fabulous reviews, thank you so much. Do you know what the average drink price is in the Molecular bar? Trying to decide between classic or premium package for our Feb. 23rd trip aboard the gorgeous Reflection. Thanks!

 

Hi,:) all the drinks in the Molecular Bar are the same price.....12.00 each.

You would need the Premium Package to have them covered.

[baby]

contemplating this cruise

 

a couple of questions

 

what is the difference in the drink package they are giving "for free" vs paying $10.00 more a day for the more expensive drink package

 

we drink wine, cosmos and vodka and tonic and seabreezes

 

what kind of music did the bands play

 

and of course, did you have any problem with the food>

 

lots of questions

 

thanks for your help

 

carol

[librarylady19]

Sorry to keep everyone in suspense.

we tried a variety if the Molecular Bar drinks. Thanks to Lois R for her recommendation of the Choc Berry - so delicious. It is not on the current menu, but they will make it for you.

 

 

I also loved the avocado Mezcal - akin to a frozen margarita with a mild avocado flavor.

 

 

For pure showmanship, the smoking drinks can't be beat - such as the Lucky Cat

 

 

 

I also was partial to the Tanned Russian:

 

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[cbfb]

I have to tell you I look forward to reading your review every evening after work. It is such a great lead up to our cruise in March!!

[librarylady19]

Scott alternated between these two:

 

Black Mamba

 

 

And the Hawaiian Lava

 

 

We also tried the 20 year martini, which had been our favorite drink in the Eclipse, but it seemed a bit sour.

 

 

To be honest, the bartenders weren't overly friendly at first, but once they saw we appreciated their drink making skills, they warmed up and welcomed us back. There is a young lady (don't recall her name, from Eastern Europe) and a young man called Michael working there and they have an interesting rapport. He also does the beer tasting events at Michaels, coincidentally (which Scott attended later in the week).

 

It was surprising to me how many people didn't know anybody this bar. Crowds seemed to flock to the Martini Bar around the corner and the MB is ignored. I think they had the Friends of Dorothy gathering here in the evenings, so that may have boosted their patronage. I heartily recommend it if you like a unique adult beverage and don't need the flair of the Martini Bar (though they do light orange peel on fire!!)

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

Off to dinner at Blu. We passed through the beautiful Celestial gaden, an installation piece specifically designed for the Reflection by Miami artist Carlos Betancourt. It was always fun to discover different facets of the art on the floor, walls and ceiling and try to figure out what set up the chimes.

 

 

 

I was very impressed by Celebrity's commitment to their art collection, showcasing works by emerging artists as well as established and even famous artists throughout the ship. It was a delight to discover new pieces each day and truly enhanced my experience onboard.

Here's an interesting article on that topic.

http://www.miami.com/floating-museums-article

 

I will be sharing photos of some of my favorite pieces later in the review. I also took the art tour offered by one of the rt Studio teachers and learned a lot about the collection.

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

Here's another view of the Celestial Garden.

 

 

On the way to Blu, Qsine and Tuscan Grille, you also pass by this marvelous forest wall that is great for a photo-op:

 

 

As well as this clever trompe l'oeil piece:

 

 

Another perspective:

 

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[Bosjoe]

Scott alternated between these two:

 

Black Mamba

 

 

And the Hawaiian Lava

 

 

We also tried the 20 year martini, which had been our favorite drink in the Eclipse, but it seemed a bit sour.

 

 

To be honest, the bartenders weren't overly friendly at first, but once they saw we appreciated their drink making skills, they warmed up and welcomed us back. There is a young lady (don't recall her name, from Eastern Europe) and a young man called Michael working there and they have an interesting rapport. He also does the beer tasting events at Michaels, coincidentally (which Scott attended later in the week).

 

It was surprising to me how many people didn't know anybody this bar. Crowds seemed to flock to the Martini Bar around the corner and the MB is ignored. I think they had the Friends of Dorothy gathering here in the evenings, so that may have boosted their patronage. I heartily recommend it if you like a unique adult beverage and don't need the flair of the Martini Bar (though they do light orange peel on fire!!)

