The Main Dining Room aka the MDR

Also known as “MDR” for short, each ship has a Main Dining Room. Each ship will call their main dining room by a different name so for the purpose of this explanation we will just call it MDR for short. The MDR hosts breakfast, lunch on sea days, and dinner every night. When you first make your cruise booking you are given a choice of either “Select” dining (also known as anytime dining) or a fixed time. If you choose a fixed time then you must eat at that dinner time for the duration of the cruise. Typically you are seated at a larger table with other guests, however, if available you can request a table for your specific party size. While dining with others is not for everyone, many people do like it. One benefit is each night you have the same table and same wait staff and they get to know your preferences quite well. 

If you are choosing Select dining you will typically get a table just for your party, but you can also mention that you wouldn’t mind sitting at a larger table with others. Or, if you had a wonderful waiter or waitress the previous night you can request him or her and they will do their best to accommodate. 

What are the fixed dining times?

6:00 and 8:30

What are the anytime dining times?

6:00 to 9:00

If I have anytime dining do I need to make reservations?

No, but they are encouraged so you don’t have to wait. In the past we haven’t had too many times where we had to wait, but sometime we did. My recommendation is to make reservations if you know what time you want to eat. If you don’t, and you have to wait that is fine too. They will give you a little pager and then you can head to the martini bar and get a drink! 

Does the menu change in the Main Dining room?

Yes, the dinner menu changes every night. There is a set dinner menu, however, of “favorite” items that they have each night which does not change. 

Can I get whatever I want to drink in MDR?

The MDR has a full wine list by the glass and bottle as well as soft drinks, teas, coffees, hard liquor, etc. Sometimes it can take a little while to get a drink if they’re busy so I recommend ordering it away. 

Does my drink package work in the MDR?

Yes, if you have a drink package is works in the MDR just like any other bar on the ship. If you do have a package and order lets say a Cabernet or a Merlot (generically) be sure to inform your server / wine steward which package you have so you can get the best option for that package. 

Can bring a drink with me into the MDR?

Yes you can!

Special Dietary Restrictions

Thankfully I personally do not have to worry about this, but I realize many people do. While I do not have personal experience I do know many people who do. Celebrity is very good at providing options from vegetarian to gluten free to those with sensitive allergies. Celebrity has a separate number you can call ahead of time to let them know if it is a serious medical issue. Otherwise it is advised that you let the Matri’ D know ahead of time and remind them when you come to dinner as well as remind all your wait staff.