Ember shines as Vista's beacon for those in pursuit of American culinary classics interwoven with modern innovation. The ambiance melds casual elegance with warmth, inviting guests to dine in a space that feels both upscale and comforting. Signature dishes like the succulent Braised Short Ribs on Polenta and Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli exemplify Ember's mastery in elevating comforting favorites with a twist. My personal recommendation? The Grilled Swordfish with Asparagus – a testament to simplicity perfected. Dining at Ember, especially before an evening show, is a must for a soul-warming dining experience.

Aquamar Kitchen, exclusive to Vista, breaks the mold with its forward-thinking focus on wellness and indulgence without compromise. This venue is a haven for those looking to satisfy their epicurean desires healthily. Breakfast is a revelation here, with Avocado Toasts that redefine this beloved staple, and the Smoothie Bowls are as vibrant in flavor as they are in color. For lunch, the Yellowfin Tacos become a journey of refreshment and satisfaction. My time here left me impressed with how well Aquamar Kitchen marries health with extraordinary taste, presenting a dining angle that’s both rejuvenating and deeply satisfying.

Stepping into The Grand Dining Room is like entering a grand European palace, where opulence meets the art of fine dining. The expansive menus, which transform daily, are a culinary world tour, with Jacques Pépin’s signature dishes reminding guests of his influence. The Executive Chef’s Tasting Menu, an innovative addition, offers an unmatched dining journey. There’s an elegance to the pacing and service here that reminds me of the world’s finest restaurants, making each dinner an event to remember. It's here, amidst the luxury, that the grandeur of Vista’s culinary offerings truly shines.

Polo Grill embodies the quintessence of a steakhouse, where premium cuts and impeccable service reign supreme. The ambiance, rich with dark woods and soft lighting, promises an evening of intimate dining pleasures. The USDA Prime Beef, dry-aged for 28 days, ensures each bite is a revelation, while seafood lovers will rejoice in the Grilled Swordfish and Maine Lobster Gratinée. My evening at Polo Grill was a testament to the timeless appeal of fine steaks and wines, a classic complement to the innovative dining found elsewhere on Vista.

Toscana, with its stunning vistas and sumptuous Italian cuisine, offers a night in Italy aboard Vista. The hand-blown Venetian glass and fine Carrara marble set the stage for an exquisite dining experience. Dishes like the Octopus Carpaccio and hand-rolled Gnocchi with Pesto are masterpieces, showcasing generations of culinary tradition. The custom-designed Versace china adds a touch of elegance, making each meal here not only a feast for the palate but for the eyes as well. Toscana is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary legacy, reimagined aboard Vista.

Red Ginger is Vista's enchanting foray into the flavors of Asia, offering a vibrant tapestry of taste that dances on the palate. The décor, with its rich reds and soothing earth tones, sets a contemporary yet tranquil backdrop. The menu is a treasure trove of Pan-Asian delights, with the Malaysian Beef Penang and Thai Vegetable Curry standing out as marvels of culinary artistry. My experience was a journey through contrasting flavors and textures, emblematic of Asia’s diverse culinary landscape. Red Ginger is a destination unto itself, promising a sensory journey that lingers long after the last bite.

The Terrace Café offers a breezy, casual dining experience with views as expansive as its menu. Morning, noon, or night, the buffet selections are fresh and abundant, with the Grilled-to-Order Lobster Tails becoming a coveted evening treat. The open-air seating invites the sea breeze to join your culinary journey, enhancing the alfresco dining experience. My favorite times here involved leisurely breakfasts as the world unfurled around us, a testament to the easy elegance and variety that Vista champions.

Waves Grill is the epitome of laid-back luxury, offering an al fresco dining experience steps away from the pool. The gourmet burgers, handcrafted and grilled to perfection, are not to be missed, especially when accompanied by a side of the truffle-infused parmesan cheese fries. But it’s the milkshakes, thick and decadently topped, that steal the show as the perfect poolside indulgence. My afternoons at Waves Grill were highlighted by the delightful balance of casual dining and gourmet flavors, a hallmark of Vista’s culinary landscape.

The Culinary Center on Vista is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking to deepen their culinary knowledge through engaging, hands-on instruction. With ocean views as a backdrop, learning becomes as inspiring as it is enjoyable. The private dinners, where the delight of creation is matched only by the pleasure of tasting, offer an immersive culinary journey unmatched on the seas. My exploration here, through spices and techniques, underscored Vista’s commitment to culinary education and enjoyment in a setting that both inspires and educates.

Priveé offers an unparalleled private dining experience where exclusivity meets the pinnacle of culinary excellence. The dramatic setting, with its polished marble and lavish chandelier, sets the stage for a bespoke dinner that’s as breathtaking as the ocean views it boasts. Dining here, surrounded by the best company and undisturbed by the outside world, was an evening of indulgence that redefined luxury dining at sea for me. It’s Vista’s most intimate and grandiose dining escapade, offering a memorable feast for all senses.

Baristas & Bakery serves as Vista’s morning star and afternoon delight, offering a panoramic view over the sea that complements its rich coffees and freshly baked pastries. The illy® espressos, expertly crafted by skilled baristas, provide the perfect start to the day, while the pastries offer a sweet note that’s difficult to resist. My mornings were often spent here, savoring a cappuccino and croissant, as the world passed by—a simple pleasure, elevated by the ambiance and quality that Vista prides itself on.