DINING & DRINKS

If there’s one thing that keeps me coming back to Carnival, it’s the food — and the fun that comes with it! Whether you’re craving a juicy burger poolside, an elegant steakhouse dinner, or a perfectly mixed cocktail at sunset, Carnival’s dining and drinks options turn every meal into a memory.

After more than 20 years of sailing, I’ve learned that eating and drinking onboard is more than just dining — it’s part of the adventure. From hidden gems to fan favorites, let’s dive into what makes Carnival’s food scene one of the best at sea.

🥗 Casual Eats You’ll Crave Every Day

The beauty of cruising is that great food is always just a few steps away.
Start your day with a buffet breakfast at Lido Marketplace, grab a made-to-order omelet, and enjoy your coffee while watching the sunrise over the ocean.

By lunch, the ship is buzzing with delicious smells — from Guy’s Burger Joint (yes, the hype is real!) to Blue Iguana Cantina serving up tacos, burritos, and fresh salsa.

Cruiser Tip: Try Guy’s “Pig Patty” burger with extra fries — then head to Blue Iguana for a side of guacamole. It’s the perfect sea-day combo!

🥩 Dinner Time: From Elegant to Easygoing

Evenings onboard are where the real dining magic happens. You can go classic and enjoy a multi-course meal in the Main Dining Room or reserve a table at one of Carnival’s specialty restaurants for something extra special.

Some of my personal favorites:
🍷 Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse – for the best filet mignon at sea.

🍤 Bonsai Teppanyaki - selections of meats, tofu, fish, shrimp or lobster
🍣 Bonsai Sushi – fresh, fast, and surprisingly affordable.
🥢 JiJi Asian Kitchen – a flavorful fusion experience you’ll dream about later.

Cruiser Tip: Don’t skip Elegant Night. It’s not just dinner — it’s an event! Dress up, order the lobster tail, and capture those “cruise life” photos in style.

📝 Important Dining Tip for Carnival Cruisers

NOTE: Make sure the ship you’re sailing on offers the restaurant you want to try. Not all Carnival ships have every dining venue, and some specialty restaurants — like Bonsai Teppanyaki — are only available on select ships.

🍹 Cheers to Paradise: Drinks You’ll Love

Whether you’re lounging poolside or watching the sunset from the deck, Carnival’s bartenders know how to serve up vacation vibes in a glass.

🍍 The Alchemy Bar — a fan-favorite with custom “prescription” cocktails made to your taste.
🍸 Red Frog Rum Bar — your go-to for frozen daiquiris and tropical sips.
🍹 Blue Iguana Tequila Bar — margaritas with just the right amount of island kick.

Cruiser Tip: Get the Cheers! Drink Package if you plan to enjoy more than 4–5 drinks per day. It covers cocktails, wine, sodas, specialty coffee, and even bottled water — and it saves you money.

🍰 Don’t Forget Dessert!

From Carnival’s famous Chocolate Melting Cake to late-night Swirls ice cream, there’s always something sweet waiting. If you love coffee and pastries, grab a seat at the JavaBlue Café — it’s the perfect mid-morning treat or evening wind-down spot.

⚓ Food = Fun on Carnival

What I love most about Carnival dining is that it fits every mood. You can enjoy a laid-back breakfast in your swimsuit, have a fancy dinner with friends, or grab pizza at midnight under the stars.

Every bite tells a story, and every drink feels like a celebration.
So whether you’re sipping champagne, sharing tacos, or laughing over dessert, remember — the best dining experience isn’t just about the food. It’s about the moments you’ll never forget.

🌴 Ready to Taste It All?

Explore my full guides below for:

🍔 Best Restaurants on Carnival Ships

🍷 Top Cruise Cocktails to Try

🍰 Can’t-Miss Desserts at Sea

💡 Tips for Dining Packages & Reservations

→ [Explore More Dining & Drinks Guides]