“La buona cucina è la vera arte italiana” — Good cooking is true Italian art. Onda by Scarpetta brings that philosophy to Norwegian Cruise Line. Inspired by the renowned Scarpetta restaurants on land, Onda offers a stylish yet comfortable setting where guests can enjoy Italian dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and rich, authentic flavors right on the ship.
Whether you’re already an Italian-food lover or discovering Onda for the first time on your cruise, this guide covers the complete NCL Onda by Scarpetta Menu 2025 with prices and tips.
What is Onda by Scarpetta on NCL?
Onda by Scarpetta is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Italian specialty restaurant, featuring a refined dining experience created in collaboration with the renowned Scarpetta restaurant group.
It is located on select NCL ships, the restaurant offers an elevated Italian menu featuring carefully crafted dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients and expert culinary techniques.
Guests can enjoy a multi-course dining experience that includes appetizers, main courses, and desserts in an elegant, intimate setting that differs from the Main Dining Rooms. Onda by Scarpetta provides a premium dining option for passengers seeking an upscale Italian meal during their cruise vacation.
NCL Onda by Scarpetta Menu
Following are Onda by Scarpetta NCL menus for 2025:
NCL Onda by Scarpetta Dinner Menu
Here is the NCL Onda by Scarpetta menu for dinner:
NCL Onda by Scarpetta Dessert Menu
Here is the NCL Onda by Scarpetta menu for dessert:
How Much is Onda by Scarpetta on NCL?
Before 2025, Onda by Scarpetta on Norwegian Cruise Line operated with an à la carte pricing system but now features a fixed $40 per person cover charge.
This new pricing includes a comprehensive Italian dining experience with three appetizers (pizza or antipasti), one main course (pasta or secondi), two sides, and three desserts, offering guests a complete meal without individual item pricing.
The base price is $40, but guests can expect an additional $25 charge for premium items like an extra lobster tail. A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge are automatically added to the final bill.
Which NCL Ships has the Onda by Scarpetta Restaurant?
Onda by Scarpetta Italian Restaurant is available on following Norwegian Ships in the fleet:
- Norwegian Aqua
- Norwegian Viva
- Norwegian Prima
- Norwegian Luna
- Norwegian Spirit
- Norwegian Encore
You can find La Cucina on other Norwegian Cruise Ships that don’t have Onda by Scarpetta, offering a similar Italian experience.
Where is the Onda by Scarpetta on NCL Ships?
Let’s find the Onda by Scarpetta locations on different NCL Class Ships:
- Prima Class: Onda by Scarpetta is on Deck 8 on Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.
- Breakaway Plus Class: Onda by Scarpetta is on Deck 8 on Norwegian Encore that has other dining options like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Ocean Blue and Bar Options like Maltings Whiskey Bar, The Cellular Wine Bar, Sugarcane Mojito Bar.
- Norwegian Spirit Onda by Scarpetta is on Deck 12.
NCL Onda by Scarpetta Dress Code
Onda by Scarpetta on Norwegian Cruise Line maintains a smart casual dress code that aligns with the restaurant’s upscale Italian dining experience.
Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, with men wearing collared shirts, dress pants or well-maintained jeans, and closed-toe shoes, while women often choose dresses, skirts, or elegant pants outfits.
The restaurant doesn’t allow overly casual attire such as shorts, flip-flops, tank tops, swim or beachwear, or athletic wear during dinner service.
When Does Onda by Scarpetta Open on NCL Ships?
NCL Onda by Scarpetta serves dinner nightly from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, offering guests a sophisticated evening dining experience.
Operating hours can vary slightly between different ships and itineraries in the NCL fleet. So, guests are encouraged to verify the exact timing through their NCL Freestyle daily or by checking the NCL mobile app.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation at Onda by Scarpetta?
Reservations are highly recommended for Onda by Scarpetta due to its limited seating and popularity as a specialty restaurant on Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
Guests can secure their preferred dining time by booking through the NCL Cruise Planner online, using the Norwegian Cruise Line mobile app before or during the cruise or visiting the restaurant’s host desk onboard.
Walk-ins are accepted when space permits, but advance reservations ensure that you’ll get a table during your desired dining hours, especially during peak times or on sea days.
Is Onda by Scarpetta Worth It?
Onda by Scarpetta offers a premium dining experience that many Norwegian Cruise Line guests find worthwhile for its authentic Italian cuisine and sophisticated atmosphere.
NCL Onda menu features refined dishes from the renowned Scarpetta restaurant group, presenting high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared meals that elevate the typical cruise dining experience.
The cover charge of $40 per person might seem steep, but the multi-course meal including appetizers, main courses, and desserts provides good value compared to similar specialty restaurants.
For food enthusiasts and those seeking a more intimate, gourmet dining option during their cruise, Onda by Scarpetta represents an excellent choice for a memorable evening meal.
NCL Onda by Scarpetta Reviews
Cruisers’ reviews about Onda by Scarpetta are mostly positive, with many highlighting its elegant atmosphere and attentive service. Guests say the restaurant feels upscale yet relaxed, making it perfect for a special evening at sea.
Onda by Scarpetta’s food is often praised for its freshness, quality ingredients, and authentic Italian flavors. Several diners praised the Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil, calling it surprisingly rich and flavorful for such a simple dish. One cruiser shared that it was “the best pasta I’ve ever had on a cruise,” thanks to its fresh ingredients and perfectly balanced sauce.
Appetizers also receive high marks. Guests recommend starting with the Yellowtail Crudo and the Creamy Burrata, both noted for their fresh taste and beautiful presentation. These dishes are often highlighted as must-tries for first-time visitors.
For main courses, the Roasted Chicken is frequently recommended, described as tender, juicy, and full of deep flavor. The Branzino is another favorite, praised for its light seasoning and perfectly crispy skin.
Desserts are equally impressive, especially the Panna Cotta and Budino, which many guests say are rich, smooth, and worth visiting Onda for on their own.
Overall, Onda by Scarpetta is considered one of the top choices for Italian cuisine at sea, offering a refined dining experience for both dedicated Italian-food lovers and first-time cruisers.
FAQs – Onda by Scarpetta NCL Menu
Is Onda by Scarpetta Complimentary?
Onda by Scarpetta is not a complimentary dining venue on Norwegian Cruise Line Ships, as it operates as a specialty restaurant with a set cover charge of $40 per person.
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