which cruise line has the best food

Cruise Ship Food Reviewed: Which Cruise Line Is Best?

by Contractor | Nov 21, 2020 | resources , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Experienced cruisers know that the food onboard a ship can make or break the cruise. But with most cruises claiming to have the best food, how are you supposed to know which ones actually deliver on their promise?

Below, we’ve vetted each cruise line’s food based on many factors, including customer reviews. And as you know, customers usually don’t hold back when reviewing a meal! This list should help you narrow down your options and choose the cruise with the best food for both your palate and budget.

The Cruise Lines with the Best Cuisine

The cruise lines on this list not only have the best cuisine, but their service and atmosphere are top-notch as well. Combined, you have every element you need to make your dining experience onboard an unforgettable part of your trip.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the highest-ranked cruise lines overall, providing excellent customer service and giving passengers a ton of value for their money.

It makes sense, then, that the restaurants aboard their ships are plentiful and staffed with super-friendly servers. The cruise line boasts a whopping 42 different dining options , over half of which are included in the passage cost.

Each ship houses between 20 and 30 of these food establishments, with a range of included and additional options. Whether you’re looking for a casual place to grab a quick bite or a more formal sit-down affair, Carnival has got you covered.

Regular vacationers know that one of the largest expenses on any trip can be the food, but on Carnival ships, you’ve got many included options to choose from; the following is just a small sampling:

• Shaq’s Big Chicken: fried chicken, sides, breakfast
• Lucky Bowl: casual healthy Asian fusion
• Guy’s Burger Joint: burgers and fries
• Dining Room : 3-course meals in a formal(ish) environment
• Swirls: soft-serve ice cream
• Blue Iguana Cantina: bold Mexican fare

If, by some strange chance, you can’t find what you’re craving among the included options, there are plenty of restaurants available at an additional (but still reasonable) cost:

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396: flavorful Creole cuisine
• Rudi’s Seagrill: beautifully presented seafood dishes
• Cucina del Capitano: family-friendly Italian
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor: smokehouse and brewhouse
• Bonsai Sushi: sushi and other Japanese fare

Carnival is known for going out of their way to please customers, and their restaurants are more than happy to accommodate any dietary restriction, though sometimes it helps to let them know ahead of time.

Want an unforgettable experience for your kids? Check out the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, an interactive Dr. Seuss-themed dining experience with colorful, sugar-laden dishes.

Celebrity Cruises

If you’re looking to get away from the tacky decor of some cruise ships, then Celebrity Cruises are for you. Their ships are outfitted with a sleek, modern atmosphere that makes you feel like a thousand bucks when coupled with their outstanding service.

Naturally, their restaurants are first-rate as well, with a mix of classic and contemporary dishes served in classy settings.

Celebrity doesn’t stand up to Carnival as far as the number of options goes, with only two dozen restaurants in total, and up to a dozen per ship. But each one features menus crafted by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher, so you’re definitely not going to go hungry.

Complimentary restaurants include:

• Main Restaurant: globally-inspired cuisine served in an airy, sophisticated setting
• Cyprus Restaurant: chic venue serving seafood and Mediterranean fare
• Normandie Restaurant: contemporary French dishes in an upscale environment
• Spa Cafe: healthy, light breakfast and lunch items
• Mast Grill: casual spot with burgers and more

Notable restaurants available at an additional cost:

Fine Cut Steakhouse: contemporary and traditional American fare

Le Grand Bistro: Parisian-style bistro

Rooftop Garden Grill Restaurant: Backyard BBQ with breathtaking views

Sushi on 5: authentic sushi and Japanese cuisine

The Porch Seafood Restaurant: fresh seafood in a rustic outdoor setting

Although we focused mainly on Celebrity’s official restaurants, they also have an impressive number of cafes, bars, and lounges where you can pick up comfort food, appetizers, and dessert.

Crystal Cruises

The award-winning Crystal Cruise Line has luxury cruising down to a T. Their outstanding service is matched only by their exquisite gourmet food, most of which is complimentary. In fact, only two restaurants on Crystal’s dining list incur additional fees, and even those offer each passenger one initial complimentary meal.

Known for providing a luxurious cruise experience with minimal passenger crowding, Crystal knows how to take care of their passengers.

Cruisers will enjoy complimentary meals at:

• The Classic Dining Room: a variety of options cooked in the French style
• Silk Road and Sushi Bar: sushi and Japanese fusion in a modern venue
• The Lido Cafe: casual buffet-style dining with made-to-order stations
• Trident Grill & Ice Cream Bar: burgers, wraps, and dessert items
• The Bistro: cafe drinks and fresh pastries

But what about their two specialty restaurants, you ask?

• Prego: seasonal Italian fare with an elegant old-world vibe
• Umi Uma and Sushi Bar: specialty sushi with Peruvian and European influences

In addition to regular dining options, Crystal Cruises feature a delightful afternoon tea, where you can try teas from all over the world.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Lines were started with families in mind, and they know how to create a magical experience you and your kids will remember for years to come.

That experience naturally extends to mealtimes, which feature outstanding cuisine served in restaurants ranging from classy, adults-only venues to restaurants that go all out to celebrate a Disney theme.

And best of all, almost all of the restaurants on Disney cruises are included with passage fares, so you and your family can try them all out. Just a few examples include:

• Duck-In Diner: Donald runs this quick-service spot, where you can grab dogs, burgers, and shawarma
• Tiana’s Palace: Southern cooking and live jazz inspired by The Princess and the Frog
• Enchanted Garden: seasonal menu and lunch buffet in an elegant faux outdoor setting complete with simulated sunrise and sunset
• Triton’s: upscale restaurant presided over Ariel’s dad, serving French and American cuisine
• Lumiere’s: Inspired by Beauty and the Beast , this refined spot offers American and French dishes

If you’re willing to pay a little extra to ditch the kids for the evening, there are also a couple of restaurants that cater to an adults-only crowd:

• Remy: Enjoy gourmet French-inspired dishes made with seasonal in a lavish setting
• Palo: A stylish venue offering Northern Italian cuisine

Disney does its part to make sure you get to try out different restaurants, featuring a rational dining schedule in which guests rotate between three dining rooms each evening. But don’t worry, your waitstaff rotates with you, so you won’t have to keep repeating dietary restrictions or preferences each night.

Holland America

Holland America caters to older adults who appreciate high-quality service and are willing to pay for it. As such, their dining options are exquisite and more refined than some of the cruises that primarily cater to families with children.

But that’s not to say that kids and teens are left out entirely: The cruise line has plenty to offer them as well; they just don’t beat you over the head with it.

Holland America offers flexible dining options or reserved seating, depending on your preference. The cruise line has just over a dozen restaurants and features a mix of included and specialty venues on each ship.

A few of the included dining options:

• The Dining Room: regionally inspired dishes, American fare, and vegetarian dishes
• Lido Market: wide range of options in a marketplace setting
• Dive-In: classic poolside spot serving up burgers and dogs
• New York Pizza: casual poolside pizzeria

There are also a wide range of specialty options for an additional charge:

• Pinnacle Grill: modern, refined steak and seafood grill
• Canaletto: rustic spot featuring authentic Italian dishes
• Tamarind: Asian fusion in a modern setting
• Rudi’s Sel de Mer: classy French brasserie with a contemporary twist
• Grand Dutch Cafe: traditional Dutch cafe located in an atrium

It’s worth noting that many specialty restaurants offer discounted rates for children so that the whole family can enjoy the treat. Speaking of treats, make sure to try the fantastic gelato at the ice cream parlor.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises cater to people from all over the world, so it makes sense that they offer a wide range of globally-inspired menus.

Known for providing an eclectic mix of entertainment aboard their ships, their dining experiences are equally diverse, offering options for every style and taste imaginable.

Which dining options are included with the price of the ticket? Well, here’s just a sample of what you might find:

• Main Restaurant: international dishes created by gourmet chefs
• Buffet Restaurant: extensive selections available morning, noon, and night

Looking for something a little more unique? Don’t worry, MSC is on it—there are a ton of amazing specialty restaurants in addition to the usual complimentary spots.

• Sports Bar: American food in a fun environment complete with games
• Tex-Mex and Steakhouse: steak and Mexican food served in a bright, cheerful atmosphere
• Galaxy Disco Restaurant: relive the 70s while enjoying the fusion dishes and tasting menu
• Eataly: fresh Italian cooking in a comfy homestyle setting
• Asian Fusion: Asian fusion in a trendy venue

Whether you’re off your diet during your holiday or are still trying to eat healthily, you’ll find something to suit your needs on MSC Cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for being laid back and casual, allowing cruisers to relax and have fun without worrying about dress codes and enforced schedules.

But one thing they do take seriously: providing amazing dining venues with finely crafted menus. Enjoy an elegant upscale meal or grab a casual bite at the buffet—Norwegian has something for everyone.

While they don’t have as many dining options as some other cruise lines, Norwegian makes up for the lack of quantity with quality. Fresh ingredients are expertly prepared and served by skilled waitstaff.

Complimentary dining options include:

• O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill: comfy spot offering pub food and drinks
• Main Dining Rooms: fine dining with a rotating menu
• Beyond Buffets: expansive buffet with everything from salads to meat, pasta to dessert
• Asian Fusion: Asian-inspired dishes in a contemporary setting
• Sabrett’s Hot Dogs: casual hot dog stand

If you’re looking for a more distinctive dining experience, try:

• American Diner: casual diner with a retro feel and classic car-booths
• Q Texas Smokehouse: authentic Texas BBQ complete with live country music
• Moderno Churrascaria: traditional Brazilian rotisserie in a trendy setting
• Le Bistro: formal, sophisticated French cuisine
• Food Republic: global fusion in a sleek, modern atmosphere

Although most of the restaurants are in keeping with the ship’s relaxed dress code, some of the fancier ones, like Le Bistro, are a little more formal, so keep that in mind.

Norwegian keeps the atmosphere onboard fun and relaxing, but you can bump up the enjoyment factor even more by stopping by one of their exclusive dessert shops for a treat.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises are perfect for cruisers looking for an upscale yet relaxed country club vibe during their holiday. If you want a premium experience at less than premium prices, Oceania is the cruise line for you.

Their mid-sized ships offer plenty to do, and more importantly, plenty to eat.

Their award-winning cuisine has won them the nickname “ the cruise line for foodies ” in some circles, which is not surprising. Given their venues’ relaxed elegance and gourmet menu options, there’s so much to love.

A few of the many included dining options:

• The Grand Dining Room: stately European-style dining area with a rotating menu
• Polo Grill: steak and seafood served in a warm, traditional atmosphere
• Toscana: traditional Italian cooking served on custom Versace china
• Jacques: eclectic Parisian bistro
• Red Ginger: bold, contemporary spot featuring updated Asian classics

There are only two specialty dining options to choose from, but both are exceptional:

• Privee: Private gourmet dining for up to ten guests in an exclusive setting
• La Reserve: pairing dinner for wine enthusiasts, by reservation only

If you find yourself with a free afternoon, the 4:00 tea time is delightful, with a string quartet playing in the background as skilled waitstaff serve pastries, finger sandwiches, and desserts.

Princess Cruises

One of the largest cruise lines in the world, Princess Cruises offers traditional-style cruises. What do we mean by traditional-style? Well, think more relaxing resort rather than a floating amusement park, and you’ve got the idea.

There is still plenty to do aboard Princess ships, but the focus is more on relaxation than on high-octane activities. For this reason, this cruise line is as popular with middle-aged couples as it is with families with kids.

Casual elegance and a warm, welcoming atmosphere permeate Princess ships, and their dining experiences take center stage.

Indulge in one of their fine dining options, included in the price of a ticket:

• Dining Rooms: upscale dining with a variety of options
• 24-Hour International Cafe: a casual spot for cafe fare
• Alfredo’s Pizzeria: gourmet pizzas in a warm, cozy atmosphere
• Vines: wine bar with sushi and tapas in the atrium
• Burger & Hot Dog Grill: casual place to grab burgers and daily specials

Specialty restaurants that are worth paying a little extra for:

• Share: Michelin star chef, Curtis Stone, offers a varied menu with fresh ingredients
• The Salty Dog: gastropub featuring gourmet takes on pub food
• Sabatini’s: award-winning Italian food with a modern twist
• Harmony: flavorful Cantonese cuisine expertly prepared by Chef Richard Chen
• Bayou Cafe: New Orleans-style dishes in a contemporary setting

If you’re looking to make your evening extra special, Princess Cruise’s chocolate and wine tasting is a perfect way to unwind after a long day.

Royal Caribbean

One of the most well-known cruise lines in the world, Royal Caribbean has been around since 1969. They offer a wide range of activities, from rock climbing walls to Broadway shows.

If you’re looking for a cruise line that will keep your day jam-packed with fun activities, this is the cruise line for you. And if you’re looking for a cruise line with amazing food served by friendly waitstaff—this cruise line is also for you.

Families, couples, and groups of friends will love the excellent dining options that range from casual to formal and everywhere in between.

What’s included with the passage fare, you ask?

• Cafe Promenade: casual cafe serving diner food 24 hours a day
• Park Cafe: gourmet deli food in a trendy setting
• Coastal Kitchen: smart casual spot featuring farm-fresh coastal fare
• El Loco Fresh: Mexican food made with fresh ingredients
• Dog House: casual hot dog joint offering traditional and updated dogs

There is plenty to choose from as far as included fare goes, but for those interested in seeking out even more options, these specialty restaurants are worth checking out:

• Chef’s Table: exclusive formal five-course meal for the ultimate foodies
• Samba Grill: contemporary venue serving cuisine from Brazil
• Portside BBQ: homestyle BBQ in a casual setting
• Sabor: contemporary Mexican fare in a trendy spot
• Teppanyaki: Asian dishes prepared at your table

There are two things you can be sure about if you take a Royal Caribbean cruise: you won’t be bored, and you won’t go hungry!

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Scenic Luxury Cruises are, well, luxurious, as you could have probably guessed. They started out offering luxury river cruises but have since expanded into the ocean cruise market as well. For cruisers looking for a boutique hotel’s feel with the passing scenery and opportunities for exploring that only a cruise can offer, Scenic Luxury Cruises is the company to check out.

Providing one of the most glamorous cruise experiences available, it makes sense that the state-of-the-art vessels feature mouth-watering gourmet cuisine. Let’s take a look at just a few of their onboard dining facilities :

• Crystal Dining: varied menu prepared by award-winning chefs
• Portobellos: upscale Italian restaurant in an intimate setting
• River Cafe: casual dining spot with lighter fare and healthy options
• Table La Rive: exclusive dining experience for Diamond Members

Usually, this is the section where we’d list the available restaurants at an additional charge, but since everything in Scenic Luxury Cruises is included, that means that you already have access to all the fantastic dining experiences their ships have to offer.

