Which Cruise Line Has the Best Included Food for Your Vacation

Royal Caribbean stands out as the cruise line with the best included food, offering a diverse, high-quality dining experience across its fleet with innovative menus and globally inspired cuisine at no extra cost. From gourmet buffets to specialty restaurants included in the fare, their commitment to culinary excellence surpasses competitors like Carnival and Norwegian, making it the top pick for food-focused travelers.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean wins: Most diverse, high-quality included dining options.
• Celebrity Cruises excels: Upscale, chef-driven menus at no extra cost.
• Holland America stands out: Premium ingredients and classic dishes shine.
• Norwegian Cruise Line offers: Freestyle dining with extensive inclusive venues.
• Disney Cruise Line delights: Themed meals and exceptional kid-friendly fare.
• Compare specialty nights: Check each line’s inclusive gourmet event calendars.

Why Food Quality Matters on a Cruise Vacation

When planning a cruise vacation, most travelers focus on destinations, onboard activities, and stateroom amenities—but one of the most important (and often overlooked) factors is the quality of the included food. For many, a cruise is not just a getaway but a culinary journey where meals are an integral part of the experience. Unlike land-based vacations where dining options are limited by location, cruise lines offer multiple restaurants, buffets, and specialty venues, all included in the base fare—or at least, some of them are.

The difference between a good meal and a great one can elevate an entire cruise from enjoyable to unforgettable. Whether you’re savoring a perfectly seared scallop at a main dining room, enjoying a casual lobster roll by the pool, or indulging in a multi-course gourmet experience without an extra charge, the quality, variety, and creativity of included food can make or break your cruise satisfaction. With dozens of major cruise lines operating worldwide—each with its own culinary philosophy, sourcing standards, and menu offerings—the question becomes: Which cruise line has the best included food for your vacation? This guide dives deep into the top contenders, analyzing everything from ingredient sourcing and chef credentials to menu diversity, dietary accommodations, and real guest experiences.

How We Evaluated Cruise Lines for Included Food Quality

Defining “Included Food”

Before comparing cruise lines, it’s essential to clarify what “included food” means. On most cruise ships, the base fare covers:

• Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Buffet-style restaurants (often 24/7)
• Casual eateries (pizza stations, burger grills, ice cream stands)
• Room service (with potential delivery fees on some lines)
• Snacks and beverages (coffee, tea, water, juice, select soft drinks)

Note: While specialty restaurants (steakhouses, Asian fusion, fine dining) are often available, they usually come with an additional fee. Our focus here is on the food you can enjoy without extra charges, though we’ll mention when a line offers complimentary specialty dining as a perk.

Key Evaluation Criteria

To determine which cruise line offers the best included food, we assessed each line using a comprehensive framework based on:

• Ingredient Quality & Sourcing: Use of fresh, seasonal, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients.
• Menu Diversity & Creativity: Range of cuisines, rotating menus, and chef-driven dishes.
• Dietary Accommodations: Options for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, halal, kosher, and allergen-sensitive guests.
• Chef & Culinary Team Expertise: Presence of celebrity chefs, culinary consultants, or Michelin-starred collaborations.
• Guest Reviews & Consistency: Real-world feedback from passengers on taste, presentation, and service.
• Innovation & Themed Dining: Special events, pop-ups, or immersive dining experiences included in the fare.

We analyzed data from cruise review platforms (Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor), official cruise line menus, press releases, and interviews with culinary directors. Our goal is not just to list options but to help you choose based on your personal taste, dietary needs, and travel style.

Oceania Cruises: The Gold Standard in Gourmet Included Dining

Chef-Driven Menus with Michelin-Level Ambition

When it comes to included food, Oceania Cruises consistently ranks at the top. With a fleet of mid-sized ships (carrying 684–1,250 guests), Oceania emphasizes a “luxury small-ship” experience, and nowhere is this more evident than in its culinary program. The line’s motto—“The Finest Cuisine at Sea”—isn’t just marketing; it’s a promise backed by action.