 

The young lady was Barbera.. She was very friendly to us and always said hi to us around the ship. Friends of Dorothy does meet at MB the first night and other nights. But most go to the Martini bar. which gets hopping.

[librarylady19]

Our dinner at Blu was just wonderful. We were greeted by the Maitre D' Ante, imposing in stature and manner, but highly effective in his role. We requested a table along the back wall in banquette as we knew from Eclipse that this a quieter, more intimate location in which to dine.

 

We were whisked away to our chosen location and turned over to our superb wait staff - the lovely Paola from Peru and her assistant, the darling Mustafa from Turkey.

 

Before I dazzle you with food porn, let me first address a few of the comments regarding the Blu experience. We felt that Blu was running like a well-oiled machine.

We rarely had to wait to be seated; we always ate after 8:00 p.m. and generally after 8:30 p.m.

We did not find the service rushed or inefficient in any way.

Sommelier service was a little brusque but I think that was primarily because there are only two sommeliers for the entire restaurant and I do think they tend to cater to those ordering by the bottle rather than the premium package people.

It did get a little noisy but that was only because there was a table of 8 seated every night at 8:30 p.m. who were loud, but not obnoxiously so. I really think this could be easily resolved by removing such large tables from Blu. It's impossible not to be loud if you are trying to converse across a large table.

Dress was a mixed bag - on formal night for example, there were a few tuxes, but more suits with or without tie for the gents and mostly cocktail dresses for the ladies. On other nights it was dress shirts/pants some jackets for men and dresses or pants/tops for the ladies. Did not see any jeans in Blu all week.

The piped-in music was not obstrusive in any way. It was sometimes a odd techno-mix but nothing unbearable!

I would rate this Blu experience right up there with our first Blu on Equinox back during their inaugural sailing in November 2009.

The waiters were all friendly and welcoming. The Assistant Maitre D', Johnny from Columbia, was a real charmer. He made sure to visit each table nightly to inquire after us and our dining experience.

 

On to the food. We had this same menu on other ships, but found it's execution in both flavor and appearance to be superior on Reflection.

 

Menu for Night 2 - Formal Night

(courtesy of Adammara Cruises)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/59368763@N07/6303644428/in/set-72157627905504343/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/59368763@N07/6303120023/in/set-72157627905504343/

 

We both started with the Pan Fried Macadamia Nut Crusted Sea Scallops - large, juicy scallops, perfectly cooked.

 

 

Followed by the California Blue Crab Bisque, poured tableside.

 

 

and I had the Mixed Greens and Shaved Pear Salad:

 

 

For our main course, we both opted for the Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb. Divine! The shoulder of lamb in phyllo was just as delicious as the rack of lamb.

 

 

Our waitress was happy to bring us a dish of the crab and morel mushroom risotto to share also (as it was difficult to settle on 2 entrees, sometimes we opted to share a smaller version of a third entree - never any trouble for the accommodating staff).

 

 

I'm glad we opted to try this dish; it was simply unctuous but would have been too rich to eat as a full portion, but was perfect as an accompaniment to the lamb.

 

We finished our meal with dessert - here I am obviously enjoying my coconut sorbet and apple tarte tartin. What a marvelous meal from start to finish!!

 

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

contemplating this cruise

 

a couple of questions

 

what is the difference in the drink package they are giving "for free" vs paying $10.00 more a day for the more expensive drink package

 

we drink wine, cosmos and vodka and tonic and seabreezes

 

what kind of music did the bands play

 

and of course, did you have any problem with the food>

 

lots of questions

 

thanks for your help

 

carol

 

The differences are - with the premium you can get drinks up to $12, and pay the difference for drinks over that amount (that's not an option with the classic package).

If you drink standard mixed drinks, most would be included in the classic package, but none of the martinis, Molecular Bar drinks or even many of the cocktails at other bars (see menus I posted earlier in the review).

If you drink beer, only the basic brands are under the $5 max of the classic package - no good craft beers, imports or cider.

