Cruise Line Specialty Restaurants: Are They Worth the Extra Cost?
When embarking on a cruise, one of the most anticipated aspects is often the dining experience. While many cruises offer inclusive dining options, the allure of specialty restaurants can be quite tempting. These restaurants promise a higher quality of food, unique themed experiences, and an intimate dining environment that sets them apart from the main dining rooms.
Specialty restaurants on cruise lines are designed to provide a more refined and exclusive culinary journey. For instance, MSC Cruises offers a variety of specialty dining packages that include options like Butcher’s Cut, a steakhouse serving high-end Angus beef, and Ocean Cay, a seafood restaurant with a focus on fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients. Similarly, Royal Caribbean features restaurants such as Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Izumi, offering authentic Italian and Japanese cuisine, respectively.
The question remains, however, whether these specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost. The answer can vary depending on personal preferences and what one values in a dining experience. For foodies, the higher quality of ingredients and the opportunity to taste dishes crafted by skilled chefs can make the extra cost well worth it. For example, the use of Prime beef and locally sourced seafood in these restaurants can elevate the dining experience significantly.
Because you’re paying a premium, the chef has more resources to invest in the best provisions, and isn’t churning out dishes en masse.
In addition to the quality of food, the unique themes and settings of these restaurants can add to the overall value. From the French Brasserie ambiance of Le Grill on MSC Cruises to the izakaya-style appetizers at Izumi on Royal Caribbean, each restaurant offers a distinct experience that can enhance your cruise vacation.
Ultimately, whether specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost depends on your individual priorities and what you seek from your dining experiences. For those who value high-quality cuisine and unique dining environments, these specialty restaurants can be a memorable and enriching part of your cruise journey.
Introduction to Cruise Line Specialty Restaurants
Definition and Purpose of Specialty Restaurants
Specialty restaurants on cruise lines are designed to offer a more refined and exclusive dining experience, setting them apart from the inclusive dining options available onboard. These restaurants provide an opportunity for passengers to indulge in higher-quality cuisine, unique themed experiences, and an intimate dining atmosphere. The primary purpose of these specialty restaurants is to cater to those seeking a more elevated and memorable culinary journey during their cruise.
Types of Specialty Restaurants Onboard
Cruise lines offer a diverse array of specialty restaurants, each with its own unique theme and cuisine. For instance, MSC Cruises features restaurants like Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse serving high-end Angus beef, and Ocean Cay, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients.
Imagine dining at a steakhouse where the menu includes select Linz heritage Angus beef, custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection, accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails.
Royal Caribbean also offers a range of specialty restaurants, including Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, which features Japanese barbecue-style cooking, and Chops Grille, a steakhouse with an eight-course menu paired with cocktails and beverages.
| Cruise Line | Restaurant Name | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Cruises | Butcher’s Cut | Steakhouse |
| MSC Cruises | Ocean Cay | Seafood |
| Royal Caribbean | Izumi Hibachi & Sushi | Japanese |
| Royal Caribbean | Chops Grille | Steakhouse |
In addition to these, there are also specialty restaurants focused on French cuisine, such as Le Grill on MSC Cruises, which offers a menu featuring classics like seafood platters, caviar, and chargrilled Black Angus beef. For those interested in Latin American and Mexican cuisine, Hola Tacos & Cantina is another popular option, offering a selection of tacos, empanadas, and tamales in a friendly atmosphere.
Other Specialty Dining Options
Other notable mentions include Asian Market and Indochine on MSC Cruises, offering a range of oriental cuisine, and Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its high-quality steaks and elegant ambiance.
These diverse options ensure that there is something to suit every palate and preference, making the specialty dining experience a memorable part of any cruise.
Benefits of Dining at Specialty Restaurants
Higher Quality of Food and Ingredients
Dining at specialty restaurants on cruise lines often means indulging in higher-quality food and ingredients. These restaurants typically source their ingredients from the finest providers, ensuring that every dish is crafted with precision and care. For instance, the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse on MSC Cruises is known for its high-end Angus beef, custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection.
Unique and Themed Dining Experiences
Specialty restaurants offer a wide range of unique and themed dining experiences that set them apart from the standard cruise dining options. For example, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi on Royal Caribbean features Japanese barbecue-style cooking, where meals are prepared tableside, creating an engaging and entertaining experience for diners.
