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Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Guide to All 22 Restaurants

Cruise on Carnival’s Mardi Gras and ensure a party for your tastebuds. After all, you can’t name a ship after one of the world’s most famous festivals and not expect the food to be a celebration. 

Carnival Mardi Gras restaurant options gives you a choice of 22 (yes, 22!) places to dine, day and night.

Mardi Gras holds fast to Carnival favorites like Guy’s Burgers and Bonsai Sushi. The ship introduces new venues like Rudi’s Seagrill, a high-end seafood restaurant. 

Also new is the long-awaited Emeril’s Bistro 1396 , a Creole-inspired menu created by the legendary New Orleans chef himself, Emeril Lagasse.

The first-ever Chinese-Mexican restaurant on a cruise ship will excite your palate with Chibang!. Though it began as a free eatery, Carnival’s website now has a “$” next to the restaurant’s name. 

Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Options Overview

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Known for its tremendous value offering, Carnival provides complimentary dining options aplenty. There’s a new chicken joint on Mardi Gras , created in partnership with none other than Fun Ambassador Shaquille O’Neal.

We were happy to learn that familiar venues like Guy’s Pig & Anchor and Cucino Del Capitano are also on board Mardi Gras . Looking to splurge a bit? There are still more places than ever, from immersive cooking classes at Carnival Kitchen to a night at the cruise line’s signature Steakhouse.

To keep your dining options — and your budget — sorted, we’ve rounded up every Mardi Gras restaurant , from the main dining room to 555 Steakhouse. 

Plus, we sort out whether or not the restaurant is included in the price of your cruise or has an additional fee.

As of now, in the ship’s inaugural season, the specialty dining fee has been discontinued at Guy’s Pig & Anchor, Cucina Del Capitano, and Chibang! If this should change, we’ll let you know.

Mardi Gras Complimentary Restaurants and Dining Options

• Palm Restaurant (Main Dining Room)
• Chibang! (at this time it’s free)
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse
• Cucina Del Capitano
• Big Chicken
• Street Eats
• BlueIguana Cantina
• Guy’s Burger Joint
• Lido Marketplace (Buffet)
• Pizzeria Del Capitano

Room Service

Specialty restaurants with a fee.

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse
• Rudi’s Seagrill
• Bonsai Teppanyaki
• Bonsai Sushi
• Seafood Shack
• Carnival Kitchen
• JavaBlue Cafe
• Chef’s Table
• Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast
• Pizza Delivery

What Restaurant are Free on Carnival Mardi Gras?

Palm restaurant (main dining room).

Decks 6 and 7 are home to the main dining room on Mardi Gras , known as the Palm Restaurant. The elevated but never-stuffy atmosphere accompanies a multicourse dinner menu that updates daily, but keeps a few items, like chicken breast, on standby. Expect the specials du jour to reflect your port of call; for example, in Cozumel, you might enjoy steak tacos with tosdado de pollo, a pulled chicken appetizer. While you’re at sea, this is the location of the Seaday Brunch, a tempting combination of breakfast and lunch delights.

At dinner, mix and match apps, entrees, and desserts from a Chinese menu and a Mexican menu. For an additional fee, diners can enjoy a golden roasted duck for two, a Chinese specialty.

The Carnival site might still list Chibang! as an added-fee option, but for now it’s free.

GUY’S PIG & ANCHOR SMOKEHOUSE / BREWHOUSE

Head to Deck 8 for a sit-down feast from Guy Fieri paired with homebrewed beer or a drink from the surprising cocktail menu.  Dinner (typically for a fee on other ships in the fleet) features shareable starters like the Trash Can Nachos — tastier than they sound — or the brisket cooked for a quick 18 hours.

At lunch, step into the open air for Guy’s al fresco barbecue. Located just outside of Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, the also-included lunch option features a variety of smoked meats.

Choose from beef and pork butt, as well as a stellar bunch of comforting sides, from mac ‘n’ cheese and potato salad to coleslaw and collard greens.

CUCINA DEL CAPITANO

It’s hard to go wrong with a night out at an Italian restaurant, especially when so many of the ship’s captains are Italian. This typically for-fee venue is included in the fare on Mardi Gras and located on Deck 8. The charming, rustic atmosphere and the authentic flavors are up to par, offering dishes like minestrone, risotto, and branzino. An emblem represents signature menu items chosen by the captains, including arancini or a polenta dessert cake.

BIG CHICKEN

Up on Deck 16 is the place to be if you love chicken — for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Yes, Shaq’s own poultry-focused restaurant serves amazing breakfast treats like chicken and a biscuit, and what’s even better is it’s served until 3 p.m.

Three tempting crispy chicken sandwiches, chicken strips, and a fried chicken basket make up the menu, along with fries and sides like a jalapeno slaw or potato salad. Choose from white or dark meat — grilled chicken can be provided upon request.

STREET EATS

Carnival’s homage to street food lives on Deck 16 of Mardi Gras , and the stalls come alive for lunchtime. You’ll have a hard time deciding between the bao buns of Steam Dream, the kebabs of Mad Sizzle, or the loaded cheesesteak fries from Time Fries. 

BLUEIGUANA CANTINA

Out by the pool on Deck 16 is the onboard Mexican cantina, with free burritos, tacos, and even huevos rancheros and arepas at breakfast.

Another killer find for the first meal of the day, BlueIguana features breakfast burritos brimming with scrambled eggs before it swings over to its lunch items featuring chicken, fish, or pork. Top it all off with something from the serious salsa bar.

GUY’S BURGER JOINT

This fan favorite moves one deck up, to Deck 17, but still serves its droolworthy burgers and handcut fries with signature seasoning. Get your patty “Straight Up” or collect all your calories at once with the “Pig Patty,” which includes a patty of crispy bacon in addition to the beef.

The sauces here are what make the experience complete, so don’t skip the condiments bar.

READ NEXT:  Here’s the Recipe to Make Your Own “Straight Up” Burger at Home

LIDO MARKETPLACE (Buffet) Carnival has been trying to shake up the idea of a cruise buffet for a few years, and the Lido Marketplace on Decks 16 and 17 is the result of that effort.

Specialty stations like a deli counter or pasta bar are scattered throughout the space, in addition to all the classic favorites, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Swirls, the 24-hour fro-yo and ice cream machines, are also located here.

PIZZERIA DEL CAPITANO

There is a good chance you will find time to try a slice of pizza on Mardi Gras with its counter open 24 hours a day. On Deck 16 in the Lido, you will find your choice of pies from a simple margherita to quattro formaggi or four cheese.

Grab by the slice or try your luck ordering an entire pie to share — or not. It’s a busy spot, so expect a wait, especially around mealtimes. The Piazza Panini counter is located close by.

From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Carnival still offers a free room service menu. Continental breakfast is included, but a hot entrée might incur an added fee.

While room service is offered 24 hours a day, be on the lookout for what’s included and what is extra, like firecracker shrimp for $6. However, the chocolate cake is blissfully free of charge.

Carnival Mardi Gras Specialty Restaurants 

Cut to the chase with our list of Mardi Gras Specialty Dining options. In other words, these restaurants cost extra.

EMERIL’S BISTRO 1396 (A la Carte Pricing)

What’s a French Quarter without Emeril? Tucked into Deck 6, the ship’s French Quarter area, is Emeril’s Bistro — the 1396 is a reference to Mardi Gras’ hull number in the shipyard. The partnership extends beyond a few plates and incorporates Chef Emeril’s signature Cajun flavors into breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with shrimp and grits or bananas foster crepes. Come back for a plethora of po-boy sandwiches at lunch. 

And end the day with grilled oysters, jambalaya, and a lemon ice box pie. Beer and root beer is offered by Louisiana-based Abita Brewing. 

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ($38 per person)

Did you even take a cruise without a night out at the steakhouse? On Deck 7, Mardi Gras -goers will find the line’s upscale take on the standard steakhouse.

For a cover charge, Fahrenheit offers more than just choice cuts of beef for dinner. Indulge in jumbo shrimp cocktail, lobster bisque, grilled lamb chops, or the Dover sole.

Rudi’s Seagrill ($38 per person)

Carnival Corp. aficionados or anyone who has also sailed Holland America Line might be familiar with its executive chef and larger-than-life personality, Rudi Sodamin.

Chef Rudi makes his CCL debut on Deck 8 of Mardi Gras , bringing with him his elegant take on seafood.

The charge will likely be worth it once you try the crab-stuffed lobster tail or scallops au gratin. A specialty cocktail and wine menu round out this evening dining experience.

Bonsai Teppanyaki ($32 Per Person)

Teppanyaki, also known as hibachi, is a fun night out for the entire family, as your chef flips your food while it cooks in front of your eyes on the grill.

Reservations are highly recommended for this restaurant on Deck 8, where your choice of salmon, filet mignon, and even lobster tail or black cod, sizzle their way to your dinner plate. 

Bonsai Sushi (A la Carte Pricing)

We love Bonsai’s sushi option, on Deck 8, for its conveniently located bites in between mealtimes. Sure, you can spend an entire lunch or dinner here, but you can also pop in for $5 to $7 rolls, $1.50 pieces of sashimi, or a $2 green tea cupcake.

Japanese beer, sake, and other spirits are served here, as well. It’s one of our favorite Mardi Gras restaurants.

Seafood Shack (A la Carte Pricing)

Seafood actually abounds on Mardi Gras , but on Deck 16 there is entire shack dedicated to the crustaceans, served in a casual atmosphere with views of the ocean.

Grab a bucket of clam strips ($5), the fish and chips ($6), or a lobster roll — or lobster BLT option (both $12). Depending on availability, raw oysters, snow crab, and steamed lobster or peel-and-eat shrimp are available by the pound and at market price.

Carnival Kitchen (Prices Vary)

Would-be chefs 12 and older can head to Deck 6 for a range of classes, from pizza-making to the secret behind the sacred Carnival chocolate melting cake (prices depend on which class is selected).

On a weeklong sailing, about 16 classes might be on offer for groups of 18 or less. Each evening a special two-hour class is held, and participants can then sit down to enjoy the dinner that they prepared, like an authentic Indian spread.

We strongly recommend signing up early — and online. Despite the number of classes offered, they book faster than you can say “Bon appetit!”

Javablue Café (A la Carte Pricing)

If caffeine is fueling your cruise vacation, you will likely find yourself at this café on Deck 6. To complement your coffees and shakes, there are treats galore, from cookies and ice cream to its notorious blue velvet cake.

Chef’s Table ($95 per person)

If you are considered a foodie, do yourself a favor and invest in this multi-course sensory experience that takes dining options onboard to another echelon.

Held on Deck 5 aft, in a dedicated space on Mardi Gras , the Chef’s Table invites just 14 guests aged 12 and up for a VIP experience with onboard chefs creating and explaining a unique menu just for your group.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast ($6 Per Person)

Typically offered just once per sailing, Carnival’s Dr. Seuss partnership is at its yummiest with this special themed character breakfast.

Adults are outnumbered by kids, but everyone is welcome to enjoy this sugar-soaked brunch with Cat in the Hat live. Other guest appearances pepper this experience that’s as memorable as the Truffala Tree pancakes and of course, Kelly green eggs.

Pizza Delivery ($5 Per Pie)

Why bother climbing to Deck 16 when you can just get your pizza delivered to you anywhere on the ship? Using your Carnival Hub app, snap a shot of where you are onboard. For a small delivery fee, you could be chowing down on a pepperoni slice in the arcade.

Conclusion: Carnival Mardi Gras Dining

As your cruise draws to a close, you’ll probably realize that there wasn’t enough time to try even half of the Mardi Gras restaurants. The good news is that at least you’ve knocked a few of the free and specialty dining options off your list. 

Next time you sail onboard Mardi Gras , the remaining amount of your unvisited restaurants or eateries will have narrowed and within reach. Just as long as you don’t stop for any repeats!

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Updated on October 16, 2023 by Sherry Laskin

2024 Carnival Mardi Gras Complete Restaurant Guide & PDF Menus

Embark on a culinary journey aboard the Mardi Gras with Carnival Cruise Line, where dining is an adventure unto itself. From the sophisticated atmosphere of the Palm and Flamingo Restaurants for breakfast, brunch, and dinner to casual favorites at Big Chicken and BlueIguana Cantina, there's a world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Whether you're craving the fusion delights of ChiBang!, the fresh offerings of Guy’s Burger Joint, or the authentic tastes at Pizzeria del Capitano, every meal is an opportunity to explore delicious, complimentary dining options that cater to every palate.

Complimentary Restaurants

Main Dining Rooms: Palm & Flamingo Restaurants

At the heart of the Mardi Gras dining experience are the Palm and Flamingo Restaurants, offering a sophisticated atmosphere for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. These main dining rooms share the same rotating menus.

Port Day Breakfast: Palm Restaurant 7:00-9:00am.

Sea Day Brunch: Palm Restaurant 8:30am-12pm.

Sea Day Tea Time: Flamingo Restaurant 3:00-4:00pm.

Dinner: Early seating 5:00pm • Late seating 7:45pm • Anytime Dining 5:00-9:00pm.

Click here to view the Carnival Main Dining Room Menus

Big Chicken

Curated by Big Chicken serves a range of chicken dishes, from crispy sandwiches to juicy tenders, all in a casual setting.

Breakfast • Lunch

Big Chicken Menu

BlueIguana Cantina

Dive into Mexican-inspired fare with freshly made burritos, tacos, and an array of salsas at this vibrant, poolside eatery.

BlueIguana Cantina Menu

A fusion dining experience offering a mix of Chinese and Mexican cuisines, Chibang! delights with its innovative menu and lively atmosphere.

Lunch (Sea Days) • Dinner

ChiBang! Menu

Fresh Creations

Fresh Creations serves customizable salads with fresh veggies, premium toppings, and house-made dressings.

Lunch (Sea Days)

Fresh Creations Menu

Guy’s Burger Joint

Crafted by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, enjoy hand-crafted burgers and fresh-cut fries at this popular spot, a haven for burger lovers.

Lunch (Sea Days) • Dinner (Sea Days)

Guy’s Burger Joint Menu

Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ

Indulge in championship-quality BBQ smoked on board, featuring Guy Fieri’s signature recipes and sauces.

Breakfast (Sea Days) • Lunch (Sea Days)

Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ Menu

Lido Marketplace

A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes, salads, desserts, and more, perfect for any meal of the day.

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Piazza Panini

Specializing in gourmet sandwiches, Piazza Panini offers a flavorful Italian twist for those seeking a casual yet delicious dining option.

Lunch • Dinner

Piazza Panini Menu

Pizzeria del Capitano

Serving up delicious pizza options with a variety of toppings, Pizzeria del Capitano is your go-to for a quick and satisfying meal.

Pizzeria del Capitano Menu

Street Eats

This open-air eatery offers quick bites from Steam Dream (dim sum), Mad Sizzle (kebabs), and Time Fries (loaded fries), great for a snack or a light meal.

Street Eats Menu

Enjoy self-serve, soft-serve ice cream and frozen yogurt, available 24/7 for a sweet treat any time of day or night.

Specialty Restaurants

Bonsai Sushi

Experience authentic sushi and sashimi, as well as other Japanese delicacies, in a serene setting.

Bonsai Sushi Menu

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Interactive dining with chefs preparing meals right before your eyes on teppanyaki grills.

Bonsai Teppanyaki Menu

Cucina del Capitano

Savor Italian classics in a family-style setting, reminiscent of a cozy Italian home.

Cucina del Capitano Menu

Emeril’s Bistro 1396

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse brings his signature Creole and Cajun cuisine to the high seas.

Breakfast • Lunch (Sea Days) • Dinner

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 Menu

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

A classic American steakhouse serving premium cuts of steak, seafood, and an extensive wine list.

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse Menu

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

Enjoy craft beers brewed onboard alongside Guy Fieri’s BBQ creations.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse Menu

JavaBlue Cafe

A café serving specialty coffees, teas, and freshly baked pastries.

JavaBlue Cafe Menu

Rudi’s Seagrill

A fine dining seafood experience curated by master chef Rudi Sodamin.

Rudi’s Seagrill Menu

Seafood Shack

Casual seafood spot offering everything from fried shrimp to lobster rolls.

Seafood Shack Menu

Click here for more Carnival Cruise Line menus!

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Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Guide To All 22 Restaurants

A celebration for your sense of taste is guaranteed as you set sail on Carnival’s Mardi Gras. After all, you can’t call a ship after one of the most well-known celebrations in the world and not anticipate there to be a party atmosphere in the dining room.

The restaurant selections at Carnival Mardi Gras give you a choice of 22 (yes, 22!) different locations to dine, both during the day and at night.

Favorites from the Carnival, such as Guy’s Burgers and Bonsai Sushi, are still available at Mardi Gras. Rudi’s Seagrill is a high-end seafood restaurant that is one of the new venues that can be found on the ship.

Emeril’s Bistro 1396, which has been eagerly anticipated for quite some time, has opened its doors with a menu that is influenced by Creole cuisine and was developed by the illustrious New Orleans chef Emeril Lagasse himself.

Chibang!, the first Chinese-Mexican fusion restaurant ever to open on a cruise ship , is sure to tantalise your taste buds. Despite the fact that it was originally offered without charge, the name of the restaurant on the Carnival website now includes the symbol $.

An Overview of the Dining Options at the Carnival Mardi Gras

The free meal selections on Carnival cruises are many, which contributes to the company’s reputation for providing excellent value. On Mardi Gras, there is a new chicken establishment that was developed in collaboration with none other than Shaquille O’Neal, who serves as Fun Ambassador.

We were ecstatic to find out that well-known establishments such as Guy’s Pig & Anchor and Cucino Del Capitano will also be participating in Mardi Gras. Looking to treat yourself a little bit? There are still more places than ever, such as participating in an interactive culinary class at Carnival Kitchen or spending the evening at the hallmark steakhouse of the cruise company.

We have compiled a list of all of the restaurants at Mardi Gras, from the main dining room to the 555 Steakhouse, to help you organise your dining selections and stay within your budget.

In addition, we will determine whether the restaurant is included in the cost of your cruise or whether there is an additional fee associated with it.

The price for speciality dining at Guy’s Pig & Anchor, Cucina Del Capitano, and Chibang has been eliminated as of the beginning of the ship’s maiden season. In the event that this were to change, you would be informed of it.

A Quick Look: All of the Restaurants and Dining Options Are Complimentary

1. Palm Restaurant (Main Dining Room)

2. Chibang! (for the time being, it’s completely free)

3. Smokehouse and pub fare served at Guy’s Pig & Anchor

4. Cucina Del Capitano

5. Big Chicken

6. Street Eats

7. BlueIguana Cantina

8. Guy’s Burger Joint

9. Lido Marketplace (Buffet)

10. Pizzeria Del Capitano

11. Delivery to Your Room

A Quick Look at Some Restaurants That Charge Extra For Their Services

1. Emeril’s Bistro 1396

2. Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

3. Rudi’s Seagrill

4. Bonsai Teppanyaki

5. Bonsai Sushi

6. Fish and Chips Stand

7. Kitchen of the Carnival

8. JavaBlue Cafe

9. Table de Cuisine

10. Breakfast with Ham and Eggs in Green

11. Pizza Delivery

Restaurants on Carnival and Mardi Gras that Are Completely Free

PALM RESTAURANT (Main Dining Room)

The Palm Restaurant, the ship’s primary dining venue, can be found on Decks 6 and 7, and its name comes from those decks. The upscale but never stuffy setting is complemented by a dinner menu that features multiple courses and is updated daily. However, certain foods, such as chicken breast, are always available.

You may expect the specials of the day to represent the port that you are visiting; for instance, in Cozumel, you can be served steak tacos with tosdado de pollo, which is an appetiser consisting of jerked chicken. The Seaday Brunch, an enticing combination of breakfast and lunch delicacies, will be served here while you are at sea at this particular spot.

This location on Deck 8 is a first for Carnival, and it may be a first for any cruise ship , as it combines the flavours of Mexican and Chinese cuisines in one spot. The make-your-own bowls, which can range from Chinese noodle bowls to Mexican burrito bowls, are all the rage during lunchtime.

Mix and combine appetisers, main courses, and desserts from a Chinese menu and a Mexican menu to create your own unique meal for supper. Diners have the option of ordering a golden roasted duck for two, a traditional dish from China, for an extra charge.

There’s a chance that Chibang is still listed on the Carnival website! as an additional price option, however for the time being, it is completely free.

GUY’S PIG & ANCHOR SMOKEHOUSE / BREWHOUSE

Head to Deck 8 for a sit-down meal prepared by Guy Fieri, which can be accompanied by a drink selected from the unexpected cocktail menu or homebrewed beer.

Dinner, which is normally chargeable on other ships in the fleet, consists of sharing starters such as the brisket cooked for a speedy 18 hours or the Trash Can Nachos, which are tastier than they sound.

Step outside for Guy’s barbeque lunch served al fresco, and enjoy the fresh air. A selection of smoked meats can be found at the alternative lunch option, which is also included and can be found just outside of Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

You have your choice of beef or pork butt, as well as an outstanding assortment of hearty sides, ranging from mac ‘n’ cheese and potato salad to slaw and collard greens.

