Is Food Included on Royal Caribbean Cruises: Planning a cruise is exciting, but let’s be honest: one of the biggest questions we all have is, “What’s the food situation?” After all, dining is a big part of the vacation experience! If you’re considering a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll be happy to know that food is a key feature of their offerings. But does that mean everything is free? Yes—and no. Let me guide you through what’s included, what’s extra, and how to make the most of your dining experience.
The simple answer is yes. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of complimentary dining options, allowing guests to indulge in delicious meals without paying extra. However, for those who want to explore beyond the included dining venues, specialty restaurants provide unique and upscale culinary experiences at an additional cost.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the dining options available, so you can make the most of your meals on board.
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What Food Is Included in the Cruise Fare?
The best part about cruising with Royal Caribbean? You can enjoy delicious meals, snacks, and beverages without spending an extra dime. Your cruise fare includes access to several dining venues, so whether you’re in the mood for a full meal or a quick snack, you’re covered. Here’s what you can expect:
Here’s a look at the main complimentary dining venues:
1. Main Dining Room
The Main Dining Room is the heart of the dining experience on Royal Caribbean cruises. It’s an elegant, full-service restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu changes daily, ensuring variety throughout the cruise.
- Breakfast: Enjoy classic options like eggs Benedict, omelets, fresh pastries, pancakes, and fresh fruit.
- Lunch: Offers a mix of salads, soups, sandwiches, pasta, and seafood.
- Dinner: Features a multi-course meal, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Some standout dishes include savory duck terrine, Moroccan-spiced ahi tuna, and marinated pork loin.
Guests can choose between Traditional Dining (assigned seating) or My Time Dining (flexible dining times).
2. Windjammer Café
The Windjammer Café is the cruise line’s buffet-style restaurant, available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is the go-to spot for guests who prefer a more casual, self-serve dining experience.
- Breakfast: Custom-made omelets, fresh-baked pastries, cereals, waffles, pancakes, and an array of international options.
- Lunch & Dinner: Features a global selection, including pasta, stir-fry, salads, soups, grilled meats, Indian and Asian dishes, and an assortment of desserts.
- Beverages: Self-serve stations offer coffee, tea, iced tea, lemonade, and fruit juices.
3. Café Promenade (Open 24/7)
Café Promenade is the perfect spot for quick bites and snacks, available around the clock. Whether you’re looking for an early-morning pastry, a mid-day sandwich, or a late-night dessert, this venue has you covered.
- Offers pastries, wraps, sandwiches, desserts, and coffee drinks.
- Open 24 hours a day, making it ideal for night owls or early risers.
4. Sorrento’s Pizza
Sorrento’s is a go-to spot for pizza lovers. It serves freshly baked pizza throughout the day and is a popular place for an afternoon snack or a late-night bite.
- Offers classic and specialty pizzas, including cheese, pepperoni, BBQ chicken, and vegetarian options.
- No reservations are required, and it’s open late into the night.
5. El Loco Fresh®
This Mexican-themed eatery brings bold flavors to the ship with freshly made burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and nachos.
- Self-serve toppings allow guests to customize their meals.
- A great option for a casual lunch or mid-day snack.
6. The Dog House
A favorite among casual eaters, The Dog House serves hot dogs and sausages with various toppings.
- Options include classic beef hot dogs, bratwurst, and Coney Island-style hot dogs.
- A great stop for a quick bite while exploring the ship.
7. Park Café & Solarium Bistro
For a lighter, healthier meal, these two venues offer fresh sandwiches, salads, and Mediterranean-style dishes.
- Park Café: Offers deli sandwiches, including the famous Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich.
- Solarium Bistro: Focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, fruit, hummus, and Greek salads.
8. Mini Bites & Splashaway Café
Ideal for quick eats while enjoying the pool or sports deck, these venues serve small portions of sliders, taquitos, and desserts.
9. Room Service (Limited Complimentary Options)
Hot breakfast and other meals come with a $7.95 per room delivery fee.
Continental breakfast (pastries, fruit, and coffee) is included for free.
9. Complimentary Beverages
Included beverages cover the basics: water, tea, coffee, lemonade, and juices during breakfast hours. While these options are great, specialty drinks like soda, cocktails, and lattes are not included.
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Specialty Dining: What’s Worth the Extra Cost?
If you’re a foodie or celebrating a special occasion, Royal Caribbean’s specialty dining is a must-try. These restaurants come with an extra charge, but they deliver elevated dining experiences that are perfect for indulging. Here are a few guest favorites:
- Chops Grille: A steakhouse offering premium cuts of meat and decadent sides.
- Jamie’s Italian: Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s take on rustic Italian cuisine.
- Izumi: Sushi, sashimi, and hot Japanese dishes made fresh to order.
- Giovanni’s Table: Italian classics served family style.
- Wonderland: A whimsical dining experience with creative, avant-garde dishes.
Specialty dining prices range from $25 to $50+ per person, depending on the restaurant. If you’re planning to try several, consider buying a dining package. These allow you to enjoy multiple specialty meals at a discounted rate.
Drinks: What’s Free and What’s Not?
Complimentary drinks, as mentioned earlier, include basics like water, coffee, and juice. However, most alcoholic beverages, sodas, and specialty coffees come at an extra cost. For guests who enjoy drinks throughout the day, Royal Caribbean offers beverage packages that provide unlimited access to your favorites. Options include:
- Soda Package: Unlimited fountain sodas.
- Refreshment Package: Non-alcoholic beverages, including fresh juices, mocktails, and specialty coffees.
- Deluxe Beverage Package: Covers alcohol, including cocktails, wine, and beer, along with non-alcoholic options.
Can They Handle Special Dietary Needs?
Yes! Royal Caribbean prides itself on accommodating guests with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have allergies, the culinary team can prepare meals to meet your needs. You can mention your preferences when booking your cruise and speak with the dining staff onboard to ensure you’re well taken care of.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Dining Experience
Here are some tips to help you enjoy every bite while onboard:
- Plan Ahead: Specialty restaurants can fill up quickly, so book your reservations before you sail. Many restaurants offer discounts for pre-cruise bookings.
- Explore All Options: With so many choices, it’s worth trying both complimentary and specialty venues. Balance casual meals with more formal dining to mix things up.
- Avoid the Crowds: Buffets like Windjammer can get busy during peak times. Consider going early or late to enjoy a more relaxed meal.
- Take Advantage of Late-Night Snacks: Venues like Café Promenade and Sorrento’s Pizza stay open late, so you’re never far from a quick bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay for every meal?
No, most meals are included in your cruise fare. Specialty dining and certain room service items are the exceptions.
Can I bring my own food onboard?
Outside food is not allowed for safety reasons, but exceptions are made for baby food or medically necessary items.
Are there snacks available all day?
Yes! Venues like Café Promenade offer snacks around the clock, ensuring you’re never hungry.
Conclusion: A Cruise for Food Lovers
Royal Caribbean truly caters to every type of traveler, especially when it comes to food. Whether you’re enjoying a complimentary meal at the buffet, indulging in a multi-course dinner in the main dining room, or treating yourself to a specialty restaurant, the culinary options are sure to impress. Best of all, there’s something for every budget and taste.
So go ahead, plan your cruise, and start dreaming about all the amazing food you’ll enjoy at sea. Just save some room for dessert—it’s included too!