I read a lot so-so reviews on the Epic - but, it worked for us and we really liked it - I would travel the Epic again. It is 'different' with the unique cabin layout and separated bathroom / shower, but, we really liked out balcony room, very comfortable and great storage. Solid NCL customer services with entire staff - from room steward, bartenders, to servers. They know how to move a lot of people thru the ship, so it does not feel that crowded.
The Unlimited Beverage package and Speciality Dining was included with a promotion. Hard to eat and drink like that for a week - but, I did my part! The buffet was the best one on the many cruises we have taken. I typically don't like the buffet and we only go out of convenience when necessary -- but, this probably one of the better 'food' choices. In the main dining rooms I was a little disappointed with the service. The speciality dining you get a bit better service - but, the food is all pretty much the same, good, but really nothing amazing in the dining rooms. Overall NCL Epic offered a good value for the experience, with excellent entertainment choices and venues. The shows on the Epic were some of the best performances you will find on a cruise ship.
I like what Epic did with the rooms. Great comfortable bed. I like the separate shower / toilet. The room sink could be a bit bigger and I would like the ability to have more light in the room in dressing / mirror area - lots of dark wood looks good like a high end hotel room. 8199 had a nice sized balcony with a nice unobstructed view.