This cruise line offers “dine anytime, anywhere” options and is one of the most flexible cruise lines when it comes to meals. Their chef will even prepare a picnic basket for you if you’d like to enjoy a bite next time you visit the shore—what other cruise lines do that?

Seabourn Cruise Line

The pioneer of ultra-luxury cruises on small ships, Seabourn Cruise Line takes vacationers all over the world. The all-inclusive cruises give the feel of a floating resort, where relaxation is the name of the game.

Stop by the spa for a tension relieving massage, then head over to one of their phenomenal restaurants for a taste of cruising that would make even the most snobbish food critic green with envy. Just some of the selections available are:

• The Restaurant: classic elegance with a varied menu
• The Grill by Thomas Keller: retro American food with a modern twist
• The Colonnade: indoor-outdoor restaurant with a casual feel and themed nights
• The Patio: casual poolside lunch and dinner under the open sky
• Sushi: authentic sushi rolls prepared by hand

The helpful staff on Seabourn cruises are more than happy to serve your dinner in your room if you wish—even full multi-course meals.

As you might have guessed, all restaurants on Seabourn cruises are complimentary. Relax in your room or on your veranda with a gourmet meal, or explore what the stylish dining rooms have to offer— with Seabourn, it’s entirely up to you.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is another cruise line that started by offering river cruises, then expanded out into the open water with ocean cruises.

Travel + Leisure named the cruise line #1 in luxury cruises , so clearly, they’re doing something right. One of the things they’re excelling at? That’s right, you guessed it: the cuisine.

The small ships do not cater to families with children, so they’re perfect for couples looking to get away and relax with some peace and quiet while on the way from one incredible destination to the next.

Of course, one of the best ways to pass the time is by indulging in some fantastic cuisine, and fortunately, Viking Cruises has taken care of everything. Take a look at a few of their offerings :

• The Restaurant: sophisticated dining featuring regional cuisine
• Manfredi’s: Italian trattoria with a private dining room
• World Cafe: global fare presented in a lively atmosphere
• Mamsen’s Norwegian Deli: Norwegian specialties in a tasteful space
• Aquavit Bar: Viking inspired indoor-outdoor space serving specialty drinks

As with most ultra-luxury cruises, Viking gives guests complimentary dining at all their venues and never charges for meals. Their top-notch cuisine and refined dining areas are sure to be a memorable part of your vacation.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises offer boutique cruises on small ships and are known for their exemplary hospitality and unique destinations.

The small ships don’t offer nearly as many dining options as cruise lines with larger ships, but the quality is so impressive that you won’t miss the variety one bit. The refined decor and accommodating servers make every dining experience feel like a treat unto itself, not to mention the inventive cuisine.

Dining options include:

• Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso: tapas restaurant with a romantic, intimate feel
• Star Grill by Steven Raichlen: a casual outdoor spot for BBQ and grilled goodies
• AmphorA: stunning dining room offering regional delicacies, desserts, and wine
• Veranda: bright and spacious venue serving breakfast and lunch
• Candles Grill: outdoor dining with an unbeatable view and broad menu

Notably, the staff is very accommodating and go out of their way to assist those with special dietary restrictions. With Windstar, you never have to worry about one member of your party having their vacation dampened by limited food options or wait staff that is unknowledgeable or unhelpful.

All dining is included with passage, and there are no scheduled dining times to adhere to. Take advantage of the fantastic food and matchless ambiance of the dining venues onboard and enjoy a romantic dinner for two.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: your ultimate guide to the best cruise ship food available. While there are plenty of other things to consider when deciding which cruise line to book with, your dining experience is definitely one of the more important ones. If you’re not fed well, it’s going to be hard to enjoy other aspects of the cruise, especially for “foodie” vacationers.

Related Posts:

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling on a budget

CruiseOverload

9 Cruise Lines With Best Food: A Gastronomer’s Sea Adventure!

Maybe I’m alone in this (doubt it) but when I travel, food is one of my top priorities. The word ‘diet’ flies out the window and I wholeheartedly enjoy myself.

So when booking a cruise, I want to make sure the food onboard is top-notch.

You’ll be having the majority of your meals on the ship anyways, you may as well make sure they’re enjoyable.

And if you’re a true foodie like myself, finding the cruise lines with the best food is high on your list.

So we did the dirty digging for you and rounded up the best cruise lines based purely on their food quality.

Get ready for your mouth to water…

Table of Contents

Which Cruise Lines Have The Best Food?

The top cruise lines for food enthusiasts are Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Each of these lines excels in culinary excellence, offering everything from sophisticated, award-winning menus to immersive, destination-focused dining experiences.

The choice of the best depends on individual preferences for style, ingredients, and variety, with each line presenting its unique approach to gourmet cruising.

How We Decided Which Cruise Lines Have The Best Food

The hallmark of quality cruise ship cuisine lies in its fresh ingredients, creative menus, and experienced culinary teams who craft each dish.

Presentation is key; each plate is often a work of art, visually impressive and designed to add to the overall dining pleasure.

In terms of flavor, the best cruise ship cuisine will take you on a journey, with authenticity in ethnic dishes and innovation in combining flavors.

Dining on a cruise ship is a complete sensory experience, with the gentle ocean backdrop and meticulous service enhancing the delight of each bite.

These are what we consider the best foodie cruise lines based on our own travel experience and online chatter.

Top 9 Cruise Lines for Foodies

Crystal cruises.

On Crystal Cruises, you’re treated to an array of sophisticated dining options that cater to your appreciation for gastronomic finesse.

The elegant main dining room and specialty restaurants offer menus crafted by award-winning chefs, featuring dishes like succulent lobster or perfectly aged steaks.

In addition to these exquisite dining venues, Crystal Cruises offers the unique Vintage Room, where wine connoisseurs can indulge in exceptional wine-pairing dinners.

For a more casual yet equally refined experience, the Lido Café presents a buffet-style service with an array of international cuisines.

The Bistro, a Parisian-inspired café, offers a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon, with specialty coffees and light snacks surrounded by an air of sophistication.

Whether it’s a formal dinner, a casual lunch by the pool, or a late-night snack, your taste buds will rejoice in the luxury that graces every plate.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises prides itself on what many call “The Finest Cuisine at Sea” .

Indulge in the signature dishes of world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin at the French-inspired Jacques restaurant.

Beyond the delights of Jacques, Oceania’s culinary repertoire extends to other specialty restaurants like the Polo Grill, embodying the essence of a classic American steakhouse, and Toscana, where guests can savor authentic Italian dishes.

The onboard cooking school, a unique feature of Oceania Cruises, offers hands-on culinary classes under the guidance of expert chefs.

This immersive experience allows guests not only to taste world-class cuisine but also to learn the secrets behind it, enriching their culinary knowledge and skills.

Seabourn Cruise Line

With Seabourn Cruise Line, you’ll savor multicourse meals that rival those of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Imagine dinners where truffles and caviar are no rarity but a standard expectation.

The Restaurant, the main dining venue on Seabourn ships, offers a variety of gourmet options in an open-seating arrangement, allowing guests to dine whenever they wish.

For a more intimate experience, guests can opt for The Grill by Thomas Keller, a unique collaboration with the renowned American chef, where classic American cuisine is reimagined with contemporary flair.

Seabourn’s commitment to personalized service elevates the dining experience further.

A dedicated staff ensures that each guest’s preferences and dietary needs are meticulously attended to, making every dining experience feel exclusive and tailored.

Your dining experience is elevated with a side of personalized service that ensures your culinary desires are met with impeccable attention.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes ‘all-inclusive’ to a new level. Here, you can dive into a world of flavors at no additional cost.

Relish in an extensive selection of fine wines and gourmet dishes in sophisticated venues like Prime 7 and Chartreuse.

These specialty restaurants, along with others like the Italian-inspired Sette Mari at La Veranda and the Asian fusion Pacific Rim, boast menus crafted with precision and flair, highlighting the finest ingredients from around the world.

The Compass Rose, the ship’s main dining room, offers a diverse menu that changes daily, ensuring that every meal is a new discovery.

Additionally, your journey includes culinary-focused shore excursions that tempt your senses with local cuisines.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises excels in providing you a taste of your destinations.

The Kitchen Table experience focuses on regional recipes and the importance of locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to connect with the culture through its cuisine.

Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant offers a hearty taste of Italy, while The Chef’s Table provides a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings that change every few days, reflecting the cuisine of the ship’s current region.

Mamsen’s, inspired by Norwegian heritage, serves Scandinavian delights, and the World Café features global cuisine with live cooking and open kitchens.

Their destination-focused dining will have you savoring the essence of each region you visit.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers you a modern luxury dining experience where menus are as inventive as they are diverse.

With venues like the Tuscan Grille and partnerships with wine producers, you can enjoy perfectly paired sips and bites.

Beyond these exquisite dining options, Celebrity Cruises also offers unique experiences like the Chef’s Market Discoveries, where guests can accompany the chef on a market tour, followed by a special dinner on board featuring the day’s freshest finds.

Blu, another exclusive restaurant for AquaClass guests, focuses on healthy and clean eating, offering a menu that features light and flavorful dishes.

Their focus on fresh, globally-inspired dishes will leave you eagerly anticipating your next meal.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises provides an intimate setting to enjoy your meals, often highlighting the authentic flavors of the itinerary’s regions.

Whether dining al fresco under the stars or in the coziness of The Restaurant, you’ll find dishes infused with local ingredients and traditions, making every bite a journey unto itself.

The culinary experience aboard Silversea extends to specialty restaurants like La Dame, featuring fine French cuisine, and the Grill, which offers an interactive dining experience where guests can cook their prime cuts on heated lava stones.

For a more casual setting, the Pool Grill serves up lighter fare in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

With Silversea Cruises, dining is not just a part of the day; it’s an integral aspect of the travel experience.

Each meal is a celebration of the local culture and a testament to the cruise line’s commitment to delivering an exquisite and authentic dining experience.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers a culinary odyssey that is as diverse and exciting as its destinations.

Dining options range from Wonderland , where dishes are crafted through molecular gastronomy, to the authentic Italian flavors at Jamie’s

Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Each meal is an exploration, with options like sushi-making classes and wine tastings adding to the immersive experience. Casual yet diverse, the Windjammer Café presents a world of flavors, from lavish breakfast buffets to satisfying midnight snacks.

Quality is at the heart of Royal Caribbean’s culinary journey. Their focus is on using the finest ingredients to create exceptional dishes, whether it’s a classic gourmet burger at Johnny Rockets or an innovative Asian fusion meal at Izumi.

You truly can eat your way through Royal caribbean and never get bored…

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line redefines the dining experience at sea with its “Freestyle Dining” concept, offering a relaxed, resort-style atmosphere.

This approach allows guests the freedom to dine when and where they wish, choosing from an array of over 25 unique dining experiences.

Standouts include Onda by Scarpetta, known for its modern Italian fare, and Teppanyaki, where skilled chefs entertain as they cook.

The culinary journey on Norwegian extends to the indulgent desserts at Dolce Gelato and the sizzling steaks at Cagney’s Steakhouse.

Every restaurant on board aims to provide a distinct and memorable dining experience, ensuring that every palate is catered to. With Norwegian Cruise Line, the journey is as much about the diverse and delicious cuisine as it is about the destinations .

Unique Dining Experiences Onboard

Specialty restaurants and themed dinners.

Every cruise line boasts a signature style that extends to their dining options. Specialty restaurants offer you a chance to indulge in culinary delights that are often the brainchild of celebrity chefs.

Consider the specialty dining on Norwegian Cruise Line, where you can savor the flavors of a high-end Italian restaurant inspired by New York City’s Scarpetta.

Imagine feasting on barbecue with live country music as your backdrop, or delighting in Caribbean lobster risotto aboard an Ocean Blue venue.

Themed dinners, on the other hand, transform your meal into an event. Royal Caribbean International doesn’t just transport you around the world; it brings global flavors to your table with Mediterranean nights or a taste of Asia.

Your dinner could be a festive luau, complete with Hawaiian fare and traditional entertainment. These experiences redefine dining, making each meal an adventure in itself.

Chef-Led Cooking Demonstrations and Classes

Have you ever wanted to learn the secrets behind your favorite dishes? Cruise ships offer you the chance to put on an apron and learn from the masters in chef-led cooking classes.

Celebrity Cruises, known for their exquisite culinary standards, may allow you to witness the artful preparation of gourmet dishes right before your eyes, and perhaps even try your hand under the guidance of skilled chefs.

Such immersive experiences are not just about eating; they’re about learning, engaging, and taking a bit of the journey home with you.

As chefs share their personal tips and tricks, you’ll be able to add new recipes to your repertoire and dazzle your family and friends long after your voyage has ended. It’s a delicious education you won’t easily forget.

Dining Plans and Packages

Cruise lines offer a variety of dining plans and packages to cater to your culinary preferences, whether you’re in the mood for an all-encompassing gourmet experience or prefer to pick and choose specific eateries as you go.

All-Inclusive vs. A La Carte Options

All-Inclusive Dining : On certain lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, your fare includes a wide range of dining options, meaning you can indulge in a variety of cuisines at no additional cost.

You’ll have the freedom to savor gourmet meals across multiple venues without worrying about the bill. This often includes main dining rooms, buffets, and sometimes even specialty restaurants.

A La Carte Options : Alternatively, some cruise lines operate on an a la carte basis. You pay for each meal outside of the included buffet or main dining room options.

This allows you to sample specialties from critically acclaimed chefs at your own pace, creating a custom dining experience that aligns with your cravings and budget.

Beverage and Specialty Dining Packages

Beverage Packages : If your sea days are incomplete without a refreshing drink in hand, beverage packages can be a convenient and cost-saving option.

Depending on the cruise line, packages can range from non-alcoholic drinks to premium spirits and fine wines. You’ll find options like Carnival’s Cheers package or Royal Caribbeans Deluxe Package , which covers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your voyage.

Specialty Dining Packages : For a more elevated dining experience, specialty dining packages allow you to dine at exclusive restaurants for a set fee.

These packages may offer a selection of fine dining establishments that are not included in the standard fare, such as Celebrity’s Tuscan Grille or Norwegian’s steakhouses.

These dining experiences usually require reservations, so it’s wise to book in advance to secure your spot.