COOKING AT THE CAPTAIN’S TABLE

It is difficult to make a mistake when spending the evening at an Italian restaurant, which is especially true given the fact that the majority of the ship’s captains are of Italian descent. This normally fee-based venue can be found on Deck 8 and is included in the price of admission during Mardi Gras.

Minestrone, risotto, and branzino are just few of the traditional Italian meals that may be enjoyed here, along with the quaint, country-style ambiance and real flavours. Arancini and a polenta dessert cake are two examples of the signature dishes that the captains have selected to be represented by an emblem.

BIG CHICKEN

If you enjoy eating chicken for any meal of the day, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Deck 16 is the place to be. It’s true that Shaq’s own restaurant, which focuses on poultry, delivers delicious breakfast dishes like chicken and a biscuit, and what’s even better is that these dishes are available until 3 o’clock in the afternoon.

On the menu, you’ll find three irresistible crispy chicken sandwiches, chicken strips, and a fried chicken basket, in addition to fries and several side dishes such as jalapeño slaw or potato salad. You have the option of selecting either white or dark meat, and grilled chicken is available on demand.

STREET EATS

The kiosks that make up Carnival’s homage to street cuisine are located on Deck 16 of the Mardi Gras cruise ship , and they come to life during lunchtime. The bao buns from Steam Dream, the kebabs from Mad Sizzle, and the loaded cheesesteak fries from Time Fries are all delicious options, and it will be difficult for you to choose just one.

BLUEIGUANA CANTINA (Spain)

The onboard Mexican cantina is located on Deck 16, right next to the pool, and it serves free burritos, tacos, and even huevos rancheros and arepas for morning.

Breakfast burritos at BlueIguana are stuffed to the brim with scrambled eggs, making them an excellent choice for the first meal of the day. After that, the restaurant switches gears and serves dishes for lunch that include chicken, fish, or pork. Add a little bit from the serious salsa bar to finish it all off.

GUY’S BURGER JOINT

This guest favourite has moved up one deck, to Deck 17, but it will continue to serve its mouthwatering burgers and handcut fries seasoned with a signature blend of spices. You can get your burger “Straight Up,” or you can get the “Pig Patty,” which includes a patty of crispy bacon in addition to the beef patty. Both options will add a significant amount of calories to your meal.

You shouldn’t pass up the condiments bar because the sauces here are what bring the whole experience together for you.

LIDO MARKETPLACE (Buffet)

The concept of a buffet on a cruise ship has been the subject of Carnival’s innovation efforts for the past few years, and the outcome of those efforts is the Lido Marketplace, which is located on Decks 16 and 17.

In addition to all of the traditional favourites, there are also specialty stations dispersed throughout the area, such as a deli counter or a pasta bar, which are available for breakfast, lunch, and supper. This location is also home to Swirls, which features frozen yoghurt and ice cream vending machines that are open around the clock.

The Pizza Tavern of the Captain

Due to the fact that its counter is open around the clock, there is a very good possibility that you will have the opportunity to indulge in a slice of pizza during Mardi Gras. On Deck 16, in the Lido, you will find a selection of pies, ranging from the classic margherita to the more complex quattro formaggi, sometimes known as four cheese.

You can get it by the slice, or you can try your luck and order the whole pie to share (or not). It’s a popular place, so you should be prepared to wait, especially at mealtimes. The Piazza Panini counter may be found in the immediate vicinity.

SERVICING IN THE ROOM

From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Even now, Carnival provides guests with a free room service menu. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided, but there may be an additional charge for a hot entrée.

Even if room service is available around the clock, it is important to pay attention to what is included and what is an additional charge. For example, firecracker shrimp cost an additional $6. On the other hand, there is no fee for the delectable chocolate cake.

Restaurants Specializing in the Carnival and Mardi Gras Carnival

Get to to the point with this rundown of all the different Mardi Gras specialty dining selections. To put it another way, the prices at these eateries are higher.

EMERIL’S BISTRO 1396 (A la Carte Pricing)

What is the French Quarter if Emeril is not there? Emeril’s Bistro may be found tucked away on Deck 6, in the French Quarter part of the ship; the number 1396 is a reference to the hull number of the Mardi Gras in the shipyard.

This cooperation encompasses more than just a few plates, as Chef Emeril’s unique Cajun flavours will be incorporated into breakfast, lunch, and supper fare as a result. Crepes filled with bananas foster or shrimp and grits are two delicious options for breakfast. Come back around lunchtime for an overwhelming selection of po-boy sandwiches.

And to cap off the day, we’ll serve grilled oysters, jambalaya, and ice box pie made with lemon. Abita Brewing, which is situated in Louisiana, is known for producing beer in addition to root beer.

The FAHRENHEIT 555 Steakhouse charges $38 for each individual patron.

Have you even been on a cruise if you didn’t go out to a steakhouse at least once? On Deck 7, guests attending Mardi Gras will discover an upgraded version of the traditional steakhouse offered by the line.

More than only premium slices of beef are available for supper at Fahrenheit, which requires paying an admission fee. Indulge in some big shrimp cocktail, grilled lamb chops, lobster bisque, or the Dover sole.

RUDI’S SEAGRILL($38 per person)

Fans of Carnival Corporation or anyone who has sailed with Holland America Line may be aware with the chief chef and larger-than-life personality of the company, Rudi Sodamin. Rudi Sodamin has been with the company for more than 30 years.

On Deck 8 of the Mardi Gras, Chef Rudi makes his debut with Carnival Cruise Line, bringing his sophisticated take on seafood with him.

When you taste the crab-stuffed lobster tail or the scallops au gratin, you will certainly find that the charge was well worth it. This evening meal experience is rounded out with a selection of specialty cocktails and a wine menu.

BONSAI TEPPANYAKI($32 Per Person)

Teppanyaki, which is commonly referred to as hibachi, is an enjoyable activity for an evening out with the whole family since the chef flips your meal while it cooks in front of your very eyes on the grill.

This restaurant on Deck 8 takes reservations, and they are strongly recommended. Diners have their choice of salmon, fillet mignon, and even lobster tail or black cod, all of which sizzle their way to your dinner plate.

BONSAI SUSHI

The sushi at Bonsai, which is located on Deck 8, is one of our favourite places to grab a bite in between meals because of its convenient location. Sure, you can spend an entire lunch or dinner here, but you can also pop in for $5 to $7 rolls, $1.50 pieces of sashimi, or a $2 green tea cupcake.

Japanese beer, sake, and other spirits are served here, as well. It’s one of our favourite Mardi Gras restaurants.

SEAFOOD SHACK (A la Carte Pricing)

Crustaceans are really quite easy to come by on Mardi Gras, but there is a particular shack on Deck 16 that is entirely devoted to serving them. This shack features a laid-back ambiance and views of the ocean.

You can have a bucket of clam strips for five dollars, fish and chips for six dollars, or either a lobster roll or a lobster BLT choice for twelve dollars. Raw oysters, snow crab, steamed lobster, and peel-and-eat shrimp are all available by the pound and at market price. The availability of these items is dependent upon the season.

CARNIVAL KITCHEN (Prices Vary)

Aspiring cooks and chefs Deck 6 is the place to go for anyone above the age of 12 to learn a variety of skills, from how to make pizza to the mystical process behind the Carnival chocolate melting cake (prices depend on which class is selected).

During a weeklong cruise, there may be up to sixteen different classes available for parties of eighteen people or fewer. Every evening, there is a special session that lasts for two hours, and afterward, the participants are able to enjoy the supper that they have prepared, which is something like an actual Indian feast.

It is highly recommended that you sign up in advance, and preferably online. In spite of the large number of lessons that are made available, seats fill up quicker than you can say “Bon appetit!”

The JAVABLUE CAFE (A la Carte Pricing)

It’s likely that you’ll find yourself in this café on Deck 6 during your cruise holiday if you need a caffeine fix. There is a wide variety of sweets available to choose from, including cookies, ice cream, and even the restaurant’s world-famous blue velvet cake, to accompany your shakes and coffees.

CHEF’S TABLE ($95 for each individual)

If you consider yourself to be a foodie, you owe it to yourself to treat yourself to this multi-course sensory experience, which elevates the dining options available onboard to an entirely new level.

The Chef’s Table is a special event on the Mardi Gras that is hosted in a private area on Deck 5 aft. It is open to a maximum of 14 guests who are at least 12 years old and provides them with a VIP experience in which onboard cooks create and discuss a special cuisine exclusively for their party.

GREEN EGGS AND HAM BREAKFAST ($6 Per Person)

This deliciously themed character breakfast is one of the highlights of Carnival’s association with Dr. Seuss, which is normally only made available once during each cruise.

Although children significantly outnumber adults at this sugar-filled breakfast, everyone is welcome to attend and watch Cat in the Hat perform live. The Truffala Tree pancakes and, of course, the Kelly green eggs aren’t the only things that make this encounter distinctive; there are also other special guests who make appearances.

PIZZA DELIVERY ($5 Per Pie)

Why go to the trouble of climbing all the way up to Deck 16 when you can simply order pizza to be brought to you wherever you are on the ship? Take a picture of your current location onboard using the Carnival Hub app on your mobile device. You may be chowing down on a pepperoni slice in the arcade for a modest delivery cost provided by the restaurant.

Dining in the Carnival and Mardi Gras atmosphere

As the end of your trip approaches, you will most likely become aware of the fact that you did not have sufficient time to eat at even one-half of the Mardi Gras restaurants. The encouraging news is that at least some of the possibilities for inexpensive and specialised eating have been crossed off your list.

When you cruise onboard Mardi Gras again, the number of your ship’s restaurants and eateries that you have yet to try will be significantly reduced, bringing them closer within your grasp. So long as you don’t stop for any repetitions, you should be fine!

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Carnival Mardi Gras Dining

We’ve always described Carnival's food as "tasty." It may not be the fanciest or the most healthy at sea, but it almost always tastes good. And what's great about Mardi Gras is the sheer abundance of free choices onboard, particularly for breakfast and lunch -- in fact there were so many interesting restaurants to choose from we didn't eat in the buffet at all. Additionally, when there is a charge for a meal, it's far lower than what you find on other mainstream cruise ships, and generally worth the extra money.

As we were the ship's first sailing ever in July 2021, we are not going to rate the service. Suffice it to say that the ship was in "shakedown mode" in many of its busiest dining venues; long lines and waits were common, even though the ship was only at 70 percent capacity. These issues should improve as the crew becomes more experienced.

Carnival Mardi Gras Dining Options

There are two styles of dining on Mardi Gras -- traditional, with set times at the spacious two-story Palm restaurant -- and Your Time Dining in the much smaller Flamingo dining room.

And here's where Mardi Gras might end up getting into trouble. The ship's architects noted that Mardi Gras requires a different dining flow, as the ship does not work if all guests eat their meals in the main dining room and Lido.

On our sailing, and for what the line is calling "a limited time," several specialty restaurants -- Chibang, Cucina del Capitano and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse -- were made complimentary. It's unclear how long this will last; the line noted that any overflow from Flamingo on Elegant Night (when many guests crowd the main dining rooms for free lobster) could be steered to the second floor of Palm.

Dinners in the main dining rooms tend to be more traditional than what you find elsewhere on the ship, but Carnival makes sure that the atmosphere isn't stuffy (and if you were too worried about that, the dancing and singing waiters will assuage your fears pretty quickly).

Carnival Hall of Fame entrees include prime rib, an Indian rotating vegetarian option and, of course, the warm chocolate melting cake.

Note: If you crave lobster every night, you can have it. You will just pay an extra fee for it to be served from the steakhouse. Top grade steak cuts are also available, and a note to bargain hunters -- if you price it out, the surcharge is still less than you'd pay if you had a full meal in the specialty steakhouse.

Tip: On Mardi Gras, if you have Your Time Dining and want to order anything from the main dining room in an alternative venue, you can do so. We had warm chocolate melting cake in Chibang and it tasted just as good there as it would have in Flamingo.

Buffet Dining on Carnival Mardi Gras

With so many free complimentary options elsewhere on the ship, the Lido Marketplace buffet on Mardi Gras is almost an afterthought. But rest assured, whatever you want, you'll be able to find it here. The Marketplace has remained self-serve, and has stations for omelets at breakfast, and hamburgers, salad, and gelato at lunch. It's also a popular spot for families at dinner, especially on the early side. One complaint that we heard is that Marketplace was not open for late-night eats; if you have 2 a.m. cravings, you'll have to get pizza from Pizzeria del Capitano on Deck 8.

Free Restaurants on Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival has always given cruisers a variety of Lido deck venues, but Mardi Gras spoils you for choice -- and most are not only complimentary, they are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Keep in mind that not all venues are right around the pool; look for Guy's Burgers up on Deck 17 and Big Chicken is at the back of the ship through the buffet.

Big Chicken

The much-anticipated chicken shack from Carnival Brand Ambassador Shaq O'Neal lives up to the hype. The sandwiches are as good as you'd find at a fast food restaurant on land -- and the fries are incredible. There are also chicken and biscuits in the morning and  chicken tenders here.

Street Food

This collection of three stands is meant to mimic food truck cuisine, and all options are tasty. Steam Dream offers Asian-inspired buns and dumplings; Mad Sizzle has kebabs, satays and pad Thai, and Time Fries has French fries loaded with toppings.

The popular taco and burrito stand is back on the Lido. We've always found this particularly delicious for breakfast, when it serves up breakfast burritos.

Guy's Burgers

The new location is much more spacious, and does draw crowds away from the main pool area, plus it’s closer to the teen area and sports complex. The breakfast menu includes burgers topped with fried eggs and a turkey sausage patty with bacon and hash browns.

Pizzeria del Capitano and Piazza Panini

This duo anchors the La Piazza neighborhood, and it's almost always buzzing, partly because there's a new bar, Bar Della Rosa, in the area and partly because the outdoor smoking section is just outside. The tasty pizza spot is open 24 hours, and panini options include classic ham, a pressed caprese, or salumeria sandwich filled with Italian meats and cheeses. Dessert is available after 8 p.m.

Tip: For a fee, you can order pizza delivered to your cabin or anywhere on the ship through the Carnival HUB app.

The specialty coffees here will cost money, as will some fancier pastries (we spent $3 for a delicious bacon-topped cream donut), but this coffee counter in the Grand Central neighborhood has a nice array of free sandwiches for breakfast and lunch.

Fresh Creations

For lighter fare, check out this salad bar within the Serenity pool area.

Free Specialty Restaurants on Carnival Mardi Gras

A trio of specialty restaurants onboard Mardi Gras are being made complimentary for a "limited time," with no word from the line as to when that ends. Reservations are key, particularly at peak dinner hours.

The same attention that has been given to cocktails at the bars across the ship holds true at these restaurants too -- even if you usually have wine at dinner, you might want to peruse the mixed drinks here. Both Chibang and Guy's have excellent options (we're still thinking about the smoked watermelon cocktail we had at the latter).

Cucina del Capitano

This casual Italian venue serves breakfast options similar to what you'd find in the main dining room. We came here for a dinner where the service was clearly overwhelmed and ended up waiting hours for food that arrived cold. We heard that both food and service were better on other evenings.

The concept of this replacement for Jiji Asian Kitchen is a bit odd -- you can order Mexican dishes or Chinese dishes, or mix and match. We gave both a try and felt the flavors just don't always work together. Plus we found the Mexican food wasn't nearly as tasty as what you'd find at BlueIguana Cantina. And as for how it compares to Jiji…we'll just shed a tear, and wait until we're on a different ship to order Chinese.

Guy Fieri's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse

It's nice to have a complimentary version of this BBQ joint, and the daily specials are worth planning your meals around. Go for the meat platters, which give you a choice of three BBQ options like pulled pork, brisket or ribs, as well as sides like Mac Daddy Mac and Cheese.

Restaurants on Carnival Mardi Gras For a Fee

Seafood shack.

($) Fancy a lobster roll? The ones here are mayo-heavy but still tasty. It's located near the free Street Eats stations, which could lead to confusion.

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki

($) This duo of Japanese offerings is definitely cheaper than what you'd find in a similar restaurant on land. The Teppanyaki, with its interactive hibachi cooking and chef banter, is fun for all ages.

Emeril's

($) Emeril Lagasse's first restaurant at sea is the culinary anchor of the French Quarter neighborhood. You can order fresh oysters and New Orleans classics such as jambalaya, duck and andouille gumbo, and muffuletta sandwiches. The breakfast menu includes decadent bananas foster crepes that will keep you on a sugar high for hours.

Fahrenheit 555

($$) Carnival's signature steakhouse has an upscale menu that is worthy of a date night. Indulge in Australian Wagyu beef, USDA Cowboy Steak and Maine lobster. The desserts are Instagram worthy, especially if you get the Art at your Table for your party -- trust us, you won't need anything else.

Rudi's Seagrill

($$) New for Carnival Mardi Gras, this restaurant from Holland America Line Master Chef Rudi Sodamin brings his whimsical "food faces" plates and clever presentations to a new audience. The food is delicious and down to earth, and well worth the $38 price tag -- you'd pay much more at a similar restaurant on land.

Carnival Kitchen

($$ to $$$) Want to be a chef yourself? At Carnival Kitchen, you can take a wide range of interactive culinary classes. The classes are themed and make for a fun group event -- you can learn to make pasta, pizza, sushi, cupcakes, and even breakfast foods. On some evenings, special two-hour classes end in a full meal that turns into dinner with drinks.

Chef's Table

($$$) If you're looking for more of a gourmet experience, try the Chef's Table -- an extra fee, reservation-only meal intended to be a "foodie" experience. It's eight courses, plus some amuse-bouches served with Champagne and house wine, so settle in for the evening. Don't go if you're a picky eater, or have extensive food allergies.

Our Favorite Restaurants on Carnival Mardi Gras

Among the casual options, we couldn't get enough of Big Chicken. It took all of our willpower not to eat every lunch here. Emeril's is a nice addition with reasonable prices, and if you're looking for a date night, Rudi's is your choice. The food is genuinely high quality and at a reasonable price point, especially compared to other megaships. Make your reservations early, as the seats here sell out fast.

Find a Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise from $466

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All 22 Places You Can Eat At on Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras

There are a total of 22 different dining options on Mardi Gras.  The majority of them are complimentary and not all venues are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Here are the dining venues for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Mardi Gras. Options marked with ($) come with an additional surcharge. (For a limited time during the inaugural season on Mardi Gras, you’ll have your choice of complimentary dining at specialty restaurants Cucina del Capitano, Chibang! and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse every evening after 7:30.)

You can start your day on Mardi Gras by choosing one of 12 options of where to have breakfast.

Palm Dining Room Lido Marketplace (Buffet) BlueIguana Cantina Chibang! Cucina del Capitano Big Chicken Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Guy’s Burger Joint Pizzeria del Capitano Emeril’s Bistro 1396 ($) JavaBlue Cafe (select items come with an extra charge) Room Service (select items come with an extra charge) Family Harbor (Family Harbor rooms only)

There are 18 different places you can grab lunch on Mardi Gras.

Palm Dining Room Lido Marketplace (Buffet) BlueIguana Cantina Chibang! Seafood Shack ($) Bonsai Sushi ($) Bonsai Teppanyaki ($) Piazza Panini Street Eats Fresh Creations Cucina del Capitano Big Chicken Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Guy’s Burger Joint Pizzeria del Capitano Emeril’s Bistro 1396 ($) JavaBlue Cafe (select items come with an extra charge) Room Service (select items come with an extra charge)

You’ll have 16 different options to choose from for dinner on Mardi Gras.

Palm Dining Room (assigned seating) Flamingo Dining Room (Your Time Dining) Lido Marketplace (Buffet) Chibang! Cucina del Capitano Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Emeril’s Bistro ($) Rudi’s Seagrill ($) Bonsai Sushi ($) Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ($) Bonsai Teppanyaki ($) Piazza Panini Pizzeria del Capitano Seafood Shack ($) Chef’s Table ($) Room Service (select items come with an extra charge)

The ship will have lobster night in the main dining rooms and it will also be on the menu in Cucina del Capitano and Chibang!

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Carnival Mardi Gras Full Dining Guide

The complete guide to carnival mardi gras dining.

With 22 different dining venues to choose from, and only 7 days to eat at them, this unofficial guide to dining on the Carnival Mardi Gras will help make sure you don't miss out on your "must try" dining options.

Check out our quick guide by meal type, or scroll down for full details of all 22 venues, categorized by complimentary or upcharge.