Imagine dining at a restaurant like Sushi & Robatayaki on MSC Cruises, where the artful Japanese barbecue-style cooking technique is on full display. Here, you can enjoy a tempting selection of seafood, meats, and vegetables expertly grilled to perfection, complemented by exquisite sushi and sashimi.
Intimate and Exclusive Dining Environments
One of the standout benefits of specialty restaurants is the intimate and exclusive dining environment they provide. These restaurants are typically smaller and more cozy, offering a more personal and sophisticated ambiance compared to the larger main dining rooms. At Le Grill on MSC Cruises, guests can enjoy a French Brasserie-style setting, complete with shared dishes and a pre-dinner bar, evoking the feeling of dining on the streets of Paris.
| Restaurant | Cruise Line | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Le Grill | MSC Cruises | French Brasserie-style |
| Cagney’s Steakhouse | Norwegian Cruise Line | Elegant Steakhouse |
| Izumi Hibachi & Sushi | Royal Caribbean | Japanese Barbecue-style |
Chef’s Table and Interactive Dining Options
Many specialty restaurants also offer Chef’s Table and interactive dining options, which provide an even more immersive culinary experience. At these venues, guests can watch chefs prepare meals, participate in cooking demonstrations, or even dine at a special Chef’s Table. For example, Chef’s Table by Daniel Boulud on Celebrity Cruises offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy a multi-course meal prepared by a renowned chef, complete with wine pairings and interactive elements.
Interactive Dining Experiences
These interactive options allow diners to engage more deeply with the culinary process, making the meal not just about the food, but about the entire experience. It’s a chance to see the skill and creativity of the chefs up close and personal.
Popular Types of Specialty Restaurants
Steakhouses: High-End Angus Beef and Fine Cuts
Steakhouses are among the most popular types of specialty restaurants on cruise lines, offering an unparalleled dining experience for meat lovers. At venues like Butcher’s Cut on MSC Cruises, guests can indulge in high-end Angus beef, custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection. This American-style steakhouse serves select Linz heritage Angus beef, accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails.
Seafood Restaurants: Fresh and Sustainably Sourced Options
Seafood restaurants on cruise lines are known for their fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients, providing a delightful culinary experience for seafood enthusiasts. For instance, Ocean Cay on MSC Cruises offers a mouthwatering menu of sophisticated fish dishes made with the freshest ingredients. This restaurant is committed to using sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also responsibly prepared.
Imagine dining on a seafood platter featuring the day’s catch, complemented by a wonderful wine list. The intimate setting and high-quality ingredients make seafood restaurants like Ocean Cay a sumptuous dining experience.
Asian and Oriental Cuisine: Sushi, Teppanyaki, and More
Asian and Oriental cuisine is another popular category among specialty restaurants on cruise lines. These venues offer a variety of authentic dishes, from sushi to teppanyaki. At Kaito Sushi and Kaito Teppanyaki on MSC Cruises, guests can enjoy deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with the freshest ingredients. The menu includes Japanese dishes such as nigari, sashimi, maki, futomaki, tempura, and teriyaki.
| Restaurant | Cruise Line | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|
| Kaito Sushi | MSC Cruises | Sushi |
| Kaito Teppanyaki | MSC Cruises | Teppanyaki |
| Izumi Hibachi & Sushi | Royal Caribbean | Japanese |
Italian and French Cuisine: Authentic and Regional Specialties
For those who appreciate the rich flavors of Italian and French cuisine, specialty restaurants on cruise lines offer authentic and regional specialties. Jamie’s Italian on Royal Caribbean, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, features a prix fixe menu that includes dishes like White Oak Pastures beef short rib and San Daniele prosciutto. Similarly, L’Atelier Bistrot on MSC Cruises offers a French bistro experience with a menu that includes artfully prepared dishes using high-quality ingredients.
Italian and French Dining Experiences
These restaurants are designed to transport you to the heart of Italy or France, with menus that reflect the local flavors and traditions of these regions. The attention to detail in both the cuisine and the ambiance makes for a memorable dining experience.
Latin American and Mexican Cuisine: Vibrant Flavors and Dishes
Latin American and Mexican cuisine adds a vibrant and flavorful dimension to the specialty dining options on cruise lines. At Hola Tacos & Cantina on MSC Cruises, guests can enjoy a selection of tacos, empanadas, and tamales in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. This restaurant brings the essence of Latin American cuisine onboard, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience.
Cost Considerations and Value for Money
Price Ranges and Surcharge Structures
The cost of dining at specialty restaurants on cruise lines can vary widely, depending on the cruise line, the type of restaurant, and the specific menu offerings. It is not uncommon for these restaurants to charge upwards of $100 per person for a meal. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s upcoming ship, Icon of the Seas, will feature the Empire Supper Club, a New York-inspired steakhouse with an eight-course menu paired with cocktails and beverages, priced around $200 per person.
| Cruise Line | Restaurant | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | Empire Supper Club | $200 per person |
| Royal Caribbean | Chops Grille, Izumi Hibachi, Hooked Seafood | $60-$70 per person |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Cagney’s, Le Bistro, Ocean Blue | $100+ per person |
| Disney Cruise Line | Remy Restaurant | $125 per person |
| Celebrity Cruises | Chef’s Table by Daniel Boulud | $139 per person |
Comparing Costs to Included Dining Options
When evaluating whether specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost, it’s essential to compare them to the included dining options available on the cruise. While main dining rooms and buffets offer a variety of meals included in the cruise fare, specialty restaurants often provide a higher quality of food and a more exclusive dining experience. For example, a three-course meal at Norwegian Cruise Line’s Onda by Scarpetta, which includes a burrata starter, veal entree, and chocolate cake for dessert, costs $73. In contrast, a similar meal at Scarpetta in New York City would cost $95, making the onboard option relatively more affordable.
The value for money is also evident when comparing the prices of specialty restaurants to their land-based counterparts. A burger and fries at Johnny Rockets on Royal Caribbean costs $12.99, which is comparable to, if not cheaper than, the same meal at a land-based Johnny Rockets.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Dine at Specialty Restaurants
Several factors influence the decision to dine at specialty restaurants. One key consideration is the desire for an elevated culinary experience. If you are a foodie or celebrating a special occasion, the unique ambiance, higher quality of food, and interactive dining options can justify the extra cost. For instance, telling the staff at a specialty restaurant about a special occasion can result in special treats or a personalized experience.
Special Occasions and Dining Packages
Another factor is the availability of dining packages that can make specialty dining more affordable. Many cruise lines offer packages that include multiple meals at specialty restaurants, which can save you money compared to paying for each meal individually. Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises offer unlimited dining packages, while Norwegian Cruise Line provides packages for up to 14 meals.
Real-World Examples from Major Cruise Lines
MSC Cruises: Butcher’s Cut, L’Atelier Bistrot, and Ocean Cay
MSC Cruises offers a diverse range of specialty restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. One standout is Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse known for its high-end Angus beef. Here, guests can enjoy select Linz heritage Angus beef, custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection, accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails.
Another notable option is L’Atelier Bistrot, a French bistro that brings the essence of Parisian dining to the sea. This restaurant features a menu that includes classics like seafood platters, caviar, and chargrilled Black Angus beef, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and presented in an elegant setting.
L’Atelier Bistrot offers a prix fixe menu, allowing guests to enjoy a multi-course meal with wine pairings, creating a sophisticated and memorable dining experience.
Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises’ seafood restaurant, committed to using sustainable sourcing practices. Here, guests can indulge in a variety of sophisticated fish dishes made with the freshest ingredients, ensuring a delicious and responsibly prepared meal.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Butcher’s Cut | Steakhouse | High-end Angus beef, custom cut and aged to perfection |
| L’Atelier Bistrot | French Bistro | Seafood platters, caviar, chargrilled Black Angus beef |
| Ocean Cay | Seafood | Sophisticated fish dishes, sustainable sourcing |
Royal Caribbean: Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi, and Wonderland
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of specialty restaurants that cater to different culinary preferences. Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen is a standout for Italian cuisine lovers, featuring authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients. This restaurant provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a romantic evening.
Izumi Hibachi & Sushi is another popular option, offering Japanese barbecue-style cooking. Here, guests can enjoy meals prepared tableside, including sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki. The interactive dining experience and high-quality ingredients make Izumi a favorite among passengers.
Izumi provides an engaging and entertaining experience, with chefs preparing meals in front of guests, adding a unique element to the dining experience.