How to Choose the Right Cruise for Your Palate

Culinary Themes and Itineraries

When you’re looking at cruise options, pay close attention to the culinary themes. Some cruises are explicitly designed around gastronomic experiences, offering itineraries that include stops at ports known for their food culture.

A cruise stopping in St. Barts may delight with its French-inspired dining options, akin to what you might find in the French Riviera.

Research the line’s specialty restaurants as well, like the Tuscan Grille on Celebrity Cruises, which is renowned for its dish quality and variety.

Certain cruise lines may feature on-board food and wine festivals, culinary workshops, and chef-hosted dinners that could greatly enhance your journey.

Always check the cruise’s schedule to see if these align with the dates of your travel for an enriched culinary voyage.

Personal Dietary Needs and Preferences

If you have specific preferences or restrictions—be it vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, or any other—verify in advance that the cruise line can accommodate you.

Don’t hesitate to contact them directly to discuss your requirements; customer service can provide detailed information about on-board dining options and menu flexibility.

For a smooth dining experience, it’s also helpful to look at the availability of various dining venues on the cruise.

Larger ships typically offer an impressive array of dining options without additional fees, as seen with lines like Carnival.

This variety means you’re more likely to find eateries that suit your palate and dietary preferences, providing a stress-free cruise where you can enjoy the food just as much as the voyage itself.

Similar Posts

Can Felons Go On Cruises? (& More FAQs!)

How Much Does A Cruise Ship Cost To Build? (SHOCKING AMOUNT!)

13 Secrets Only Cruise Ship Staff Know (& Will Make Your Trip 10x Better!)

5 Bizarre Cruise Ship Attractions You Won’t Believe Exist

Captains Dinner on a Cruise: Is It Still A Thing?!

How Much Of A Cruise Ship Is Under Water? (& Other FAQs!)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Destinations
• Cruise & Travel Blog
• Group Cruises
• Luxury Cruises
• River Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• World Cruises
• All Cruise Lines
• Best Price Guarantee
• Advanced Cruise Search

7 Best Cruise Lines for Foodies

It’s fair to say that food is not the main reason why people go on cruises. Most often, many people choose a cruise for its ample amenities, beautiful destinations and weather, and amazing entertainment. Food is often a secondary priority, usually provided in the form of buffets—whether all-you-can-eat or all-inclusive, or something else. So, in this seemingly under-saturated market, you might wonder: “which cruise line has the best food? “.

Those of you who like both cruising and eating well, don’t have to worry. There are, perhaps surprisingly, actually quite a few cruise lines with ships that focus on cuisine as well. As the societal focus shifts toward locally sourced, sustainably produced and ethically grown ingredients—organic food, and farm-to-table restaurants… cruise lines have no choice but to follow that trend. And they do so with rather remarkable success.

Many cruise lines now cater toward foodies. They feature things like specialty niche restaurants, cooking classes, excursions to local farmers markets, cuisine-focused itineraries and dishes made with popular ingredients from specific ports of call. Additionally, pretty much every cruise line has a chef who has a Michelin star nowadays. If that’s not proof that modern cruise lines take cuisine seriously, we don’t know what is!

Best Cruise Lines for Foodies and Fine Dining

If your taste buds can appreciate the more sophisticated foods of the world, you should definitely check out our recommendations for the best cruise lines for foodies and fine dining.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is known for its world-class dining, and for good reason. The cruise line offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual buffets to fine dining restaurants, all of which feature fresh, high-quality ingredients. Celebrity Cruises also has a team of world-renowned chefs who create innovative and delicious dishes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Here are just a few of the reasons why Celebrity Cruises has the best cruise line food:

• Fresh, high-quality ingredients:  Celebrity Cruises sources its ingredients from all over the world, and the chefs use only the freshest and finest products in their dishes. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite.
• Innovative and delicious dishes:  Celebrity Cruises’ chefs are constantly creating new and exciting dishes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. From classic favorites to new culinary creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• A wide variety of dining options:  Celebrity Cruises offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual buffets to fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’ll find something to your taste.
• Excellent service:  Celebrity Cruises’ staff is dedicated to providing excellent service, and they go above and beyond to make sure that you have a memorable dining experience. From the moment you sit down to the moment you leave, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a fine restaurant.

If you’re looking for a cruise line with great food, Celebrity Cruises is the perfect choice. With its fresh, high-quality ingredients, innovative and delicious dishes, wide variety of dining options, and excellent service, Celebrity Cruises is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Recommended restaurant: Blu

Suggested dish: Everything at Blue is delicious, but we especially like the pan-seared filet mignon with celery purée, green asparagus, cabernet confit shallots, and olive oil beef jus

Norwegian Cruise Line

If you fancy a cruise that departs from New York City, the ship Norwegian Breakaway from Norwegian Cruise Line should be your first choice. The cruise experience on this ship is as NYC as it gets, with its mesmerizing Broadway performances and typical eateries.

By partnering with renowned chef Geoffrey Zakarian, Norwegian has put itself in the culinary-cruise spotlight. The Breakaway’s dining venues include everything from a Brazilian steakhouse to the highly rated seafood restaurant Ocean Blue, which is run by Zakarian.

Of course, you can find some delicious cuisine on Norwegian’s other ships as well, from the Norwegian Bliss to Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Joy. All those ships offer thoughtfully created menus in up to three different Main Dining Rooms, several casual cafes, grab-and-go places, seafood restaurants, and bars and grills. There are some excellent options for family dining experiences on board, too.

Additionally, Norwegian also gives its passengers the chance to immerse themselves in regional specialties on special shore excursions for foodies.

Recommended restaurant: Ocean Blue

Suggested dishes: Caribbean lobster risotto, and whole roast Dover sole with meunière sauce

Seabourn is one of the world’s best luxury cruise lines, sailing literally all over the world. From Alaska to Antarctica, from the Mediterranean to the South Pacific, if you’re after luxurious journey to pretty much every coastal destination on earth, this is the company for you. One of its greatest features is its gourmet dining. Serving award-winning cuisine, the various dining venues on each Seabourn ship provide you with the perfect choice to suit your mood.

Dining abroad a Seabourn ship is 100% complimentary; you can dine where, when and with whom you want. Noteworthy restaurants are The Restaurant, The Colonnade, The Patio and, especially, The Grill by Thomas Keller, a world-famous American restaurateur who owns three Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, you can also opt to have your multi-course meal from The Restaurant served in your own suite or your veranda

If all of that doesn’t convince you that Seabourn is one of the best cruise lines for foodies, this fact will: the company is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the most prestigious gastronomic and fine-dining societies in the world. In a nutshell, dining at a Seabourn ship is a world-class experience.

Recommended restaurant: The Grill by Thomas Keller

Suggested dishes: lobster thermidor and creamed spinach

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas is the ship for you if you’re into mouthwatering (and even experimental) food. This is one of the cutting-edge ships that make Royal Caribbean one of the best cruise lines for food and fine dining.

One of the most revolutionary cruise ships that currently sail the seas, Quantum of the Seas has no fewer than fifteen restaurants. There’s a bionic bar—where actual robots mix your cocktails!—and a sushi restaurant, while the Chef’s Table offers a superb private five-course dining experience.

What you should focus on, however, are the restaurants owned by famous British chef Jamie Oliver and renowned Miami chef Michael Schwartz. Another highly recommended venue is Izumi, a superb Japanese restaurant offering guests an exotic East Asian dining experience.

Recommended restaurants: Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver and Chef’s Table

Suggested dishes: the entire Chef’s Table experience will blow you away

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is basically the cruise line that gave the world the concept of “chef’s table at sea”. It is, in other words, a pioneer when it comes to culinary cruises and one of the best cruise lines for foodies and fine dining in the world. And that’s a true statement, Food & Wine Magazine having voted it as one of the “best cruises for food lovers”—literally.

On a Princess Cruise, there’s lack of neither high-end cuisine nor dining options. Everything from hand-tossed pizzas to world-class chocolates to multi-course gourmet dinners is available.

Princess Cruises has teamed up with two award-winning chefs, Los Angeles-based chef Curtis Stone and Ernesto Uchimura who founded the world’s first umami burger restaurant. Chocolatier Norman Love crafts stunning desserts and creates menus filled with different chocolate drinks, including chocolate-infused cocktails. His “Chocolate Journeys” also feature wine-and-chocolate pairings, which is always a fun thing to do.

Recommended restaurant: The Salty Dog Gastropub

Suggested dish: The “Ernesto” burger, previously voted as the best burger at sea

Viking Ocean & River Cruises

Through its “destination-focused dining”, Viking Cruises offers its passengers yet another chance to immerse themselves in the local culture of their destinations—one of its signature features.

However, you can also enjoy culinary classic at its many different restaurants, which are famous for offering the most al fresco dining at sea. So, whether you’re looking to try some local specialties or simply want to enjoy comfort food you know, Viking’s restaurant will take care of you.

Mention-worthy eateries onboard Viking Ocean ships are Mamsen’s, which serves Norwegian specialties for breakfast, lunch, snacks or dinner; the Aquavit Terrace, a magnificent al fresco dining area; and The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting and wine-pairing experience. Additionally, another feature that makes Viking Ocean Cruises one of the best cruise lines for foodies is The Kitchen Table. This onboard cooking school takes food lovers on an interactive culinary journey through local culture and cuisine.

The company’s other branch, Viking River Cruises, also offers destination-focused dining. Although the river ships are much smaller than the ocean-going vessels, they do have a few excellent dining options: Aquavit Terrace and The Restaurant. Again, this is where you’ll find the “most al fresco dining” on the waterways of Europe.

Recommended restaurants: Aquavit Terrace and Mamsen’s

Suggested dish: all Norwegian specialties at Mamsen’s

Get a price on a cruise in this post

Born and raised in Belgium, Bram is currently based in the Pacific Northwest where he spends his days blogging, hiking, indulging in freshly roasted coffee and sipping craft beers. An experienced traveler, his… More about Bram R

Keep reading

Limited time cruise deals, oceania: simply more + up to 40% off.

Windstar: Boston to Bermuda

Fill out the form below to get a quick, free quote

• Name * First Last
• Do you have an agent you’ve worked with or are working with at Cruise Travel Outlet?
• How many passengers? * Please select one: Number of passengers: 1 2 3 4 5 or more
• Where are you in the booking process? * Please select one: I am... Still gathering information Looking for pricing Ready to book
• What type of cabin? *
• Preferred travel date *
• More Information Please tell us about the cruise or deal you're interested in. Be specific if you can.
• Get the latest hand-picked cruise deals and discounts delivered to your inbox.
• I agree to the privacy policy .
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Comments (0)

Whoops! No comments yet. Start the conversation!.

Join the conversation

Submit a comment today.

With cruising's all-inclusive nature, food takes center stage as one of the top considerations when choosing a cruise line. From formal dining rooms to poolside grills, the quality and variety of cuisine can make or break a cruise vacation. But which cruise lines stand out for their food offerings?

It's worth noting that the definition of "best food" can vary depending on your individual preferences, budget, and dietary requirements. Therefore, we encourage you to explore different options that align with your specific needs. Continue reading for further insights.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers a diverse range of dining experiences, all included in your cruise fare. From their impressive main dining rooms to the relaxed buffet dining at the Windjammer, as well as snacks and pastries at the Cafe Promenade, there are options to suit every taste.

If you're looking for something extra special and don't mind an additional cost, Royal Caribbean provides an array of specialty restaurants like Chops Grille or Jamie Oliver's Jamie's Italian restaurant.

What sets Royal Caribbean apart is their exploration of contemporary and even unconventional dining concepts. For instance, at the Wonderland restaurant, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, you can select dishes based on five natural elements: Earth, Sea, Fire, Ice, and Sun. Alternatively, you can experience the flavors of modern Mexican cuisine at Sabor or satisfy your sweet tooth at the Sugar Beach ice cream parlor.

Royal Caribbean is also highly accommodating when it comes to dietary needs, including food allergies, gluten-free, kosher, and low-fat diets. Your culinary preferences are well taken care of onboard.

Disney Cruise Line

When considering Disney Cruise Line 's dining options, you might assume it's all about typical Disney theme park food. However, there's a delightful blend of family-friendly fare and gourmet dishes to explore.

For those who adore Disney, they do offer whimsical Mickey-shaped treats and princess-themed afternoon teas. But if you have a penchant for culinary delights, you'll find ample options to satisfy your palate.

Your cruise fare covers a wide range of dining choices, including the themed main dining room and the relaxed Cabanas buffet. For those seeking something special, the specialty restaurants, such as Remy and Palo, provide authentic French and Italian cuisine experiences.

Disney Cruise Line adds a touch of magic with 'rotational dining,' where you'll rotate between three dining venues during your cruise, and your dedicated waitstaff moves with you. This personalized service ensures they're already acquainted with your preferences, making it especially beneficial if you have dietary requirements as they'll be prepared to accommodate them.

Norwegian Cruise Line

If you prefer a more flexible dining experience, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers an excellent option. Unlike some other cruise lines, NCL follows a freestyle approach, meaning there are no set dining times – you eat when it suits you.

Despite the relaxed dining atmosphere, the quality of the cuisine remains consistently high. You have access to elegant dining rooms, buffets, and round-the-clock eateries. For those seeking something extra special, NCL also offers specialty restaurants for an additional fee.

Among these options, Cagney's Steakhouse stands out, receiving high praise from guests for its premium beef cuts and inviting ambiance.

Even if you have dietary preferences like vegetarian or vegan, NCL can accommodate you. While the majority of menu items may not be vegan, they provide a substantial selection of vegan-friendly dishes. Vegan choices are available at every mealtime, and there's a dedicated vegan lunch and dinner buffet to cater to your needs.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises stands out as a leading cruise line in the realm of fine dining. Our onboard restaurants present a diverse array of culinary styles, including global flavors, comforting home-style dishes, and gourmet meals infused with carefully curated tastes.

We've also collaborated with renowned chefs like Curtis Stone and Ernesto Uchimura, who have introduced award-winning burger creations to our menus.

One of the exceptional experiences highlighted by our guests is the "Chef's Table Experience" (available on Royal Class Ships). This exclusive opportunity provides an insider's view of our kitchen operations, followed by a delectable multi-course tasting dinner expertly paired with fine wines.

For those with special dietary requirements, Princess Cruises caters to a wide range of preferences. While, like many cruise lines, some guests have mentioned occasional menu repetition, our main dining room chefs are always eager to accommodate your specific needs and preferences. Your culinary satisfaction is our priority.