• Main Dining Room  - Breakfast on port days (includes an express option) and Sea Day Brunch on non-port days
• Cucina Del Capitano - table service, made to order
• Guys Pig and Anchor Smokehouse - complimentary buffet breakfast (same options as Lido)
• Lido Marketplace  - buffet breakfast and omelette station
• Big Chicken - breakfast biscuits and omelettes, served until 3pm
• Guys Burger Joint - Breakfast (or brunch) style burgers
• BlueIguana Cantina - breakfast burritos 
• Room Service $ - continental breakfast is complimentary, and breakfast sandwiches are available for $3-$5
• JavaBlue Cafe $ - morning pastries and coffee are similarly prices to coffee shops on land, but also have complimentary breakfast sandwiches
• Emerils Bistro $ - a la carte pricing on breakfast like shrimp and grits, and breakfast po-boys from $5
• Main Dining Room  - lunch is not offered in the dining room, but plenty of lunch style options are available on the complimentary Sea Day Brunch menu.  Check in on app
• Emeri’s Bistro 1396  $ - Currently $5 for small plates, $8-$15 for bigger plates, $4 or $5 for desserts and breakfast, and MP for seafood bar. Reservations are not possible.
• Chibang - Build your own Pho, Noodle, and Burrito bowls. Table service, Reservations not possible
• Big Chicken  - chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, and seasoned fries, load with your favorite toppings. Counter Service
• Guys Burger Joint  - burgers and fries.  Load with your favorite toppings.  Counter service
• BlueIguana Cantina - Burrito’s or Tacos.  Counter service
• Street Eats - light bites you might find from a street vendor.  The menu changes every day. Counter Service
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que - BBQ  Counter service, no reservations
• Lido Marketplace - Buffet, self seating
• Fresh Creations - build your own salad station, located in the adult only Serenity deck.  Counter Service
• Bonsai Sushi $ - A la carte pricing you can order appetizers, soup, salads, sushi, sashimi, and rolls ranging from $1.50 to $7.00 per item. This is a walk up restaurant, first come first served
• Seafood Shack $ - is a New-England style seafood bar.  A la carte, or market price. Counter service 
• Bonsai Teppanyaki $ -Traditional Tepanyaki style dining for $32 per adult. Reservations required, advanced reservations are recommended
• Main Dining Room  - Rotating menu.  Also available is the “Steakhouse Selections.” For an upcharge of approx $20 you can order select items from the steakhouse.  Check in on app.
• Lido - similar to lunch, you will find a wide selection of different foods in this buffet.  Self seating
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse  $ - The brewhouse dinner menu comes with a charge on most ships, but is currently complimentary on Mardi Gras.  Walk up, table/counter service hybrid
• Big Chicken - Open for dinner offering the same menu as the lunch menu. Counter Service
• Chibang! -  Asian and Mexican menu, currently offered as a complimentary option.  Check in on the app for anytime dining, see host for assigned dining.  
• Cucina del Capitano - SIgnature Italian restaurant.  Currently complimentary.  Check in on the app for anytime dining, see host for assigned dining.  
• Emeril’s BIstro 1396 $ - same menu that was available at lunchtime. Counter service
• Bonsai Sushi $ - same menu as lunchtime, walk up, first come first seved
• Bonsai Teppanyaki $ - Open for dinner offering the same as the lunch menu.  Reservations required, advanced reservations recommended.
• Rudi’s Seagrill $ - Elegant seafood dining from master chef Rudi Sodamin costing $38 for adults. Reservations required
• Farenheit 555 $ - Carnival's signature steakhouse costing $38 per adult. Reservations required
• The Chef’s Table - VIP Chef’s Table with tasting menu for around $95 per person.  Usually books up early so advanced reservations are recommended.  
• Pizzeria del Capitano  - 24 hour pizza, counter service
• Piazza Panini - Deli and sandwich bar, counter service
• Swirls - self serve soft serve ice cream stations, available 24 hours. 
• Room Service $ - Room service has a mixture of complimentary and upcharge items. From 10pm to 6am a charge applies to all orders. 
• JavaBlue cafe $ - coffees, cakes, and sweet treats usually have a charge, but they have a wide selection of savoury options available with no charge.  Also has a grab and go counter.  Counter service
• Carnival Kitchen  - Cookery Master Classes range from $30-$60 per person.  Reservations required, advanced reservations recommended

Complimentary

The following locations are included at no extra charge

Main Dining Room

You will be assigned to one of the Palm or Flamingo dining rooms.  Both carry the same menu each night.  The Main Dining Room is a traditional staple of many cruise lines.  This restaurant features a rotating menu so there’s always something different on offer every day.  Have a favorite that you want to eat time and time again?  Ask your server, they might be able to whip that up for you.  Can’t decide between two options?  Order both, or order a small plate to taste.  You can even order a larger plate to be served family style.  No room for dessert but can’t pass on that Melting Chocolate Cake? Ask for dessert to go.  You can even take a whole meal to go if a member of your party wasn’t feeling up to going to dinner today.  

On port days, the main dining room is open for breakfast.  There is also an express option which is useful if you have an excursion to get to.  On sea days you can find a very extensive, and insanely delicious brunch menu.  

Lido Marketplace

The Lido Marketplace is Carnival's buffet option.  Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner you will find something different every day.  Most of the dinner options are modelled off the main dining room so it's a great option for anyone who is looking for a flexible, casual dinner option.  

You will also find some stations around the marketplace.  At breakfast there is the omelete station, and throughout the day you can grab schwarma, sea dogs, and gelato. 

Fresh Creations

Open for lunch only, this little known salad bar is tucked away on the adults only serenity deck.  With a choice of salad leaves, meats, nuts, seeds, cheeses, berries, vegetables, and dressings, you truly can create your salad your way.  

My favorite creation is Spring Mix, Grilled Chicken, Black Olives, Red Onions, Cherry Tomatoes, Walnuts, Blue Cheese, and Balsamic Dressing.  What's yours?

Piazza Panini

Replacing the more traditional Carnival Deli featured on most other ships in the fleet, the Piazza Panini sandwich bar offers the same deli classics, from Ham and Cheese, to Turkey, or Ruben.  

Of course with "Panini" in the title you would expect some traditional italian pressed sandwiches, and Carnival doesn't disappoint.  With ingredients like Mozzerella, Arugula, Salami, Capicola, Provolone, Prosciutto, and Ciabattas this is perfect place to grab a tasty lunch.  

Shaq's Big Chicken

Mardi Gras offers the first of Shaq's Big Chicken restaurants at sea.  This quick service option serves  up fried chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, and fries.  Make it just the way you like with the toppings bar.  

Breakfast items include biscuits, and omeletes.  Partied too hard last night and slept in?  Shaq's got you covered! You'll find breakfast is served here until 3pm!

Guys' Burger Joint

No Carnival cruise is complete without a visit to Guy's burger joint.  Now offering a vegan patty, Guy's has fast become a favorite of carnival cruisers.  Homecut fries weren't available when I sailed, this could be down to a supply chain issue, but if they ever make their way back on the menu they are a must try.  

Guy's also offers some Breakfast burgers, a new addition currently (at the time of writing) only available on Mardi Gras.  

BlueIgauna Cantina

Another favorite, the BlueIguana offers fresh made tacos and burritos.  Although only chicken, pork, and fish are mentioned, you can make a vegeterian option thanks to the countless toppings and vegetables available, such as tomatoes, roasted corn, and charred peppers.

Did you wake up craving a freshly made breakfast burrito?  Then head on up to the BlueIguana where your burrito will be stuffed with Mexican style scrambled eggs and your choice of other fillings. 

Street Eats

Street Eats is new feature which brings you different offering from each of the three food carts. Street eats are basically light bites you might find from a street vendor.  Although the menu changes every day you can expect small plates such as:

• Steam Dream - Steamed asian treats like bao buns, pot stickers
• Mad Sizzle - Skillet sizzled kebabs, satay
• Time Fries - loaded fries, try the cheesesteak fries

Pizzaria Del Capitano

This is the pizzaria that never sleeps.  Open 24 hours per day you can eat pizza for every meal and snack if you so wish.  Find your fan favorite or try all 5 pizzas, you can order by the slice or get a whole pizza to share (or to keep to yourself, you're on vacation).  

If you are in a hurry, they usually have premade slices available, but if quality is more important to you, then just ask for a fresh made pizza and they will have it to you in under 10 minutes.  

The pizzaria does tend to get busy late at night, especially as the bars and nightclubs close up for the night.  

I don't really consider this a dining option, but Carnival do list swirls on under Dining on their site, which is why I chose to include it here.  Swirls is available 24 hours per day and is a hit with kids and adults alike.  Choose a cup or a cone, choose your flavor, and self-serve your soft-serve swirls. 

Sometimes Complimentary

The following locations have some complimentary options, but other some menu items may come with a charge. 

ChiBang! is a new restaurant, first featured on Carnival Mardi Gras, serving as a replacement for Ji Ji's asian restaurant found on some other ships in the fleet.  ChiBang! is a unique concept restaurant that offers a mix of Mexican and Chinese food.  This is not a fusion menu, but instead two distinct menus which allow you to mix and match.  

Complimentary lunch options include build your own bowls from pho bowls, noodle bowls, and burrito bowls.  Simply choose your protein, veggies, and sauce and the chefs will create your made to order bowl in no time.    

Dinner is currently complimentary and available for guest on Anytime dining.  Assigned dining guests can eat here, but do have to wait until later in the evening and must check in with a host to be wait listed.  It is not currently possible to make a dining reservation.  Although complimentary for the foreseeble future, this type of restaurant typically comes with a $15 surcharge for dinner.  

Cucina Del Capitano

Carnival's signature Italian restaurant features all your Italian favorites from Chicken Parmigiana to Spaghetti.  Definitely try Nona's meatball, perported to be grandma's own recipe.  

Cucina del Capitano is open for complimentary breakfast, featuring a similar menu to the main dining room, but with a few different items.   

Lunch also offers a complimentary pasta bar, where you can build your own pasta bowl.  Simply choose your pasta, protein, sauce, and veggies and hey presto! 

Cucina del Capitano current has the same dinner structure as ChiBang! at the moment. It is complimentary, and open to Anyime dining guests for the foreseeable future.  Assigned dining guests should see a host to be waitlisted.  Most other ships in the fleet have a $15 surcharge for dining in Cucina del Capitano.  

Guy's Pig & Anchor

Guy's Pig & Anchor has 3 different elements to it.  Aside from the brewhouse which contains an actual brewery on board you have the following food options:

Bar-B-Que is a lunch time counter service offering out on deck, behind the brewhouse.  Pork Butt, Smoked Round of Beef, Andouille Sausage, Chicken, Ribs, and sides like Mac n Cheese, Potato Salad, and Collard Greens.  This one is only available on sea days and is sure to please all BBQ lovers.

The Smokehouse serves an a la carte menu at dinner and is much more extensive than the Bar-B-Que menu.  On most ships that have the Smokehouse, you can pay between $5 - $15 per item, however this is currently complimentary on Mardi Gras.  Also served here is a complimentary buffet breakfast, offering the same items you would find in the lido marketplace

javablue cafe

Most javablue cafe's on board the fleet do have a charge for many items.  Carnival Mardi Gras's javablue cafe does have an extended menu that includes many complimentary snack options.  The grab and go counter features salads and sandwiches, or choose from the heated pastries and savoury pies.  

Speciality coffee's, tea's, and dessert options typically incurr a charge (the upcharged beverages are usually included in the Cheers Package)

Room Service

The room service menu offers a mixture of complementary and upcharge items from breakfast items, sandwiches, pizza’s, and cookies.  From 10pm to 6am a charge applies to all orders. 

Note : Carnival Mardi Gras is unique in its complimentary options.  At this time its unclear if ChiBang!, Cucina del Capitano, Guys Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, and the extended javablue cafe options will remain complimentary on a temporary or permanent basis. 

Speciality Dining (Up charge)

The following locations have an upcharge.  Some have a la carte pricing, other set pricing.  Here is the breakdown so you can budget accordingly 

Emeril’s Bistro 1396  

Creole cuisine from Emeril Lagasse, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  

A la carte pricing.  Fried oysters, BBQ Shrimp, duck, & sausage gumbo, po-boys, and more. Currently $5 for small plates, $8-$15 for bigger plates, $4 or $5 for desserts and breakfast, and MP for seafood bar.  

This is a counter service restaurant, just grab a table then head to the counter to place your order.  Reservations are not possible.  

Rudi’s Seagrill 

Elegant seafood dining from master chef Rudi Sodamin costing $38 for adults. 

Look for delectable seafood bisque and crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial.  Reservations are required and recommended

Bonsai Sushi

Bonsai Sushi has become a staple of Carnival cruise ships, and Mardi Gras is no different.  

You can expect to pay nominal a la carte pricing  for appetizers, soup, salads, sushi, sashimi, and rolls ranging from $1.50 to $7.00 per item.  

For more of a set lunch or dinner approach try the chefs special Bento Box for $10 or try a sushi dinner feast with the Sushi Ship for two, costing $22.  This is a walk up restaurant, first come first served and has been known to get busy at times

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Part of the Bonsai family of restaurants, here you can lLet the Teppanyaki chefs entertain and delight you for $32 per adult.  You’ll find traditional teppanyaki offerings from filet mignon, grilled tofu, fish, shrimp, and lobster.  Advanced reservations are recommended as this restaurant has been known to sell out before departure.  I definitely suggest you reserve this one as soon as possible  

Farenheit 555 

Carnival's signature steakhouse.  For $38 per adult you can experience the mouthwatering, delectable offerings at the steakhouse.  Your meal includes an appetizer, salad (most servers will let you order a second appetizer in lieu of a salad), entree, side (again most servers will let you order more than one), and a dessert.  

For an entertaining way to enjoy dessert try the art at your table dessert (minimum 2 people required for this one) and watch in amazement as your chef creates an edible masterpiece right in front of your eyes.  Add on the wine pairing and receive 4 half glasses of wine for an additional $18

Reservations are required, and this restaurant sometimes sells out.  

I've heard that if you dine here on day one, you will be treated to a complimentary bottle of wine

Seafood Shack   

This New-England style counter service seafood bar offers fresh catches from Shrimp to Lobster and everything in between at a la carte market pricing.  This one is located by the lido deck and is a casual, on the go eatery.

Carnival Kitchen

Cookery Master Classes range from $30-$60 per person and can last anywhere from 1 - 2 hours.  Here you can learn to make homemade favorites such as pasta, sushi, ice cream, pizza, and cupcakes, or take a master class in cake decorating, pit grill and smoking, or tailgate parties.    

Chefs Table

The other side of Carnival Kitchen is the culinary VIP Chef’s Table, a must for any foodie.  For around $95 per person you will be treated to cocktails, hors d’ouevres, then an 8 course tasting menu with pairing.  This intimate experience only seats 14 people and usually books up early so advanced reservations are definitely recommended.  

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Embarking on a culinary journey aboard Carnival's Mardi Gras cruise ship offers an exceptional array of dining venues to tantalize your taste buds. With 22 unique eateries, ranging from elegant specialty restaurants to casual, no-charge dining options, cruisers are spoiled for choice. Whether you're craving a sophisticated dining experience, a casual meal with family, or a quick snack, Mardi Gras caters to every palate. This guide delves into each venue, highlighting the cuisine type, atmosphere, signature dishes, and unique culinary experiences that set them apart. Prepare to set sail on a flavorful adventure that celebrates diversity, quality, and the joy of shared meals aboard this magnificent ship.

Palm Restaurant (Main Dining Room) Included

Set within the elegant confines of the Palm Restaurant, diners enjoy a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience that speaks volumes of the Mardi Gras ship itself. Offering a daily updated multicourse dinner with classics and inventive new dishes, the atmosphere bridges the gap between traditional cruising fare and contemporary dining elegance. Signature experiences like the 'Seaday Brunch,' which features both breakfast and lunch favorites, come highly recommended. The blend of impeccable service, diverse menu options—including vegetarian and healthy choices—and the beautifully appointed dining area make every meal here an event to remember.

Chibang! Included

Chibang! presents a culinary fusion adventure that is as exciting as its name suggests. This venue remarkably combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican and Chinese cuisines, offering guests a unique dining experience on the seas. With an eclectic mix of dishes available for lunch and dinner, the build-your-own bowl concept at lunch is a standout, allowing for personalized culinary creations. For dinner, the golden roasted duck for two is a signature dish not to be missed. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of Chibang! promise a dining experience that's both delicious and memorable.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse Included

For carnivores and craft beer aficionados, Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse is a slice of heaven on the high seas. Created in collaboration with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, this venue serves up mouthwatering, smoked-on-board barbecue favorites such as brisket, baby back ribs, and pulled pork. The Trash Can Nachos are a must-try, daringly delightful. Accompanied by a selection of craft beers brewed on board, the rustic charm and hearty fare of this smokehouse offer comfort, flavor, and fun in equal measure. It's burgeoning as a favored spot for both lunch and dinner, with live music in the evenings to enhance the vibrant ambiance.

Cucina Del Capitano Included

Cucina Del Capitano invites guests to a warm, family-style Italian dining experience that pays homage to the Italian captains of the Carnival fleet. Serving cherished recipes passed down from the captains’ own family kitchens, the atmosphere here is cozy and welcoming, resembling a traditional Italian home. Signature dishes like the Captain's Pasta Trio and the exquisite Arancini stand out, while the hand-crafted pasta selections evoke the authenticity of genuine Italian cuisine. Dining here is like being invited to a delightful family dinner, where every dish tells a story of heritage and heart.

Big Chicken Included

Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken restaurant aboard Mardi Gras offers cruisers a straightforward, highly satisfying dining experience with a simple promise – chicken done right. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu features a variety of chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips, and succulent fried chicken baskets. Signature dishes like the 'M.D.E' (Most Dominant Ever) leave guests raving. The venue’s bright, welcoming atmosphere, combined with Shaq’s personal recipes and touches, ensures Big Chicken is a hit among guests of all ages seeking comfort food with flair.

Street Eats Included

Street Eats captures the essence of global street food culture with an innovative twist. Situated in an open-air eatery on Deck 16, this spot brings the adventurous spirit of street food markets aboard Mardi Gras. Offering an ever-changing menu featuring small plates from Steam Dream, Mad Sizzle, and Time Fries, it's a foodie's exploration ground. Whether it's the Asian-inspired bao buns, kebab skewers, or gourmet fries topped with indulgent ingredients, Street Eats delivers an explosion of flavors in a casual, grab-and-go format that invites passengers to sample the world's street food favorites.

BlueIguana Cantina Included

Located poolside, BlueIguana Cantina serves up fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine under the sun. From made-to-order burritos and tacos for breakfast and lunch, this vibrant venue guarantees a zesty start to your day or a mid-day flavor punch. The salsa bar, boasting an array of freshly made salsas and toppings, allows for customizable gastronomic explorations. Signature dishes like the huevos rancheros for breakfast and the chipotle lime fish tacos for lunch highlight fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, all against a backdrop of lively music and ocean views.

Guy's Burger Joint Included

Guy's Burger Joint, the brainchild of Food Network star Guy Fieri, offers what are arguably some of the best burgers at sea. This poolside venue is all about juicy burgers and crispy fries, served up fast and with a smile. The ‘Ringer’ and ‘Pig Patty’ burgers are crowd-pleasers, epitomizing the bold flavors Fieri is known for. Guests can customize their burgers at the extensive toppings bar, making each visit as unique as their burger creations. The laid-back, American diner vibe, complete with ocean views, makes every meal here truly enjoyable.

Lido Marketplace (Buffet) Included

The Lido Marketplace offers a buffet experience that stands out for its quality, variety, and flexibility. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this bustling venue caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs with an array of international and comfort food options. From the early riser’s breakfast to the late-night snack attack, the Lido Marketplace ensures no guest goes hungry. Signature stations like the deli counter, the dessert corner, and the 24-hour ice cream and pizza service are highlights. The informal, come-as-you-are atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for families and casual diners alike.

Pizzeria Del Capitano Included

At Pizzeria Del Capitano, guests savor the taste of authentic Italian pizza made with fresh ingredients and a passion for traditional flavors. Open 24/7, this casual eatery offers hand-tossed pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven – a rare find at sea. Whether opting for the classic Margherita, pepperoni, or something more adventurous, the pies here are consistently delightful. The proximity to the bustling Lido deck area allows for easy access and a laid-back ambiance, perfect for late-night cravings or a casual lunch break between activities.

Room Service Included

Room Service aboard Mardi Gras epitomizes convenience and comfort, serving a variety of options directly to guest cabins round the clock. From continental breakfasts to satisfy early morning hunger to a selection of sandwiches, salads, and desserts available throughout the day and night, every craving can be met. Signature offerings like the firecracker shrimp add a flavorful twist, whereas the always-available chocolate cake epitomizes indulgence at any hour. This service, especially treasured for its flexibility, ensures guests enjoy privacy and relaxation without missing out on the culinary delights the ship has to offer.

Emeril's Bistro 1396 Not Included

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 brings the culinary genius of famed chef Emeril Lagasse to the high seas, offering a taste of New Orleans with a Creole flair. Located in the ship’s captivating French Quarter area, diners can indulge in a symphony of flavors with dishes like shrimp and grits or the iconic Emeril’s Gumbo. The chic, lively atmosphere complements the spicy and soulful cuisine, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an upscale dining adventure. Signature experiences include the tableside preparation of certain dishes, adding a personalized touch to an unforgettable meal.