Wonderland is a unique dining experience on Royal Caribbean, offering a whimsical and fantastical setting inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. The menu features creative and innovative dishes, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen | Italian | Authentic Italian dishes, intimate atmosphere |
| Izumi Hibachi & Sushi | Japanese | Tableside cooking, sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki |
| Wonderland | Innovative Cuisine | Whimsical setting, creative and innovative dishes |
Carnival Cruise Line: Rudi’s Seagrill and Steakhouse Options
Carnival Cruise Line features several specialty restaurants that enhance the dining experience onboard. Rudi’s Seagrill is a seafood restaurant that stands out for its fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients. Here, guests can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, crab, mussels, and oysters, all prepared to perfection.
Carnival Cruise Line also offers several steakhouse options, such as The Point Steakhouse on Carnival Conquest. These steakhouses provide an elegant dining environment with a menu that includes high-quality steaks, cooked to guests’ specifications. The attention to detail in both the cuisine and the ambiance makes these steakhouses a memorable dining experience.
The steakhouses on Carnival Cruise Line are known for their USDA Prime cuts and extensive wine lists, ensuring a sophisticated and satisfying meal.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Rudi’s Seagrill | Seafood | Fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients, cozy atmosphere |
| The Point Steakhouse | Steakhouse | USDA Prime cuts, elegant dining environment |
Tips for Choosing the Right Specialty Restaurant
Matching Cuisine to Personal Preferences
When selecting a specialty restaurant on your cruise, it’s crucial to match the cuisine with your personal preferences. If you are a steak lover, venues like Butcher’s Cut on MSC Cruises or Chops Grille on Royal Caribbean would be ideal. These steakhouses offer high-quality meats, custom cut and aged to perfection, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
If you have a penchant for Asian cuisine, Kaito Sushi & Teppanyaki on MSC Cruises or Izumi Hibachi & Sushi on Royal Caribbean are great options. These restaurants provide authentic and delicious Asian dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki, all prepared in an engaging and interactive manner.
| Cuisine | Restaurant | Cruise Line |
|---|---|---|
| Steakhouse | Butcher’s Cut | MSC Cruises |
| Steakhouse | Chops Grille | Royal Caribbean |
| Seafood | Ocean Cay | MSC Cruises |
| Seafood | Hooked Seafood | Royal Caribbean |
| Asian | Kaito Sushi & Teppanyaki | MSC Cruises |
| Asian | Izumi Hibachi & Sushi | Royal Caribbean |
Checking Reviews and Menus in Advance
Before making a decision, it’s wise to check reviews and menus of the specialty restaurants in advance. This can help you understand the quality of the food, the ambiance, and the overall dining experience. Websites like Cruise Critic and the cruise line’s official site often provide detailed reviews and menus that can guide your choice.
Reading reviews from fellow cruisers can give you insights into the service, food quality, and any special highlights or drawbacks of the restaurant. This information can be invaluable in making an informed decision.
In addition to reviews, checking the menu in advance allows you to see if the dishes align with your dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, if you are vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, you can ensure that the restaurant offers suitable options.
Menu Considerations
Menus for specialty restaurants are often available on the cruise line’s website or through their mobile app. This allows you to plan ahead and make sure that there are enough options to satisfy your tastes.
Making Reservations and Planning Dining Schedules
Making reservations and planning your dining schedule in advance is crucial to ensure availability at your preferred specialty restaurant. Many cruise lines allow you to book dining reservations through their website or mobile app, sometimes even before your cruise begins.
Some cruise lines offer dining packages that include multiple meals at specialty restaurants, which can be booked in advance to save money and time. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s specialty dining packages can be purchased through the Cruise Planner, offering options like a 5-night package at a discounted rate.
| Cruise Line | Dining Package | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | 5-Night Package | $35.60 per person per meal, booked through Cruise Planner |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Free at Sea Promotion | Includes two free meals at specialty restaurants, with a 20% gratuity |
Booking dining reservations and planning your schedule in advance ensures that you can enjoy your preferred specialty restaurants without the hassle of last-minute availability issues.
Conclusion: Are Specialty Restaurants Worth the Extra Cost?
