There are many things we think about when the word “cruise” pops up, but darn near the top of that list would have to be food. While we’re big believers that you will never go hungry on a ship, we also manage to get ridiculously excited when a cruise line announces additions to their culinary lineup… which is exactly what Carnival Cruise Line just did. However, there’s a catch…
‘A Bold Step Forward’
In a move designed to whet our appetites, Carnival revealed a program they’re calling The Next Course. And while they’ve shared lots of details about the restaurants and experiences which The Next Course will encompass, they also let us know we’ll have to wait a bit for the biggest and best of these changes. Why? Because they’ll be rolled out starting with the introduction of the Carnival Festivale.
That means that while you might start dreaming about the meals you’ll have tonight, you won’t actually be able to experience them until May of 2027.
That said, Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy believes it’ll be well worth the wait. “Our latest culinary adventure marks a bold step forward to give guests an unforgettable experience with a variety of new, vibrant flavors fleetwide.”
Four New Restaurants to Debut
When Carnival Festivale is rolled out, it will feature several new concepts, but not only where food is concerned. There will also be a new lounge dubbed The Spark (which will feature cocktails inspired by iconic songs) as well as a bar called Mix, which sounds like a playful take on the line’s successful Alchemy Bar.
But we’re here to talk about food. So what type of food, exactly, will Carnival’s new restaurants focus on?
First up is Uku Lei Lei, a complimentary restaurant described as a space in which “Hawaii’s vibrant spirit meets bold Asian flavors.” The menu is expected to feature dishes such as poke bowls, Mongolian beef short ribs and tropical desserts, all served in a space with a relaxed island vibe.
Next on our “to eat” list is Le Bistro Musicale, described as having the spirit of a Parisian cafe and “a menu that reads like a love letter to classic French cuisine.” French onion soup, chicken cordon bleu and, of course, crispy steak frites are on the menu at this hot spot, which will come with an upcharge.
Those hungering for something fresh from the ocean will want to head to Emeril’s Coastal Seafood. The menu at this specialty restaurant is described as fresh seafood infused with the celebrity chef’s Creole flair. The atmosphere will be refined but relaxed, offering everything from fresh oysters to chef-driven specialties that “celebrate the best of land and sea.”
Rounding out the new additions is Fetaccine, a complimentary restaurant “where Greek seaside flavors meet rich Italian culinary tradition. The menu will feature a wide variety of offerings, from chicken parm to Greek lamb chops.
New Menus, Fleetwide
So far, there’s no word on when or if any of these new offerings might eventually find their way onto ships other than Festivale or her sister ship, Tropicale, which will begin welcoming guests in 2028.
However, The Next Course does include the rollout of refreshed menus across the fleet, and the addition of Bagels At Sea. The Chef’s Table Menu will also be revamped with an emphasis on regionally-inspired flavors. Additionally, Carnival is promising fun pop-up concepts, expanded grab-and-go options and the previously announced Express Dining option.
Read Next: What you need to know about Carnival’s Express Dining option