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse Not Included

Fahrenheit 555 is a sophisticated steakhouse where premium cuts of meat and top-tier service converge to create an exceptional dining experience. From perfectly aged beef to succulent seafood, each dish is prepared with precision and flair. The warm, elegant ambiance is enhanced by the extensive wine list, making it a perfect venue for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal. Signature dishes, including the bone-in ribeye and the lobster tail, are not to be missed, embodying the indulgence and refined flavors that make Fahrenheit 555 a hallmark of culinary excellence onboard Mardi Gras.

Rudi's Seagrill Not Included

Rudi’s Seagrill celebrates the bounty of the sea with artful presentations and the freshest ingredients, delivering a high-end seafood dining experience unlike any other aboard Mardi Gras. Curated by renowned chef Rudi Sodamin, the menu features exquisite dishes like the seabass fillet and the mixed seafood grill, each a testament to Sodamin’s innovative vision. The sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, coupled with exceptional service, makes it an ideal setting for those seeking a memorable dining experience focused on seafood’s delicate and diverse flavors.

Bonsai Teppanyaki Not Included

Bonsai Teppanyaki is not just a meal; it's an engaging culinary performance that combines the flavors of the Far East with theatrical flair. Seated around a shared table, guests are treated to a masterful display of chopping and cooking by expert chefs. The menu, which includes tender meats, fresh seafood, and crisp vegetables, comes to life on the hot teppanyaki grill, creating a communal and interactive dining experience. The blend of delicious cuisine, artful presentation, and lively entertainment ensures Bonsai Teppanyaki is a highlight of any culinary journey aboard Mardi Gras.

Bonsai Sushi Not Included

Bonsai Sushi, the ship’s in-house sushi bar, provides a serene yet casual dining spot for guests to enjoy traditional Japanese dishes. Freshly-made sushi, sashimi, and rolls are served alongside sake and Japanese beers, offering a genuine taste of Japan amidst the bustling atmosphere of Mardi Gras. Signature offerings like the Bonsai Triple Delight provide a sampling of the chef’s best work, catering to both sushi novices and aficionados alike. This venue is perfect for a light meal or a shared dining experience with friends and family, highlighting the simplicity and elegance of Japanese cuisine.

Seafood Shack Not Included

Evoking the feel of a coastal seafood market, the Seafood Shack on Mardi Gras promises a casual dining experience with the freshest catches. From New England clam chowder to lobster rolls and fried shrimp baskets, the laid-back venue serves up beloved seaside staples with a view. The market-style ordering and open-air seating enhance the shack-inspired atmosphere, making it a delightful space for seafood lovers to indulge in their favorites. Signature dishes, particularly the crab legs and the catch of the day, are testament to the venue's commitment to quality and freshness.

Carnival Kitchen Not Included

Carnival Kitchen offers guests an immersive culinary experience with hands-on cooking classes led by the ship’s accomplished chefs. From learning the secrets behind the perfect sushi roll to mastering Italian favorites, these intimate classes not only promise fun and interaction but also the satisfaction of enjoying one’s culinary creations. The state-of-the-art kitchen setup and small class sizes ensure personalized attention, making it an ideal activity for food enthusiasts keen to expand their skills and savor the results of their efforts. It’s a unique opportunity to take a piece of the Mardi Gras culinary experience home.

JavaBlue Café Not Included

JavaBlue Café stands out as the go-to venue on Mardi Gras for expertly-crafted coffees, teas, and delectable baked goods. With a menu that ranges from hearty espresso drinks to refreshing frappés, paired with treats such as the blue velvet cake, guests can enjoy a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely break. The café's inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both early risers seeking their morning coffee and night owls in search of a sweet snack. Signature items, including the specialty lattes, are a testament to JavaBlue Café’s commitment to quality and taste.

Chef's Table Not Included

The Chef’s Table is an exclusive dining experience that offers an intimate insight into the culinary artistry aboard Mardi Gras. This multi-course dinner, hosted in a unique onboard location, features unparalleled dishes created and presented by the ship’s master chefs. With each course expertly paired with fine wines and an opportunity to interact with the chefs themselves, diners are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity and skill that powers the ship’s dining. The gourmet menu, often incorporating local flavors from the ship’s ports of call, showcases the chefs’ innovation and craftsmanship in an unforgettable dining event.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast Not Included

The Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast brings the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life, offering a colorful and fun-filled dining experience for families aboard Mardi Gras. Guests can enjoy creatively-themed dishes like moose juice and goose juice, alongside the iconic green eggs and ham, all while beloved characters like the Cat in the Hat roam the room. The vibrant and cheerful atmosphere, complete with whimsical décor and interactive entertainment, makes this breakfast a memorable way for families to start their day. It’s a feast that delights both the young and the young at heart.

Pizza Delivery Not Included

Pizza Delivery on Mardi Gras elevates the convenience of dining with the luxury of enjoying freshly-made pizza anywhere on the ship. Whether craving a late-night snack or a casual meal by the pool, guests can order from a selection of classic pizzas delivered hot and ready to their location. The ease of ordering through the Carnival Hub app, along with the nominal delivery fee, ensures that this service is both accessible and irresistible. Signature pies, like the Quattro Formaggi, promise satisfaction with every bite, making Pizza Delivery a favored choice for spontaneous dining moments.

• Cruise Advice

Photos: 13 Restaurants on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• August 2, 2021

The day has finally come…  Mardi Gras  is here and we are onboard!

On Friday we were able to board Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship for a special preview day, and right now we are onboard for its very first passenger sailing.

If you know us, you know that one of the things we’re the most excited about is the food!  Mardi Gras  pretty much has a bit of everything: brand new venues, longtime Carnival favorites, and restaurants that have been reimagined for this new ship.

Up to this point, nearly all of the images we’ve seen of the interior of  Mardi Gras  have been renderings, as official photos from Carnival have not yet been made available. So while cruise line renderings are usually pretty accurate to the final result, they still aren’t true photographs, and they don’t necessarily give us a good feel for the space the way a  real  photo does.

So now, without further ramblings, we give you exactly what you came here for: photos of some of the restaurants and food aboard Carnival’s  Mardi Gras. 

1. Emeril’s Bistro 1396

Let’s start with a new one created with a new partner for Carnival — Emeril’s Bistro 1396 by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. Wondering what the 1396 signifies? It was  Mardi Gras’  yard number at the shipyard.

2. JavaBlue Café

Up next is a Carnival staple — the JavaBlue Café. Here you’ll find specialty coffees, tea, milkshakes, and pastries. Next to it towards the left of the photo, you can see a doorway leading to lots of color. That’s Cherry on Top, the ship’s candy store and ice cream shop.

3. Guy’s Burger Joint

It wouldn’t be a Carnival ship without Guy’s Burger Joint created with celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Instead of being on the lido deck next to the pool on  Mardi Gras,  the venue is up one deck between the second story of the RedFrog Tiki Bar and the teen space, Club O2. And for the first time, Guy’s Burger Joint is open in the mornings with a dedicated breakfast menu .

4. Bonsai Sushi

If you have a hankering for sushi during your cruise,  Mardi Gras  has the solution for that: Bonsai Sushi.

5. Bonsai Teppanyaki

Along with Bonsai Sushi, the ship also features Bonsai Teppanyaki serving up dinner and  entertainment. Here’s a photo of one of the hibachi tables.

6. Rudi’s Seagrill

New to Carnival is a seafood specialty restaurant by Chef Rudi Sodamin — Rudi’s Seagrill. The venue features oceanic hues of blues and teals along with Chef Sodamin’s “Food Faces” plates.

7. Carnival Kitchen

If you want to upgrade your culinary skills during your time away from home, consider booking a class at the Carnival Kitchen. There, you can learn how to bake, barbecue, and cook various dishes from Carnival chefs.

8. Pizzeria Del Capitano

These days, a large cruise ship just wouldn’t be a cruise ship without a pizza counter. Here’s  Mardi Gras’ — Pizzeria Del Capitano.

9. Chibang!

Below is another new venue for Carnival, and the most recently announced — Chibang! The unique restaurant serves both Mexican food and Chinese food, so you can pick which cuisine you’re in the mood for or mix and match from both sides of the menu. Here is the lunch menu and dinner menu .

10. Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

If you know us here at Cruise Radio, you know that we love barbecue. So it’s always fun to cruise aboard a ship that has a dedicated barbecue restaurant, and on  Mardi Gras  (and some other Carnival ships) it’s Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse. This is another venue that Guy Fieri developed in partnership with Carnival.

In the photo below, you can see a stage to the left with live music to entertain diners. The venue also features one of just a few breweries at sea. Check out the menu here .

11. BlueIguana Cantina

While Guy’s Burger Joint might have moved up one deck from the main pool, BlueIguana Cantina is still situated right next to it. This grab-and-go counter service venue, open for breakfast and lunch, serves up things like tacos and burritos.

12. Palm Restaurant

Pictured below is one of the ship’s main dining rooms, the Palm Restaurant.

13. Big Chicken

Former NBA basketball star Shaquille O’Neal owns a restaurant chain called Big Chicken, with locations in Glendale, California and Las Vegas, Nevada. He’s also Carnival’s “Chief Fun Officer,” appearing in various ad campaigns for the cruise line.

With the launch of  Mardi Gras , Big Chicken has made its debut on the high seas. Another Carnival ship that has been extensively renovated,  Carnival Radiance,  will also include the venue. It serves chicken sandwiches and chicken strips along with sides, and is also open for breakfast. You can find the menu here .

We hope you enjoyed this restaurant photo tour of  Mardi Gras.  Keep in mind that there are even more venues we didn’t cover here, so we guarantee there is something for everyone aboard this ship!

READ NEXT:  Everything You Need to Know About Mardi Gras’ Loft 19 and Its Cabanas

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Complete Guide to Carnival Specialty Restaurants (Costs, Food, and More)

If you’re heading on a Carnival cruise, you likely know that you should bring your appetite. From the moment you step on board until you leave on debarkation day, there is food available all over the ship.

In other words, you will never go hungry.

But you might be overwhelmed by the amount of choices you have on the ship. In fact, Carnival Horizon — one of the line’s Vista-class of ships — has more than a dozen places to eat something on the ship. Carnival’s Mardi Gras has even more.

Many of those are free restaurants, like Guy’s Burger Joint , the buffet, and the main dining room. But Carnival has a number of specialty restaurants on each ship as well.

These specialty restaurants are for an additional charge, but are highly popular. They offer a place to sit and dine, often in a calmer and quieter atmosphere than the main dining room.

As well, specialty restaurants have different flavors and types of food. Whether you want Asian, BBQ, seafood, Italian, or a hearty steak you don’t have to hope the dining room or buffet is serving it. Simply pick the restaurant you want to eat there instead.

Specialty Restaurants on Carnival Ships

Note: Not every specialty restaurant listed here will be on every Carnival ship. Newer and recently remodeled ships will be more likely to have all the venues below…

Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ One of the most popular specialty restaurants on Carnival ships has to be Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ. A relaxed BBQ joint, it also brews its own beer. For lunch you can eat for free, but in the evenings they charge for meals. You can get most of your smoked meat favorites, including brisket, chicken, pulled pork and even ribs. Unlike some other paid restaurants, this one charges by the item. It’s about $8 for an entrée, $4 for an appetizer. A full rack of baby back ribs will set you back $12.

• Menu: BBQ; ribs, chicken, pork, sausage, salmon
• Cost: A la carte (~$8-12 for an entrée)

Cucina del Capitano Think of a classic Italian restaurant (complete with the red and white tablecloth) and you have a good idea of what to expect at Cucina del Capitano. The atmosphere is usually a little darker and more intimate, making it ideal for “date night.” During the day you can actually eat pasta here for no charge. In the evening it turns into a specialty Italian restaurant and serves a full menu. If it’s an Italian classic, you’ll find it on the menu. That includes everything from meatballs to spaghetti to chicken parm, along with some more unique dishes porcini rubbed beef short ribs.

• Menu: Italian; pastas, calamari, pork chops, veal, salads
• Cost: $15 per adult

Ji Ji Asian Kitchen Looking for your Asian food fix while at sea? This restaurant is it. It’s a classic high-end pan-Asian restaurant with the atmosphere you’d expect in an Asian theme, along with an open kitchen. On the menu you can get your favorites like slow-braised pork belly, pot stickers, Kung-Pao chicken, and sweet & sour shrimp. There are also a number of dishes with unique twists like Singapore chili shrimp. While most dishes have meat, vegetarians will also find a number of items to eat here.

• Menu: Pan-Asian; pot stickers, Asian chicken/shrimp dishes, spring rolls, noodles, etc.

Steakhouse Going by different names on different ships, places like Nouveau, Nick & Nora’s, and The Pinnacle all have one thing in common — they are the steakhouse on the ship. And if you’re wanting a meal that you’ll remember on your cruise (and the possibility that you will be too full to eat for the rest of the trip), then you’ll want to make a visit. It’s perhaps the most decadent menu across any restaurant. You’ll get hearty appetizers like shrimp cocktails or pork belly, followed by steak (including filet mignon), lobster, or lamb. Don’t forget the cheesecake for dessert.

• Menu: Steak; steaks, lobster, salads, crab cakes, potatoes, fish, lamb
• Cost: $38 per adult

• Menu: Seafood; shrimp, lobster, clam strips, fish
• Cost: A la carte

Bonsai Sushi A casual and relaxed sushi restaurant, Bonsai is a fun place to grab a bite of your favorite rolls. California rolls, spicy tuna, tempura rolls ($5-7 per roll), even bento boxes ($10) or noodle bowls ($7). They are all here. We also like that the location on at least some Carnival ships offers great people watching from your table. Sitting just off a main pathway on the ship, you can enjoy your sushi and watch the people go by. Want to sit outside? The restaurant on the Horizon offers some outdoor seating.

• Menu: Sushi
• Price: A la carte

Bonsai Teppanyaki While it’s not on many ships (just Carnival Horizon, Panorama, and Mardi Gras include it), Bonsai Teppanyaki makes a memorable meal. It’s hibachi-style where the chef performs a show for an entire table while also cooking a delicious meal. The fare is Asian-themed, including your choice of meat (or tofu) cooked up with fried rice and stir-fry.

• Menu: Asian; salmon, lobster, shrimp, chicken, steak, tofu, fried rice, vegetables
• Cost: $32 per person

The Chef’s Table If you consider yourself a foodie, then The Chef’s Table might be the ultimate experience for you. It’s the most exclusive dining on the ship — only about a dozen people can eat at a time. That’s because you get a personalized meal with one of the ship’s master chefs. Before you even eat there is a champagne reception and tour of the ship’s galley. From there, you’ll be cooked up a meal that varies based on what the chef and seasons dictate. For that reason there is no set menu… but you can be sure it will be tasty.

• Menu: Varies
• Cost: $75-95, depending on the ship

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 Making its debut on Carnival Mardi Gras, Emeril’s Bistro 1396 is celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s first restaurant on a cruise ship. It features tons of Cajun and creole favorites. That includes po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, fried oysters, and more. Essentially, you can think of it as a trip to New Orleans onboard the ship. (The restaurant is located in the ship’s “French Quarter” section, after all.)

• Menu: New Orleans cuisine

Rudi’s Seagrill Another specialty restaurant making its debut on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Rudi’s Seagrill is the work of Chef Rudi Sodamin. As you’d guess, it focuses on seafood in a fine-dining atmosphere that’s still approachable and not too stuffy. It’s open only for dinner and costs a decent amount, but offers a memorable place to have a meal. After all, many dishes are presented as a “face” that’s looking back at you. (Yes, really.)

• Menu: Seafood

Are Carnival’s Specialty Restaurants Worth It?

One of the biggest questions people ask is if the specialty restaurants are worth the extra cost. After all, if you’re already paying a lot of money to take a cruise — and many food items are already included — why bother paying extra for different meals?

If you are a frugal cruiser looking to save money, then you’ll likely think that the specialty options aren’t worth the extra money — especially if taking a shorter cruise. On a 3-5 day cruise, there are plenty of free options to eat, including pizza, tacos, burgers, the buffet, and the main dining room. These can keep you satisfied without spending extra.

If you like to let loose on your vacation or are taking a longer trip, then it’s our opinion that dining a couple of times at a specialty restaurant is well worth the money.

For one, they offer different flavors than you’ll find at other restaurants on the ship. When you’re tired of eating a lunch buffet, having the option to have some BBQ or Italian is great. Second, the quality and freshness of the food is the best on the ship. Finally, if you enjoy dining in a quieter atmosphere with fewer people, then specialty restaurants offer that sort of intimacy. They are never as crowded as you’ll find in the free locations.

What’s Included in My Meal?

If you order at an a la carte restaurant, you know exactly what you’ll get — whatever items you order and pay for. Other restaurants that have one set price and an open menu. In this case, you will get an appetizer, an entrée, and a dessert. If dining with another person, it’s a great opportunity to share items and try different things since you will each get your own starter, meal and dessert.

Drinks are not included. You have to pay for those just like if you were to visit the bar. Those with beverage packages can have them included for no extra free. If you don’t have a beverage package, then you’ll pay bar prices.

Do I Pay Gratuities at Specialty Restaurants?

As with all food and beverage services, you’ll pay gratuity for dining at specialty restaurants. The only question is if it is included in the headline price. Some restaurants such as the steakhouse include the tip amount in the price. Others, such as Bonsai Teppanyaki or a la carte restaurants you will be paying an additional 18% on top of the bill. Given that it’s customary to tip between 15-20% in a traditional restaurant, this figure isn’t out of line.

But you should know that while you are already being charged gratuity for dining at free restaurants (the charges automatically included at the of the cruise), you have to pay extra charges for dining at the specialty dining venues. It’s only a question of if it is already included or not.

What’s the Dress Code at Carnival’s Restaurants?

While it might seem that you need to get all fancied up to go to a specialty restaurant, that’s not always the case. Higher-end venues like the steakhouse or Chef’s Table follow the ship’s dress code for the evening. So if it’s formal night, you’ll want to dress up a bit.

Other restaurants, including Bonsai Sushi and Guy’s Pig & Anchor have “cruise casual” dress codes. That means you can dress down, but no swimsuits or tank tops are allows.

Should I Make Reservations?

If the specialty restaurant you want to eat at accepts reservations, then you should absolutely sign up as soon as you can. This gives you the most options for dining times. Note that some restaurants — such as Bonsai Sushi — don’t take reservations. You simply show up and get seated. If you don’t have a reservation at a restaurant, you can try to eat anyway. The staff will seat you if they have space.

Specialty restaurants on Carnival seem to be hit or miss — not in terms of food, but in terms of popularity. Anecdotally, we’ve noticed that some seem to stay busy while others, have smaller crowds. You can use this to your advantage to find a place to eat without a wait. It also helps to go during off hours.

Have more questions about dining on Carnival? Let us know in the comments below.

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Hi, Specialty dining restaurant names on the newest Carnival ship Celebration? Cost? How many days roughly does reservations for specialty dining open up before a cruise. Reservations for main dining?

You can find specific ship info for Celebration here:

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-food/?shipCode=CB&icid=icp_explr_shp_celebration_022322_lp_hyp_dining

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Carnival cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

On a Carnival cruise, food is always one of the highlights. From Guy Fieri burgers to fancy steaks at Fahrenheit 555, you'll find endless options to satisfy your hunger in a highly enjoyable fashion. In fact, there's often more to eat and explore than you could possibly have time for in a single sailing.

If you're planning your next cruise and want to know which Carnival restaurants to expect on board, you've come to the right place. While certain dining venues remain a standard across all ships — like the much-loved Lido Deck buffet — the options keep expanding with every new ship launch. Plus, older ships are constantly being refurbished and updated with new restaurants. That's why we put together this comprehensive list of Carnival cruise restaurants and where you can find them.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Consider this your ultimate guide to Carnival cruise food, with details about every restaurant in the fleet, as well as answers to the most commonly asked questions about dining on a Carnival cruise ship.

Carnival restaurants available fleetwide

Coffee bar or javablue cafe.

A la carte pricing; snacks

Black coffee and tea are free at the buffet and in the main dining room, but you'll want to come here for specialty coffee drinks like espresso or cold brew. You can also purchase milkshakes and baked goods when you need an extra pick-me-up (or grab free Danish pastries and croissants in the morning).

Dining room

Included; breakfast and dinner

The main dining room serves a sit-down breakfast and the nightly three-course dinner that's included in your cruise fare. Even better, Carnival's chief culinary officer, Emeril Lagasse, is now behind many of the dining room's new menu items. On Carnival, the main dining room comes with less pretense than on many other cruise lines. In fact, it's not uncommon for your servers to break out in song and dance by the end of the night.

Don't miss other special dining experiences like the complimentary Seaday Brunch menu or the family-friendly Dr. Seuss-themed breakfast for an additional fee ($10 to $15 per adult; $8 to $10 per child), which includes meet-and-greets with characters.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Lido Marketplace

Included; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Carnival's buffet on the Lido Deck has all the staple stations to keep you fed from morning until night. Try the deli counter, barbecue spot, pasta bar or Asian noodle station. Don't miss the always-essential salad bar or pizza station. Finish up with soft serve ice cream, frozen yogurt or an enormous cake slice and other goodies from the dessert station.