Oceania’s menus are crafted by Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin, the legendary French chef and author. Pépin’s influence is visible in the refined techniques, seasonal ingredients, and elegant presentation across all included dining venues. Unlike many cruise lines that rely on standardized, mass-produced menus, Oceania’s dishes are designed to feel like fine dining experiences—without the extra cost.

Included Dining Venues & Highlights

• The Grand Dining Room: The main restaurant offers a rotating menu with 40+ entrées per night. Think pan-seared duck breast with cherry port reduction, lobster bisque with cognac cream, and truffle-infused risotto. All courses—appetizers, mains, desserts—are included.
• Terrace Café (Buffet): Far from a typical buffet, this venue features live cooking stations, artisanal cheeses, fresh sushi, and made-to-order pasta. The quality rivals standalone restaurants.
• Waves Grill: Poolside dining with gourmet burgers, lobster rolls, and grilled seafood—all included. The lobster roll, made with Maine lobster and lemon aioli, is a guest favorite.
• Red Ginger: A Pan-Asian specialty restaurant that is completely complimentary—a rare perk on any cruise line. Dishes like miso-glazed sea bass and Thai green curry are prepared with authentic techniques and premium ingredients.

Dietary Flexibility & Sustainability

Oceania shines in accommodating dietary needs. Guests can pre-order gluten-free, vegan, or allergen-free meals via the cruise planner, and the culinary team customizes dishes on request. The line also sources organic produce, grass-fed meats, and sustainably caught seafood—verified by partnerships with organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).

Pro Tip: Book a “Chef’s Table” experience (a paid add-on, but worth it) to see how Oceania’s included food is prepared. The tour includes a behind-the-scenes kitchen visit and a 12-course tasting menu.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Luxury with Culinary Excellence

True All-Inclusive with No Surprise Charges

While Oceania leads in gourmet quality, Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes a different approach: everything is included. From premium cocktails to specialty dining, shore excursions, and gratuities, Regent’s “all-in” model extends to food. But does the quality match the convenience?

Yes—and then some. Regent’s culinary program, led by Executive Chef Massimo Capra, focuses on European-inspired fine dining with a modern twist. The line’s ships (like the Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer) feature smaller guest counts (750 max), allowing for personalized service and higher ingredient standards.

Complimentary Specialty Dining: A Game-Changer

Regent’s most significant advantage is that all specialty restaurants are included, including:

• Prime 7: An upscale steakhouse with dry-aged beef, Alaskan king crab, and truffle mac and cheese—no cover charge.
• Chartreuse: French fine dining with dishes like coq au vin and tarte tatin. Wine pairings are included.
• Sette Mari: Authentic Italian cuisine with house-made pasta, osso buco, and tiramisu.

Even the main dining room, Compass Rose, offers a rotating menu with 50+ options, including caviar service and foie gras—rare for included dining.

Ingredient Sourcing & Guest Experience

Regent sources ingredients from local ports whenever possible. For example, on a Mediterranean cruise, the ship might stock fresh olive oil from Tuscany, Parmesan from Parma, and seafood from coastal markets. The line also offers a “Farm-to-Table” program, where guests can tour local farms and taste ingredients used onboard.

Real Guest Review: “I had the same filet mignon at Prime 7 as I did at a $200 steakhouse in New York—but here, it was free. The truffle fries alone are worth the cruise.” – Sarah K., Cruise Critic

Celebrity Cruises: Modern, Global, and Inclusive

Revolutionizing Mainstream Cruise Dining

While Oceania and Regent cater to luxury travelers, Celebrity Cruises bridges the gap between premium and mainstream lines. With a fleet of modern ships (like the Celebrity Edge class), Celebrity has redefined what “included food” can be for the average cruiser.

The line’s culinary vision is led by Chef Cornelius Gallagher, a James Beard-nominated chef who emphasizes global flavors, plant-forward dishes, and sustainability. Celebrity’s menus are designed to reflect the regions they visit—e.g., Moroccan tagine in Morocco, sushi in Japan—without requiring a specialty restaurant visit.

