As the name implies, Carnival cruise ships are all about fun and festivity. The onboard entertainments and amazing destinations, although reason enough for taking a Carnival cruise, are just part of the attraction. Another area where Carnival really shines is the array of dining options, with menus and treats to suit all tastes and styles, from formal dinners to kids snacks and everything in-between.
Carnival has one of the largest cruise fleets in the world, and repeat passengers have their favourite vessels. There are a huge range of pools, bars, clubs, venues, spas and children’s facilities that make choosing a Carnival cruise a dream. All ships also have speciality dining venues and major restaurants that attract patrons time and time again. Many of the signature eateries can be found on all Carnival ships, and a lot of them are free of charge. Some of these include:
The Dining Room
Three great meals every day included in your cruise fare. It’s a deal that’s hard to beat and one that will save you plenty of money, especially if your cruise involves kids or extended family. Carnival dining rooms are the go-to venues for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and they don’t skimp on portions. You can eat as little or as much as you like, and sample entrees, mains and dessert preparations that vary during the cruise. The restaurants are large, airy, ornate and inviting.
Lido Restaurant
You asked for variety, and Carnival delivered. Taste cravings are satisfied 24-hours a day at the pizza station and ice cream outlet, and casual dining options for lunch and dinner include sensational options such as Mongolian Wok, Salad Bar, Chef’s Choice and Carnival Deli to name a few. Lido Restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating that matches modern cruise expectations.
The Carnival Deli
This deli is the equal of any land-based establishment, with a range of tasty choices to match. It’s a relaxed and casual venue where you can enjoy all your favourites such as sandwiches and wraps piled high and served with a mouth-watering relish or cole slaw. From rye breads to country rolls, plus hot and cold selections, the Carnival Deli can be your between meal top-up or an entire meal in itself.
Seaday Brunch
On a Carnival cruise, you don’t miss out if you sleep in. After a night of merriment, dance, or maybe a flutter at the casino, you have every right to get up late. It’s not a problem because Seaday Brunch is a great way to get you fuelled up and back in action. Take your pick from French toast, huevos rancheros, mac-n-cheese and much more. Seaday Brunch makes sleeping in a good use of your time.
The Taste Bar
Not sure which dining venue to choose? Head to the Taste Bar and sample the delights awaiting you at the various Carnival restaurants. Enjoy complimentary appetisers and get a real taste of things to come.
Breakfast Grill
Sometimes too many choices can be confusing, especially at breakfast time. Some people are attached to their grill favourites, so the Lido Restaurant puts on all the best grill items such as bacon, sausages, pancakes and omelettes that will have your hungry tummy rumbling and appetite roaring and ready to enjoy.
Chef’s Choice
Carnival chefs highlight dishes from around the world. Every day you will have the option of sampling the fare from a different country. Tasting the famous foods from Mexico, France, the Caribbean and USA can become a routine that is very easy to get used to.
Kid’s Menus
We have all met kids who are picky eaters, and others who just want to stick with what they are used to. On a Carnival cruise, dining room tantrums can’t be blamed on the food; everything is here to satisfy all tastes. From simple spaghetti, chicken nuggets, kids sandwiches, hot dogs and of course, plenty of fruits and veggies if you can tempt your young ones.
Dining Room Breakfast
Flexibility is a trait that is familiar on a Carnival cruise. This attitude is evident in the main dining room at breakfast, where Carnival chefs are more than happy to prepare your meal just the way you like it. What a great way to begin a day of onshore exploration at your next itinerary destination.
Swirls
There are some things that can’t be separated from the idea of a cruise: think sunshine, swimming pools and of course, ice cream. Choose from a classic flavour favourite or make your own at Swirls. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy yourself during a day of fun in the sun.
24-Hour Room Service
Who can be blamed for wanting to be treated like royalty on a Carnival cruise. Take the option to stay in your comfortable room, pick up the phone, and make an order from the room service menu. A cruise is all about variety, and who knows when you might get hungry? That’s why Carnival offers 24-hour room service that is delivered directly to your cabin.
The extensive range of culinary options on Carnival cruise ships means that choosing your favourites is easy. The only difficulty is having to choose in the first place with so many options available. Even more amazing is that the above dining choices are just the free options included in your fare. It’s beginning to make sense why so many people are realising that cruising is a budget conscious holiday idea.
Some passengers come ready to splurge though, and Carnival vessels have an abundance of for-fee restaurants also, many of which are overseen by the world’s finest chefs. Treat yourself to the delights of one of the speciality restaurants