Included; snacks

No cruise experience is complete without on-demand soft serve. Open on the Lido Deck until midnight, the Swirls station serves up frozen yogurt and soft serve ice cream in the classic flavors of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, or you can enjoy your own combo swirl. The best part is it's self-serve, so no one can judge you for how often you come back for another cone.

The Chef's Table

Fixed price; dinner

This exclusive multicourse dining experience hosted by the ship's master executive chef takes place in untraditional spaces like the galley or library to give you a behind-the-scenes VIP feel. (Some newer ships even have a dedicated Chef's Table dining room with a window into the galley.) You'll be part of a group of only 14 to 16 guests, and the evening kicks off with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a tour of the galley. The dinner menu itself changes based on what's in season or local to the port, but it always includes wine pairings and, of course, dessert.

24-hour room service

A la carte; all-day dining

When hunger calls at odd hours of the night or you're craving a meal from the comfort of your balcony, you can access 24-hour room service on your Carnival cruise ship. Just pick up your cabin's phone and place your order. While room service is generally only available for a cost, Carnival does offer free continental breakfast delivery to your room from 6 to 10 a.m.

Pizza delivery

Fixed price; all-day dining

You can order pizza on the Carnival Hub app to wherever you are on the ship, any time of day, for a delivery fee of $5 per pie. Pro tip: Take a picture of yourself showing where you're located on board to help the pizza delivery staff find you.

Pizzeria del Capitano or Pizza Pirate

Included; lunch and dinner

The all-day pizza station is going to be your go-to option when you get back from a day at port and the lunch buffet is already closed or when you're hungry after a late night of partying. Choose from five prepared pizza options, ranging from classics like margherita and pepperoni to other delicious Italian favorites like funghi and prosciutto. Order a slice or get a whole pie delivered through the Carnival Hub app.

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

Popular Carnival dining options

Blueiguana cantina.

Included; breakfast and lunch

This casual poolside spot serves up Mexican favorites like tacos and burritos with fillings including chipotle chicken, roast pork and battered fish. Order your tacos or burrito to your liking, then head to the salsa bar to add all your favorite toppings. In the morning, you can order breakfast burritos or huevos rancheros as an alternative to the typical Lido buffet breakfast.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration , Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Sushi Express

A la carte pricing; lunch and dinner

Carnival's sit-down sushi restaurant, Bonsai Sushi, serves sushi rolls and sashimi alongside soups, sakes and sweets. Select ships feature Bonsai Sushi Express, where you can order rolls to go.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Horizon, Jubilee, Luminosa, Legend, Mardi Gras , Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine , Venezia and Vista

Cucina Del Capitano

Cucina Del Capitano honors the cruise line's connection to Italy (many of Carnival's captains and chief engineers have either Italian heritage or maritime training in Italy, known for its long tradition of excellence in shipbuilding). This rustic restaurant serves made-to-order pasta and other Italian comfort food favorites like risotto and chicken Parmesan.

On Carnival Jubilee , Cucina Del Capitano is free for the whole sailing. On Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal is included, with additional visits at a cost of $8 per person. The other ships with this venue currently charge a fixed price of $24 per adult.

On any of the ships, come to Cucina for a complimentary Captain's Pasta Bar at lunchtime. Just choose your pasta, sauce, meat and other mix-ins — buon appetito!

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine and Vista

Guy's Burger Joint

Included; lunch

Carnival's poolside burger joint was dreamt up by Food Network star Guy Fieri to feel like the kind of roadside burger shack you'd see on one of his episodes of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Don't underestimate these simple smashburgers — they pack a ton of flavor.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Which line has the best cruise burger? Here are TPG's top picks

Guy's Pig & Anchor

Included for lunch; a la carte pricing for dinner

Satisfy your barbecue cravings at sea at Guy's Pig & Anchor, which serves up a complimentary lunch of smoked meats like pork butt and andouille sausage, comfort food sides such as collard greens and macaroni and cheese, and a line of signature barbecue sauces. Select ships have a full-service Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse that's also open for dinner with an a la carte menu, plus a brewery with an exclusive line of craft beers and live musical entertainment.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Dream, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise and Vista

RedFrog Pub

This Key West, Florida-inspired pub is the spot for a round of trivia or foosball, brews and tunes. You can also enjoy Caribbean bites like conch fritters and coconut shrimp with your laid-back island vibes. On Carnival Vista, sailors get a full RedFrog Pub & Brewery, which became North America's first brewery at sea when it opened.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Freedom, Legend, Magic, Miracle, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Seafood Shack

At this New England-style seafood shack, you can order everything from buckets of fried seafood to steamed shellfish by the pound. Don't forget about everyone's favorites, clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Splendor, Sunrise, Valor, Venezia and Vista

The Steakhouse

When you feel like celebrating, Carnival's upscale steakhouse serves USDA Prime steak cuts alongside all of the classic steakhouse favorites, from starters like lobster bisque and shrimp cocktail to a selection of steak sauces and rich, comforting side dishes.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Luminosa, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse on Carnival Cruise Line (with menu)

Carnival dining options exclusive to a few ships

Big chicken.

The crispy chicken sandwich is a food fad that isn't going away anytime soon, and Carnival's chief fun officer Shaquille O'Neal is the face behind this new chicken spot on the latest Carnival ships. Here, you can find everything chicken — chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips and fried chicken baskets (even chicken biscuits at breakfast!) — plus essential sides like potato salad and jalapeno slaw.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee, Mardi Gras and Radiance

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Fixed price; lunch and dinner

This Japanese hibachi-style restaurant is part meal and part performance, as your chef prepares your lunch or dinner at the griddle-top table in front of you. The meal begins with a selection of starters and continues with a grilled meat or seafood entree of your choice (think: teriyaki salmon, lobster tail with yuzu cream or filet mignon with truffle salt) paired with fried rice, stir-fried vegetables and a sweet bento box for dessert.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Panorama and Venezia

A modern Chinese-Mexican fusion concept, Chibang! is a specialty restaurant without the specialty prices. That's right, dining at Chibang! is free all sailing long for guests on Carnival Jubilee; on Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal at Chibang is included and additional visits are only $8 per person. At lunchtime, you can order your own noodle bowl or burrito bowl (which makes it a great spot if your group has separate cravings), or at dinner, mix and match between cuisines and choose shareable plates for the table or order classic Mexican and Chinese mains.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee and Mardi Gras

Emeril's Bistro

A la carte pricing; breakfast, lunch and dinner

At any of the three Emeril's Bistro restaurants at sea, you can get a taste of the world-famous New Orleans chef's take on Creole cuisine. We're talking Crescent City classics like fried oysters, barbecue shrimp, po'boys, muffuletta sandwiches and jambalaya. At breakfast, you'll even find shrimp and grits or bananas Foster crepes. Emeril's Bistro 1937 on Carnival Celebration also spotlights rotating international dishes daily in addition to these Nawlins favorites.

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Italian for "the voyage," this specialty restaurant on the Italian-themed Carnival Venezia ship takes guests on a trip with a menu of signature regional dishes from across Italy.

Available on : Carnival Venezia

JiJi Asian Kitchen

Explore both the exotic and the familiar at this modern Asian restaurant serving regional specialties while you're surrounded by Mongolian-inspired fabrics and Asian prayer rolls. May you enjoy good food and great fortune when you're here!

Available on : Carnival Horizon, Panorama, Sunshine and Vista

This lunch spot feels like a food cart from the Far East. It serves a rotating menu of bowls that span the gamut of Asian cuisines, from Korean bulgogi to Japanese ramen to Vietnamese pho.

Available on : Carnival Sunrise

Masala Tiger

You can't miss the aromas wafting from this Indian food station, where dishes like tandoori chicken and beef kebabs are cooked at over 1,000 degrees in a traditional clay oven.

Available on : Carnival Splendor

Rudi's Seagrill

Developed by Rudi Sodamin, the master chef for sister cruise line Holland America, this eatery celebrates the delicacies of the sea with elegant dishes like succulent shellfish starters, crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial and cioppino (a fisherman's stew).

Street Eats

An homage to casual food trucks and stalls, Street Eats is like a miniature open-air food market with three different stations serving street food favorites. Find bao buns and pot stickers at Steam Dream, kebabs and satay at Mad Sizzle and epic loaded fries at Time Fries.

Carnival cruise food: Frequently asked questions

How do seating times work in the main dining room?

Before sailing, you must choose your preferred dining format for the main dining room — either set dining times with assigned seating or a flexible option called Your Time Dining with open seating. If you prefer a preset dining time and a guaranteed table with the same server every night, you can choose early dining at 5:30 p.m. or late dining at 7:45 p.m.

With Your Time Dining, you can go to the main dining room anytime between 5:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. to be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Just alert the dining room that you're coming on the Carnival Hub app so your table will be ready sooner. You can request a specific waiter, but more likely, you'll sit at a different table with a new waiter each evening. You might have to wait for a table at peak dinner times, but Carnival says the average wait time is usually less than 20 minutes, depending on your party size.

Either way, there's no need to make a reservation for the main dining room.

Do you need reservations for specialty dining restaurants?

Reservations are highly recommended for specialty restaurants, as these locations can book up in advance. You can make reservations online up to 48 hours before your cruise by visiting the "Manage My Booking/Cruise Manager" section of Carnival.com, at which time you'll also pay the cover charge for the restaurant.

Once you get on board, look for staff set up at booths to help you make specialty dining reservations. You can also call or visit the restaurant yourself to make a reservation, but seating times might be limited. Walk-ins are allowed but will get seated based on availability. If you don't make a reservation, be prepared for a wait or the possibility of being turned away if the restaurant is booked.

Can you enjoy unlimited food on your Carnival cruise?

It depends on where you eat! There are no limits on most of the included food options, and you can pretty much find free food on your cruise from the crack of dawn to late into the night. You can always eat as much as you want at the buffet in Lido Marketplace and other included food stations across the ship during their operating hours. In the main dining room, however, guests are limited to two free entrees (which, let's be honest, is still plenty!) before having to pay for additional entrees.

Is there a fee for room service?

Room service isn't free on Carnival anymore, except during breakfast. Instead, menu items are available to order a la carte. Complimentary continental breakfast can be delivered to your room between the hours of 6 and 10 a.m. For more details, check out our complete cruise ship room service guide .

Are kids menus available?

Most dining venues offer kids menus with plenty of safe options for picky eaters (think: chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti and meatballs). If you're dining at one of the specialty restaurants with a cover charge, there's a reduced fee for kids under 11.

Does Carnival still offer a Lobster Night?

Lobster is available for dinner nightly in the main dining room for a surcharge, but on cruise sailings of six nights or longer, Carnival offers one night per sailing (typically one of the formal nights) where a lobster tail is included as a complimentary entree option on the three-course menu. But don't expect to scarf down all the lobster you can eat. In line with Carnival's two-entree limit in the main dining room, guests now have to pay for any additional lobster past the first two entrees.

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MARDI GRAS: FUN-FUELED VACATION INNOVATION POWERED BY LNG

When we launched our first ship, 1972's TSS Mardi Gras , we made cruising a lot less stuffy, a bit less fancy, the kind of fun everybody could enjoy. Nobody expected this ship to change the cruise world, but... here we are! So here’s a brand-new ship with a familiar name. With this Mardi Gras ® we aren't just paying homage to our first ship — in cruising circles this name suggests innovation, signals the start of something big. Oh, and this Mardi Gras still shouts “fun!” at the top of its lungs. This ship introduces Zones — six themed areas packed with brand-new experiences for eating, drinking and spectacularly getting down to fun. There's BOLT ® , the first-ever rollercoaster at sea, Emeril's Bistro 1396 ™ from yes-that-Emeril, Family Feud ™ Live for everybody... plus incredible new bars like The Brass Magnolia and Fortune Teller . Everybody can enjoy Mardi Gras , sailing now. Come on down!

MEET THE HOMEPORT

On June 4 th , Mardi Gras met her homeport for the first time... which would be the awesome Port Canaveral , of course. So maybe you should meet it too! Port Canaveral is a great place to kick off a cruise from, especially with the beautiful, brand-new cruise terminal we built specifically to be Mardi Gras’ home. Cruise you soon, can’t wait!

MEET THE GODMOTHER

When it’s almost time for a new Carnival ship to start sailing, one of the most important decisions to make is who the ship’s godmother will be. This ceremonial position is such an important choice to get right… since the choice is not only a statement about the ship, but the things we value as a cruise line. That’s why Mardi Gras’ godmother is Kimberly Jiménez , better known as Miss Dominican Republic! Kimberly has distinguished herself through her important work as a champion for at-risk youth, and as a founding member of the Dominican Republic Women’s Club. She also recently won the Spirit of Carnival award for embodying our values of fun, friendship, diversity and inclusion. Congrats and welcome aboard, Kimberly!

MEET THE CEREMONY

We kick off a new ship’s career with a naming ceremony… and ours are one part tradition and a lotta parts fun! On the tradition end, we get dignitaries like Mardi Gras' godmother, Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Jiménez, and our own Chief Fun Officer Shaq to help make sure the champagne bottle gets broken just right for good luck. And of course we don’t forget the party end of things, inviting countless well-known well-wishers, hosting a second line parade and spotlighting Mardi Gras’ crew of 120 nationalities. Welcome to the fleet!

INSPIRED BY THAT SPECIAL PLACE VACATION TAKES US

Ok, a few places — get ready for six distinct onboard zones featuring brand-new experiences for spectacularly getting down to food, drink and fun.

Grand Central

On a Carnival cruise your vacation starts in the atrium, and on Mardi Gras ® that's in the Grand Central zone. By the way... on this ship the atrium's different . Don't be surprised if you step inside and the first place you want to look is upwards. Up there are high ceilings that hint at even more fun living on the three decks above! But look around down here too... you'll find floor-to-ceiling windows that really bring in the ocean views. Of course you'll be back here throughout your cruise, taking a break with a nice cup of coffee or a menu of great food choices at JavaBlue ™ Café , enjoying performances up on stage, or killing time fabulously at the Grand View Bar. Just wait until the sun goes down and the space slips into evening dress, transforming into an amazing show venue after dark! In Grand Central you're never far from great dining spots like Bonsai Sushi ™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ , plus feel-good entertainment like Piano Bar 88 ™ and The Punchliner Comedy Club ™ .

French Quarter

If "big" and "easy" sound about right for your vacation, you might just make the French Quarter on Mardi Gras ® your home zone. What inspired this area is no less than New Orleans itself… and if all this talk of NOLA has you half as hungry as we are, you’ll be pleased to hear that our French Quarter is lined with bars and eateries worthy of their namesake. For one thing there’s the spectacularly, authentically delicious Emeril’s Bistro 1396 ™ , developed in partnership with yes-that-Emeril. Just steps away is entertainment clearly influenced by the world-renowned Crescent City nightlife — yep, The Brass Magnolia bar features not only great drinks but also hot jazz, live. What’s more, you’re just steps away from sipping mystically at the Fortune Teller bar, and definitely save time to browse some funky little shops.

Summer Landing

Go ahead and call Summer Landing 'the greatest chill spot at sea'... and we'll be right there with you, any time of year! What's three letters long and goes great with chilling outdoors? BBQ, so we're building a Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ into this zone so it always tastes like summer here with freshly-smoked faves designed by Guy Fieri and original Parched Pig ® beers brewed just feet away. If you're wondering where the pool and whirlpool are, we're so alike, you and us... and that's why we're sure you're gonna love The Watering Hole , a poolside bar we're building for aficionados of backyard-style relaxation. And for military folks — or folks who just want to raise a glass to them — please report to Heroes Tribute ™ Lounge for great service. We know you guys like soft serve too, so we're throwing in a Swirls ™ location — one of two! And why wouldn't we? At Summer Landing, fun this cool is literally always in season.

La dolce vita is within reach at La Piazza ... and we'd know, with all the Italian seafaring spirit that's literally driving the ship. This zone stands for atmosphere and flavor, and it starts with Cucina del Capitano ® , which brings your party together for an evening of Italian favorites served family-style, while Pizzeria del Capitano makes delizioso happen for you atop a base of imported Italian flour and fresh mozzarella. Mardi Gras ® debuts Piazza Panini where the handhelds are hot and pressed, plus Bar della Rosa , where you'll sip authentic espresso drinks by day and classic Italian cocktails when the sun goes down. All this flavor and flair we’ve got in here may practically transport you straight to Italy… but don’t forget that so much of it can be enjoyed outdoors, where the sea breeze is just bellissimo .

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know Lido ... but aboard Mardi Gras ® this poolside zone features even more delicious and fun experiences among the familiar flavors. Evolving the classic poolside rum-bar was a tall order, but RedFrog Tiki Bar will be serving up the good stuff across two decks’ worth of South Pacific atmosphere. Also first-time-fresh is Street Eats , bringing together highlights from the world’s fast-good cuisine like kebab, bao buns and seriously upgraded fries. Shaq’s latest Big Chicken ™ restaurant is here, and fan-fave spots like Guy’s Burger Joint ™ , the New England-inspired Seafood Shack ™ , and BlueIguana Cantina ™ taco spot aren’t done with your taste buds yet. And for folks hoping we haven’t forgotten: yes, Lido is absolutely home to one of two Swirls ™ locations, the free soft-serve spot!

THE ULTIMATE PLAYGROUND

Don't let the name fool you — this zone is ages everybody and up. Kids, you're going to love this. And adults, the playground has grown up with you. So yay for play! Of course The Ultimate Playground starts with BOLT ® , the first rollercoaster at sea, an all-electric thrill ride that puts the power of speed in your hands. But that's only the beginning — this playground has the largest Carnival WaterWorks ™ ever with three huge spiraling slides, plus SportSquare ™ is here featuring an entire mini-golf course, full-court basketball and a ropes course. And, of course, more. Ultimate enough for you?

INSPIRED BY ALL THE BEST STUFF

Mardi Gras ® is full of fun new ways to spend your time, but definitely isn’t leaving the fan favorites ashore.

BOLT: ULTIMATE SEA COASTER

Aboard Mardi Gras ® you’ll meet BOLT ® : the fastest — and first! — rollercoaster at sea. Strap in and zoom your motorcycle-style speed machine around an open-air course high, high above sea level. You know how on most rollercoasters... actually, never mind. Forget other coasters because this all-electric thrill ride puts you in the driver’s seat. That means you actually get to control how fast you go, so hit the gas and try for the fastest time, go for the biggest thrill — plus some amazing 360° ocean views! And for the folks who choose to chill: go light on the pedal, and this just might be the coaster for you!

The Brass Magnolia

Think about the fruity Hurricane cocktail or the stately Sazerac — for ages now, these hometown heroes have been ambassadors for New Orleans ‘credo of fun, flavor and just plain good times. So of course we’ll be serving up classics like these at The Brass Magnolia! You’ll also find a swingin’ jazz trio keeping things nice and hot … and it takes only one look at the décor to feel as if you just stepped into an elegant Southern estate. So come on down and let a white-coated bartender know what your pleasure is. Among the menu of Crescent City mainstays, we suggest starting off with a true connoisseur’s local favorite … the Brandy Crusta .

Fortune Teller

If you’ve strolled along New Orleans’ French Quarter in the evening, you’re not alone in feeling that mysteries and surprises lie around every corner. A French Quarter-styled zone on a new ship wouldn’t be complete without an unassuming little bar that feels like it’s always been there. On Mardi Gras ® , that’s Fortune Teller! Spirits truly abound here, and our unnaturally talented bartenders will be pleased to conjure up recipes like the all-black New Moon , the changes-color-before-your-eyes Abracadabra and the Golden Galaxy … actually made with a bit of real gold. Call us supernatural, but we’re sensing vacation fun in your future.

Family Feud Live

The show has been delighting viewers at home for generations, but you never had the chance to buzz-in on a cruise ship… until now! Carnival ships are the only place you’ll find Family Feud™ Live, and on every sailing we’ll be hosting games on an authentic Family Feud™ set — right down to the iconic Face-Off podium, plus all the excitement of Fast Money. Family Feud Live will be emceed by none other than your cruise director, so if you’re game, sign up your team of five for an audition… and make sure they bring that Family Feud spirit. And, of course, everybody’s welcome to grab a seat in the audience to catch all the hilarious action!

RedFrog Tiki Bar

Let's recap what we know about the mysterious RedFrog so far. He's cute, he knows how to chill… and flavor is everything to the little guy. We only just found out about the years he spent soaking up the sun among the grass skirts and frangipani flowers of the South Pacific where, he would tell you, it’s easy being red. You'll find some of his favorite recipes from those days on menu at the first-ever RedFrog ® Tiki Bar — sip a Polynesian Punch, try a Jungle Bird, or get a little tongue-twisted ordering a Red's Rum Jumper. This poolside bar on Mardi Gras ® spans two decks and transports you right to the land of Tiki.

For those who flock to waterparks just ready to make a splash, we’d suggest sliding on over to WaterWorks ™ aboard Mardi Gras ® . Three large-scale spiraling slides, a giant dumping bucket, twin racing slides and more — you know, the works — are all practically overflowing for your hydro-delight. When you spot the big slides on board you’ll see that they mean business, splashy business: Blue Lightning ™ is packed with headfirst, high-speed twists and turns, while Orange Thunder ™ starts you off standing before propelling you down into a world of wetness… and of course, our signature Twister ™ slide keeps on thrilling splash-seekers.