Celebrity Cruises

At Celebrity Cruises , we consistently earn accolades year after year, including recognition through prestigious awards like the Cruiseline Member Choice Awards for food and dining.

We offer an extensive range of dining options on each of our ships, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. From the impressive Main Dining Room to the relaxed Oceanview Cafe, there's something to suit every taste. For those seeking a little extra, our specialty restaurants provide diverse options, such as Italian classics at Tuscan Grille or Japanese delights at Sushi on Five.

But that's not the end of our culinary innovations. We introduce an interactive dining adventure called 'Le Petit Chef,' a fusion of technology and gastronomy. Picture your dinner table transformed into an immersive experience where a miniature chef prepares your meal through a captivating 3D animation show right on your table. It's not only an exquisite dining experience but also great fun for kids, as reported by many reviews.

Our wide-ranging food offerings are designed to cater to every palate and dietary requirement. If you have specific requests or preferences, our chefs are more than willing to create a personalized culinary experience tailored just for you. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority.

Now, let's delve into Seabourn , the ultimate ultra-luxury cruise line. As proud members of the esteemed Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world's premier gastronomic and fine-dining societies, we bring unparalleled dining experiences to your journey.

Each dining venue on our ships offers a distinct atmosphere and an array of dishes, yet they all share a common commitment to using the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.

Our guests consistently rave about the delectable cuisine served in exquisite settings, accompanied by flawless service. Many have highlighted our unique partnership with American chef Thomas Keller, which adds an extra "wow" factor to our dining offerings.

While our main dining area and several other restaurants accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets, we also provide an option for pre-ordering. Simply reach out to Guest Services before your cruise, and we'll ensure an ample supply of raw ingredients for our chefs to craft creative and varied meals tailored to your dietary requirements throughout your voyage. Your satisfaction is our priority.

Oceania Cruises

At Oceania Cruises , we take pride in consistently receiving outstanding guest reviews, especially when it comes to our culinary offerings. We are committed to delivering a top-notch dining experience throughout your voyage, combining luxury dining with relaxed options to cater to all preferences.

In addition to our main dining room, we provide several specialty restaurants, all of which are available to you at no extra cost. These include Toscana, offering delectable Italian cuisine, the Polo Grill, renowned for its signature steaks, and Red Ginger, where you can savor Pan-Asian dishes.

Our menus are thoughtfully curated to offer a diverse selection, featuring regional specialties and timeless classics, all presented with exceptional attention to detail.

If, for any reason, you don't find a dish that suits your preferences, rest assured that we can prepare meals tailored to your specifications. This flexibility is particularly valuable if you have specific dietary requirements, such as allergies, or if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Your dining satisfaction is our utmost priority.

Determining which cruise line has the best food ultimately comes down to personal tastes and preferences. Each cruise line mentioned offers its unique culinary experiences and delights. From local flavors to global cuisine, there's a wide variety of options to explore on these cruise lines. Whether you're craving fine dining, relaxed buffets, or specialty restaurants, Cruisebound has your ticket to setting sail and satisfying your taste buds on the high seas. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Overview: Food & Wine 2024 Global Tastemakers
• Top U.S. Cities for Food and Drinks
• Top International Cities for Food and Drinks
• Top Cities for Coffee
• Winner: Best City for Coffee
• Plus One: Top U.S. Cities for Food & Drinks
• Winner: Best International City for Food & Drinks
• Winner: Best U.S. City for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top International Cities for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top Cities for Coffee
• Top U.S. Restaurants
• Top International Restaurants
• Winner: Best U.S. Restaurant
• Winner: Best International Restaurant
• Plus One: Top U.S. Restaurants
• Plus One: Top International Restaurants
• Top U.S. Bars
• Top International Bars
• Winner: Best U.S. Bar
• Plus One: Top U.S. Bars
• Winner: Best International Bar
• Plus One: Top International Bars
• Top U.S. Cities for Bakeries
• Top International Cities for Bakeries
• Winner: Best U.S. City for Bakeries
• Plus One: Top U.S. Cities for Bakeries
• Winner: Best International City for Bakeries
• Plus One: Top International Cities for Bakeries
• Top Markets for Food and Drinks
• Winner: Best Market for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top Markets for Food & Drinks
• Top U.S. Hotels for Food and Drinks
• Top International Hotels for Food and Drinks
• Top Hotel Bars in the U.S
• Top International Hotel Bars
• Winner: Best U.S. Hotel for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top U.S. Hotels for Food & Drinks
• Winner: Best International Hotel for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top International Hotels for Food & Drinks
• Winner: Best U.S. Hotel Bar
• Plus One: Top U.S. Hotel Bars
• Winner: Best International Hotel Bar
• Plus One: Top International Hotel Bars
• Top Cruises for Food and Drinks
• Winner: Best Cruise for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Best Cruises for Food & Drinks
• Top Airports for Food and Drinks
• Top Airlines for Food and Drinks
• Winner: Best Airline for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top Airlines for Food & Drinks
• Plus One: Top Airports for Food & Drinks
• Winner: Best Airport for Food & Drinks
• Global Tastemakers

10 Top Cruises for Food and Drinks, According to the Experts

Dining at sea is more adventurous than ever with highly curated cruise ship concepts and menus, onboard culinary classes, and shore excursions.

Dining while cruising has never tasted better. Onboard restaurants can match land-based eateries in sophistication and style, with chefs as driven by seasonal ingredients as their peers ashore. The 2024 Global Tastemakers, selected by food and travel journalists this year, favor luxury ocean lines, which invest heavily in food and wine, yet also embrace expedition ships and riverboats. All operate small vessels by today’s standards; kitchen crews can more readily cook with artistry and ingenuity for fewer passengers. 

These Tastemakers share passion and vision; they’re reshaping shipboard norms by introducing dining venues and cuisines rarely spotlighted at sea, such as Virgin Voyages, with a Korean barbecue restaurant among 20 complimentary eateries. Global Tastemakers are also offering more adventurous culinary classes and shore excursions. Silversea, the winner, scores for its multifaceted S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, devoted to the sailing region’s food and beverages. Crystal (formerly Crystal Cruises) reclaims its stellar reputation from its prior incarnation, including a renewed partnership with iconic chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Regent Seven Seas Cruises debuted a glam new ship and elevated menus fleetwide, with novel dishes inspired by the culinary team’s extensive research trips. As this year unfolds, expect even more allures: On HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), local chefs on some itineraries may hop onboard to cook regional specialties. Oceania Cruises debuts both a Culinary Masters Cruise hosted by two Master Chefs of France, and the highly anticipated Editor’s Cruise, with Hunter Lewis, Food + Wine ’s editor-in-chief. These are the best cruises for food and drinks.

Winner: Silversea

Silversea’s impactful S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program secures the luxury line’s winning spot. S.A.L.T. Kitchen devotes an entire ever-changing menu to reflect sailing itineraries. S.A.L.T. Lab’s cooking instructors share regional cultural and culinary history with passengers during hands-on classes. In S.A.L.T. Bar, passengers sip locally inspired mixologists’ cocktails. S.A.L.T. shore excursions range from foraging in Puglia to lunching at a hyper-local Lisbon tinned-fish eatery and exploring a Patagonian organic farm. S.A.L.T. outings have proven so successful, Silversea is adding selections.

Crystal Cruises

The brand relaunch of luxurious Crystal Cruises (acquired by A&K Travel Group) now sails as Crystal , with two beautifully remodeled ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Eight distinctive restaurants include Umi Uma, showcasing the inimitable Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine of Crystal partner, legendary chef Nobu Matsuhisa . Osteria d’Ovidio, named for Crystal’s Italian owner Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, presents poetic plates anchored in simplicity and  primo ingredients, such as lobster in tomato essence with basil olive oil.

Oceania Cruises

This line pursues compelling culinary exploits onboard and ashore, like cooking demonstrations at a Venetian master chef’s private villa or a Latvian “farm to table” experience in which guests shop at a market with the Culinary Center chef before cooking and consuming a Latvian lunch on board. Shipboard chefs are so ingredient-obsessed, they even order custom-milled French flour. Among updates, Oceania has reimagined numerous dishes, highlighting local sourcing. On Marina, Riviera, and Vista, a must-try six-course menu with a Dom Pérignon pairing perpetually marvels.

This luxe line debuted modern Mediterranean restaurant Solis on Seabourn Quest as an inspired replacement to Thomas Keller’s Grill, before Seabourn Encore, Ovation, and Sojourn rollouts. Seabourn restaurants may differ stylistically fleetwide, yet never vary in quality. Exemplary venues include Sushi for primo fish; the Restaurant with intricate entrees like carved lamb loin with crisp lamb spring roll; and Earth & Ocean for fine dining al fresco. Consider complimentary caviar and 24-hour in-suite service as bonuses.

Hurtigruten/HX

Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten (formerly Norwegian Coastal) and HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) ships explore the world, including polar regions, the Galápagos, the Caribbean, and of course, Norway. Both HX and Hurtigruten aim to serve cuisine as compelling as adventures ashore and feature menus reflecting their Norwegian heritage. Supporting local communities, Hurtigruten relies on some 50 suppliers along the Coastal Express route for about 80% of ingredients, while more than 75% of HX’s ingredients used on Antarctica and Alaska routes are local.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This luxury line’s six ships deliver exemplary dining, with its three newest ships (Seven Seas Grandeur, Splendor, and Explorer) exhibiting boundless flair. Among venues, Prime 7’s juicy steaks, Chartreuse’s French plates, and Pacific Rim’s pan-Asian dishes particularly dazzle. Beyond dining, the hands-on cooking school and Regent’s chef-led Epicurean Explorer Tours are part of the draw. Passengers may market-shop for a paella cooking class and feast on the famed rice-based dish at a seaside eatery in Valencia, Spain.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar’s six small ships possess yacht-like vibes, with a culinary direction to match. Chefs eagerly source fresh sustainable ingredients in ports to prepare imaginative dishes. On Star Plus class all-suite ships, Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso packs a modern Spanish punch while Star Grill by Steven Raichlen dishes up aromatic barbecue deckside. Windstar’s James Beard Foundation partnership ensures guest chefs board for demonstrations and dinners; the line also features their recipes on fleet eateries.

Viking Cruises

Viking commands attention on all waters, with riverboats, ocean liners, and expedition ships plying every continent. So many touches sum up Viking’s willingness for menus to reflect itineraries, and regional dishes and wines are a given. Flourishing herb gardens allow riverboat chefs to pluck the freshest herbs to grace dishes daily. On ocean-going vessels, specialty restaurant Manfredi’s excels in Italian cuisine (bistecca alla Fiorentina is legendary), and Mamsen’s triumphs the line’s Nordic heritage — all bow to the signature waffles.

Virgin Voyages

With 20 complimentary eateries, Virgin Voyages allows a younger, perhaps less-traveled, cruiser to sample so many cuisines. This line eschews food halls and buffets, preferring to showcase intimate boîtes, instead. Each possesses an oversized personality and emboldened plates, such as Razzle Dazzle for dishes like black garlic bowtie pasta with fennel braised pork and chanterelles, and Gunbae, knocking it out of the foodpark with complimentary soju shots and Korean barbecue.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has taken food and wine seriously since its 2002 inception. The line, inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, finds its culinary cues in its riverboats’ itineraries, selecting local ingredients and intriguing wines like Rieslings from Austria’s Wachau Valley. AmaWaterways ’ wine-themed voyages, like Flavors of Burgundy with excursions to Beaune and Mâcon, win consistent praise. Onboard gastronomic pinnacles include the Chef’s Table, a small-group dining adventure where a chef prepares wine-paired multi-course meals before passengers.

Plus one: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Exuding an exclusive boutique hotel aura, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection consists of superyacht Evrima, and in September, Ilma debuts, with Luminara arriving in 2025. This line lavishes passengers with attention, elegant design, and superb dining with an international spin. Each yacht offers five restaurants, 24-hour in-suite dining, and six lounges. The wine vault features more than 200 wine labels, with many exclusive red wines and vintages on a private reserve list.

Global Tastemakers is a celebration of the best culinary destinations in the U.S. and abroad. We asked more than 180 food and travel journalists to vote on their favorites, including restaurants and bars, cities, hotels, airports, airlines, and cruises. We then entrusted those results to an expert panel of judges to determine each category’s winners. In many categories, we’ve included a Plus One, hand-selected by our expert panel, to shout out more culinary destinations we don’t want our readers to miss. See all the winners at foodandwine.com/globaltastemakers .

Related Articles

• Cruise Ships With the Best Food

From buffets stuffed with delicious morsels to munch on to specialty restaurants touting Michelin-starred food, there is  a lot to consider about eating on a ship . It used to be that the hallmark of cruise dining was sauce-heavy foods and calorie-busting desserts (think hollandaise-drenched veggies and baked Alaska). No more. 

These days, many cruise lines are partnering with respected chefs to develop diverse dining experiences at sea to rival those on land  and to offer the cruise ship food ever. As cruise ships get larger, less expensive, and more popular, cruise lines are having to contend with a rising expectation for gourmet cuisine - not just buffet-style pig-outs. 

Some cruise ships are truly rising to the occasion - others, not so much. Wondering which cruise ship has the best food? Or which  the best Foodie Cruises  are?Here we break down the best cruise food available - from 5-star fine dining to budget dining options. Plus, we’ll help you follow your craving to the best cruise lines with the best food.

Best Cruise Ships for 5-Star Dining

Best cruise ships for foodies on a budget, best cruise ship by food, hungry for more.

While you’re sure to get delicious fare in almost any specialty restaurant at sea, luxury cruise lines offer the créme de la créme of ocean dining. Gourmands will love these cruise ships for their ultra-upscale menus, local delicacies, fusion food, and top-tier service. The best part? Most luxury cruise lines offer all-inclusive cruise fares, meaning these decadent dinner experiences are included in your cruise fare. For foodies definitely one of the main  reasons for luxury cruises .  

Crystal Serenity by Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises ranks consistently high on foodie cruise charts, and  Crystal Serenity is no exception. Nobu-trained chefs wield the blades behind Silk Road’s sushi bar. Piero Selvaggio’s Vegas-inspired Italian cuisine is a hallmark of onboard trattoria Prego. And the bottles uncorked in the Vintage Room are enough to tempt any wine connoisseur. Plus, even more casual eateries offer fare that tastes authentic, from cafe croissants to duck quesadillas and juicy burgers. Even the main dining room, Crystal Dining Room, offers a varied and painstakingly prepared nightly menu.

