Rojo by Razzle Dazzle: A Taste of Spain Arrives on Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady
Virgin Voyages has consistently redefined the cruise experience, particularly when it comes to dining. Swapping traditional main dining rooms and buffets for over 20 unique eateries curated by Michelin-star chefs, the adults-only line has cultivated a reputation for culinary excellence, even snagging USA Today’s award for Best Cruise Ship Dining in 2025. Now, aboard their newest vessel, Brilliant Lady, launching in September 2025, they’re adding another vibrant thread to their gastronomic tapestry: Rojo by Razzle Dazzle, an exclusive restaurant bringing the passionate flavors of Spain to the high seas.
The Masters Behind the Menu: A Taste of Spain Unveiled
The culinary vision for Rojo by Razzle Dazzle rests in the capable hands of acclaimed chefs Justin Severino and Nate Hobart. Severino, a four-time James Beard Foundation award nominee, and Hobart are the co-chefs behind Morcilla, a celebrated Spanish-style charcuteria in Pittsburgh known for its ingredient-driven, shareable dining innovations. Their deep passion for Spanish gastronomy is set to translate directly onto Brilliant Lady’s decks. Sailors can anticipate authentic flavors and perhaps even some signature dishes making the journey, as the menu is confirmed to feature Morcilla’s legendary Oxtail Montadito – a delectable combination of braised oxtail, caramelized onion, and Mahón cheese served on crisp crostini. This commitment to authentic, chef-driven cuisine aligns perfectly with Virgin Voyages’ disruptive culinary mission.
From Sunny Brunch to Sizzling Nights: Rojo’s Dual Delight
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle cleverly utilizes the existing Razzle Dazzle space, offering a distinct experience that shifts with the sun. By day, the venue retains the beloved Razzle Dazzle brunch tradition but infuses it with a Spanish-American twist. Guests can expect a casual, laid-back atmosphere while enjoying exciting new dishes like savory jamon croquettes alongside familiar morning classics such as vibrant acai bowls, fresh pastries, and satisfying frittatas.
As dusk settles, however, Rojo undergoes a captivating transformation. The ambiance shifts, becoming an elevated, modern dining experience pulsating with vibrant Spanish energy. This change addresses feedback from past Sailors who desired a more sophisticated dinner setting in the Razzle Dazzle location. The nighttime Rojo promises a sophisticated-but-warm vibe, perfect for savoring the evening’s culinary offerings.
Sip, Savor, Share: Anticipating the Flavors of Rojo
The evening menu at Rojo is designed around the heart of Spanish dining culture: sharing. Expect an enticing array of pintxos (small snacks often pierced with a skewer), tapas (small savory dishes), and platos grandes (larger main courses), all drawing inspiration from Spain’s diverse and renowned culinary regions. While the full menu is eagerly awaited, the possibilities are tantalizing. One might find classics like gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), or perhaps even variations of Spain’s iconic paella. Paella itself boasts incredible regional diversity, from the traditional Paella Valenciana with rabbit and chicken to coastal Paella de Mariscos brimming with seafood, the hearty Paella Mixta, flavorful Paella Vegetariana, or the striking squid-ink infused Arroz Negro. The inclusion of such dishes would perfectly capture the authentic, regional spirit Rojo aims for.
Complementing the food is a carefully curated beverage program. Virgin Voyages partnered with Barcelona-based Onada Consulting and sought inspiration from iconic bars in Madrid and San Sebastian to ensure authenticity. Sailors can anticipate crisp, sparkling Cava, classic sherry pours, artisanal vermouths (perhaps served as refreshing spritzes), and elevated gin & tonics kissed with Mediterranean botanicals. Vibrant sangrias are also expected, perfect for sharing. The wine list will prominently feature Spanish selections, spanning bold reds like Rioja and Ribera del Duero to refreshing Albariño whites from Galicia’s Rias Baixas region. Popular Spanish cocktails like Tinto de Verano, Agua de Valencia, or even a Rebujito could also make an appearance, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Designing the Experience: Ambiance and Atmosphere
Virgin Voyages has completely reimagined the Razzle Dazzle space for Rojo, moving away from the original bold stripes and patterns inspired by naval camouflage. The new design aims to honor Spain’s communal dining traditions, creating an environment that is both lively and intimate. Renderings and descriptions suggest a sophisticated yet warm aesthetic, marked by rich wooden accents, deep reddish-orange tones, and sleek finishes. The layout will feature a mix of lively shared tables, encouraging connection, alongside intimate nooks for quieter moments, embodying Virgin’s philosophy of bringing people together over exceptional food. This transformation reflects Virgin’s responsiveness to guest feedback, which indicated a desire for a more elevated dinner ambiance compared to the brighter, daytime feel of the original Razzle Dazzle. The change follows a similar pattern seen on Scarlet Lady, where the Razzle Dazzle space now hosts Lucky Lotus, a Chinese-inspired concept, demonstrating Virgin’s strategy of using this venue to introduce distinct culinary experiences across the fleet.
