Are you hungry? Good! Are you planning on embarking on a cruise this summer? Even better! Cruise ships come prepared to meet the culinary needs of all types of guests. From massive dining halls to exclusive specialty restaurants, here are what dining options you can expect on your next cruise!
Main Dining Room
Almost every cruise line features a main dining room where you can enjoy sit-down service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These venues usually provide a diverse selection of traditional American and Continental-style cuisine. The dining rooms are designed to be banquet-style which creates a spacious and elegant setting. It’s common practice for passengers to share tables with fellow travelers, fostering a social atmosphere while enjoying their meals. As an added bonus, most cruise lines will include dining in the main dining room as part of your fare.
Satellite Restaurants
Outside of the main dining room, most cruise lines boast various specialty restaurants to provide guests with a different culinary experience. These satellite restaurants will typically cater to specific themes and cuisines, serving unique dishes and fresh atmospheres to allow guests to explore different flavors and dishes on their cruise. These restaurants can include Italian trattorias, sushi bars, ice cream parlors, steakhouses, and even celebrity chef-branded eateries. Some of these restaurants may require you to make a reservation and pay an additional fee for entry.
Room Service
Want something to eat in the comfort of your stateroom? No problem! Many cruise lines provide complimentary room service, excluding certain river cruise ships. However (as of posting this blog), Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean implement a flat fee of $9.95, and $7.95, for all room service orders. Be warned: the room service menu is often limited, and the quality of the food may be lower than what you’d find elsewhere. In addition, alcoholic beverages are usually not available for purchase in room service menus, regardless of whether or not you have purchased a drink package for your trip.
Specialty Restaurants
The cruise industry has witnessed a recent emergence of specialty restaurants, also referred to as alternative restaurants. These dining establishments are known for offering elevated service, exceptional cuisine, and occasionally breathtaking decor. Examples include Carnival’s steakhouses, Holland America’s Pinnacle Grill, Princess’ Share, Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and Disney’s Remy and Palo.
A helpful tip is to consider dining at a specialty restaurant on the first night of your cruise, as it tends to be less crowded. This allows you to enjoy a more intimate dining experience and take advantage of the restaurant’s offerings without the usual rush of patrons. Exploring these specialty restaurants can add a touch of luxury and culinary excellence to your cruise vacation.
In conclusion, embarking on a cruise this summer promises a delightful culinary adventure. Cruise ships are well-prepared to satisfy the appetites of all guests, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste. From the grandeur of the main dining room, where you can enjoy a diverse selection of American and Continental cuisine, to the specialty restaurants that provide superior service and exquisite dishes, there is something for everyone.
By Ethan Leckie
