Because Mother’s Day fell on a Sunday during our Holland America cruise to the eastern Mediterranean, my husband booked us for a special dining experience that evening in the ship’s Pinnacle Grill, a specialty restaurant with limited seating and above-and-beyond meals. Our menu for the evening was created by the cruise line’s master chef, Rudi Sodamin, author of several cookbooks and the most decorated chef at sea. The nine-course affair was accompanied by six wines, beginning with Veuve Cliquot Champagne and hors d’oeuvres at a pre-dinner reception in the adjoining Pinnacle Bar.

The majority of the group enjoying this special meal (limited to 16 and offered only twice during the 11-day cruise) sat at one large and beautifully set table, giving us the opportunity to enjoy conversation with people from all over the world — one of the delights of mealtimes on a cruise. Each and every course was as beautiful to behold as it tasted, and each wine perfectly matched its assigned course. A brief commentary introducing each was provided by the droll and entertaining cellarmaster, Ingo. I’ll let the photos do the remaining job of sharing this fabulous experience with you.

Dungeness Crab Salad with Orange Gelee                    Pan-seared Goose Liver, Avocado & Raspberry-Amuse Bouche                                                                Kaffir Lime Vinaigrette

Frappe of Maine Lobster &                        Black Cod with Paddlefish and Salmon Caviar                                                 

Porcini Bisque Served Cappuccino Style

Lime and Candied Ginger Granite Intermezzo              Veal Sweetbread & Loin with Black Truffle

Dialogue of Chocolate Seduction                               Assorted Artisan Cheeses, Honey & Fruit Compote

What an absolutely outstanding meal, and what an unforgettable experience!

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor