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.
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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.