HAVANA BAR & POOL

On Mardi Gras ® you'll find the Havana Bar ™ & Pool. Good find — the relaxation pool is an exclusive retreat to paradise, and the bar becomes a hot dance spot when the sun goes down. Grab a seat at the bar and order up a handcrafted Cuban cocktail like a traditional daiquiri or classic mojito. This bar is just steps from the pool, whose ocean view and atmosphere mingles with the bar's own, for a bit of that old-time Cuban resort flavor.

SERENITY ADULT-ONLY RETREAT

Somebody at Carnival knows just what you need, and it's pretty much exactly the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . Look, you'll still be on the same ship as the kids, the hoopla, and all the Carnival-style excitement... but you could easily forget, because when you're at Serenity you could not be further from it all. The world you'll find yourself in is one of complete peace, sea breezes and, of course, a nearby bar. It's the place to get done the kind of stuff you just can't seem to do anywhere else — reconnect with your partner, finish that book, or do absolutely, blissfully, nothing at all.

CLOUD 9 SPA

True or false: cruises are a time for relaxation. Our answer: whether you're all action all the time, or chill to the core, everybody needs a chance to take it easy! And nobody will find an easier spot than Cloud 9 Spa ™ aboard Mardi Gras ® . This is an oasis built from the ground up for relaxation, from a full complement of traditional spa services like massages, facials, body wraps to the carefully-designed climates of Cloud 9's thermal suites... rooms swirling with moist or dry air, each heated very precisely. It turns out it's true: anyone can find a reason to say 'ahhh' at Mardi Gras's Cloud 9 Spa.

PLAYLIST PRODUCTIONS

When was the last time you got up and grooved... at the theater? Playlist Productions ™ takes songs you know and presents them like you’ve never known them before. Past favorites become full-blown musical productions featuring multi-talented performers absolutely bringing down the house with song, dance... and superstar attitude. With tunes from fan-favorite divas, crooners or rockers, each show has a different theme — and of course, a completely different playlist! Get ready for heartfelt emotions, straight-up bouncy fun, or something in-between — all types are welcome to get down here.

WISH MARDI GRAS ® HAD EVEN MORE FUN?

INSPIRED BY BOTH MMM & YUM!

Whether it’s casual munching or sit-down elegance you’re hungry for, we can’t wait to share all this dining variety with you.

You’ll detect some delicious Chinese and Mexican culinary traditions in the atmosphere at Chibang! ™ , our new restaurant… but even more importantly, you’ll notice them on your plate! We’ve brought together favorite dishes from the two cuisines, into an amazing menu that invites you to spread your culinary wings across the Pacific. Try a little from each side by mixing, matching and sharing in a dinner of flavor explorations. (Plus cocktails made from authentic ingredients!) Or stop in to Chibang! for a casual lunch that features noodle and burrito bowls based on our favorite ingredients from both of these worlds. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Chibang! is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

Rudi’s Seagrill

Rudi’s Seagrill ™ is the brainchild of cookbook author and master chef Rudi Sodamin. He has years of experience pleasing palates of vacationers… and this guy loves serving up a smile as much as Carnival does! But he’s serious about seafood, and an evening at Rudi’s proves it through the courses. Enjoy selections like seafood bisque and crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial — all served with an elegant flair that pays proper tribute to the beauty of the ocean from which so much fun, and flavor, arises.

Street Eats

Some of the world’s favorite flavors aren’t found in restaurants, but on the street in trucks, stalls and carts where flavor, convenience... and quality matter. That’s right, when you’re just feet from the chef, you know they’re cooking to impress! Street Eats is Carnival’s tribute to this food phenomenon, debuting aboard Mardi Gras ® with three ever-changing open-air stations. The first, Steam Dream , specializes in the steamiest stuff this side of the spa, featuring favorites like bao buns and pot stickers. Then there’s Mad Sizzle , which puts the “skill” in skillet with the likes of kebab and satay. And we’re definitely not about to forget Time Fries , which serves up every cruiser’s dream: fries loaded up with culinary creations from our chefs, like cheesesteak fries! On Mardi Gras you may be far from the street, but flavor’s right around the corner.

Emeril’s Bistro 1396

Mardi Gras ® sets sail with Emeril Lagasse's first-ever restaurant at sea: Emeril's Bistro 1396 ™ . Everybody knows about Emeril's love for Creole cuisine, and now you'll enjoy the authentic bayou flavors and fun New Orleans is known for on your vacation. If you haven't had the pleasure, we're talking about fried oysters, duck & sausage gumbo, po-boy sandwiches, fresh ceviche and more. We're serving up Emeril's faves all day… and because flavors this big don't just sleep in, we do some great ones for breakfast too! Raw bar, incredible desserts and Crescent City atmosphere round out the experience.

Big Chicken

When Shaq tells you to build a chicken joint on board, you start warming up immediately. The big guy brings his poultry know-how and good taste to the seas with Big Chicken ™ on Mardi Gras ® . Just like Shaq’s a multitalented entertainer, his restaurant is no one-trick chick. Step up to the counter for lunch or dinner and walk away with your choice of chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips or juicy fried chicken baskets... plus side dishes like potato salad and jalapeño slaw. Early-morning buzzer-beaters are invited to enjoy a breakfast of classics like chicken biscuits, a three-cheese omelet or our biscuit/egg combo featuring bacon or sausage. Snoozers are invited, too — breakfast is served until 3!

Bonsai Teppanyaki

It’s a meal, a performance, and it’s definitely unforgettable. The Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ experience is set to delight guests aboard Mardi Gras ® . Take a little time out of vacation to sit down to a selection of tempting appetizers, before your chef prepares the main course featuring selections of meats, tofu, fish, shrimp or lobster… right at your table. In the teppanyaki tradition — and Carnival’s tradition of fun — expect an interactive, satisfying meal full of surprise and delicious delight.

Bonsai Sushi

So maybe you’ve had sushi before, but have you tried it at Bonsai Sushi ™ ? This is Carnival’s onboard seafood-and-soy-sauce spot, and we think you’ll enjoy our latest location, aboard Mardi Gras ® . Dine indoors or out amidst carefully-pruned bonsai trees, while enjoying a delectable menu with sit-down service. Rounding out the meal: soups, sides, sakes and desserts. So the next time you’re taking a stroll down the onboard promenade, stop at Bonsai Sushi for a roll, a box or maybe order a whole sushi ship — seaborne satisfaction for two.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

With choices like brisket, sausage, baby back ribs and dry-rubbed chicken, our pros do the smoking right there over hickory wood before serving them up at your table. You’re in Guy Fieri’s house — Mardi Gras ® has Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ . Now about the brews: this house of BBQ tradition doesn’t just satisfy your hunger — you’ll also enjoy our all-new, exclusive line of Parched Pig ™ craft brews. There’s a smoked porter, a farmhouse ale, a hoppy IPA and a toasted amber, all brewed just feet from your table. Tip: Come by and check out the free menu at lunchtime, plus live music and lively atmosphere all day.

Seafood Shack

A good seafood dish… mmm, quite the catch. However you like yours — roll, bowl or platter — Seafood Shack ™ is Mardi Gras's place for you to cast your net. Imagine a seaside spot in New England, where the locals gather for great meals served with a bit of a breeze and a lot of a view. (That said, nowhere on land will you get 360-degree ocean views like ours!) Look to Seafood Shack for rustic favorites like Crab Cake Sliders, Lobster BLT, Fried Buffalo Shrimp, Snow Crab and more. Steer a course for Mardi Gras ® ... that’s where you’ll find this little shack by the sea, wherever in the world you happen to be!

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

Haute cuisine meets atmosphere at Fahrenheit 555 ™ , a dining experience that stands toe-to-toe with some of the best steakhouses on land. Except this one’s at sea — aboard Mardi Gras ® . Ours features your choice of steak cuts, lobster, lamb and more… and inside, there’s even a full bar that pours great pairings. These are the building blocks of an amazing experience — delectable elements that combine with great service to offer an evening to remember.

Cucina del Capitano

At Cucina del Capitano ® on Mardi Gras ® , who you’ve got gathered around the table is truly as important as what’s being served there. At our table you’ll enjoy delicious Italian favorites — we serve them family-style because we know that sharing large plates and sharing tales of your day’s adventures goes hand-in-hand. Speaking of which, our walls are adorned with old snapshots from our officers’ family albums, proving that the rustic Italian-farmhouse atmosphere definitely isn’t for show. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Cucina del Capitano is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

NOT HUNGRY YET?

INSPIRED BY COMFORT ITSELF

Mardi Gras’ staterooms are major innovations in the field of helping you get ready for fun, or relaxing after a long day. (No joke — we studied it!)

STATEROOM DESIGN

Design is more than just the way things look — it's as much about how they work. And staterooms aboard Mardi Gras ® are packed with innovative changes to both. It's the way the ring-lit vanity mirror lights you evenly and shadow-free as you get ready. How the ottoman cushion flips over to serve as an extra table. And even those reading lights, recessed into the wall so you can read in bed without waking anyone! These details are really more than just details. Better comfort, lighting and storage all spring from a deep understanding we've developed around how people actually use their staterooms… and how small changes to the room add up to make the experience that much better. (Enough USB charging ports for everybody’s stuff? Oh yes!) Thoughtful, guest-centric design is how we do it… and all this in-room convenience comes paired with a fresh new look.

Havana Staterooms & Suites

Consider your Havana stateroom or suite your own island resort aboard Mardi Gras ® . Most important is the exclusive location: near the Havana Bar & Pool. This relaxation pool is your members-only spot, and the bar's a fun-for-all hotspot when the sun goes down. Indoors, all Havana staterooms feature a unique décor, but step up to a Havana Cabana for an extra-large outdoor chill space. Step into a Havana Cabana suite for even more space, plus a luxurious rain shower. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms & Suites

Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms on Mardi Gras ® feature exclusive décor and in-room amenities to help soothe you after a long day’s fun — spa bathrobes and slippers, plus toiletries by Elemis. Book one of these staterooms and enjoy priority spa reservations, unlimited access to the thermal suites, free fitness classes, exclusive discounts and more! And you can have comfort and value — Mardi Gras’s got a full range of Cloud 9 staterooms in all sizes, from cozy Interiors to stretch-out Suites.

Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites

Family Harbor staterooms, with their unique nautical décor, can be found near Mardi Gras’ own Family Harbor Lounge — an exclusive spot with breakfast, snacks during the day, plus board games, family movies, video games and more. The benefits don’t end there — your little girls and boys eat free in most onboard specialty restaurants and get a free evening of Night Owls babysitting service, so you can enjoy a little alone time.

Interior Staterooms

Here’s the most affordable way to experience Mardi Gras ® , without cutting even a single corner in the comfort department. With an Interior stateroom you’ll get a full private bathroom, your choice of bed size and layout — covered in linens you can feel at home in — all of which make this truly a great spot for curling up after a long day’s fun. Get all the comfy details about Interior staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Ocean View Staterooms

These comfy rooms with a view let you take in the scenery as you sail toward your beautiful destinations. And how about those views? Nowhere on land will you find anything like ‘em. But the views aren’t all that matters here — Ocean View staterooms on Mardi Gras ® are a little bit bigger than Interior rooms and most feature a supremely loungeable couch for those times when neither lying nor standing will do. Get all the comfy details about Ocean View staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Balcony Staterooms

Balcony staterooms are proof that while it’s great to be cruisey… on vacation, breeziness is a virtue too. And any time you’re in your well-appointed Balcony stateroom aboard Mardi Gras ® , you’re just steps away from the outdoors by way of your private open-air oasis. Designed for kicking back al fresco, you’re in for some amazing ocean views… views so stunning you’ll just have to feel ‘em to believe ‘em. Get all the comfy details about Balcony staterooms on Mardi Gras.

Get all the comforts of home, and even a few extras. Since your huge Suite on Mardi Gras ® affords you VIP status, you're in the priority line when getting on and off the ship… plus Suites come with exclusive perks! (Carnival Excel Suites pack even more, like concierge service and access to Loft 19™.) A Suite is the ultimate way to enjoy the ship, and the extra comfort definitely goes a long way, with more room to put your feet up or stretch out on the extra-large balcony. Get all the comfy details about Suites on Mardi Gras.

Loft 19 ™ was designed to afford you a unique opportunity for relaxation and indulgence. This retreat-style space invites you to soak up the sun all day from the comfort of a lounge chair or infinity whirlpool. This pairs so perfectly with Carnival Excel suites that staying in one actually gets you Loft 19 access! Drink service is always close at hand, plus you can even opt for a little private time — renting a cabana gets you more than just a place in the shade, but extras like fresh fruit, chilled towels, lunch delivery and concierge service. (Cabana rentals are open to everyone, though guests in Carnival Excel-level suites enjoy priority reservations.)

INTRIGUED BY ALL THIS COMFORT?

Inspired by big plans for building fun.

Ships start as sketches, then come deck plans… and we get building from there. Check the decks on Mardi Gras ® and plan all the fun you're going to have on board.

INSPIRED BY FUN THAT MAKES HEADLINES

If you’re already excited about Mardi Gras™, nobody understands you quite like we do. Check back here for the latest news and announcements!

• CruiseMapper
• Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Mardi Gras

Cruise line Carnival Cruise Line

• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Carnival Mardi Gras current position

Carnival Mardi Gras current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 27.62178 N / -78.46349 W) cruising at speed of 19.7 kn (36 km/h | 23 mph) en route to USPCV>AWAUA. The AIS position was reported 30 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras current cruise is 8 days, round-trip Southern Caribbean . Prices start from USD 1449 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 08 Jun, 2024 and ends on 16 Jun, 2024 .

Specifications of Carnival Mardi Gras

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Carnival Mardi Gras Itineraries

Carnival mardi gras review, review of carnival mardi gras.

The 2021-built Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship is CCL-fleet 's first newest and largest liner of the Carnival XL-Class. All the three units in this series are from the German shipbuilder Meyer Werft (shipyard Turku Finland ). As with all other "Fun Ships", the shipowner is Carnival Corporation - the world's largest passenger shipping company .

The XL-Class is similar in design and facilities to Helios-Class ships produced for Carnival Corporation's brands Costa and AIDA by Meyer Werft in Papenburg Germany . Other Excellence-Class liners (Mardi Gras sisterships) are Carnival Celebration (2022), Carnival Jubilee (2023), P&O Iona (2020), P&O Arvia (2022), Costa Smeralda (2019), Costa Toscana (2021), AIDAnova (2018), AIDAcosma (2021).

The vessel (IMO number 9837444) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311001049) and registered in Nassau .

Carnival XL-Class ship design features a new (red-white-navy blue) hull and was created by the NYC-based naval architecture firm "Bluarch Architecture". Among the world's largest passenger ships , the new liner has length 1130 ft (344 m), passenger capacity 5200 (lower berths) and boasts the most advanced maritime technologies as well as various fleet-first and industry-first innovations.

On December 14, 2018, Carnival announced that the new Mardi Gras will have the industry's first roller coaster at sea. The facility ("BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster") will be built by Maurer Rides ( Munich Germany -based company) specializing in roller coaster design and manufacturing. The race track has length 244 m (800 ft), with twists, turns, drops and speeds up to 64 kph (40 mph). Individual speeds are posted after the race. Carnival's roller coaster is all-electric and allows 2 riders to race along in motorbike-like vehicles at height 57 m (187 ft) above the sea. The experience features breathtaking top-deck 360-degree views and ends with a high-speed turn around the funnel/smokestack.

On January 25, 2019, was announced that the new Carnival XL-class vessel will have 6 themed zones (neighborhoods) - Grand Central, French Quarter, Lido-Pool, La Piazza, Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Decks and Cabins

Carnival Mardi Gras staterooms (a total of 2641 passenger cabins) are divided into 22 different categories, including 2-deck apartments (duplex suites) and 80 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers). All cabin bathrooms feature the fleet's first glass-door showers and in-shower shaving bar. Over 70% of all staterooms are outside, 300 pairs are connecting/family cabins.

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Cabin balconies are accessed via sliding floor-ceiling glass doors. The lounge area is furnished with new-type sofabeds (couch bed with footstools opening up for storage), under-bed storage (for suitcases), flexible reading lamps (bedside), mini-refrigerator with transparent glass door, plenty of power outlets, USB ports (on the vanity table and bedside), more shelving (for electronic devices), large wardrobe (with folding shelves, sliding shoe rack, 2 pull-out bins).

Like the Vista-class Carnival liners, Mardi Grass has Havana staterooms with a patio (indoor-outdoor space) with direct access to an exclusive Sundeck area with loungers, Bar and swimming pool. Another Vista-class type of cabins are Family Harbor (clustered near Camp Ocean/kids club) and with direct access to the exclusive Family Harbor Lounge. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms traditionally offer exclusive amenities, including premium bathrobes and slippers and Elemis brand toiletries.

Mardi Gras offers over 180 suites in 11 categories, including company's new premium category "Carnival Excel" suites (32 staterooms in 4 categories) with new VIP amenities and exclusive access to Loft 19 (resort-style, open-air sundeck). All ship suites offer a VIP amenities package including priority boarding/debarkation, bottled water upon arrival, priority MDR (main dining room) seating, plush bathrobes. Passengers in "Carnival Excel" suites receive as additional amenities:

• Dedicated concierge phone line
• Unlimited access to Loft 19
• Guaranteed specialty dining times (except Bonsai Teppanyaki, and Chef's Table)
• Complimentary room service, laundry, and Bottomless Bubbles soda package
• Fresh fruit basket and sparkling wine upon arrival
• Upgraded bathroom amenities

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The 19-decks high new Mardi Gras vessel also features Carnival's largest Atrium and open-deck areas.

• Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-7-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex (including aerial performances) with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows. From the Atrium are accessible the restaurants Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki and Punchliner Comedy Club, as well as the intimate Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs).
• French Quarter (aft on Deck 6) is lined with new eateries and bars. This neighborhood is linked via 2-deck-high Promenade with the traditional New Orleans jazz club lounge "The Brass Magnolia" (offering hand-crafted cocktails and live music).
• La Piazza (midship on Deck 8) is an Italy-themed area housing the 24-hour complimentary Pizzeria del Capitano and Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant). Classic Italian cocktails and live music nightly are offered at the new Bar della Rosa (cafe/patisserie/Lavazza-coffee bar, cocktails) and Piazza Panini (hand-pressed sandwiches/Deli food bar). La Piazza is designed like a courtyard with an interior marked by red brick walls, street lights, murals, ornate iron and tile works, an original Vespa scooter (Piaggio-made) and an original Fiat 126 (rear-engined car, 1972-made/the year when TSS Mardi Gras liner debuted).
• Summer Landing (aft on Deck 8/close to waterline) houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri), The Watering Hole (outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers), ParchedPig (onboard- brewed craft beers), Heroes Tribute Lounge. Also in this neighborhood are located a lunch counter (for the Smokehouse-Brewhouse), an expansive outdoor deck area with two whirlpools and an infinity pool, a stage for live music, a sports bar featuring indoor and outdoor TV screens, hang-out space with trivia, dance classes, arts and crafts.
• Heroes Tribute (bar lounge via partnership with Operation Homefront/USA-based nonprofit organization that provides services and supports military families and veterans) offers comfortable seating (leather armchairs with low tables) and large TVs (for live sporting events).
• Lido (aft on Decks 16-17) houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy's Burger Joint, plus the new venues "Street Eats" (grab-and-go eatery) and "Big Chicken by Shaq" (lunch and dinner take-away food bar).
• The Ultimate Playground (aft on Decks 18-20) is a large family-friendly outdoor playground area highlighted by fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark) and an expanded SportSquare (sports complex). Also here is the "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (first at sea).

The new Mardi Gras ship also has Carnival's signature facilities Serenity (adults-only resort), Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Carnival Mardi Gras main dining rooms feature select items from the onboard steakhouse, available for an additional fee. Mardi Gras also has a Lido buffet. Seafood lovers are pampered with the Seafood Shack - New England-inspired casual eatery. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and the menu includes steamed lobster, lobster rolls, fried shrimp, fried clams, crab cakes, and other seafood surprises. Seafood Shack serves lunch and dinner and is priced a la carte starting at $4.

The ship has a Japanese specialty restaurant (named Bonsai Teppanyaki) located within the Bonsai Sushi restaurant (on Promenade-Havana Deck). The restaurant offers authentic Far East dishes and a live cooking show performance (by the chefs) at custom-built cooking stations positioned at the center of an 8-seat dining table. Due to the room's limited seating, reservations are required. Each meal at Bonsai Teppanyaki starts with a sampling of 5 appetizers (Miso Soup, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna on Rocks). Combo dinners are also offered. Each meal ends with the specialty desserts "Chocolate Bento Box" and "Green Tea Ice Cream". The restaurant is open for lunch (seadays only) and for dinner (every night of the voyage). Cover charge/price is per person and covers the entire meal.