Crystal Serenity also wows with epicurean shore excursions through the world’s best vineyards, kitchens, and markets. Check with your travel agent or with Crystal themselves to see which tours are available on your sailing.

Create your FREE account to get access to unique services!

Silver Spirit by Silversea Cruises

Boasting an industry-leading six fine dining restaurants onboard the 540-passenger  Silver Spirit ,  Silversea Cruises is one of the cruise lines with the best food. Passengers won’t want for variety either, as each restaurant caters to different themes and tastes. 

Try Le Champagne for stunning six-course menus, expert wine pairings, and a sophisticated ambience. Carnivores won’t want to miss the Grill, an al fresco dining experience focused on pork chops, choice ribeye, and getting in on the cooking process. Head to Stars for Gatsby-esque refinement, small plates, and refined conversation. Seishin sports Asian dishes and an intimate environment. La Terrazza offers a Slow Food dining experience. 

Of course, you could also opt for Silversea’s elegant take on room service, featuring butler-serviced course-by-course in-suite meals.

Seabourn Odyssey by Seabourn

Caviar and Champagne feature heavily in the luxurious culinary creations on  Seabourn Odyssey , as does prime beef and chocolate. The Restaurant and Restaurant 2 offer modern American cuisine refined by French techniques, including chocolate covered ice cream balls on sticks reminiscent of popsicles. Decadent pastries and luxuriously foamy coffees are available from the Coffee Bar, and the clean, dreamy decor on this  Seabourn  ship make it all the more idyllic.

Marina by Oceania Cruises

For the gourmet looking to get their hands dirty,  Marina  by  Oceania Cruises is ideal. Guests are encouraged to participate in cooking classes at  the Bon Appetit Culinary Center . Featuring 24 well-stocked stations, this state of the art enrichment area offers lessons in everything from handmade pasta to ganache-filled desserts. Guests can also channel their inner enologist at La Reserve, which offers wine tastings and impeccable wine-paired seven-course meals. 

Oceania also partnered with chef Jacques Pepin to create the eponymous onboard French restaurant, which also displays art pieces from his collection. Veal and duck are favorites, served with olive tapenade. However, the pinnacle of fine dining is undoubtedly the custom dinners at Privée, served in private for up to eight guests in an all-white marble and crocodile-skin room. Dinners here start at $1,000 and are truly unforgettable. For more details about the high quality food selection you can read this article about  dining on Oceania cruises .

Seven Seas Mariner by Regent Seven Seas

Seven Seas Mariner thrills gourmands with its partnership to culinary legend Le Cordon Bleu. Chefs onboard this  Regent Seven Seas vessel train extensively in the Parisian techniques perfected there, and their hard work is evident at Signatures. From the decor to the dishes (peux-tu dire Camembert?), this eatery is a foodies favorite. 

Other restaurants include Prime 7, where you can order a 36-ounce porterhouse wheeled to your table on a sizzling marble platter; Compass Rose, the main dining room, which offers lighter fare from the Canyon Ranch spa menu. Classic cruise venues like the buffet and poolside pub are upgraded on Seven Seas Mariner to La Veranda, a gourmet buffet featuring local specialties, and the Pool Grill, where extra-large burgers and housemade ice cream are the norm.

It can be easy to go overboard on a cruise, especially with specialty restaurants tempting you at every turn. And while many of us would love to indulge in the fancy fare of a 5-star cruise, it simply might not be possible. However, that doesn’t need to stop the foodies among us. Eating on a cruise ship can be a great opportunity to expand your horizons, tempt your palate, and sample savory specialties. Finding cheap food on a cruise is easy - and these cruise ships also make it easy to find excellent eats. Using the free dining options is definitely an effective  money saving tip on a cruise.

Koningsdam by Holland America Line

Koningsdam wows foodies with its superb Culinary Arts Center, including show kitchen and individual cooking stations. Classes are available for all ages, and include taste tests and demos. Plus,  Holland America Line also partners with hit TV show “MasterChef” and “MasterChef Junior” on some sailings. Take advantage of celebrity chef-taught classes and intimate meet-and-greets with the stars of the show on these cruises.

Quantum of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

Gourmets will love the sheer abundance of dining options on  Royal Caribbean ’s  Quantum of the Seas . In fact, both Quantum of the Seas and  Anthem of the Seas feature a similar restaurant lineup. The best part for budget-conscious cruisers is that many of the delicious restaurants onboard are complimentary. Included restaurants serve everything from American comfort food (American Icon Grill) to Asian fusion cuisine (Silk), as well as some with an upscale twist, like Coastal Kitchen and Chic, which serve more contemporary favorites. 

Royal Caribbean has also partnered with celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Michael Schwartz to create two excellent specialty restaurants: Jamie’s Italian and Michael’s Genuine Pub. No matter what your style or tastes, Royal Caribbean caters to you.

Carnival Vista by Carnival Cruise Line

While  Carnival Cruise Line is better known for fun than food, this budget-friendly line offers an excellent chef’s table experience on  Carnival Vista . It costs a little extra, but it’s worth it for foodies who love to cook. Take a chef-guided tour of the galley, Champagne in hand, before settling down in a dedicated dining area overlooking the galley for a multi-course meal accompanied by sommelier-picked wines. In keeping with its brand, Carnival keeps this tour open to kids 12 and up, making it a great option for foodie families.

Nieuw Amsterdam by Holland America Line

HAL really rolls out the red carpet for gourmets, and its Chef’s Table on  Nieuw Amsterdam is a little piece of luxury that won’t break the bank. You’ll be treated to a seven-course meal designed by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin built from decadent ingredients like lobster and truffles. High-quality bottles of wine accompany this epicurean dream, and it’s all served on the ship’s best china. This is a great option for food and wine lovers who aren’t on a cruise to lose weight, as seven courses of rich food will probably leave you sated but a couple pounds heavier.

Norwegian Getaway by Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line ’s Miami-based  Norwegian Getaway earns high marks for its variety of dining options, as well as its for-fee restaurant Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. Ocean Blue features a carefully curated menu of locally-sourced cuisine, including Florida grouper and lobster risotto. Miami flavors are a major influence in this Getaway-specific restaurant, which is definitely worth a splurge.

Cruisers with a tighter budget needn’t miss out, though. Norwegian Getaway also houses an all-star array of complimentary eateries ranging from typical cruise buffet fare to Irish pubs and Asian fusion. If you’re looking for dinner and a show, opt for the Getaway-only Illusionarium, which offers sublime specialties with a side of live magic performances.

Allure of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

The largest of its Oasis-class ships, Royal Caribbean’s  Allure of the Seas is a great foodie pick both for its superb specialty restaurant 150 Central Park, and for its more casual dining spots. 150 Central Park offers prime seafood specialties, including lobster salads and crab cakes. You’ll need to reserve a table and pay a little extra, but the exceptional menu is crafted by celeb chef Michael Schwartz, and definitely warrants a taste test. 

If you’re craving some simpler sustenance, head to the Boardwalk Dog House, Allure’s open-air hot dog stand. If you’re feeling particularly peckish, you can sample a sausage from seven different styles, from German bratwurst to Sicilian sausage to Coney Island dog.

Start our FREE cruise price alerts to never miss a deal again.

When it comes to cruise ship cuisine, there are some mainstays you can always count on - soft serve ice cream, cheeseburgers, and pizza among them. Cruise ships will always offer bountiful cornucopias of healthy eating options like fresh fruit and vegetables. And while we’ll always encourage you to branch out and try new delicious dishes, we also understand the desire to find the best of the best. It’s always amazing to spontaneously encounter the best burger, pizza, sushi, steak, or dessert you’ve ever had. While we get the thrill of the chase, we’re here to offer a bit of a roadmap to guide you to the right cruise ship for your culinary quest.

Best burger: Carnival Breeze

We’ll be the first to admit: Carnival’s cruise food hasn’t always been the main draw of the line. But we also have to admit that Guy’s Burger Joint on  Carnival Breeze (and 19 other Carnival ships) is an amazing exception. The menu is built from five official burgers with a smattering of different toppings ranging from the traditional (cheese, lettuce, tomato) to the intense (roasted green chili salsa, mushrooms, “donkey sauce”). However, you can also make your own custom burger at the toppings bar, and feel free to slather the included side of fries with whatever you like as well. 

This super-casual eatery can usually be found by the pool, and we have it on good authority that the fries are best enjoyed al fresco. An added bonus for this spot (as if it needed one) is that Guy’s Burger Joint is totally free for all passengers.

Best pizza: Grand, Royal, Regal, & Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises serves up pure Neapolitan pizzas at the complimentary Alfredo’s Pizzeria, onboard  Grand Princess ,  Royal Princess ,  Regal Princess , and  Sapphire Princess . While the crust might be extra thin, each hand-tossed pizza is piled high with tons of toppings, from typical mozzarella and tomatoes to avocado and squash. These pies are a far cry from the buffet slices that can be disappointing for true foodies, and Alfredo’s Pizzeria is definitely worth a visit.

Best international cuisine: Celebrity Reflection

We couldn’t overlook  Celebrity Cruises , as their whimsical Qsine tops many a food-lover’s bucket list. With quizzical decor and unconventional plating, Qsine really brings the fun and playfulness of an adventurous palate to life. Sushi is served like cake pops (on popsicle sticks), spring rolls are served in literal springs, and a smorgasbord of international options awaits. 

Celebrity Reflection also offers an expansive Lawn Club, where guests can sear their own steaks on a perfectly manicured open-air green. An impressive array of complimentary restaurants can also be found on this cruise ship, which is the largest in the fleet.

If you still have questions, like “Is food included in a cruise?” or “How can I stick to my diet plan while on a cruise?” check out other helpful articles from our guide to the  best cruise food experience  and learn everything you need to know about cruise ship dining from  how to plan your perfect foodie cruise to  the best cruise destinations for foodies and make the most out of your cruise vacation.

• Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Ship Dining
• How to Plan Your Perfect Foodie Cruise
• Best Cruise Destinations for Foodies

Sign up for the best deals!

Sign up and we'll send you the best deals to your inbox - 100% FREE.

Related pages

• Cruise Food
• 13 Best Foodie Cruises

Latest price updates

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

CRUISE DINING & FOOD

Palate pleasing culinary crusade.

If you’re craving delicious food, we have an entire fleet filled with foodie favorites.

Indulge in an authentic taste of Italy with homemade pastas and Old World-inspired entrees at the newly reimagined Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen. Set out on an epicurean adventure east with exotic Asian flavors and tasty teppanyaki prepared tableside at Izumi. Savor captivating and creative culinary delights designed to spirit you away with every bite at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Or taste your way around the world with global goodness served buffet-style at the Windjammer. From top-notch free cruise dining included in your fare, to specialty cruise restaurants that dish up plenty of delicious flavor, we go bolder than any other cruise line when it comes to the best food onboard. 

DINING OPTIONS FOR EVERY DAY AND NIGHT

When you cruise with us, the dining options are as diverse as the flavors you’ll find on each menu. From casual bites to elevated dinner and cocktail spots that raise the bar, you’ll find something onboard for every craving and occasion during your cruise.

CASUAL DINING

Great flavor doesn’t need to come with lots of fuss. Enjoy grab-and-go goodness and amazing eats at casual, laid-back dining options — like the complimentary Windjammer, El Loco Fresh℠, Café Promenade, Dog House, and Sorrento’s Pizza.

SPECIALTY DINING

Dial up dinner at upscale specialty cruise restaurants like Chops Grille℠ and Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen, go all out on an exclusive culinary journey at Chef’s Table, or savor global flavors one complimentary course at a time in the Main Dining Room.

No matter what you’re in the mood for — and when — room service onboard our cruise ships delivers all your favorite cruise foods right to your stateroom, from juicy burgers, fresh salads and tasty sandwiches, to breakfast in bed with a couple of refreshing mimosas.

BARS & LOUNGES

If you’re craving cocktails, we offer amazing bars onboard our cruises where the vibe is always right and the drinks are always delicious. Like R Bar, known for its classic cocktails and retro vibes, or Boleros, where every sip comes paired with live salsa beats.

DINING PACKAGES

BEVERAGE PACKAGES

TOP-RATED RESTAURANTS

Each cruise ship in our fleet is home to world class dining options that will take you from Tuscany to Tokyo — and plenty of culinary capitals in between. From fresh-caught fish and New England style dishes at Hooked Seafood℠, to izakaya-style appetizers at Izumi and Old-World flavors at Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen, these are the top-rated restaurants onboard. 

ITALIAN KITCHEN

Chop's Grille

150 CENTRAL PARK

Hooked Seafood

Main Dining Room

Jamie's Italian

ALL INCLUDED COMPLIMENTARY DINING 

MINI BITES      

El Loco Fresh

Splashaway Café

Solarium Bistro Restaurant

Café Promenade

Sorrento's Pizza

Coastal Kitchen

The Café @ Two70

Vitality Café

Surfside Eatery & Surfside Bites

OUR UNIQUE SPECIALTY DINING VENUES 

Chef's Table     

Café Latte-tudes

Samba Grill

Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen 

Portside BBQ

Johnny Rockets

Fish & Ships

Chops Grille

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

Room Service

La Patisserie

Cupcake Cupboard

Sugar Beach

Sichuan Red

Giovanni's Table

Johnny Rockets Express

Coffee & Tea Shop

Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

150 Central Park

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

The Mason Jar

DIG INTO LATE-NIGHT BITES

Nightlife is a big part of any cruise vacation, and we offer endless ways to play after dark no matter which ship you’re sailing on. Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the dance floor, satisfy your cravings with delicious bites available late at night. Like cheesy, oven-baked perfection by the slice at Sorrento’s Pizza, and shareable apps, sandwiches, and sweet treats at the always-buzzing Café Promenade, stocked 24-7 with snacks that hit the spot.

After a night living it up on deck, there’s nothing more satisfying than a great slice of pizza — and Sorrento’s serves up the best at sea even after all the bars have closed. If you’re a traditionalist, go for a slice of classic cheese or Margherita. Or mix things up with a specialty pie, like the bacon and BBQ-infused Caribbean Dream.

CAFÉ PROMENADE

Café Promenade is open around the clock, which means you can enjoy shareable apps and savory snacks that hit the spot as late as you like. From fried artichoke and perfectly cooked meatballs to spicy marinated cheese and decadent desserts, there’s no curfew for your cravings at this free hotspot.