Included Venues with a Twist

• Main Dining Rooms (Luminae, Cosmopolitan, etc.): Themed menus rotate nightly, with 10–15 entrées per course. Dishes like miso-glazed salmon, Moroccan spiced lamb, and vegan jackfruit tacos showcase creativity.
• Oceanview Café (Buffet): Features live stations for sushi, pasta, and grill items. The “Plant-Based Corner” offers vegan burgers, jackfruit curry, and dairy-free desserts.
• Rooftop Garden Grill: A poolside venue with wood-fired pizzas, gourmet salads, and grilled seafood—all included. The truffle fries and lobster rolls are standout items.
• Eden Café: A serene, nature-themed space with artisanal sandwiches, fresh juices, and vegan pastries.

Innovation: The Celebrity Edge Dining Experience

On ships like the Celebrity Edge, the main dining rooms feature “Le Petit Chef”—a 3D projection show that animates your meal as you eat. While the food is standard fare, the experience feels premium. Celebrity also offers complimentary wine and spirits in all dining venues—a rarity on non-all-inclusive lines.

Pro Tip: Try the “Chef’s Harvest Table” on select sailings. This complimentary event features a multi-course tasting menu with ingredients sourced from the ship’s onboard hydroponic garden.

Holland America Line: Classic Elegance with a Modern Touch

Timeless Dining with a Focus on Consistency

For travelers seeking a traditional yet refined dining experience, Holland America Line (HAL) is a standout. With roots dating to 1873, HAL blends classic European elegance with modern culinary trends. The line’s ships (like the Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam) feature a mix of formal and casual dining, all included in the fare.

HAL’s culinary program is guided by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, a Michelin-starred chef who emphasizes technique, presentation, and guest satisfaction. Menus are designed to appeal to a broad audience—think filet mignon, roasted chicken, and fresh fish—while offering enough variety to keep meals exciting.

Signature Included Venues

• The Dining Room: The main restaurant features a rotating menu with 20+ entrées. Highlights include slow-roasted beef tenderloin, herb-crusted halibut, and chocolate soufflé. The service is impeccable, with white-glove attention to detail.
• Lido Market (Buffet): A reimagined buffet with live cooking stations, a “World Stage” for international dishes, and a “Sweet Spot” dessert bar.
• Dive-In: A casual burger and sandwich grill with gourmet options like the “Dutch Crunch Burger” (with aged Gouda and caramelized onions).
• New York Pizza: Hand-stretched, wood-fired pizzas with premium toppings—all included.

Unique Perks: Culinary Arts Center & Wine Tasting

HAL’s Culinary Arts Center offers complimentary cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. Guests can learn how to make pasta from scratch or pair wine with cheese—all while enjoying included bites. The line also partners with Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson to curate a premium wine list (available at an extra charge, but tastings are free).

Guest Tip: Book a “Pinnacle Grill” experience (a paid specialty venue) to taste HAL’s best dishes—but know that the main dining room is just as satisfying for included dining.

Royal Caribbean International: Fun, Flavor, and Family-Friendly

Mass Appeal with Unexpected Gourmet Touches

For families and first-time cruisers, Royal Caribbean International (RCI) is a top choice. While known for its massive ships (like the Oasis-class), RCI has quietly upgraded its included food offerings to match its entertainment and activity options.

RCI’s culinary program, led by Chef Jamie Oliver (in a past partnership) and current Executive Chef John Isbell, focuses on flavor, accessibility, and fun. The line caters to diverse tastes, with menus that include comfort food (mac and cheese, fried chicken) alongside gourmet items (seared tuna, truffle fries).

Included Dining Highlights

• Main Dining Room: Rotating menu with 15–20 entrées. Try the “Royal Signature Steak” (dry-aged ribeye) or “Mediterranean Sea Bass.”
• Windjammer Café (Buffet): Features live stations for Indian curries, Mexican tacos, and sushi. The “Plant-Based” section offers vegan lasagna and quinoa bowls.
• Sorrento’s Pizza: 24/7 pizza with gourmet options like truffle mushroom and prosciutto arugula.
• Boardwalk Dog House: Gourmet hot dogs with toppings like kimchi and sriracha mayo.

