Michael's Genuine Food & Drink is a vibrant neighborhood restaurant built on fresh seasonal ingredients & warm hospitality.



The restaurant has a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation: "This Design District pioneer from Chef Michael Schwartz is as popular now as it was when it first debuted almost 15 years ago. A well-heeled crowd flocks here, but whether it's a requisite respite from boutique hopping, a spot to catch up with friends or a meal to close a business deal, this dining delight is for everyone. The courtyard is a lovely place to linger, thanks to its lush greenery, fans and heat lamps (when necessary). The interior space features concrete flooring and an inviting bar. A jazz playlist adds to the upbeat and conversation-filled air. The menu focuses on unfussy yet skillful cooking. Staples like pizza, house-made pasta, crudo, pan-roasted chicken and wood oven-roasted fish keep fans returning time and time again."



To start off, I ordered "crispy squash blossoms" with Vito's mozzarella, black truffle, basil, and smoked black pepper aioli. You just can't go wrong. These were on point.



And, instead of a full-size entree, I went with another appetizer: crispy pork belly with kimchi, crushed peanuts and cilantro.



Everything here had clean, crisp flavors and tons of depth.



I even had a homemade cherry soda, which was absolutely lovely.



Grade: A

The newest addition to Charleston's dining scene is purr-fect. Cups & Cats Cafe is a new downtown coffee shop - with cats. Let me explain. You walk into the coffee shop area, which has a number of drink options, plus some snacks. That includes these cute little charcuterie-to-go boxes from Saving Thyme. I went with a simple hot chocolate. So if you want to enjoy just a drink or snack, you can stay put on the cafe side. However, for $10, you can go to the space next door and play with kitties for an hour. You can take your drink inside if it has a lid. There are tons of toys and stuff to play with the cats. But you need to respect their boundaries and not pick them up if they don't want to be, etc. So, I took my hot chocolate inside and watch as the kittens played and other cats laid in the sun. Honestly, it was just a super chill vibe to relax with the cats, a drink and enjoy the passersby outside. I did momentarily fall in love with this little gray kitten, but I saw he was adopted a few days later. I love the concept that these kitties then can find new homes. Have you been? Grade: A

While there are many restaurants include in the cruise fare, there are several that are an additional cost. I initially thought "What?! I already paid all this money for the cruise. I'll just stick to the places already included." But, then, of course, I got curious. I wanted to try every place.

Prime Steakhouse



"Turn your special vacation in the direction of delicious — book a table for an unforgettably delectable evening at the onboard Steakhouse. Our menu features mouthwatering premium cuts of beef cooked to your exact specifications, as well as a fantastic selection of seafood, entrées, gourmet appetizers... and even a wine list that got the nod from Wine Spectator. (They actually call it the Award of Excellence.) The Steakhouse’s atmosphere pairs remarkably well with, and perhaps even enhances, the culinary creations of our gourmet chefs.



Tip: Like any destination restaurant, reservations are highly recommended, and can be made online after booking your cruise. Your meal includes an appetizer, salad, entrée, side, and dessert.



This meal began with a parmesan bonbon. I love a little amuse bouche, no matter the place.



Then, complimentary bread - one of which is thin, cracker-type - served with regular and spinach-dusted butter.



I ordered the stuffed mushrooms for my appetizer, which had spinach and parmesan. These felt decadent with tons of parmesan.



This filet was lightyears better than the main dining room broiled steak... though I think my lobster was a bit over.



The sides of baked potato and mac & cheese were over-the-top good - and a feast.



Finally, some sorbet to finish up a wonderful meal.




Cucina del Capitano



"The iconic red and white checkered tablecloth in your neighborhood Italian trattoria means you’re in for a certain kind of dining experience. At a table such as this, who’s gathered around is just as important as what’s being served, and we see these as the two halves of the experience at Cucina del Capitano®. Atop our tablecloth you’ll enjoy courses of dishes — antipasti, entrées, pasta and desserts — inspired by our Italian captains’ and officers’ childhoods.



It’s all served famiglia-style, because we know that sharing tales of your day’s adventures is best with large plates and great company. Speaking of which, the walls are not only adorned with old snapshots from the crew’s family albums, but you might even find the captain dining at his own table in the corner… all evidence that the rustic Italian country-home atmosphere you see is no façade. Tip: Reservations aren’t required, but to get the best seating and times, we recommend making a reservation. You can make one online after booking your cruise."



This Italian restaurant is the general version of the free lunch restaurant. So, there are a lot of other Italian options here besides the pasta at lunch.



I started with the freshly shredded cheesy bread and butter.



Then, it was Barada with poached cherry tomatoes. This was so simple and so divine.



The side of polenta was less exciting, but fine.



The penne was one of the best dishes of the trip. I was so pleasantly surprised by the mega flavorful meat sauce.



Like, I still dream of this dish and I've tried to recreate it.



The dessert was actually my least favorite course. It was a bit dry and bland.




Seafood Shack



"A good seafood dish is quite the catch. However you like yours served — whether it’s on a roll or a platter — Seafood Shack’s™ the place to cast your net. Imagine a New-England-style seaside spot where you can take it all in, enjoying a great meal complete with a side of ocean view. On a Carnival cruise is where you’ll find this shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be!"



When I saw a lobster roll, I was sold.



It was a larger portion than I expected, but I do wish it was more buttery than mayo.




Sushi at Sea



A California roll and shrimp roll hit the spot.




Plaza Cafe



Plaza Cafe offers speciality coffees, freshly brewed tea or milkshakes along with a selection of pastries, cakes, cookies and ice cream sundaes.



there were a number of desserts that did look enticing, but not enough for me to splurge.



I went for a milkshake, which was a winner.




Cherry on Top



"A cruise is the perfect time to treat yourself to something sweet, and Cherry On Top™ happens to be the perfect place. You'll find this well-stocked candy-and-more-store not only great for enjoying some of your confectionery favorites, but the place to pick up food and apparel gifts for that special someone, even if — admit it — that someone happens to be you!"



"Scream for the cool stuff? Visit the ice cream counter at the Cherry On Top shops aboard Carnival Vista® and Carnival Horizon® for a signature ice cream creation, or build your own with tons of mix-ins and topping options. And if you get the urge to eat ice cream with your hands, we won’t judge… we’ll just suggest one of our ice cream cookie sandwiches. We’ll build you one by hand, and stuff it full of whatever ice cream and toppings you scream for."



I definitely stopped here early on and mixed and matched a bag of candy to enjoy in my cabin.



It lasted me the whole trip and I took it home with me.



Too bad this ship did not have the ice cream on it.


Towel Animals
Finally, I just wanted to share all the cool towel animals I had on the trip.