On cruise ships with multiple dining venues, they often fall into two broad categories: free and specialty. Let’s take a closer look at each, which may help you navigate the dining scene on your next cruise.
In free onboard restaurants, everything on the menu is
included in your fare (although a very high-end entrée, such as surf and turf, may
have a small upcharge). This category usually includes the main dining room, the
buffet, and a few other options.
Main dining rooms are usually big, elegant spaces with
attentive service. Some ships assign passengers to specific seating times and
tables, while others let you choose when and with whom to dine. Dinner menus
usually offer at least three courses with a nice variety of dishes, all beautifully
prepared.
The buffet is often located near the pool and is open
most of the day, with a variety of salads, sandwiches, side dishes, pasta, main
courses, and desserts. Everything is ready when you arrive, so the buffet is a
smart choice when you’re ravenously hungry or looking for a quick snack.
Some ships also have pizza parlors, poolside grills
that serve hot dogs and hamburgers, coffee houses, and other casual spots. Room
service is also included in the fare on many ships, though there may be a small
delivery fee. And it’s often available 24 hours a day, with a limited but
tempting menu.
In onboard specialty restaurants, truly special dining
experiences are yours for an extra fee, but the fee is usually much less than
you would pay in a comparable restaurant on land. Many specialty restaurants
are intimate spaces, beautifully decorated and designed to put you at ease so
you can enjoy a memorable dinner. They are popular choices for special event celebrations
and onboard date nights.
Some specialty restaurants highlight certain
ingredients, like steak or seafood, while others serve a specific cuisine. With
high-quality ingredients and expert preparation, you may feel like you’re actually
dining in a Northern Italian trattoria, a Parisian bistro or a sushi bar in the
heart of Tokyo.
Be sure to ask Anita, your professional travel advisor,
about any specialty restaurants on your next cruise; many require reservations,
and these can fill quickly. Some ships offer specialty dining packages that ensure
reservations and provide discounts on fees. Whatever combination of free
and specialty restaurants you choose on your next sailing, you can expect to
enjoy the experience.