Summary of Key Points and Benefits
When considering whether specialty restaurants on cruise lines are worth the extra cost, it’s essential to summarize the key points and benefits. These restaurants often offer a higher quality of food, unique themed experiences, and an intimate dining environment that sets them apart from the main dining rooms. For instance, venues like Moderno Churrascaria on Norwegian Cruise Line provide an all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse experience with an extensive buffet-style salad bar and a variety of meats carved tableside, making it an exceptional value for the price.
Specialty restaurants also offer unique dining experiences, such as the interactive cooking at Izumi Hibachi & Sushi on Royal Caribbean or the whimsical atmosphere of Wonderland on the same line. These experiences can make the extra cost worthwhile, especially for special occasions or for those seeking a more elevated culinary journey.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Quality of Food | Use of premium ingredients like Prime beef and sustainably sourced seafood |
| Unique Themed Experiences | Interactive cooking, all-you-can-eat formats, and themed ambiance |
| Intimate Dining Environment | |
| Involvement of Renowned Chefs | Chefs like Jamie Oliver, Daniel Boulud, and Guy Fieri creating menus |
Personal Considerations and Recommendations
Ultimately, whether specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost depends on personal considerations and preferences. For foodies and those celebrating special occasions, the unique dining experiences and higher quality of food can justify the additional expense. It’s important to match the cuisine with your personal preferences and check reviews and menus in advance to ensure the restaurant aligns with your tastes and expectations.
If you’re looking for a unique and interactive meal, Moderno Churrascaria or Izumi Hibachi & Sushi might be ideal. For a romantic evening, Remy Restaurant on Disney Cruise Line or Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Cruise Line could be perfect.
Considering Your Budget
It’s also important to consider your budget. Purchasing dining packages can often save you money, especially if you plan to dine at multiple specialty restaurants during your cruise. Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises offer unlimited dining packages, while Norwegian Cruise Line provides packages for up to 14 meals.
In the end, whether or not to dine at a specialty restaurant is a personal decision that should be based on your culinary preferences, budget, and the overall value you place on an elevated dining experience.
Conclusion: Are Specialty Restaurants Worth the Extra Cost?
When evaluating whether specialty restaurants on cruise lines are worth the extra cost, it’s essential to consider several key factors. These restaurants often offer a unique and elevated dining experience that sets them apart from the included dining options. For instance, venues like Moderno Churrascaria on Norwegian Cruise Line provide an all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse experience with a vast buffet-style salad bar and a variety of meats carved tableside, making it an exceptional value for the price.
Another crucial aspect is the personal consideration of whether the unique dining experience aligns with your preferences and budget. If you are a foodie or celebrating a special occasion, the elevated cuisine and ambiance can make the extra cost worthwhile. For example, Remy Restaurant on Disney Cruise Line offers a French culinary experience with an adults-only ambiance, perfect for special occasions.
| Restaurant | Cruise Line | Unique Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Moderno Churrascaria | Norwegian Cruise Line | All-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse with extensive salad bar and tableside meat service |
| Cagney’s Steakhouse | Norwegian Cruise Line | Elegant steakhouse with high-quality steaks and seafood |
| Remy Restaurant | Disney Cruise Line | French cuisine with adults-only ambiance and wine pairings |
While the prices of specialty restaurants can be steep, with some venues costing upwards of $100 per person, they often compare favorably to their land-based counterparts. For example, a three-course meal at Norwegian Cruise Line’s Onda by Scarpetta costs $73, which is less than the same meal at Scarpetta in New York City.
Purchasing Dining Packages
To make the most of your dining experience while managing costs, consider purchasing dining packages. Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises offer unlimited dining packages, while Norwegian Cruise Line provides packages for up to 14 meals. These packages can save you money and ensure that you can enjoy multiple specialty dining experiences during your cruise.
Inflation and supply chain issues have led to price increases in specialty restaurants, but these venues still offer a unique and often more affordable dining experience compared to dining on land. For instance, dining at Jamie’s Italian on Royal Caribbean, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, offers a prix fixe menu with high-quality ingredients at a lower cost than dining at his land-based restaurant.
In summary, specialty restaurants on cruise lines offer a distinct and often superior dining experience that can justify the additional cost. By matching the cuisine to your personal preferences, checking reviews and menus in advance, and considering dining packages, you can make the most of your specialty dining experiences and enjoy a memorable culinary journey onboard.