Available on all Fun Ships is Chef's Table (VIP dining experience / 12-guest capacity) that includes multicourse dinner with ship's Master Chef, private cocktail reception and galley/kitchen tour. This dining option usually takes place in a non-traditional venue (a dedicated room in the galley) and can be booked onboard for USD 75 per person.

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse has a specialty restaurant (located in the French Quarter of Deck 6 / portside). Lagasse is the chef and owner of 11 different restaurants, including 4 in New Orleans . He is a regular guest on Good Morning America (TV show) and has hosted 2000+ shows on Food Network (US pay-TV channel). Lagasse Restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including spicy creole specialties. Menu items include muffuletta sandwiches, oyster and cochon de lait po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12.

New (Mardi Gras only) drinking and dining venues are within the themed zones "Lido" (deck 16) and "Summer Landing" (Lanai/promenade deck 8 aft). These include RedFrog Tiki Bar, The Watering Hole, Street Eats, Big Chicken by Shaq.

• RedFrog Tiki Bar is a South Pacific Island-themed, 2-level bar designed as a variation of Carnival's poolside RedFrog Bar. New is the island-inspired outdoor decoration with floral patterns, vibrant colors, tiki heads. Located close to Guy's Burger Joint, RedFrog Tiki Bar offers refreshing cocktails (like Red's Rum Runner Jumper, Jungle Bird, Polynesian Punch) presented in souvenir glasses and pineapples.
• The Watering Hole (located within The Patio at Summer Landing) is a backyard-like designed outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers (including Carnival's own brands / canned and draft brews).
• Street Eats is an open-air complimentary eatery located next to Seafood Shack. It offers ready-to-eat street food via 3 themed kiosks (steamed, fried, and plancha food). The new grab-and-go dining venue has a daily rotating menu. Small plates (including falafel or empanadas) are available at the fried food station, siu mai or bao buns - at the steamed food outlet, and satay and kebabs at the plancha food kiosk.

The new Mardi Gras has Carnival fleet's second "Big Chicken" restaurant at sea (by Shaquille O'Neal). Debuting on Carnival Radiance in 2021, Big Chicken by Shaq is located aft on Lido Deck. Many menu items are developed by the basketball player himself, the rest are based on the star's favorite food recipes.

Rudi's Seagrill is another fleet-first dining venue (seafood restaurant by Rudi Sodamin / Holland America Line 's Master Chef). Rudi's Seagrill is a specialty restaurant (at surcharge / reservation fee) located on Deck 8 (between Summer Landing and La Piazza) with indoor (80 seats) and outdoor seating (al fresco dining on The Lanai). The Seagrill offers appetizers, entrees and desserts, with all menu items presented as food faces. Signature dishes include Bigeye Tuna, Lemon-Stuffed Grilled Branzino, Seared Scallops, Salt-Roasted Prawns, Broiled Lobster Tails, Crab Cake, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Chocolate Truffle Cake. Non-seafood options are also on offer.

Ship's 2-deck-high Lido zone houses fleet's biggest "Guy's Burger Joint" (by Guy Fieri), the Mexican food bar BlueIguana Cantina, the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, and Lido Marketplace (ship's buffet restaurant). Other signature facilities in the area are Beach Pool (midship) and the infinity swimming pool Tides Pool (aft) with a bar, great stern views and ample seating. Lido-Pool Deck also houses deck parties and Dive-in Movies (at Carnival Seaside Theater/outdoor cinema).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Mardi Gras restaurants and food bars.

• Palm Restaurant (2-level Aft Dining Room)
• Flamingo Restaurant is a dinner-only Dining Room (complimentary) with sit-down waiter service.
• "Emeril’s Bistro 1396" is the first-at-sea restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse (celebrity chef and owner of 11 different restaurants in the USA). The restaurant was named after the Mardi Gras ship's hull/Turku shipyard number (1396). A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12. The restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including muffuletta sandwiches, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. Signature dishes at Emeril’s Bistro 1396 are chef's favorites Slow-Cooked Cochon de Lait Po'Boy (Boston butt pork roast), BBQ-Grilled Shrimp (large shrimp/peeled-deveined, tails attached), Emeril's Classic Seafood Gumbo (shrimp, fish, oysters), Cajun Jambalaya (boneless-skinless chicken thighs).
• Bonsai Sushi restaurant (including Bonsai Teppanyaki) serves Japanese cuisine specialties and drinks (a la carte priced menu).
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (indoor/outdoor seating, open between 6 - 9:30 pm) is a premium steakhouse-seafood restaurant at a surcharge (reservations recommended).
• The Chef's Table (private dining room) is a small room dedicated to the multi-course Chef's Table VIP dinner package (surcharged at $75 per person).
• La Piazza (Italy-themed zone) houses Pizzeria del Capitano (complimentary 24-hour pizzeria restaurant), Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) as well as fleet's first/new venues Bar della Rosa (cafe/patisserie/Lavazza-coffee bar, cocktails) and Piazza Panini (hand-pressed sandwiches/Deli food and desserts bar).
• Summer Landing houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri) and ParchedPig (onboard-brewed craft beers).
• Lido houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina (Mexican fast food bar), and Guy's Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina is a complimentary poolside (self-serve) fast-food bar with Mexican cuisine serving the Beach Pool area.
• Lido Marketplace (self-service buffet restaurant)
• Big Chicken by Shaq (specialty restaurant by Shaquille O'Neal)
• Rudi's Seagrill (specialty restaurant by Rudi Sodamin)
• RedFrog Tiki Bar
• The Watering Hole
• Street Eats (grab-and-go eatery)
• (deck 16/Lido) Chibang! is a new (introduced on the ship Mardi Gras) restaurant for signature Chinese and Mexican dishes (a la carte-priced), with two separate food menus plus a beverage menu (including specialty cocktails, like Chibang! Margarit, Smokey Mezcal Negroni, Green Tea Martini). The decor is marked by floor-ceiling windows (wall-to-wall), heavy red and green, with gold accents, a colorful dragon (at the entrance). Dishes include favorites like Kung Pao Chicken, Singapore Chili Shrimp/Prawn, Slow-Braised Pork Belly, Egg Drop Soup, Crispy Pork Carnitas Tacos, Steak Ranchero, Mole de Pollo Mexicano, Pork Lomito, Pescado Frito Crujiente, Camarones a la Diabla (shrimp).

In mid-January 2018, CCL announced 4 new craft beers that will be brewed onboard the Carnival Horizon (and the new Mardi Gras) ship. The brews were developed by brewmaster Colin Presby. They are offered at Guy's Pig and Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse (Brewhouse), The names of the new draft beers are inspired by the BBQ offerings at the Smokehouse/Brewhouse.

• "ParchedPig Farmhouse Ale" is a lightly hopped dry finish beer.
• "ParchedPig Smoked Porter" is brewed with in-house smoked malt, hickory smoke, and molasses.
• "ParchedPig Toasted Amber Ale" has rich amber color and notes of toasted caramel and biscuit.
• "ParchedPig West Coast IPA" is a traditional West Coast India Pale Ale loaded with bitterness and a distinctive aroma of pine and citrus.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The outdoor activity complex on the Mardi Gras ship is named The Ultimate Playground (2-deck high) with SkyCourse, SportSquare, Carnival WaterWorks (fleet's largest aquapark, has 3x spiraling waterslides, 1x 2-lane racing slide, 1x tipping bucket) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's first rollercoaster at sea).

A signature outdoor fun facility is the ropes course SkyCourse (length 600 ft / 183 m). SkyCourse is part of the SportSquare (sports complex) with an indoor hangout, mini-bowling, mini-golf course, The Clubhouse, Ping-Pong area with tables, jogging track, interactive sports gaming, arcade basketball.

Located on the ship's top-deck ( deck 19 ), Loft 19 is a new VIP leisure concept (secluded retreat for adults) designed as an exclusive (Excel Suites-only) premium resort complex. Here are offered full bar service, swimming pool, sunbathing area with cabanas, deckchairs and sun loungers available for rent. The cabanas are fully-stocked with beverages, chilled towels, plush bathrobes and provide dedicated concierge service with lunch delivery and fresh fruits. Carnival Excel Suite passengers enjoy priority cabana reservations.

Grand Central Atrium is a large open-floor-designed space (midship on decks 6-7-8) that combines an entertainment complex with a bar lounge overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows.

• Grand Central features 3000-ft2 (280-m2) glass panels (built into the vessel's superstructure) to provide passengers with unobstructed views as they relax in comfortable seating. From the Atrium are accessible 3 dining venues (Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Punchliner Comedy Club) as well as Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs), Mardi Gras Casino (gaming lounge), The Fun Shops (retail shops).
• During the day, Grand Central Atrium serves as a relaxing space for enjoying beverages, light food, live music performances or participate in trivia contests and leisurely pursuits. At night, the Atrium transforms into an intimate venue with live performances (stand-up comedy acts, dancing, acrobatics) and quality media as guests can interact with 16 individually controlled LED screens (sized 6x14 ft / 1,8x4,3 m each) displaying video and special effects, along with aerial feats and lasers.
• On Atrium's top-level (deck 8) is the Grand View Bar which offers floor-ceiling views and custom-made cocktails amidst new design features - such as a virtual waterfall displayed on translucent panels. The Atrium's mid-level (deck 7) is served by the Center Stage Bar. Both Atrium bar lounges offer specialty cocktails inspired by the theme of the evening's entertainment.
• On Atrium's low-level (deck 6) are JavaBlue Cafe (a coffee bar serving lattes, coffees, cappuccinos, fresh bakery items, salads and light food throughout the day) and Cherry on Top (sweets shop).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Mardi Gras lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Family Harbor Lounge (a dedicated to families space with 24-hour complimentary dining, concierge and babysitting service, movies, video games, board games by Hasbro).
• Mardi Gras Theater is the boat's main show lounge for grand style show productions featuring live performances (tribute acts - singing and dancing) combined with sound and lighting special effects.
• French Quarter's "The Brass Magnolia" is a New Orleans-themed jazz lounge featuring live performances and hand-crafted cocktails.
• Punchliner Comedy Club/brunch (Karaoke, art auctions, nightly shows).
• Piano Bar 88 (cocktail bar) offers themed music nights, a grand piano for live performances by a resident pianist, singalongs, trivia quizzes.
• JavaBlue Cafe (open between 7-10 am, and between 4 pm-12:30 midnight) is a specialty patisserie/coffee bar.
• Havana Bar is an authentic Cuban cafe (cocktail/coffee bar) with live Latin music in the evenings. After midnight, the bar transforms into Latin disco/nightclub.
• Cherry on Top (open between 4-10:30 pm) is a Carnival signature shop selling bulk candies by the oz (mix and match, sugar-free, assortments), confections (lollipops, sweet apples, truffles, chocolate deep cheesecakes and pretzels, cupcakes, fudge, cookies /and sugar-free).
• The Fun Shops is named the shipboard duty-free shopping complex of retail stores (open between 8 am - 12-midnight).
• Special Occasions shop sells Bon Voyage wines/champagnes/liquor, Carnival cruise packages, specialty items, and gifts.
• Mardi Gras Casino is a Vegas-style gambling casino equipped with various slot machines (Coinless Fun Slot Machines) and gaming tables (Craps, Roulette, Black Jack 21, Caribbean Stud Poker, dealer-free poker tables).
• Limelight Lounge offers live evening entertainment by vocalists, musicians, comedians, karaoke.
• Lanai promenade (with outdoor seats, served by Lanai Bar-BQ Bar).
• Alchemy Bar is a vintage-themed cocktail bar (drink pharmacy) where professional mixologists (dressed in lab coats) serve handcrafted cocktails and made-to-order drinks from unique ingredients.
• Dreams Studio (photo sessions studio)
• Pixels Photo Gallery and Shop (professional photo-video services, duty-free equipment, and accessories, photos on display available for purchasing)
• Havana Outside is the Havana complex's pool area (1 swimming pool /Havana Pool, live palm trees).
• Tides Pool (aft) has 1 swimming pool flanked by 2 Whirlpools and a large sunbathing area served with drinks by the Tides Bar.
• Circle C (kids club lounge), Club O2 (teens club lounge)
• Warehouse (Video Arcade)
• Camp Ocean (formerly known as "Camp Carnival" - youth activities program)
• Creative Cove (a dedicated room for kids arts-crafts and workshops)
• Dr Seuss Bookville is a family-themed indoor playground (kids room/library) fitted with all Dr Seuss books (available for reading), fun games, themed decorations and activities (Dr Seuss characters, memorable phrases from the books, character meet-and-greets). Other themed events held on the ship include Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (at Main Dining Rooms), Story Time (at Camp Carnival), Seuss-A-Palooza Parade (Promenade Deck show).
• Carnival Cloud 9 Spa (wellness complex with Thalassotherapy Pool)
• The Fitness Center/Gymnasium (complimentary)
• Loft 19 Retreat offers full bar service and a swimming pool surrounded by cabanas.
• The Ultimate Playground is a large (2-decks high) family-friendly outdoor playground with fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark), expanded SportSquare (sports complex with a basketball court, ropes course, jogging track, mini-golf) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's first rollercoaster at sea).

Serenity is the ship's adults-only retreat (complimentary/free entry for passengers 21+ yo) accessible at any time. This is a forward-location outdoor area/sundeck with 2x Jacuzzies/whirlpools (large-size outdoor hot tubs, cantilevered/infinity pool type, with glass walls), 2x massage huts, cabanas, Fresh Creations (complimentary chopped salad station for made-to-order fresh salads), Spritz Bar/Serenity Bar (waiter-served beverages), and an exclusive sundeck for relaxation, sunbathing and evening dance parties. Both bars and the whirlpools are available between 8 am - 10 pm. Hours may vary depending on cruise itinerary, portdays/seadays, weather.

Serenity Deck is furnished with hammocks, premium wicker chaise lounges and clamshell chairs (plush seating, teal cushions), shaded seating areas with double loungers and plush wicker sofas, live trees for decoration. At regular bar prices, Serenity Bar's menu offers drinks and refreshments (cocktails, beer/buckets, wine by the glass, frozens, smoothies, shakes, sodas).

Carnival Cruise Line's entertainment team partnered with celebrity directors from Los Angeles (Broadway) and London (West End) to create 3 new signature shows - part of the onboard "Playlist Productions" revues. The new shows (named "Celestial Strings", "Soulbound", "Vintage Pop") use the full capacity of the interactive LED screens. A 4th show ("Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance") is also available on the Horizon ship. It was introduced in 2017 on Carnival Vista.

• "Celestial Strings" show is themed on classical music mixed with modern pop.
• "Soulbound" is a gothic-inspired, New Orleans-themed show featuring R&B music favorites.
• "Vintage Pop" show is themed on "Gatsby's Cotton Club", featuring modern songs recomposed into classic jazz interpretations performed live by a 6-piece jazz band.
• "Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance" show is themed on classic Latin songs mixed with modern music hits. It is held at the Havana Bar and highlighted by a 7-piece Cuban music band.

Itineraries

Mardi Gras ship's itinerary program is based on Caribbean roundtrips leaving from homeport Port Canaveral (Orlando City, Florida USA) , with preferential berthing at the new "Carnival Terminal 3" (CT3). The canceled in early-July "Caribbean 2020" program was planned to start after the Transatlantic repositioning from Europe. Bookings opened on January 30, 2019.

The canceled 2020 program offered a diverse schedule with 6-day to 15-day itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean. The ship's 2020 schedule included:

• (repositioning) 9-day "maiden voyage" from Copenhagen to Southampton UK (August 31-September 9, 2020) visiting Kiel, Gothenburg, Oslo, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre (Paris).
• (repositioning) 14-day Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to NYC New York (September 9-23, 2020) visiting Canary Islands (Las Palmas, Tenerife), Funchal (Madeira Island), Ponta Delgada (Azores).
• 6-day "inaugural Caribbean cruise" (September 24-30, 2020) roundtrip from NYC to Portland ME and Saint John NB
• (repositioning) 15-day "Carnival Journeys" itinerary one-way from NYC to Port Canaveral FL (September 30-October 15, 2020), visiting Amber Cove (Dominicana), San Juan (Puerto Rico), St Thomas (USVI), St Maarten, St Kitts, Aruba, Curacao, Grand Turk.
• Following a special 8-day Caribbean voyage from Port Canaveral (October 16, 2020), the liner had to start a 7-day Caribbean program on October 24, offering two different 3-ports-7-days itineraries (alternating weekly) to Eastern-Western Caribbean ports.

The boat's Maiden Voyage is currently planned to depart on October 2, 2021 (previously scheduled for February 6, April 24, May 29, July 3). The 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary (Port Canaveral roundtrip) visits Mexico ( Cozumel, Costa Maya) and Honduras (Roatan Island's Mahogany Bay).

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Carnival Mardi Gras Wiki

Like most large -sized newbuilds , the new Carnival ship Mardi Gras is LNG-powered , with 4x Caterpillar Marine LNG engines (model MaK 16M-46DF) generating combined output 57,2 MW. The propulsion system is based on two Azimuting thrusters with combined power output 37 MW. The ship has 3x LNG tanks (cryogenic steel) with total capacity ~3200 m3. Two of the tanks are larger (length 35 m / 115 ft, diameter 8 m / 26 ft, gas capacity 1525 m3), while the 3rd tank has length 28 m (92 ft), diameter 5 m (16 ft) and gas capacity 520 m3. The ship's bunkering takes ~8 hours and her LNG capacity is enough for ~14 days of operation (navigation and onboard electricity production).

The shipbuilding order (Meyer Turku yard number / hull 1396) was placed on September 6, 2016. On November 15, 2018, was held the steel-cutting ceremony, which officially started the vessel's construction by the shipbuilder Meyer Werft ( Turku Shipyard, Finland ). The keel-laying ceremony was on June 18, 2019. The ship was launched (floated out from drydock) on January 24, 2020, and scheduled for delivery in October. The launch ceremony was attended by Ben Clement (Carnival Cruise Line's Senior VP of newbuilds) and Jan Meyer (Meyer Turku's CEO).

The new liner was officially delivered on December 18, 2020, at Meyer Turku Shipyard. The ceremony was attended by Christine Duffy (Carnival Cruise Line's President) and Tim Meyer (Meyer Turku's CEO).

The second liner (Carnival-XL series sistership) Carnival Celebration will be delivered in 2022, with its construction starting in 2020. In March 2022, Carnival Cruise Line celebrates the company's 50th Anniversary.

The name for the newbuild (yard/hull number 1396) was officially revealed on December 6, 2018, at the Puzzleboard of the US TV game show "Wheel of Fortune" - at the very end of the broadcast. Newbuild's name honors Carnival Cruise Line's first-ever "Fun Ship" - MARDI GRAS. The traditional ocean liner was launched in 1961 (under the name "Empress of Canada"). The vessel (last named Apollon) was scrapped in 2003.

For its LNG-bunkering operations in Florida (at homeports PortMiami and Port Canaveral ), CCL-Carnival partnered with Royal Dutch Shell plc as fuel supplier.

In mid-June 2019 were announced ship's senior officers - Giuseppe Giusa (Captain, 31-year of maritime service, former Italian Navy sergeant, with Carnival since 1993, ex-Master of Ecstasy and Breeze), Ferdinando Ruocco (Chief Engineer, former tanker ship officer, with Carnival since 1997, ex-Chief Engineer of Triumph and Valor) and Pierre Camilleri (Hotel Director, with Carnival since 2004, ex-Hotel Director of BreezeVista and Horizon).

The vessel's keel-laying (aka "coin ceremony") ceremony was held on June 18, 2019, with which officially started ship's construction at Meyer Werft's Turku Shipyard in Finland. During the special event, newly-minted unique coins were placed under the first hull/keel block in the drydock. The coins are traditionally placed to bring luck to the vessel during construction and later at sea.

Mardi Gras was initially Panama- flagged (MMSI 352049000) and started Baltic Sea trials on September 28, 2020, spending 10 days at sea (through October 7) for testing its machinery and navigation equipment. For 5 months in 2021 (January thru May) the boat remained berthed in Barcelona Spain . On May 21st started the Transatlantic repositioning crossing (without passengers) to Florida USA, with scheduled arrival in Port Canaveral on June 4. CCL announced on May 17th that the vessel will change flag-state to Bahamas (MMSI tba) and registered in Nassau .

On May 17, 2021, CCL announced the name of the ship's godmother - Kimberly Jimenez (Kimberly Marie Jimenez Rodriguez, 1997-born in Puerto Rico and raised in Dominicana actress and model, resident of La Romana ).

• Kimberly Jimenez was crowned "Miss Dominican Republic 2020" (the beauty pageant was held in Santo Domingo on August 18, 2019) and also represented the Dominican Republic at "Miss Universe 2020" (ended 4th Runner Up in the beauty pageant held in Hollywood Florida, on May 16, 2021).
• Kimberly Jimenez is a champion for at-risk youth and an advocate for adoption, volunteering at Los Ninos de Cristo - an orphanage in La Romana serving abused and abandoned girls. She is also a founding member of IWC Santo Domingo (Dominicana's International Women's Club) providing services to indigent women suffering from breast cancer.
• CCL also announced that during the Maiden Voyage, Kimberly Jimenez will be joined by Andrea Meza (1994-born Mexican model, crowned "Miss Universe 2020", previously crowned "Mexicana Universal 2020", "Miss Mexico 2017" and 1st Runner-Up at "Miss World 2017").

