Portofino vs Giovannis

[RSLeesburg]

I read recently that they changed Portofino on Freedom to Giovanni's, but I was wondering why - they were both Italian restaurants, so couldn't they have just changed the menus? They changed menu at Chops without changing its name. I am just curious, as it seems a waste of money to change name, decor of a restaurant, when that money could have been spent on something else...

 

 

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[lawgirl]

I have no clue, but I was on the fence about Portofinos... Really only ate there to do the Murder Mystery. However, I love Giovanni's Table. The carved meat (prosciutto I think) is great and the balsamic they use with the olive oil for dipping is fantastic. I just like the menu better. Food is fantastic, at least on the ships I have been on. So, I guess maybe some guests (me!!!) like Giovanni's better?

[RSLeesburg]

We have eaten at Giovanni's too, and loved it - am very excited to see it on Freedom, as we sail on her in November. It just struck me as odd.

 

 

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[MADflyer]

It is a re-branding of Italian venues to meet the demands of the modern cruise passenger.

 

While Portofino was considered to be an 'elegant' 'classic' Italian venue considered perfect for a special occasion, Giovanni's Table is positioned as a 'contemporary' Italian venue for everyday dining in a 'rustic' atmosphere with meals served 'family' style.

 

Both are concepts somewhat unique to Royal Caribbean, unlike Jamie's Italian that will be onboard Quantum class ships, which has locations all around the globe offering basically the same menu available on the ship as on land.