Epicurean Restaurant Menu on P&O Iona: Is the Specialty Dining Worth It?
P&O Cruises’ Epicurean is the premium fine dining restaurant aboard P&O Iona, offering an elevated culinary experience for guests looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy one of the ship’s most refined meals.
Unlike the complimentary main dining rooms, Epicurean carries a supplemental charge, but many guests consider it one of the best specialty restaurants on Iona thanks to its beautifully presented dishes, attentive service, and elegant atmosphere.
The photos below showcase a complete Epicurean dinner menu currently available on P&O Iona, giving future passengers an excellent idea of what to expect before booking.
A Modern Fine Dining Experience
Epicurean is designed for guests who enjoy contemporary cuisine prepared with premium ingredients and artistic presentation.
The menu combines British and international influences, with seafood, high-quality meats, vegetarian selections, and carefully crafted desserts. Many dishes are paired with optional wine recommendations to complement each course.
According to the accompanying social media post, the diner described the meal as “fabulous,” highlighting not only the food but also the service and overall setting.
Starters
The opening section offers a wide variety of sophisticated appetizers ranging from seafood to vegetarian dishes.
Some of the featured starters include:
- Garlic-Buttered Wild White Prawns
- Cold-Smoked Hampshire Chalk Stream Trout
- Chicken Liver and Cognac Parfait
- Oak-Smoked Gressingham Duck Breast
- Bloody Mary and Goat’s Cheese Mousse
- Sesame-Crusted Oven-Baked Butternut Squash
- Cream of Cauliflower Soup
Several dishes are marked as gluten-free or vegetarian, making it easier for guests with dietary preferences to find suitable options.
Each starter also includes an optional wine pairing recommendation.
Main Courses
The main course selection features an impressive variety of seafood, premium meats, and vegetarian options.
Highlights from the menu include:
- Fillet of Pan-Roasted Atlantic Halibut
- Tandoori-Spiced Lobster Tail
- Free-Range Pan-Roasted Chicken Breast
- 100% Acorn-Fed Roasted Iberico Pork Loin
- Pan-Seared Australian Wagyu Beef Sirloin (Marble Score 9)
- Rhug Estate Salt Marsh Lamb Rack
- Middle Eastern Vegan Kofta Wellington
The Wagyu beef is presented as one of the premium signature dishes on the menu, while the lobster tail offers a luxurious seafood option for guests celebrating a special evening onboard.
As with the starters, suggested wine pairings accompany each entrée.
Desserts
The dessert menu continues the restaurant’s upscale approach with a selection of creative sweets and artisan cheeses.
Dessert options shown include:
- Epicurean Tiramisu Cup
- Orchard and Hive
- Crêpes Suzette Flambé
- Emerald Dubai Chocolate
- Banana Bread and Caramel Popcorn
- Artisanal Cheese Plate
Guests can also pair dessert with recommended sweet wines or vintage port.
Wine Pairings Throughout the Menu
One feature that stands out is the integrated wine recommendations.
Rather than offering only a separate wine list, Epicurean suggests wines that complement many individual dishes, making it easier for guests who enjoy food and wine pairings.
Prices shown on the menu are listed in British pounds (£).
Is Epicurean Worth the Extra Cost?
While Epicurean requires an additional fee beyond the cruise fare, many P&O Cruises guests consider it among the best specialty dining experiences available aboard Iona.
Based on the menu shown here, guests can expect:
- Premium-quality ingredients
- Fine dining presentation
- Creative flavor combinations
- Wine pairing recommendations
- Seafood, beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and vegetarian choices
- Elegant desserts and cheese selections
For cruisers celebrating an anniversary, birthday, honeymoon, or simply wanting a memorable evening onboard, Epicurean is often one of the most highly recommended specialty restaurants on the ship.
Tips Before Booking Epicurean
If you’re considering dining at Epicurean during your P&O Iona cruise, keep these tips in mind:
- Reserve your table early, especially on popular sailing dates.
- Allow plenty of time to enjoy the full multi-course experience.
- Review the menu beforehand if anyone in your party has dietary restrictions.
- Consider trying the recommended wine pairings for a complete fine dining experience.
- Specialty dining venues can be especially busy on sea days and formal evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Epicurean included in the cruise fare?
No. Epicurean is a specialty restaurant and requires an additional charge.
Does Epicurean serve vegetarian dishes?
Yes. The menu shown includes several vegetarian and vegan selections, with dietary symbols identifying suitable dishes.
Are gluten-free options available?
Yes. Multiple menu items are marked gluten-free or offer a gluten-free option.
Does the menu include seafood?
Yes. Guests can choose from several seafood dishes, including prawns, trout, halibut, and lobster tail.
Are wine pairings available?
Yes. Many menu items include suggested wines that pair with each course.
Are the prices shown in pounds?
Yes. The menu states that all prices are listed in British pounds sterling (£).
Final Thoughts
Epicurean continues to be one of the standout specialty dining venues aboard P&O Iona. The menu featured in these photos showcases an impressive selection of refined starters, premium main courses, expertly crafted desserts, and thoughtfully selected wine pairings.
Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply want to experience one of Iona’s most elegant restaurants, this menu offers a helpful preview of the type of cuisine and dining experience you can expect onboard.