SIPS THAT RAISE THE BAR 

Schooner Bar  

Trellis Bar 

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade 

The Lime and Coconut

North Star Bar 

Diamond Lounge 

Rising Tide Bar 

Solarium Bar 

Suite Lounge 

Pool Bar & Sand Bar 

Sunshine Bar 

Viking Crown Lounge

English Pub

Wipe Out Bar

The Bamboo Room

Cantina Fresca℠

The Lemon Post℠ Bar

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Everything you need to know about cruise dining onboard.

Great flavor isn’t the only thing that has we earned a reputation as one of the best cruise lines for delicious food. It’s also the incredible diversity of dining options you’ll find on every ship. Whether you’re looking to level up your night out with elevated cuisine and white tablecloth service at Chops Grille℠ or Chef’s Table, help yourself to fresh global flavors and tranquil vibes at the Solarium Bistro, or kick back poolside with casual, no-frills noshing at El Loco Fresh℠ and Windjammer, the options to satisfy your cravings are endless. You can even treat yourself to breakfast in bed or a date night dinner in with delicious dishes delivered straight to your stateroom by our staff via room service. For additional information please see our  FAQ  section.

Your Casino Drink Is a Tell | Royal Caribbean Cruises

April 19, 2024

Your casino drink will give other players a glimpse at who you are. Choose your game and your drink wisely as you spend some time at Casino Royale℠.

What to Eat at Coco Beach Club

April 8, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay® is Royal Caribbean's® private island escape. It's best known for its thrilling water park, gorgeous cabanas and beautiful beaches, but it's also a foodie's dream come true.

Best Serenade of the Seas Restaurants | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 11, 2024

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Serenade of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Jewel of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Jewel of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

Berlin for Oktoberfest: What To Know Before You Go | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Berlin for Oktoberfest is one of the world's best parties. Here's everything you need to know before you go on your cruise to Berlin.

The Best Western Caribbean Street Food | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Sure, it's a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, but western Caribbean street food — with its diverse cultural richness — is also a draw.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Brilliance of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

Alaska Food: Where to Find the Best Food in Alaska | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best Alaska food to try on a cruise includes king crab, salmon, fry bread, birch syrup, wild berries and more.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Rhapsody of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Odyssey of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Odyssey of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

Polynesian Culture in Hawaii: History of Dancing and Island Influences | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Hawaii is more than resorts, volcanoes and beaches. The best trips to these paradise islands invite you to discover Polynesian culture in Hawaii.

Enjoying Breakfast in Rome

While it's true that many Italians take a quick, casual approach to the day's first meal, your breakfast in Rome will be anything but forgettable.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Icon of the Seas

Whether you’re a serious foodie or just appreciate the simple pleasure of a great meal, you won’t be disappointed by the cruise dining options onboard Icon of the Seas.

Finding Speakeasy Bars Near Me

Planning to visit famous speakeasy bars around the world without the password? Enjoy insider details on traveling to these interestingly unique experiences.

Famously Popular Foods from Bermuda

Encounter most famous foods in Bermuda including Bermudian Fish Chowder, Rum Cake, and more. Envision your next foodie vacation.

Best Desserts in the World

Discover the most delightful foods to enjoy on a sweet-lover's journey as you treat yourself to the best desserts in the world. Plan your foodie vacation.

Argentina Wine Country Vacation Getaway

Find out the best travel ideas for planning a trip to visit the famous Argentina Wine Country on your next vacation getaway. Adventure awaits!

6 Caribbean Islands with Delicious French Cuisine

Find the best Caribbean Islands to visit with your cruise to eat like a French in the Caribbean. These islands were made just for you.

Best Food in Nassau, Bahamas

A guide to the best food in Nassau, Bahamas. Discover new flavors in restaurants by the water or within the historic city of Nassau.

Local Jamaican Dishes & Delicacies

Discover the most delectable Jamaican dishes as well as a few of the best-known restaurants to visit during your next vacation cruise to Jamaica.

Indonesian Food in the Caribbean

Encounter Indonesian food and how Indo Caribbean culture has influenced the flavors of Caribbean cuisine. Envision your next foodie vacation.

The Best Craft Breweries in Alaska

For all the beer lovers planning an Alaskan cruise vacation, we’ve curated the ultimate zythophile guide to visiting 5 of the best craft breweries in Alaska.

Best New York Foods Using NY Water

Sample the best foods in New York with our guide to uncovering the top places for enjoying the secrets of NY water in bagels, pizza, and doughnuts.

Five of the Best Mexican Food Dishes to Try

Discover local favorite foods including the best types of Mexican dishes to explore during your next vacation to Mexico for sampling its vibrant culinary history.

Top 11 Must-Try Mediterranean Foods

Mediterranean food is renowned worldwide for being exceptionally healthy and balanced. Here are the top 11 must-try Mediterranean foods.

New Orleans Restaurants

Mr. Bs Bistro, Pascals Manale, Brigstens, Dragos Seafood Restaurant. Here are New Orleans best restaurants serving local NOLA dishes from backyard crawfish boils to chargrilled oysters and locally sourced seafood Gumbo.

Holiday Food Around the World

Planning a holiday cruise this year? Find traditional holiday dishes from around the world for an unforgettable culinary food vacation.

6 Popular Farm Foods from Spain

Here are six of the most popular farm foods from Spain. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams.

16 Best Foodie Vacation Destinations

Sink your teeth into tender succulent seafood in Maine, crave-worthy curries in Jamaica, French-inspired flavors of St. Maarten and many more indulgent dishes at these 16 Best Foodie Vacation Destinations.

Top 10 Restaurants On Allure of the Seas Cruise Ship | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Foodies love Allure of the Seas! Discover 10 onboard restaurants that will make you a believer.

10 Best Breweries in Los Angeles

Craft beer lovers, come thirsty and hoist a pint in some of the best breweries in Los Angeles and beyond!

Top 15 Food and Wine Destinations in The Mediterranean

Cruise to the Mediterranean and discover the regions top 15 food and wine destinations from the most famous tapas in Barcelona, to the endless choices of seafood in Greece and more. Find deals for cruises to the Mediterranean.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

15 Best Traditional Puerto Rican Dishes

Cruise to Puerto Rico and experience Old San Juan distinct culture and the best traditional Puerto Rican dishes from the most popular Mofongo, the favorite street sandwich Tripleta and Puerto Ricos national dish Arroz con Gandules and more.

Best Comfort Food from Around the World

Encounter the best comfort food from around the world including Belgian frites, Croatian ice cream, and more. Envision your next foodie vacation.

Local Insight: Best Caribbean Rums

What are the different types of rum? How can you tell good Caribbean rum? Enjoy our vacation guide to the best places to travel for distilleries.

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil

Uncover the secrets to having the best olive oil in the world as well as the know-how on all the many types and their uses. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

10 Best Breweries in Northeast America

Uncover the best breweries in Northeast America to make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Eating in Italy | Local Food Traveling

Uncover the ultimate guide to eating locally in Italy as you make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Turkish Desserts to Sweeten your Vacation

Turkish desserts are as pivotal to the experience of traveling in Turkey as a cruise through the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Best Cruise Restaurants | Freedom of the Seas

Planning to dine at the best cruise restaurants onboard the Freedom of the Seas. Remain in the know with the ultimate cruise dining guide to sailing with success.

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet. Before you say "cheers" with your next glass of sparkling wine, take a moment to learn about what's inside the glass you're clinking.

Discover the Caribbean National Dishes

Caribbean cuisine is something you can't miss when visiting the region. Explore this guide to learn about the Caribbean National Dishes.

Enjoy the Best Breakfast in South America

Where to find the best breakfast in South America including Peru, Colombia and Brazil. What to eat and where to find the tastiest bites to start your day.

Israeli Food: Top 10 Must-Trys

Here's a list of some of the best Israeli food found in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and beyond including sabich, shakshuka and bourekas.

What's Included in on a Cruise

New to cruising and unsure exactly what is included on a cruise? Read on to learn about all the fun things Royal Caribbean ships offer for free.

Best Food Vacations & Holiday Recipes

Indulge in culinary delights on the best food vacations. Explore holiday recipes from around the world and discover the best places to visit for foodies.

Top Cruise Dining on Symphony of the Seas

Experience the best cruise restaurants onboard Symphony of the Seas for an unforgettable dream vacation. Book now for a stress-free getaway!

Famously Popular Street Foods

Explore culture through famously popular street foods on your Ultimate World Cruise. Enjoy the best food around the world from Mexico to Asia, & beyond.

Best Food on Navigator of the Seas

Experience exquisite dining on vacation with Navigator of the Seas cruise restaurants. Indulge in delectable cuisine and breathtaking ocean views.

Best Harmony of the Seas Restaurants | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the best cruise restaurants available onboard on Harmony of the Seas for an unforgettable family vacation filled with delicious cuisine.

Top 9 Restaurants on Ovation of the Seas

Have your pick of all the best restaurants and dining option when planning a cruise vacation onboard the award-winning Ovation of the Seas.

Best Restaurants in Galveston

Enjoy this handy guide on the best local restaurants in Galveston when seeking the top places to eat on your visit to this Texas beach town.

KIDS CHOICE A SWEET SURPRISE

Treat your sweet tooth to every candy under the sun — plus a few sugarcoated surprises. Sugar Beach℠ is stocked to max candy capacity with more than 200 tantalizing confections and all kinds of creamy, dreamy ice cream flavors. From epic sundaes piled high with all your favorite toppings, to fluffy freshly baked cupcakes you can decorate yourself, Sugar Beach℠ is hands-down the sweetest spot at sea.

Portside BBQ℠    

Johnny Rockets®

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

Fish & Ships℠

Johnny Rockets® Express

EXPLORE MORE  

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

• Watch Full Seasons
• TV Schedule
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Restaurants

• Recipes on TV
• Food Network on Max
• Spring Entertainment
• Comfort Food

• Delicious Miss Brown 7am | 6c
• Delicious Miss Brown 7:30am | 6:30c
• The Kitchen 8am | 7c
• Girl Meets Farm 9am | 8c
• Girl Meets Farm 9:30am | 8:30c
• The Pioneer Woman 10am | 9c
• The Pioneer Woman 10:30am | 9:30c
• The Kitchen 11am | 10c
• Guy's Ranch Kitchen 12pm | 11c
• Guy's Ranch Kitchen 12:30pm | 11:30c
• 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing 1pm | 12c
• 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing 2pm | 1c
• Chopped 3pm | 2c
• Chopped 4pm | 3c
• Chopped 5pm | 4c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 6pm | 5c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 6:30pm | 5:30c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 7pm | 6c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 7:30pm | 6:30c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 8pm | 7c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 8:30pm | 7:30c
• On Tonight Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 9pm | 8c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 9:30pm | 8:30c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 10pm | 9c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 10:30pm | 9:30c
• Best Bite In Town 11pm | 10c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 12am | 11c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 12:30am | 11:30c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 1am | 12c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 1:30am | 12:30c
• Best Bite In Town 2am | 1c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 3am | 2c
• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives 3:30am | 2:30c

• Trending Eats

• Product Reviews
• Shop Everything

• Spring Into Cooking
• Get Outside
• Smart Home 2024
• All Sweepstakes + Contests

• City Guides
• States' Plates
• Browse by Show

The Best Food on Every Major Cruise Line

Cruise travel used to be all about quantity over quality when it came to dining and other culinary experiences, but that’s most definitely not the case today when it comes to eating and imbibing at sea and on the world’s rivers. Celebrity chef-helmed onboard restaurants, cooking classes, food-centric shore excursions and themed culinary cruises mean shipshape culinary experiences abound.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is renowned for its family-friendly options, but when parents or doting grandparents need an evening off, all four ships in the fleet feature adults-only Palo restaurants, with two-top tables and flavorful Italian dishes like sea scallops with a prosecco and black truffle reduction, dover sole served with Italian staples (like capers, anchovies and sun-dried tomatoes) and a lemoncello tart or chocolate soufflé for dessert (why not order both?). Two Disney ships (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy) also offer adults-only Remy restaurants, with an elegant French-leaning dining experience.

Where to Eat in Memphis 26 Photos

The Best Pan Dulce Bakeries Across the U.S. 11 Photos

The Best Food Delivery Services and Apps 8 Photos

The Best Activities for Bachelorette Parties in Nashville 15 Photos

Tableside Dining Is Making a Comeback, and Here Are 20 of the Best Experiences to Check Out 21 Photos

Food Network’s 11 Favorite Experiential Restaurants 12 Photos

The Healthiest Dishes at 30 Major Restaurant Chains 30 Photos

The Best Afternoon Tea Spots Around the U.S. 10 Photos

14 Restaurants Designed to Feel Like Dinner Parties 15 Photos

The Best Outdoor Dining Experiences Across the U.S. 13 Photos

We recommend.

The Best Restaurants at Disneyland 11 Photos

The best restaurants in disney springs 19 photos.

The Best Restaurants at Orlando's Theme Parks 35 Photos

The Best Restaurants in Disney World’s Epcot 11 Photos

The best food inside and near la’s amusement parks 28 photos.

The Best Airport Restaurants in the US 36 Photos

Related pages.

• Character Dining at Disney World
• 50 Best Fair Foods By State
• The Best Hotels for Foodies
• Disney Princess-Inspired Cupcakes Recipe
• Rachael vs. Guy
• Eurochocolate Cruise Is a Chocolate Lover’s Dream...
• What to Watch
• What Is Blanching?
• Meet the Celebrity Guests on Fast Foodies

Calling all Foodies! The Fare on Cruise Ships is Finally Worth Writing Home About

These cruise lines have star chefs, specialty menus, cooking classes, even food-inspired excursions.

Several cruise lines have partnered with star chefs. Daniel Boulud, whose empire includes Daniel, is the global culinary ambassador for Celebrity Cruises . He creates dishes for Luminae, a restaurant on each ship exclusive to passengers staying in suites, and this year he opened his first restaurant at sea, Le Voyage, on the line’s newest ship, Celebrity Beyond. Three-Michelin-starred Thomas Keller (of French Laundry and Per Se) has his own restaurant on Seabourn ships, the Grill by Thomas Keller, and a range of comfort dishes for the line’s informal restaurants, the Colonnade and the Patio. Key ingredients are bought from the same handpicked suppliers Keller uses for his other restaurants.

Jacques Pépin, winner of 16 James Beard awards and chef to three French presidents, presides on Oceania Cruises , where he has been the long-­standing executive culinary director. He also has his own bistro, Jacques, on Oceania’s larger ships Marina and Riviera.

Both Oceania and Regent Seven Seas offer a wide array of plant-based dishes. ( Cunard has had a vegetarian menu for years, but it’s something of a secret—ask the maître d’ to show it to you in the evening and put in your order for tomorrow’s dinner.) Avalon Waterways partners with the Wrenkh brothers, two of Austria’s leading chefs in the sustainable and plant-based food movement.