Wines by the glass are very limited under $8 (and only a basic selection really in the entire list).

IMO its well worth the $11.50 per diem for the upgrade - that's less than one drink at the Molecular Bar:)

 

Music was a mixed bag - we liked the acoustic guitar duo who didn't play nearly enough for us. Didn't care for Jefferson Ang (though others do like him) who also plays guitar - there was a piano player but never caught his act - the accapella group was the least annoying I have heard (not my type of music at all) - the steel drum player was fine. I didn't care for the party band D'Revelations much - the female lead had an odd voice, much preferred Fusion. Don't get me started on the showtunes :) The orchestra was very good, but weren't featured at enough events. They REALLY need musical entertainment in Michaels - a topic I will address in my next post - tomorrow....

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[u2cruiser]

What a lovely evening in Blu. We really must try this next time.

Your pictures remind me why I am permanently lacking any appetite on a cruise after day one :D

 

Brusque sommeliers are all we've ever had on Celebrity. I don't know why, but they seem to be exempt from the normal, impeccable service from the rest of the staff in the dining rooms, or we have just been unlucky. We were doing PAYG last cruise and struggled to get wine by the glass every evening. It was our only complaint on an otherwise perfect cruise.

 

The artwork is fascinating. I loved that area through to the Ensemble Lounge on Solstice. Looking forward to your art pics. :)

[AtlFirstTimeCruiser]

Sandi,

 

Do you have a copy of the wine list by the glass at Blu?

 

Thanks

[librarylady19]

Sandi,

 

Do you have a copy of the wine list by the glass at Blu?

 

Thanks

 

Unfortunately, I do not. It was pretty basic, don't expect. Lot of options (ie 4 different Chardonnays). It was fine by us as we only drink wine with dinner and are not terribly fussy. We would just select a white or red based on our entree selections. Sommelier was no help as he was too hovering over the table for 8 that purchased wine by the bottle. You might even bring a glass from a bar from Cellarmasters if you want wine immediately.

[emcee207]

Great review so far Sandie, keep it up! We love Blu and we've come to appreciate your honest reviews.

 

Louis and Margo

[librarylady19]

Some of you (Deirdre!) may be wondering why I have not yet mentioned Michaels. Scott is a homebrewer and avid beer drinker - in other words, this guy knows and loves his beer:). I lured him on this cruise (wasn't hard) with the promise of more interesting beers. As many of you beer drinkers know, the selection is pretty tame on most Celebrity ships.

 

I think Scott may have gone here the first day, but this was my first time at Michaels.

 

 

 

There are some things to like about Michaels - mostly the beer selection - and a lot that could be improved. First off, the hours stink. Some nights it opened at 5:00 p.m., but 7:00 p.m. seemed to be more the norm. I'm sure Scott and many others would have been happy to spend the afternoon and early evening hours there but no luck.

 

Second, they need entertainment - a full band isn't necessary or practical. A guy with a keyboard or guitar would do. They did have such a set up in Michaels on Summit and it was great (one night, the band even played a set there which was awesome). It would attract a lot more people. We never saw more than 8-10 people in there.

 

Third, the design is all wrong for a craft beer concept. Much as I liked the decor, it just doesn't encourage sitting around drinking!

 

 

There are a couple of TVs that were mostly playing cricket, but they are not situated as a focal point. Add some dart boards and sports memorabilia and people will flock there.

 

On the plus side, there is a nice selection of beers, especially if you have the drink package. The bartender was a lovely young lady who was very friendly and helpful.

 

I don't know how we missed getting pictures of the menu, but Scott did take lots of pictures of the coolers for all you beer lovers:

 

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[librarylady19]

Most of the beers were within or close to the $12 pbp (Fullers Vintage Ale was $15)....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited January 24, 2013 by librarylady19

[dln929]

Love the beer report, Sandi! I actually wrote to Michael Bayley about the state of beer on Celebrity ships. We're not boarding the Sillhouette until another 11 months, so he has plenty of time to fix the problem of stinky hours and a lack of entertainment. Our beer-drinking hubbies deserve no less! ;)