Innovation: Smart Menus & Dietary Tech

RCI uses digital menus with allergen filters, allowing guests to sort dishes by gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free. The line also offers “Smart Dining” reservations, where you can pre-select meals via the app. On newer ships, the “Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine” (a complimentary specialty venue) features whimsical, molecular gastronomy-inspired dishes like “cloud eggs” and “smoked salmon mousse.”

Pro Tip: Visit the Windjammer during port days for fresh, locally inspired dishes—e.g., jerk chicken in the Caribbean or paella in Spain.

Comparison Table: Top Cruise Lines for Included Food (2024)

Cruise Line	Main Dining Quality	Buffet/Casual Dining	Complimentary Specialty Dining	Best For	Notable Perks
Oceania Cruises	★★★★★ (Gourmet, chef-driven)	★★★★☆ (Live stations, fresh sushi)	Yes (Red Ginger, Waves Grill)	Foodies, luxury travelers	Jacques Pépin menus, organic sourcing
Regent Seven Seas	★★★★★ (Fine dining, caviar service)	★★★★☆ (Gourmet buffet)	Yes (All specialty venues)	All-inclusive seekers	No extra charges, local sourcing
Celebrity Cruises	★★★★☆ (Global, plant-forward)	★★★★☆ (Live stations, hydroponic garden)	Limited (Some pop-ups)	Modern cruisers, families	Le Petit Chef, complimentary wine
Holland America	★★★★☆ (Classic, elegant)	★★★☆☆ (Reimagined buffet)	No (Paid specialty)	Traditionalists, seniors	Culinary Arts Center, sommelier tastings
Royal Caribbean	★★★☆☆ (Comfort + gourmet)	★★★★☆ (Diverse, fun)	Yes (Wonderland, some pop-ups)	Families, first-timers	Smart menus, 24/7 pizza

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Cruise Line for Your Palate

So, which cruise line has the best included food? The answer depends on your priorities:

• For gourmet excellence: Oceania Cruises wins with its chef-driven, Michelin-inspired menus and complimentary specialty dining.
• For all-inclusive luxury: Regent Seven Seas offers unmatched value with no extra charges and premium ingredients.
• For global flavors and modernity: Celebrity Cruises blends innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.
• For classic elegance: Holland America Line delivers timeless quality with a focus on service and consistency.
• For fun and family appeal: Royal Caribbean surprises with gourmet touches in a casual, accessible setting.

Ultimately, the “best” included food is the one that aligns with your taste, budget, and travel style. Whether you crave a truffle-infused risotto at Oceania’s Grand Dining Room or a lobster roll by Royal Caribbean’s pool, the modern cruise industry offers something for every palate—without requiring a second mortgage. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line has the best included food for a luxury experience?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises consistently rank among the top for luxury dining, with gourmet meals, premium wines, and specialty restaurants included in the fare. Both offer chef-driven menus and high-end ingredients like caviar and truffles at no extra cost.

Are there affordable cruise lines with great included dining options?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) provide budget-friendly fares with surprisingly diverse included food. From buffets to main dining rooms, you’ll find everything from comfort classics to international cuisine without paying extra.

Which cruise line has the best included food for families with kids?

Disney Cruise Line excels with kid-approved menus, character dining experiences, and allergy-friendly options all included. Adults also enjoy upscale dining venues like Palo, making it a win for the whole family.

Do any cruise lines include specialty restaurants in the base price?

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises include specialty dining venues like steakhouses and French bistros in their fares. Even mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean now offer select premium dishes in main dining rooms at no extra charge.

Which cruise line has the best included food for dietary restrictions?

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are praised for accommodating vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice. Their dedicated chefs create tailored meals that don’t feel like an afterthought.

Is the included food better on large ships or smaller luxury cruise lines?

Smaller luxury lines (e.g., Seabourn, Silversea) focus on curated, high-quality meals with fewer crowds, while large ships (e.g., Royal Caribbean) offer more variety and 24/7 options. For the best included food, luxury lines win on quality, but megaships excel in convenience and choice.