And then there’s Silversea ’s ambitious SALT (“sea and land taste”) program , which takes passengers deep into the culinary traditions of the regions visited by its newest ships, Silver Moon and Silver Dawn. Menus change daily to reflect the day’s port of call; mixologists conjure up locally inspired cocktails; local chefs, food producers, and writers give talks and classes in the SALT Lab; and there are food-inspired excursions—say, to a revered cheesemaker in the hills of Mykonos. And no, nobody, on any of these ships, is going to make you share a table.

T&C TIP Hear ye, Thai-food lovers: Two four-cabin, boutiquey riverboats (polished mahogany and Asian art) from newcomer Loy Pela Voyages run three-day gastronomic safaris along the Chao Phraya River, from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, with dishes by different Michelin-starred Thai chefs.

Sue Bryant is an award-winning writer and editor specializing in travel, in particular cruising and experiential travel. She is cruise editor of London's The Times and The Sunday Times and also contributes to  Cruise Critic , Sunday Times Travel Magazine , Cruise Passenger , Travel Weekly , National Geographic Traveller and Insight Guides .

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} In the Magazine @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Anatomy of a Classic: Il Bisonte's Consuelo Bag

The T&C Investment Portfolio: Home Edition

Why Billionaires Are Buying Up Sports Teams

Sanderson Launches New Home Collection

Did Marie Antoinette Have the Best Bed in Europe?

The Dawn of the Dumb House

Investment Portfolio April 2024: Wedding Edition

Zoe Otedola & Cole Weston's Bucolic Wedding

Emma Molz & Warren Elgort's Park City Wedding

The New Must in Wedding Prep: An Insta Makeover

Alejandra Alonso Rojas Launches a New Bridal Line

The 10 large cruise ships with the best food

Royal Caribbean Cruises has better food than any other company that operates large cruise ships, according to the cruise website CruiseCritic .

• The website ranks cruise ships in a number of categories based on reviews from its users.
• For the "best dining" category, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises — which are both owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises — accounted for nine of the ships in the top-10.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The website ranks cruise ships in a number of categories based on reviews from its users. (A CruiseCritic representative said thousands of reviews were used in the website's 2019 "cruiser's choice" awards, but declined to give a specific number.) For the "best dining" category, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises — which are both owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises — accounted for nine of the ships in the top 10, with Celebrity docking six ships on the list, and Royal Caribbean taking three spots.

These are the 10 large cruise ships with the best dining experiences, according to CruiseCritic.

10. Nieuw Amsterdam

Cruise line: Holland America Line

CruiseCritic user review: "I was so happy that HAL has a menu that has vegan options in the MDR…The food was really good." - cruisingnewtoit

9. Enchantment of the Seas

Cruise line: Royal Caribbean International

CruiseCritic user review: "The food was delicious!!! So much to eat and the service in the dining room was outstanding!!" - Zzz top

8. Celebrity Infinity

Cruise line: Celebrity Cruises

CruiseCritic user review: "The food in Luminae was, as usual, top notch, and the waiter and assistant waiter were wonderful. They knew what our likes and dislikes were from the second day on." - Phxazzcruisers

7. Harmony of the Seas

CruiseCritic user review: "The food was great, and the variety of restaurant choices were amazing. The service in all the dining facilities was excellent." - anna1963

6. Celebrity Summit

CruiseCritic user review: "One of the best things about the ship was the food! Breakfast at the Oceanview Buffet offered tons of variety. While the overall menu didn't change, there were so many things to choose from that I never got bored." - LauraKKH

5. Allure of the Seas

CruiseCritic user review: "The food was delectable, the chef even came out to visit our table a few nights and that was a really nice touch." - Btrfly08

4. Celebrity Silhouette

CruiseCritic user review: "We have always been happy with the food on Celebrity, but the meals on Silhouette were the best I have ever had." - Sunnnie1

3. Celebrity Reflection

CruiseCritic user review: "We dined in Qsine twice - a must try for the uninitiated - great food, great service and such a unique experience." — pxy cda

2. Celebrity Eclipse

CruiseCritic user review: "The food in the Oceanview Cafe was excellent, something for everyone." - skip.brandy

1. Celebrity Equinox

CruiseCritic user review: "Murano was everyone's favorite restaurant. Both the food and service was so over the top we booked it twice." - Beachhead Sailor

Have you worked on a cruise ship? Do you have a story to share? Email this reporter at  [email protected] .

• Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line are banning people who have been to China recently from sailing on their ships to protect passengers from the coronavirus
• Cruise ship workers reveal the 7 most annoying things passengers do
• The world's biggest cruise ship has robot bartenders and a nine-story zip-line — here's what it looks like inside
• Cruise workers say they have so much sex on ships that it's comparable to college dorms

• Main content

Disney cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

One of the best things about a cruise is the food, especially if you're sailing on Disney Cruise Line .

From the oldest Disney ship, Disney Magic , to the newest, Disney Wish , the cruise line has continued to raise the bar when it comes to dining on a cruise ship. One thing that makes Disney cruise dining stand out among its competitors is the line's rotational dining program. Throughout a sailing, guests rotate dinners through three main Disney cruise restaurants, and their service team moves with them.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Along with the three main dining rooms across each ship, each Disney Cruise Line vessel also has an abundance of complimentary casual dining spots, at least one adults-only specialty restaurant and some lounges that offer food at an extra cost. With so many choices across the fleet, it can be confusing to know which restaurants are on which Disney ships.

Our Disney cruise food guide has all you need to know about dining options across the cruise line's fleet, including where to find them and whether they cost extra or are included in your fare. We also answer some of the most popular questions about dining and food on Disney Cruise Line.

Disney's rotational dining restaurants

Enchanted garden.

Included and a la carte; rotational dining; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Imagine stepping into a restaurant that's bright with light from the sun and is inspired by the gardens of Versailles. That's exactly what Enchanted Garden is. The venue is one of the rotational dining restaurants on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream .

Dinner at Enchanted Garden is three courses, with appetizers like lobster ravioli or a curried carrot and apple soup. The sea bass on the entree menu is a favorite of mine and is always cooked to perfection. Polish off the meal with a piece of chocolate torte or a banana sundae.

On every ship fleetwide, sit-down breakfast and lunch are served in one of the rotational dining restaurants daily. Which restaurant hosts breakfast and which hosts lunch varies by itinerary, and they can be the same venue for each meal or different for breakfast and lunch.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

The menus are typically set menus and do not change based on the host venue. On disembarkation day, your family will dine in the final restaurant of your set rotation, whether you ate dinner there or not. All breakfast menus on the final morning are the same across the ship's rotational dining options.

For breakfast, try one of the made-to-order omelets or Mickey-shaped waffles, all served by a team of helpful waiters and waitresses. Then, for lunch, menus feature soups, sandwiches, full entrees and desserts over three courses. Breakfast and lunch are both open seating, so you don't have to wait for a certain time or your assigned dinner table to be open to enjoy a meal.

Available on : Disney Fantasy and Dream

Animator's Palate

Disney Cruise Line's signature rotational dining restaurant is Animator's Palate, which can be found on the four oldest Disney ships. On Disney Magic and Disney Wonder , the restaurant is covered in black-and-white sketches of popular Disney and Pixar characters. On Disney's larger ships, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, the space is themed after an animator's studio, complete with maquettes, light boxes and computer workstations.

While enjoying the ambience, you can indulge in a menu filled with Asian and California fusion dishes. One of the most popular, and my favorite dish on the menu, is the black truffle pasta purseittes tossed in a creamy Champagne sauce. For something sweet after dinner, try the creme brulee or opt for a classic Mickey ice cream bar, which can be ordered at any of the rotational dining options fleetwide even though it's not listed on the menu.

Depending on which ship you're on, you have the chance to see three different shows inside Animator's Palate. On Disney Magic (on seven-night sailings or longer) and Disney Fantasy, you can draw your own character and, just before dessert, everyone's drawings are animated and come to life on screens near your seat.

On Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, "Drawn to Magic" shows off characters going from rough sketches to full-color animations. At the end of the show, Sorcerer Mickey stops by to say hello. If you're sailing on Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy, you'll also be able to join in the fun of "Undersea Magic," where Crush, from the Pixar movie "Finding Nemo," swims through the video screens around the room and stops to have conversations with various diners.

Available on : Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure

Get ready to belt out "Let It Go" for the millionth time at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . This rotational dining restaurant on Disney Wish highlights Norwegian-inspired dishes. One highlight of the menu is Elsa's Royal Baked Scallops, which is scallops in a tarragon bisque loaded into a crock that's topped with puff pastry and baked to golden brown perfection. If your sweet tooth is as big as Anna and Elsa's, you can indulge in desserts like butter cake, apple cake or a mint chocolate chip sundae.

The dinner experience also includes a mealtime show. Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf make their way around the restaurant to meet guests and perform songs from "Frozen" on stage. A highlight is when Elsa's "ice magic" from the movie lights up the dining room through fiber optics in the ceiling. Kids can join in the final celebration and march around the restaurant conga line-style as they wave flags and sing along to "Love is an Open Door" with the dining room service team.

Available on : Disney Wish

Lumiere's

"Beauty and the Beast" fans will love dining in the restaurant named after the candelabra in the film. When you walk into Lumiere's, you'll notice more nods to the animated classic, including glass domes covering red roses and a large mural that shows the iconic ballroom scene from the fan-favorite movie.

This restaurant is part of the rotational dining program on Disney Magic, and a four-course, French-inspired meal is waiting for you. Highlights of the menu include a bacon and mushroom tart, French onion soup, roasted duck breast and creme brulee.

Additionally, breakfast and dinner are served here for those who want a more relaxing meal. Breakfast is fairly basic, with options like made-to-order omelets and pancakes. The lunch menu rotates daily and is a three-course meal.

Available on : Disney Magic

Disney Wish's 1923 is one of the best rotational dining options across Disney Cruise Line. The restaurant is named after the year that The Walt Disney Company was founded and celebrates animation through glass-encased shadow boxes of sketches and maquettes of Disney characters.

The restaurant is divided into two dining rooms named after Walt and his brother Roy, though both serve the same menu, which celebrates California cuisine. My favorite dishes include the seared tuna appetizer, grilled filet entree and the churros with caramel dipping sauce. This is a great spot for a steakhouse date night, too, so if you have kids, drop them off in the kids club and enjoy a meal to yourself without having to pay extra for Palo Steakhouse.

Related: Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Located just off the Grand Hall, 1923 also offers a waiter-served breakfast and lunch every sailing day. Menus for both can be seen on the Disney Cruise Line app or by asking a crew member at the restaurant. Be sure to ask for a seat near a window because the views are usually incredible.

Rapunzel's Royal Table

My favorite rotational dining restaurant on Disney Magic is Rapunzel's Royal Table, which is themed after the Disney movie "Tangled." The restaurant features dinner and a show. Enjoy a meal while being entertained by Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, the thugs and ruffians from The Snuggly Duckling and a live band, who are all celebrating Rapunzel's birthday.

Dinner here is one of the best on the ship, with dishes like beef and portobello mushroom ravioli, sea bass with Champagne-truffle vinaigrette, and pesto pasta with seared scallops. Of course, no birthday party is complete without dessert, and the menu is filled with options like creme brulee cheesecake and chocolate cake.

Royal Court

The fine dining option for rotational dining on Disney Fantasy is Royal Court. The restaurant serves a French-inspired menu for dinner with dishes like lobster and shrimp cocktail, wild boar tenderloin and peanut butter mousse — which just happens to be my favorite combination of courses to order here.

The dining room is also open for breakfast and lunch for table service meals in a beautiful atmosphere. The breakfast menu is the standard fare, though do look out for the pastry plate that is walked around by a server and try one of the sweet cinnamon rolls. Lunch is a three-course meal with a rotating menu throughout the cruise.

Available on : Disney Fantasy

Royal Palace

Cruisers looking for a spot to enjoy a meal at a leisurely pace will love Royal Palace. The restaurant is part of Disney's rotational dining service for dinner but is also open for breakfast and lunch. Dinner is a four-course meal inspired by French cuisine with dishes like spinach souffle, rack of lamb and creme brulee.

Breakfast is fairly basic with traditional morning options, but it's always nice to be served rather than fight others at the buffet line. Lunch is a three-course meal where the menu changes daily, so be sure to check the cruise line app for the most up-to-date menus once you board the ship.

Available on : Disney Dream

Tiana's Place

Exclusive to Disney Wonder is Tiana's Place, part of the rotational dining roster on the ship. The restaurant is themed after the Disney animated movie "The Princess and the Frog," with a menu that highlights Creole and Cajun cooking. While enjoying your dinner, you'll also be entertained by a live jazz band playing songs from the movie and other instrumental melodies.

Of course, no dinner at a New Orleans-themed restaurant on a Disney ship is complete without seeing the Bayou princess herself, Tiana. She swings by nightly and gets everyone out of their seats to parade around the restaurant with servers just like a parade through the French Quarter.

Available on : Disney Wonder

Triton's

The last of the rotational dining options on Disney Wonder is Triton's, which is the ship's fine dining option among the rotational dining restaurants. The art deco-style restaurant is themed after "The Little Mermaid," with a mural of Ariel and King Triton, plus a bronze statue of Ariel just outside the restaurant.

Breakfast here is fairly basic but more relaxing than hitting the buffet line. Menu options include omelets, French toast and fruit. The three-course lunch menu is a nice alternative if you're looking for a table-service lunch.

Related: How much does a Disney cruise really cost?

Dinner features French and American fare with dishes like duck confit and escargot for starters, then roasted lamb shank or lobster macaroni and cheese for entrees. One thing not to miss when it's on the menu is the Grand Marnier souffle, which is my favorite dessert across the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet.

Worlds of Marvel

Fans of the Avengers and other Marvel characters will love dining in Worlds of Marvel . The meal starts with your hosts, Ant-Man and the Wasp, explaining what the interactive quantum core on your table is for. Then, throughout the meal, you'll work with Marvel superheroes to save the ship from an impending villain.

The menu at Worlds of Marvel is themed after the different fictional and real locations featured in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, like Wakanda, New York and Sokovia. Highlights of the menu include a pork belly bao bun, chicken schnitzel and a lamb shawarma salad. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, the ricotta gnocchi with fontina cheese and pesto sauces is a delightful plate.

Extra-fee specialty dining on Disney Cruise Line

Enchante by chef arnaud lallement.