The christening ceremony was held on October 23, 2021, at Port Canaveral. The official naming ceremony was attended by the Godmother (Kimberly Jimenez) as well as Andrea Meza (Miss Universe 2020), Asya Branch (Miss USA 2020), Arnold Donald (Carnival Corporation's President & CEO), Christine Duffy (CCL's President), Shaquille O'Neal (CCL's Chief Fun Officer), many VIP guests - including Romero Britto (Brazilian painter & sculptor), Emeril Lagasse (restaurateur, celebrity chef), Kathie Lee Gifford (TV presenter, singer), Vanna White (TV personality/film actress), Guy Fieri (restaurateur).

Inaugural cruise 2021 itineraries

Due to construction delays (delayed delivery), the new ship's first 8x cruises in 2020 were canceled. These voyages included the Inaugural Cruise in Europe (Copenhagen to Southampton), the Transatlantic crossing (Southampton to NYC), 2x NYC departures, 4x Port Canaveral roundtrips. You can see the itineraries at the liner's CruiseMinus (accidents) page .

On July 6, 2020, CCL announced that Mardi Gras officially debuts in 2021 (~4 months later), with the inauguration planned for February 6 (Maiden Voyage). A total of 11x itineraries (departures planned for the period November 14 through and including January 30) were canceled.

• On December 3, 2020, CCL canceled additional 11x Caribbean cruises on Mardi Gras - departures February 6-13-20-27, March 6-13-20-27, April 3-10-17. The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from February 6 to April 24.
• In late-January 2021 were canceled 5x more Caribbean departures (April 24 through May 22). The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for May 29. In early-April were canceled 2 more Caribbean sailings (June 19 and 26) and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for July 3.
• In May 2021 were canceled 10x more Caribbean departures (July 3 through Sept 25) and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for October 2.
• Eventually, Carnival canceled a total of 42x Caribbean sailings planned for the new boat.

Next tables show the ship's revised program with the maiden voyages (inaugural itineraries by destination) as call ports (arrival/departure times) and lowest prices per person in USD (Inside cabin fares based on double occupancy).

( MAIDEN VOYAGE 2021 ) 7-day "Western Caribbean" itinerary (from USD 690 pp)

Inaugural 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" itinerary (from USD 720 pp)

The old Mardi Gras ship

TSS Mardi Gras vessel had IMO number 5103936, LOA length 198 m (650 ft), width 26 m (87 ft), draft 9 m (29 ft) and GT tonnage 27,300 tons (originally 18261 GT tons). Liner's capacity was 1240 passengers (originally 1048) plus 470 crew. During its service history, the vessel was named Empress of Canada (1961-1972), TSS Mardi Gras (1972-1993), Olympic (1993), Star of Texas (1994), Lucky Star (1994-1995) and Apollon (1995-2003).

The ocean liner was built at Vickers-Armstrongs shipyard in Newcastle England UK . The yard was located in the city's Walker suburb. Vickers-Armstrongs Ltd (1927-1977) was an engineering-design and shipbuilding company formed in 1927 as a merger of two British companies - Vickers Ltd (engineering) and Armstrong Whitworth (manufacturing - armaments, ships, locomotives, automobiles, planes). In the 1960-1970s, most of Vickers-Armstrongs was nationalized, with the remainder of the company's private assets divested in 1977 as Vickers plc. In 1999, Vickers plc became defunct and was purchased by Rolls-Royce plc. In 2004, the Vickers brand became defunct.

The vessel's launch (float-out from drydock) was on May 10, 1960. It was delivered to Canadian Pacific in March 1961. The inaugural cruise departed on April 24, 1961, from Liverpool to Montreal . The shipowner Canadian Pacific Steamships Ltd was founded as "Canadian Pacific Steamship Company" in 1887 in Vancouver BC . In 2005, the company (aka CP Ships) was purchased by TUI AG and became part of TUI's subsidiary Hapag-Lloyd Cruises (acquired in 1998).

Empress of Canada offered regularly scheduled Transatlantic crossings between the UK and Quebec Canada (Liverpool - Montreal). Like all CP liners, Empress of Canada was UK-flagged. After 121 Transatlantic crossings ( RepositionCruises.com ) and 82 Canadian cruises, Empress of Canada arrived in Liverpool on November 23, 1971, with which the regular Liverpool-Canada service was terminated. On December 17 (1971) the liner was laid up in Port Tilbury-London .

In January 1972, the vessel was sold to Carnival Cruise Lines and started operations as "TSS Mardi Gras" under flag-state (registry) Panama. The first "Fun Ship" started its maiden voyage on February 26, 1972, leaving from London to Miami . Mardi Gras sailed for Carnival until 1993 when was sold to Epirotiki Line (Greek shipping company founded in 1850).

In 1995 was created Royal Olympic Cruise Lines as a merger of "Epirotiki Line" and "Sun Line". In 2000, all scheduled voyages were canceled and the boat was laid up in Port Piraeus-Athens Greece . In 2001, the ship (renamed "Apollon") re-entered service for short-breaks (3-4-day) roundtrips from homeport Piraeus. In 2003, the 42-years-old liner was laid up again, and soon sold for scrap.

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Carnival Celebration Restaurants With Menus

We are back from a cruise on Carnival's newest ship and have put together this complete Carnival Celebration Restaurants Guide with menus.

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Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship, Carnival Celebration, has just set sail from Miami, and we sailed on this ship’s first cruise from the United States . Now, we are back and have put together this Carnival Celebrations Restaurants Guide with menus so you can see what is available at the different restaurants onboard this latest Excel Class ship.

Carnival Celebration Restaurants Guide With Menus

Complimentary carnival celebration restaurants.

There are several dining options on the list of Carnival Celebration restaurants that are included in your cruise fare. These include the typical main dining room (Festivale and Carnivale) as well as the cruise ship buffet (Lido Marketplace).

Carnival Cruise Line ships also offer several quick service options that are complimentary. From Mexican favorites at BlueIguana Cantina, to burgers at Guy’s Burger Joint, to chicken sandwiches at Shaq’s Big Chicken, there are plenty of tasty options that won’t cost you anything.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Carnival Celebration Cruises!

Java Blue Cafe (Deck 6)

The Java Blue Cafe is your dedicated coffee shop on Carnival Celebration. Located in the new Celebration Central zone, this venue opens at 6 AM most mornings for cruisers to get their caffeine fix. Serving espresso-based beverages and milk shakes that are included in the Cheers drink package , you might find yourself visiting this cafe quite a bit.

While here, you might be tempted by some of the food offerings as well. Java Blue Cafe serves breakfast items from around 7/7:30 to 9:30 AM daily. These options include breakfast sandwiches and continental pastry items. The cafe also serves lunch items from around 3 to 8:30/9:30 PM. These items include sandwiches, chicken pies, empanadas, and more. There are also desserts available, but they will cost a nominal fee.

Java Blue Menu

Carnivale Restaurant (Deck 6)

The Carnival Celebration restaurants include two different main dining room experiences. If you are a more traditional cruiser, you can opt for Assigned Dining at either 5:30 PM (early) or 7:45 PM (late) seating times. The Deck 6 Carnivale Restaurant and the first level of the Festivale Restaurant are reserved for Assigned Dining.

Cruisers who want to try a variety of the dining options on the ship, might want to select Your Time Dining. With this option, cruisers can dine whenever they want at various locations by joining a virtual queue in the Carnival HUB app when they are ready to eat. This option is available from 5:30 to 9 PM daily.

Regardless of whether you pick Assigned Dining or Your Time Dining, the Carnivale and Festivale restaurants offer the same rotational menu. These menus do change nightly with a few always available items, like the famous chocolate melting cake.

Carnivale is the smaller of the two dining venues and is located on the portside of Deck 6.

Festivale Restaurant (Decks 6 & 7)

Festivale is the larger of Carnival Celebration’s two main dining rooms. This 2-story main dining room is located on Decks 6 and 7. Deck 6 is reserved primarily for Assigned Dining while Deck 7 is utilized for Your Time Dining.

The Festivale restaurant is also open for breakfast daily from 7 to 9 AM. On sea days, the restaurant serves a special Sea Day Brunch from 8:30 AM to 12 PM. This Sea Day Brunch is a must-try, especially the skillet cake.

Once again, the dinner menu at this restaurant rotates each evening like most cruise lines offering a wide array of starters, entrees, and desserts.

This venue also serves lobster on one of Carnival’s elegant nights. During our sailing, “lobster night” was the first elegant night; however, Carnival has indicated that this will be changing to the second elegant night in the near future.

Further, across all of the Carnival Cruise Line ships , extra entrees in the main dining room are an upcharge. Guests may continue to order a second complimentary entrée if they choose; however, a third entrée will now incur a $5 charge.

MDR Breakfast | Sea Day Brunch | MDR Dinner Menus

Chibang! (Deck 8)

Chibang was created in response to guest feedback requesting more diverse dining options. This fairly new restaurant concept features both Mexican and Chinese dishes. Currently, this restaurant is complimentary on Excel Class ships.

Chibang is open for lunch on sea days from 12 to 2 PM and dinner nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM. Guests wishing to dine at this venue can join the virtual queue on the Carnival HUB app and will be notified when their table is ready. In our experience, we never waited more than 10 minutes for a table. The app also indicates an estimated current wait time at each venue.

For lunch, Chibang’s menu offers noodle bowls and burrito bowls. For dinner, the menu is more expansive offering Asian items like lettuce wraps, Singapore chili shrimp, and Kung Pao chicken. Mexican menu items include loaded nachos, tacos, pollo en mole, and pescado frito.

With so many offerings, you can certainly dine at Chibang more than once during your cruise vacation.

Chibang Lunch | Dinner Menu

Cucina del Capitano (Deck 8)

A specialty restaurant on other Carnival ships, Cucina del Capitano is also complimentary on Carnival Celebration at the moment. The cruise line indicates that they don’t foresee changing this any time soon.

This Italian restaurant is open for lunch from 12 to 2 PM on sea days and for dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 PM nightly. Just like Chibang, you can join the virtual queue whenever you want to dine here. Of note, if you have assigned dining in the main dining room, you won’t be able to join the virtual queue until after 7:45 PM.

For lunch, this venue serves a small menu of appetizers, soups, and pizza, along with a create your own pasta bowl section. At dinner, cruisers can enjoy favorites like Nonna’s meatball, chicken parm, short rib, and tiramisu.

Cucina del Capitano Lunch | Dinner Menu

Miami Slice (Deck 8)

Located in the vibrant 820 Biscayne zone on Carnival Celebration, Miami Slice is your go-to spot for pizza. This eatery is open daily from 9 AM to 4 AM to fulfill your cravings any time of day.

This pizzeria features a walk-up counter where guests can order fresh out of the oven pizza slices or personal-sized pies. You can then enjoy your pizza in the nearby seating area or take it to-go to enjoy anywhere around the ship.

Don’t be surprised to find a line here, as Miami Slice is quite popular.

Miami Slice Menu

Deco Deli (Deck 8)

Adjacent to Miami Slice, you will find Deco Deli. This counter-style sandwich shop serves up a menu of traditional deli sandwiches along with some Miami and Cuban favorites.

Deco Deli is open daily from 12 to 10 PM.

Deco Deli Menu

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse (Deck 8)

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse is another one of the Carnival Celebration restaurants. The BBQ joint is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Carnival Celebration. Dinner at this venue is also complimentary for a limited time; though, you will notice a few differences in the menu.

Guy’s serves breakfast from around 6:30/7:30 to 9/10:30 AM. This small buffet area features all the breakfast staples. The venue also serves lunch from 12 to 2:30 PM on sea days in a buffet-style setting outdoors on the waterfront area.

Dinner is served in the restaurant nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM. The menu features all your BBQ favorites with a side of live music. You can choose from chicken, brisket, sausage, and more. St. Louis ribs and prime rib are available for an up-charge.

Further, don’t forget to grab a signature ParchedPig beer brewed right onboard the ship.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Lunch | Dinner Menu

BlueIguana Cantina (Deck 16)

Located on the Lido deck, BlueIguana Cantina serves up Mexican favorites for both breakfast and lunch. You can customize your breakfast or lunch burrito any way you like as they are freshly prepared just for you. There is even a salsa bar located nearby.

If you’d prefer tacos or a bowl, you can get those too at the BlueIguana Cantina.

This venue is open daily from 7/8 to 10:30 AM for breakfast and 12 to 2:30/3:30 PM for lunch.

BlueIguana Breakfast | Lunch Menu

Street Eats (Deck 16)

Street Eats is also located on the pool deck offering food truck-type selections. Here, you will find Steam Dream, Mad Sizzle, and Time Fries. Each of these venues features one selection a day, and this selection changes daily.

Think items like load fries, dumplings, satays, and more.

The Street Eats hours vary with the stalls opening somewhere between 11:30 AM and 2 PM, then remaining open until 4 or 5 PM. This is largely dependent on your port of call times.

Sample Street Eat Menus

Lido Marketplace (Deck 16)

The Lido Marketplace is your typical cruise ship buffet, featuring a variety of selections for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Honestly, with so many other offerings on Carnival Celebration, we did not eat here at all during our cruise.

The Lido Marketplace is typically open for breakfast from around 6:30/7:30 to 11:30 AM. The venue then reopens for lunch from around 12 to 2:30/3:30 PM. Then, dinner is available from 6 to 9:30 PM nightly.

You’ll find a salad station, dessert station, hot entrees section, cold cuts selection, and more. In comparison to other cruise lines, the offerings are more limited in the buffet; this is likely because there is so much else to eat around the ship.

Big Chicken (Deck 16)

Perhaps one of our favorite newer additions to Carnival ships is Shaq’s Big Chicken. NBA Hall of Famer and Carnival’s Chief Fun Officer, Shaquille O’Neal, scored big with this quick service eatery located aft on the pool deck.

Big Chicken is open for breakfast from around 7/8 to 11 AM and for lunch from 11 AM to 5 PM daily. This venue serves up signature chicken sandwiches with Shaq’s special sauce, in addition to chicken tenders and fries. There’s also chicken and biscuits for breakfast.

This is a popular spot on Carnival Celebration so don’t be surprised to find a line most times during the day.

Big Chicken Menu

Guy’s Burger Joint (Deck 17)

Relocated to Deck 17 above the Lido deck, Guy’s Burger Joint serves up some of the best burgers at sea. In partnership with Guy Fieri, this poolside shack features fresh off the grill burgers and fries with a toppings bar for you to customize your meal to perfection.

Guy’s Burger Joint is open every day from around 12 to 6 PM to satisfy all your burger cravings. How many can you eat in just one week?

This is perhaps the busiest quick service eatery on Carnival Celebration, so don’t be surprised to find Disney-style switchbacks. Though, we never waited more than about 15 minutes.

Guy’s Burger Joint Menu

Fresh Creations (Deck 18)

Serenity is the adult only retreat on Carnival Cruise Line ships. This private oasis offers plenty of space with comfy lounge furniture, a pool, whirlpools, a bar, and even some healthy lunch options at the Fresh Creations salad bar.

The salad bar is open from 12 to 2:30 PM on sea days so you don’t have to give up your slice of paradise when you get hungry.

Fresh Creations Menu

Swirls (Decks 8, 16, 17)

For those looking for their soft serve fix, you can rejoice that there are three locations onboard Carnival Celebration. Choose between vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or twist.

There is one located in the Heroes Tribute Lounge on Deck 8 aft. The second is found on Deck 16 aft near the Tides Bar and Tides Pool. Finally, the third soft serve station can be found on Deck 17 midship near Guy’s Burger Joint.

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Specialty Restaurants on Carnival Celebration

With so many great offerings, you certainly do not have to pay extra for dining on Carnival Celebration (if you don’t want to). Though, this new ship also offers a few specialty restaurants that come with an up-charge.

If you plan to dine at any of these Carnival Celebration restaurants, you should make reservations pre-cruise, as popular dining times do fill up quickly.

Emeril’s Bistro 1397 (Deck 6)

Debuting on Carnival Mardi Gras, chef Emeril Lagasse’s restaurant makes a return on Carnival Celebration. This new and improved rendition, Emeril’s Bistro 1397, is located in the new Gateway zone.

Emeril’s Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner serving New Orleans themed cuisine at a la carte prices. No reservations are necessary for this restaurant.

Breakfast is served from 8 to 9:30/10:30 AM each day, and lunch on sea days from 12 to 3 PM. The venue re-opens for dinner from around 3/4 to 9/10 PM.

For breakfast, all items are $6 and include dishes like shrimp and grits and sweet potato waffles. For lunch and dinner, the menu features items like oysters, po’boys, jambalaya, and beignets. The beignets are a must-try!

Emeril’s Bistro Menu

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (Deck 7)

Fahrenheit 555 is Carnival Cruise Line’s signature steakhouse. This American steakhouse has a warm and inviting atmosphere with an open concept kitchen, making it a great choice for an elegant night dinner.

The restaurant is open nightly for dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 PM. The cover charge at this venue is increasing to $48 per person.

The menu at Fahrenheit 555 features upscale offerings like shrimp cocktail, tuna tartare, and premium cuts of beef.

Fahrenheit 555 Menu

Bonsai Teppanyaki (Deck 8)

Bonsai Teppanyaki is another one of the Carnival Celebration restaurants. This Japanese-style hibachi restaurant offers a multi-course menu for a flat fee of $35 for lunch and $38 for dinner.

This restaurant is open for lunch on sea days from 12 to 3 PM and nightly for dinner from 5:30 to 10:15 PM.

Entrée selections range from chicken, filet, lobster tail, salmon, and shrimp. All meals also include starters and dessert.

Whenever we have dined at a teppanyaki restaurant on a cruise, the food is always as good as the culinary show! This venue is very small so make sure to secure reservations early.

Bonsai Teppanyaki Menu

Bonsai Sushi (Deck 8)

Located adjacent to Bonsai Teppanyaki is Bonsai Sushi. This sushi lovers paradise is an a la carte venue that is open for dinner daily from 5 PM to 12 AM. The venue is also open for lunch on sea days from 12 to 2:30 PM.

Bonsai Sushi offers several sushi and sashimi selections, as well as noodle bowls and Japanese small plates. So, even if you are not a fan of sushi, there are probably other menu items for you to enjoy at this venue for reasonable prices.

Bonsai Sushi Menu

Rudi’s Seagrill (Deck 8)

Celebrity Chef Rudi Sodamin brings his creations to life on Carnival Celebration at Rudi’s Seagrill. This specialty restaurant is open nightly for dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 PM for an upcharge of $48 per person.

As you might expect, the menu is heavy on seafood with mussels, scallops, shrimp, oysters, calamari, and lobster all on the menu. There’s even a crab-stuffed lobster tail. For non-seafood lovers, you have a choice of chicken, a pork chop, or a NY strip.

The intimate atmosphere of this restaurant makes it another great choice for an elegant night dinner.

Rudi’s Seagrill Menu

Seafood Shack (Deck 16)

The casual Seafood Shack is located on the Lido deck near the new Street Eats on Carnival Celebration. This counter service restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily varying times from 12 to 10 PM depending on the port of call.

The Seafood Shack offers classic New England favorites like fried clams, lobster rolls, fish & chips, clam chowder, and other fresh local catch.

All menus items at this venue are a la carte at current market prices.

Seafood Shack Menu

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast

Enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. Accompanied by the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, and friends, you can feast on a colorful breakfast. The Green Eggs and Ham breakfast is offered one day of the cruise at 8:30 and 9:45 AM in the Carnivale restaurant. The up-charge is $10 for adults and $8 for kids under 14 years old.

This special event features menu items like Horton’s cereal crusted french toast, pancake stacks, steak and eggs, and of course, green eggs and ham.

Whether you are a family or just big kids at heart, this is a fun way to spend a sea day breakfast.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast Menu

Room Service

Room service is available 24 hours a day with select complimentary items and other items that are available for an up-charge at a la carte pricing.

For breakfast (6 to 10 AM), you can choose from fruit, cereal, continental pastry items, and yogurt for no additional cost as well as breakfast sandwiches for around $5.

During the day (10 AM to 6 AM), various items are available at a la carte prices. Selections include salads, sandwiches, wings, desserts, and more. Most items cost between $5 to $7 each. An additional 18% gratuity will be added to each order as well.

Room Service Menu | Breakfast Menu

SCORE BIG ON CARNIVAL CELEBRATION CRUISES!

Do you have plans to cruise on the new Carnival Celebration? What is your favorite from the list of Carnival Celebration restaurants? Drop us an anchor below to share your dining preferences on Carnival Cruise Line.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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PEKIN, Elektrostal - Lenina Ave. 40/8 - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

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Les cuisines thaïlandaise et vietnamienne sont bien préparées à ce restaurant. Faites l'expérience de manger des crevettes cuites à la perfection. Vos enfants se verront offrir un menu enfant varié. Le succès de Cyclo serait impossible sans un propriétaire de café professionnel.

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