Rojo’s Place in the Virgin Culinary Universe
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle doesn’t exist in isolation; it joins an already impressive and diverse culinary landscape aboard Virgin Voyages ships. With over 20 eateries included in the fare, ranging from the upscale steak and seafood at The Wake, inventive Italian at Extra Virgin, lively Korean BBQ at Gunbae, experimental tasting menus at Test Kitchen, to vibrant Mexican street food at Pink Agave, Virgin offers a breadth of options unmatched by traditional cruise dining. Rojo adds a distinct and highly anticipated Spanish flavor profile, further enhancing the variety and solidifying Virgin’s award-winning culinary program. Its introduction is part of a broader wave of innovation debuting on Brilliant Lady, which also includes seven new stage productions and an updated menu at The Dock, showcasing the line’s commitment to keeping the onboard experience fresh and exciting for both new and returning Sailors.
Navigating this incredible array of dining, entertainment, and itineraries on a ship like Brilliant Lady is an adventure in itself. To ensure Sailors savor every moment, partnering with experts who truly know Virgin Voyages makes all the difference. CamJon Travel are Gold Tier Virgin Voyages specialists. Their passion and in-depth knowledge, highlighted on their blog, mean they can assist Sailors in crafting their perfect voyage, ensuring they don’t miss experiences like the incredible Rojo by Razzle Dazzle.
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Seamless Sailing Starts Here
Experiencing the delights of Rojo is just one facet of the larger, seamless Virgin Voyages adventure. The line is renowned for its exclusively adult atmosphere, offering a sophisticated yet fun escape with unique entertainment, stylish modern design inspired by superyachts, and a focus on wellness. Brilliant Lady continues this tradition while introducing new itineraries exploring destinations like New England, Canada, the Caribbean, and Alaska.
Planning such a voyage involves numerous details – selecting the ideal cabin (Brilliant Lady even introduces new options like the Slightly Smaller Sea Terrace), securing coveted dining reservations at popular spots like Rojo, and potentially arranging flights, pre- or post-cruise hotels, and shore excursions. Juggling these elements can be complex, detracting from the excitement of the trip itself.
This is where dedicated planning assistance becomes invaluable. CamJon Travel offers comprehensive planning services, taking care of not just the cruise booking, but also flights, hotels, transfers, and those essential dining reservations. Founded on principles of integrity and honesty (learn about us here), their ‘Clients First, Always’ approach ensures each journey is seamless and tailored precisely to the Sailor’s desires, allowing them to focus purely on the anticipation of their upcoming adventure.
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Conclusion: Your Table Awaits
Rojo by Razzle Dazzle stands poised to be a highlight aboard the new Brilliant Lady. It promises an authentic journey into Spanish cuisine, guided by acclaimed chefs within a vibrantly transformed space, offering distinct experiences from sunlit brunch to starlit dinners. This exciting addition perfectly encapsulates the broader Virgin Voyages promise: an elevated, adults-only experience brimming with culinary delights, groundbreaking entertainment, and chic relaxation, all delivered with rebellious flair.
The taste of Spain is calling from the decks of Brilliant Lady. The allure of shared tapas, exquisite wines, and lively conversation awaits. Sailors ready to answer the call can ensure a smooth journey by partnering with dedicated experts. Let the specialists at CamJon Travel guide the way to this unforgettable experience. Exploring their insights on Virgin Voyages (camjontravel.com/blog) is the first step toward planning an adventure where the only focus is enjoyment. A table at Rojo awaits.