Extra cost; adults-only; brunch, dinner and dessert

Adults looking for a culinary wonderland on Disney Wish will want to make reservations for the French-inspired dining experience, Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement , whose restaurant L'Assiette Champenoise in Reims, France, has three Michelin stars.

For all three meal services — brunch, dinner and dessert — ingredients are sourced from around the world, and no two menus are ever the same. Dinner is a fine dining experience that can take upward of three hours, so you might miss the evening show in the Walt Disney Theater. Schedule your dinner with care if there's a show you don't want to miss.

The Champagne brunch at Enchante is a prix-fixe meal paired with a glass of Champagne, while Just Desserts is a five-course dessert menu served with some of the best coffee on the ship.

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Pricing for brunch, dinner and dessert starts at $80, $135 and $60, respectively, for a prix-fixe meal. There is also an a la carte menu for brunch and dinner.

Extra cost; adults-only; brunch and dinner

Drop your kids off at the Oceaneer Club or Oceaneer Lab and head to Palo, an adults-only Italian restaurant on four Disney ships. The restaurant is named after the poles used by gondoliers in Venice. Walking into Palo, you'll notice the panoramic windows looking to the ocean that offer spectacular sunset views.

Dinner at the restaurant can be done as an a la carte meal where you pay for each item or a set cost prix-fixe menu for $50. I prefer to do the a la carte menu because it has more options. Plus, most of the dishes are shared among family or friends, so choosing this option makes it so I can try more things. The a la carte menu is also the only way to try the restaurant's iconic potato gnocchi, which is tossed in a fresh basil pesto sauce.

Related: The best $50 you can spend on a Disney cruise

No matter which you choose, be sure to get the signature Palo chocolate souffle with vanilla bean gelato for dessert.

Brunch is a more casual affair than dinner but no less delicious at $50. Brunch at Palo is one of my favorite things to do on Disney Cruise Line, and the meal service is offered on all ships on most sea days. If you don't have a sea day on your itinerary, brunch might be served on a port day. On a recent cruise, I made a reservation for brunch at Palo when the ship was docked in Nassau, Bahamas.

Brunch starts with a glass of prosecco or a mimosa, then your choice of antipasti plates. I suggest taking a few people with you to brunch so you can try a few of the dishes on the menu, though one not to miss is the chicken Parmesan that's served with risotto. Another favorite is the lasagna, which is the perfect size for everyone to get a few bites before moving on to something else. The almond croissants are heavenly. If you eat your first almond croissant in a hurry, just ask your server if they can bring you another one.

Additionally, Platinum- and Pearl-level Castaway Club members get one free dinner at Palo per sailing for everyone sharing their cabin.

Available on : Disney Wonder, Magic, Fantasy and Dream

Palo Steakhouse

While the four older Disney Cruise Line ships have Palo, Disney Wish has a new variation of the popular adults-only restaurant called Palo Steakhouse. The ocean-facing restaurant serves dinner nightly and brunch on most sea days and the occasional port day.

The dinner menu is similar to that of Palo on the other Disney ships, with a prix-fixe dinner starting at $50 and an a la carte option. The a la carte menu emphasizes steaks, with American prime cuts, Australian wagyu and Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef you can pair with one of five sauces. If you ask, you can also get a sauce flight to try all of the options with your steak.

Do not overlook the dessert menu. While the classic chocolate souffle is available, the carrot cake with lemon cream cheese frosting is an exquisite end to a meal.

Brunch, which is also $50, is the same menu across the fleet, so you can get your favorite items here while overlooking the ocean in an elegant setting.

Additionally, Platinum- and Pearl-level Castaway Club members get one free dinner at Palo Steakhouse per sailing to share with everyone in their cabin.

Adults looking for an upscale meal without kids will want to book Remy on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. The adults-only French restaurant is themed after the Pixar movie "Ratatouille," and eagle-eyed diners will even spot the little chef made of glass perched in the dining room. The menus here are curated by chef Scott Hunnel from Walt Disney World's Victoria & Albert's and chef Arnaud Lallement.

The dinner service starts with a complimentary Champagne cocktail called "Collette" after the female chef in "Ratatouille." The tasting menu does change seasonally, so no matter when you go, you'll find something new to try. After your meal, a cheese trolley comes around to serve a selection of cheeses from France along with accompaniments. Finish off your meal with coffee and dessert. The prix-fixe menu at Remy is $135, and there's also an a la carte menu.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

On four-night or longer sailings, Remy also offers brunch and a dessert event, which are $80 and $65, respectively. Brunch at Remy is prix fixe with dishes like lobster cannelloni and sea bass, plus a glass of Champagne and a dessert. Those with a sweet tooth will want to try the dessert service where a five-course dessert menu is served with coffee. During the sweet meal, Remy's executive chef and pastry chef will talk about the history of each dessert and how it's made.

Available on : Disney Dream and Fantasy

Olaf's Royal Picnic

Extra cost; character experience

For even more "Frozen" fun on Disney Wish, kids can spend time with their favorite characters from the movie at Olaf's Royal Picnic, an extra-cost lunch and character experience. The event, which isn't a true picnic, takes place inside Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and features a two-course meal, one savory and one sweet. While enjoying lunch at one of the restaurant tables, kids and their accompanying adults can sing along to "Frozen" songs and meet Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf.

For kids ages 3 to 12, pricing for the event is $220 and includes lunch and a goodie bag filled with gifts like an Olaf hat, a mandolin and a plush troll doll. Adult meals are $69.

Royal Court Royal Tea

Extra cost; character experience; tea party

If your kids love tea parties and Disney princesses, you might want to book one of the Royal Court Royal Tea experiences on a Disney cruise. The tea party is for young cruisers ages 3 to 12, though a parent will have to accompany their children.

During the tea party, kids can choose from a selection of teas and pair their drinks with one sweet and one savory course. A Royal hostess and pastry chef tell stories, dance and sing with the group before welcoming in a few Disney princesses. Each child will receive an assortment of gifts as a keepsake after the event.

Pricing is $220 for kids ages 3 to 12 and $69 for adults. Kids ages 13 to 17 years old who attend with a younger sibling will be charged the adult price.

Available on : Disney Magic, Wonder, Fantasy and Dream

Casual Disney cruise dining options and snacks

Included; buffet; breakfast and lunch

Cabanas is Disney's buffet on its older ships, with 10 food stations in a beach-themed space. For breakfast, you can get everything from eggs and hash browns to Mickey-shaped waffles and fruit. Typically, once per cruise, the buffet will also offer churro Mickey waffles, which are a sweet take on the traditional breakfast dish.

For lunch, you can try out a variety of salads, sandwiches and pizzas. If you're looking for something heartier, try the carving station near the back of the buffet. The classic kids menu options of macaroni and cheese and chicken strips are readily available as well. Be sure to find the towering piles of crab legs and poached shrimp that grace the buffet line as well.

Marceline Market

Marceline Market is named after Walt Disney's hometown of Marceline, Missouri. The food hall-style buffet serves breakfast and lunch.

The casual eatery has a variety of breakfast options, including an omelet station, Asian favorites like congee and fried rice, and a kids station with pancakes and Mickey-shaped waffles. Lunch is a bigger deal here with a carving station, a salad bar, an international station where I've had great Indian food and a dessert bar.

One thing to note about Marceline Market versus Cabanas on the other Disney ships is that at Marceline Market, crew members often fill up your plate for you and then pass it over the glass food guards. This process makes the buffet a little easier and healthier than the self-serve option.

The buffet has both inside and outside seating, so on warm sea days, take your plate outside to enjoy the view of the ship's wake.

Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods

Included; lunch, dinner and snacks

Near Disney Wish's main pool is Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. This outdoor open-air concept is made up of five smaller quick-service windows dishing out barbecue, pizza, burgers, tacos and ice cream. My favorite is Donald's Cantina, which is a make-your-own Tex-Mex spot with plenty of base, protein and topping options, along with a nearby salsa and hot sauce bar.

One big bonus to this location is that it's open until 6 p.m., so if you don't want to deal with one of the main dining rooms for dinner, you can come here early for a casual meal.

Flo's Cafe

Included; lunch and snacks

If you're out by the pool and in need of a quick lunch or a snack, stop by Flo's Cafe, which is made up of three different "Cars"-themed windows serving cruise classics like burgers, pizza, salad and chicken tenders.

Pinocchio's Pizzeria

Included; casual dining; snacks and lunch

If you're looking for a hot slice of pizza, look no further than Pinocchio's Pizzeria. The menu is small, with only a few pie choices, including cheese, pepperoni and vegetarian. That said, the pizza is always hot and fresh, making this a great poolside snack while watching a movie on the funnel TV.

Available on : Disney Wonder and Magic

Pete's Broiler Bites

Included; casual dining; lunch, dinner and snacks

If Cabanas is too busy or you just want a quick meal, head to Pete's Broiler Bites. The outdoor grill has a menu filled with American classics like burgers, hot dogs, brats and chicken tenders, all of which can be served with crispy fries. This is a hot spot on sea days for quick snacks and meals at lunchtime, so go during off times for a shorter wait.

Daisy's De-Lites

Included; casual dining; snacks

You'll find Daisy's De-Lites near the pool on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. The casual counter-service spot has a nice selection of salads, sandwiches, wraps and fruit. I like to grab a wrap and some fruit to take with me to watch a movie on the funnel or in the cinemas on the ship.

Duck-In Diner

Outside on the pool deck of Disney Magic, Duck-In Diner dishes out lunch and snacks to hungry cruisers. The menu here is a fun mix of American favorites like burgers and dogs, plus Middle Eastern-inspired shawarma wrapped in a warm pita. I love the shawarma because you can see it rotating on a vertical spit right behind the counter and load up your sandwich with your favorite toppings.

Eye Scream Treats

Included; snacks

One of my favorite things about a cruise is the unlimited soft serve ice cream. At Eye Scream Treats, you can get as many ice cream cones or cups as you want throughout your sailing. The flavors do change daily, so check out what's mixing in the machines each day.

Extra-fee snacks

Extra cost; snacks

Just outside the Walt Disney Theater is a snack bar where you can get candy, popcorn and drinks before a show or movie. Before you even get to Preludes, you will smell the freshly popped popcorn, which can be served in a souvenir popcorn bucket. If you bring your bucket back to Preludes, you can enjoy discounted popcorn refills throughout your cruise. Buckets that are brought on board from other cruises or from a Disney Park are not available for refills at the discounted price.

Available : Fleetwide

Frozone Treats

While most food and snacks on Disney Cruise Line are included, some options are not, including Frozone Treats. This small snack stand whips up poolside smoothies for an extra cost that can be charged to your onboard bill.

Available on : Disney Magic, Fantasy and Dream

Sweet on You

Sweet on You is the adorable ice cream shop on Disney Fantasy. The snack shop has a variety of ice cream and gelatos that can be paired with 32 different toppings. There's also a whole case of baked goods, including cookies and cupcakes, and confections like truffles and candy. Each of the treats is an additional cost that can be charged to your cabin with your room key.

Senses Juice Bar

After a hard workout or time in the steam room, nothing is more refreshing than a fresh juice or smoothie. At Senses Juice Bar, you can get blended drinks made with fruit and veggies, then take them over to a small cafe table to look out onto the ocean or port of call while you enjoy your drink.

Vanellope's Sweets & Treats

Get a sugar rush at Vanellope's Sweets & Treats, which is themed after the movie "Wreck-It Ralph." The extra-cost snack shop has everything from gelato in crispy waffle cones to baked goodies and candy.

Inside Out: Joyful Sweets

Even though there are plenty of snacks and sweets available as part of your cruise fare, you might want to pop into Inside Out: Joyful Sweets to treat yourself to a sugary splurge. The sweet shop is where you can find hand-scooped gelato and ice cream in a variety of flavors. The shop is also known for its "Memory Orbs" cupcakes that pay tribute to the main characters in the Pixar movie "Inside Out."

Wheezy's Freezies

Wheezy's Freezies is the onboard smoothie shop on Disney Wish. Indulge in fruity drinks for an extra fee.

Room Service

Included and a la carte; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Unlike many other cruise lines that charge for room service, Disney Cruise Line still includes room service in its fares. In the morning, continental breakfast offerings can be delivered to your room from 7 to 10 a.m. To get breakfast, you will need to fill out one of the request cards in your room and leave it hanging on the door the night before your meal. Alternatively, you can call room service from your cabin phone to order in the morning.

For lunch and dinner, the menu is filled with sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts. If there are chicken wings listed on the menu, I implore you to get them. I always get an order after a day at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island, and the wings consistently arrive hot and crispy.

Don't forget that you can order Mickey's Premium Ice Cream Bars from room service even though the sweet treat is not on the menu. I love ordering one of these on a sea day to enjoy while taking in the view of the ocean from the balcony of my room.

Frequently asked Disney Cruise Line questions

How does rotational dining work?

You will be assigned a rotational dining restaurant for each night of your cruise. You will move through all three main dining rooms throughout your cruise and more than once on sailings longer than three nights. Your service team will move with you, and your table number will remain the same each night. At booking, you will select either main dining (5:45 p.m.) or late dining (8:15 p.m.) for your dining time. Your selected time will always be the opposite of the time you are slated to see the show inside the Walt Disney Theater.

Do I need reservations for specialty restaurants?

Yes, reservations are highlight recommended for all of the adults-only specialty restaurants fleetwide. Reservations can be made online as early as 123 days prior to your embarkation day, depending on your level within Disney's loyalty program called Castaway Club.

It's best to make reservations as early as possible so you know you have a guaranteed table at the time slot that you want. Some reservations for Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Remy and Enchante might be available to book once you're on board, but it's not guaranteed.

What drinks are included with my cruise fare?

Most drinks are included with your overall Disney cruise cost. These include drip coffee, juice, soda from soda machines, tap water, milk, tea and lemonade. The exceptions are alcoholic drinks, canned sodas from bars, bottled water and smoothies, which are purchased individually and charged to your folio.

Related: Disney cruise drink packages: How to save on beer, wine, cocktails and coffee

Bottom line

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide variety of dining options to please everyone from picky kids to epicurean adults. With treats like unlimited ice cream available near the pool, chicken tenders and fries to munch on while watching a movie and build-your-own taco bowls available on various ships, you'll always find something tasty.

Families enjoy rotational dining because they can try out different restaurants each night while sticking with the waiters who quickly get to know everyone and learn their preferences. Adults will find that the restaurants reserved just for them dish out some of the best meals on the ship in an inviting atmosphere.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin