carnival cruise specialty dining menu

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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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The Chef's Table

Treat your taste buds to the experience of a lifetime, culminating in a sumptuous multicourse dinner hosted by the Master Executive Chef. Your VIP experience starts with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres for a select group of 14 guests. The evening concludes with a mind-blowing full-service dinner of amazing appetizers, entrees and desserts not found on our regular dining menus. Confirmation e-mails will be sent 24 hours prior to cruise departure.

• Cruise Line Restaurant, Room Service, and Bar Menus / Food and Drink

Carnival Menus 2024

by Prof. Cruise · Published January 9, 2023 · Updated March 11, 2024

Here are all of the Carnival dining menus updated for 2024. I’ve indicated which ship each dining venue is currently available on as well as current pricing (prices change frequently, so double check on the HUB app or onboard).

INDEX (jump to):

Main Dining Room Menus

Complimentary Fast Casual Restaurant Menus

Specialty Restaurants Menus (extra charge)

Room Service Menus

Carnival Main Dining Room Restaurant Menus 2024

Carnival breakfast menu 2024.

Available on all ships in the MDR on most port days. Complimentary. Note that this menus was changed in 2024 and now offers fewer omelette options than the prior version.

Carnival Sea Day Brunch Menu 2024

The Seaday Brunch is available on all ships in the MDR on sea days. Complimentary.

Carnival Dinner Menus 2024

Available on all ships in the main dining room (MDR). Complimentary. Below are the most current fleet-wide dinner menus on Carnival:

NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 3 Night Cruises NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 4 Night Cruises NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 5 Night Cruises NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 6 Night Cruises NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 7 and 8 Night Cruises NEW Carnival Dinner Menus for 14 Night Cruises

Carnival introduced new vegan dining options in September 2023. You can see the vegan menu options here:

Carnival VEGAN Dinner Menus

Carnival Vegan Menus

Carnival introduced new nightly gluten free menus in 2024. You can see the gluten free menu options here:

Carnival GLUTEN FREE Dinner Menus

Carnival Gluten Free Menus

Carnival Complimentary Fast Casual Restaurant Menus 2024

Big Chicken

Blue Iguana Cantina

The Captain’s Pasta Bar

Cucina del Capitano

Fresh Creations

Guy’s Burger Joint

Guy’s Pig and Anchor

Ji Ji Asian Kitchen

La Strada Grill

Late Night Snacks

Lido Marketplace Buffet

Lido Omelette Station

Masala Tiger

Miami Slice

Mongolian Wok

Ol’ Fashioned BBQ

Pizzeria del Capitano and Pizza Pirate

Street Eats

Carnival Big Chicken Menu 2024

Big Chicken  is available on the  Celebration , Jubilee, Mardi Gras, and Radiance . Complimentary.

Carnival Blue Iguana Cantina Menu 2024

Blue Iguana Cantina  is available on  all Carnival ships   except the Splendor (see note about the Venezia below). Complimentary.

Note: In addition to the regular Blue Iguana items, there are some additional Italian-themed menu items on the Carnival Venezia :

The Captain’s Pasta Bar Menu on Carnival 2024

The Captain’s Pasta Bar  is available for lunch on the  Breeze ,  Horizon ,  Magic ,  Panorama ,  Sunshine , and  Vista . Complimentary.

Carnival Chibang Menu 2024

C HIBANG!  is available on the  Mardi Gras , Celebration , and Jubilee . It is currently complimentary.

Carnival Cucina del Capitano Complimentary Menu 2024

Cucina del Capitano is available on the Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee . ONLY currently complimentary on those 3 ships.

Carnival Deco Deli Menu 2024

Deco Deli is available on the Celebration . Complimentary.

Carnival Deli Menu 2024

The Carnival Deli  is available on the  Breeze, Conquest, Dream, Ecstasy, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Legend, Liberty, Luminosa, Magic, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia, and Vista. Complimentary.

Carnival Fresh Creations Menu 2024

Fresh Creations  is available on the Celebration , Horizon ,  Jubilee , Mardi Gras ,  Panorama , and  Vista . Complimentary.

Carnival Guy’s Burger Joint Menu 2024

Guy’s Burger Joint  is available on  all Carnival ships (see note below about the special Guy’s menu on the Venezia). Complimentary.

*Note: There is a special Italian-themed Guy’s Burger menu on the Venezia. You can find it posted HERE :

Carnival Debuts NEW Guy’s Burger Menu on Venezia

Carnival Guy’s Pig and Anchor Menu 2024

Guy’s Pig and Anchor  is available on the  Breeze, Celebration , Dream, Horizon, Jubilee , Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, and Vista . Complimentary at lunch.

Carnival Ji Ji’s Asian Kitchen Lunch Menu 2024

Ji Ji’s Asian Kitchen is available on the Horizon, Panorama, Sunshine, and Vista . Note that you can also ask for a custom bowl if you don’t like these selections. Complimentary at lunch.

Carnival La Strada Menu 2024

La Strada Grill is available only on the Venezia on deck 5 aft. The daily specials rotate each day. Complimentary.

Carnival Late Night Snacks Menu 2024

The late night snack menu is served in the buffet area on all ships .

Carnival Lido Marketplace Buffet Menus 2024

The buffet is available on all Carnival ships . Complimentary.

Here’s a sample lunch menu:

Here are a few sample dinner menus:

Carnival Lido Buffet Omelette Station Menu 2024

This omelette station is available on all Carnival ships at breakfast at the Lido Marketplace buffet. Complimentary.

Carnival Lucky Bowl Menu 2024

Lucky Bowl is available on the Sunrise . Complimentary.

Carnival Masala Tiger Menu 2024

Masala Tiger is available on the Splendor . Complimentary. The menu is different every day. They generally go in this order, but no guarantees.

Carnival Miami Slice Menu 2024

Miami Slice is available on the Celebration . Complimentary.

Carnival Mongolian Wok Menu 2024

The Mongolian Wok  is available for lunch on the  Breeze ,  Dream ,  Freedom ,  Liberty ,  Magic ,  Panorama ,  Splendor , and  Valor . Complimentary.

Carnival Ol’ Fashioned BBQ Menu 2024

Ol’ Fashioned BBQ is available for lunch on Conquest, Freedom, Glory, Liberty, Luminosa, Splendor, and Valor. Complimentary.

Carnival Pizzeria del Capitano and Pizza Pirate Menus 2024

Most Carnival ships will have one of two pizza counters usually located on the Lido deck, open 24 hours a day, and different in name only: Pizzeria del Capitano or Pizza Pirate. Dining here is complimentary.

Pizzeria del Capitano  is available on the  Dream, Horizon, Jubilee, Luminosa, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine, Vista ,  Spirit , Splendor, and Venezia .

Pizza Pirate is available on the Breeze, Conquest, Ecstasy, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Legend, Liberty, Miracle, Paradise, Pride, and Valor.

Carnival Street Eats Menus 2024

Street Eats features three different food stands, Mad Sizzle , Steam Dream , and Time Fries . Each will feature one daily, rotating item.

Street Eats is available on Celebration, Mardi Gras, and Jubilee. Here are sample menus (the order will vary):

Carnival Swirls Menu 2024

Swirls soft serve machines are available on all ships and feature chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry soft serve ice cream and yogurt.

Carnival Specialty Restaurant Menus (extra charge)

*Prices change frequently, so double check via the app, website, or once onboard for current prices.

Bonsai Sushi

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Emeril’s Bistro 1396

Emeril’s Bistro 1397

Carnival Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

JavaBlue Cafe

JiJi Asian Kitchen

RedFrog Pub & Brewery

Rudi’s Seagrill

Seafood Shack

Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast

Carnival Bonsai Sushi Menu 2024

Bonsai Sushi is available on Breeze, Celebration, Dream, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine, Venezia, and Vista. Pricing is à la carte .

Carnival Bonsai Teppanyaki Menu 2024

Bonsai Teppanyaki is available on Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Panorama, and Venezia . Cost is $35 for lunch and $38 for dinner .

Carnival Cucina del Capitano Menu 2024

Cucina del Capitano is available on Breeze, Horizon, Magic, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine, Vista. Cost for dinner is $18 .

Carnival Emeril’s Bistro 1396 Menu 2024

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 is available on the Mardi Gras . Cost is à la carte .

Carnival Emeril’s Bistro 1397 Menu 2024

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 is available on the Celebration . Cost is à la carte .

Carnival Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse Menu 2024

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse is available on Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, and Panorama .

Carnival Il Viaggio Menu 2024

Il Viaggio is available on the Venezia and the Firenze .

Carnival JavaBlue Cafe Menu 2024

JavaBlue Cafe is available on Celebration, Elation, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Luminosa, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Radiance, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, and Vista . Prices are à la carte .

Carnival JiJi Asian Kitchen Menu 2024

JiJi Asian Kitchen is available on Horizon, Panorama, Sunshine, and Vista. Cost is $18 for dinner.

Carnival RedFrog Pub & Brewery Menu 2024

RedFrog Pub & Brewery (this is North America’s first ever brewery at sea and is different from the RedFrog Pub) is only available on the Vista . Prices are à la carte .

Carnival Rudi’s Seagrill Menu 2024

Rudi’s Seagrill is available on Celebration, Jubilee, and Mardi Gras . Cost is $48 .

Carnival Seafood Shack Menu 2024

Seafood Shack is available on Conquest, Celebration, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Splendor, Sunrise, Valor, Venezia, and Vista. Prices are à la carte and based on current market prices.

Carnival Steakhouse Menu 2024

A steakhouse (called different names depending on the ship, but the menu is the same fleet-side) is available on 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. Cost is $48 .

Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast (formerly the “Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast)

In 2024, Carnival revamped its popular Dr. Seuss themed breakfast. It’s now called the “ Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast ” and features a new menu. The updated cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children . You can see the updated menu and read about the other changes here:

Carnival’s NEW Dr. Seuss Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast Menu

Carnival Room Service Menus 2024

Room Service Breakfast Menu

Room Service All-Day Menu

Carnival Room Service Breakfast Menu 2024

The breakfast room service menu is available on all ships. There are some complimentary breakfast items and the rest are à la carte .

Carnival Room Service All-Day Menu 2024

The all-day room service menu is available on all ships. Prices are à la carte .

Carnival Kids Menus

Carnival Kids Menus (Click on the link for Carnival’s main dining room kids menu, Carnival’s steakhouse kids menu, and Carnival’s Chibang kids menu).

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Today’s Bonus Cruising Tip

I ALWAYS buy travel insurance (especially during these uncertain times) to cover my cruises, but I NEVER purchase it through Carnival . It costs more and usually covers less than policies you purchase on your own. I go through sites like  travelinsurance.com  to compare plans and prices and get the best deal for the coverage I want. Spend less on insurance and spend more on excursions, special onboard cruise experiences and…future cruises!

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5 Responses

• Pingbacks 2

Thanks for the updated menu. Hoping that Escargot is still available on night 3 like the menus show. Recent menus on the Celebration do not have Escargot available at all on any day.

Thanks for the heads up about the Escargot on the Celebration, James. I’m reaching out to my contact at Carnival to see if I can get some clarification on that – if it’s due to a shortage (which has happened before), a ship specific change, or a fleet-wide change to the menu. I’ll share anything I find!

Thanks for this information, I just want to see if you can find the Main dining menu for 14 day carnival miracle cruise to Alaska?

[…] Looking for Carnival dining menus? Find them all HERE: […]

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Home » Cruise » Carnival Cruise Line » Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus

Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus

We are back from a cruise on Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship and have details on all the restaurants in this Carnival Panorama Dining Guide WITH MENUS.

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We are back from our recent trip on one of Carnival Cruise Line’s largest cruise ships , Carnival Panorama, which is now sailing to the Mexican Riviera from Long Beach, CA. Being our first time sailing with the brand, we were pleasantly surprised by all of the dining options and food quality. Now, we want to share with you the most up to date information for every restaurant on the ship. Feel free to share this Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus; we just ask that you credit Eat Sleep Cruise as the source when posting elsewhere.

Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus- Complimentary Restaurants

Main dining room (decks 3 and 4).

There are two main dining rooms on Carnival Panorama, the Vista Restaurant located aft on decks 3 and 4 and the Horizon Restaurant located more mid-ship on deck 3. The main dining room serves breakfast on port days in the Vista Restaurant from 7 or 8 am to 9 or 10 am depending on your arrival time in port. Items on the menu include your typical sit down breakfast options like eggs your way, omelets, pancakes, and more.

Breakfast Menu

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The main dining room also serves an amazing Sea Day Brunch on sea days also in the Vista Restaurant from 8:30 am to 1 pm. Here, you can order your favorite breakfast or lunch options including the tasty skillet cake, 12 hour french toast, steak and eggs, fried chicken, or even a burger.

Sea Day Brunch Menu

Dinner on Carnival Panorama consists of three options in the MDR depending on your preferences. There is early seating at 5:45 pm, late seating at 8:15 pm, or Your Time Dining where you can walk up to get a table anytime between 5:15 and 9 pm.

Related Post: Everything Included on Carnival Cruise Line

The menu selections change each evening with a list of standard options available every night. However, the menu is the same each evening regardless of which dining option you choose. On Carnival Panorama, lobster is served on the first formal night of the cruise in the MDR.

Dinner Menus: Kids Menu |  Night 1 | Night 2 | Night 3 | Night 4 | Night 5 | Night 6 | Night 7 | Wine List 

Lido Marketplace (Deck 10)

The Lido Marketplace is Carnival Cruise Line’s version of the typical cruise ship buffet. The cruise ship’s casual buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a variety of food options. Breakfast is typically served from 7 or 730 am to 12 pm with an omelet station located here as well. Lunch is typically served from 12 pm to 2:30 or 3:30 pm depending on the port of call, and dinner is available from 6 – 9:30 pm.

The items served in the buffet rotate regularly but usually include several hot food stations, a cold cuts station, continental breakfast items and cereal, a carving station, a cake station, and more.

There is also the Carnival Deli located in the Lido Marketplace which serves up some great made to order sandwiches and is open daily 11 am – 11 pm. Late night snacks are also available from 11:30 pm – 1 am.

Carnival Deli Menu

Guy’s Burger Joint (Deck 10)

Located on 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 custom burgers and fries with a toppings bar located nearby for you to customize your meal to perfection. Guy’s Burger Joint is open every day from 12 to 6 pm for you to satisfy all your burger cravings. How many can you eat in just one week?

Guy’s Burger Joint Menu

BlueIguana Cantina (Deck 10)

Also 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, and there is even a salsa bar located nearby. If you’d prefer tacos or a tortilla bowl, you can get those also at the BlueIguana Cantina. This venue is open daily from 7 or 7:30 am – 10:30 am for breakfast and 12 to 2:30 or 3:30 pm for lunch.

  Breakfast 1 | Breakfast 2 | Lunch 1 | Lunch 2

Related Post: Carnival Panorama Ship Scorecard Review

Pizzeria del Capitano (Deck 10)

If you are a pizza lover like me, Pizzeria del Capitano will be your place to go 24 hours a day on Carnival Panorama. This pizza counter is located aft on deck 10 near the Tides pool. There are five different pizza offerings that are constantly being prepared throughout the day.

So, you can grab a personal pizza for lunch or maybe a late night snack whenever you want. Just don’t be surprised to find a small line here any time of day. You can even get delivery via the Carnival Hub app for a small fee.

Captain’s Pasta Bar (Deck 11)

Who says cruise ships don’t offer a variety of complimentary dining options? On Carnival Panorama, you can test out some of the items at Cucina del Capitano for no additional fee during lunch. That’s right, this restaurant serves a complimentary pasta bar for lunch from 12 – 2:30 pm. 

Captain’s Pasta Bar Lunch Menu

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Mongolian Wok (Deck 11)

JiJi Asian Kitchen also serves a complimentary lunch called the Mongolian Wok. Cruisers can enjoy customized noodle dishes from 12 – 2:30 pm at this restaurant. Choose your noodles, sauce, and protein, then sit back and relax while the dish is made to order.

Mongolian Wok Menu

Related Post: Guide to Carnival Drink Packages

Ocean Plaza (Deck 5)

Located on deck 5, the Ocean Plaza hosts a variety of games, trivia, and music throughout the day. The Ocean Plaza also offers continental breakfast items and a “light lunch” selection as a quick alternative to the many other dining options located around the ship. Believe us, you will never have to go far to find some food!

Fresh Creations (Deck 15)

Serenity is the adult only retreat located on deck 15. This private oasis offers umbrellas, padded loungers, two hot tubs, a bar, and even some healthy lunch options at the Fresh Creations salad bar. The salad bar is open from 12 – 2:30 pm on sea days so you don’t have to give up your comfy slice of paradise when you get hungry.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse (Deck 5)

While Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse is an up-charge venue for dinner, you can sample some items off the menu in a complimentary buffet style lunch on sea days. This venue is open from 12 – 2:30 pm and is located outside the main restaurant on the waterfront. Here, you will have your choice of pork, chicken, beef, or sausage along with some custom sides and award winning sauces.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Lunch Menu

Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus- Specialty Restaurants

Guy’s pig & anchor smokehouse | brewhouse (deck 5).

For dinner, Guy’s Pig & Anchor turns into an a la carte table service venue. This restaurant serves dinner daily from 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm. So, whether you want to stop in for a few snacks while you watch a game or listen to some live music or you want a full dinner experience, you are bound to enjoy all the delicious offerings. With items like trash can nachos, chicken wings, meats straight off the smoker, and flavorful desserts, what’s not to love?

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Dinner Menu: Starters | Entrees | Sides & Dessert | Drink Menu

Related Post: Top Foods on Carnival Cruise Line

Bonsai Teppanyaki (Deck 5)

This Japanese-style hibachi steakhouse is a specialty restaurant that offers a multi-course menu with a flat fee price of $32. This restaurant is open for lunch on sea days from 12 – 1:45 pm or for dinner nightly 5:30 to 9 pm. Entree selections range from chicken, filet, lobster tail, salmon, and shrimp. All meals also include soup or salad, fried rice, stir fried vegetables, and dessert. Whenever we have dined at a teppanyaki restaurant, 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 5)

Also located on deck 5 is Bonsai Sushi. This sushi lovers paradise is an a la carte venue that is open for dinner daily from 5 pm – 12 am and for lunch on sea days from 12 pm 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

Cucina del Capitano (Deck 11)

Cucina del Capitano is Carnival Cruise Line’s traditional Italian restaurant. For a nominal fee of $15 for adults, you can dine here nightly from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm on classic Italian appetizers, entrees, and desserts like calamari, housemade burrata, chicken parmigiana, and all your favorite pasta dishes.

Dinner Menu | Dessert Menu 

JiJi Asian Kitchen (Deck 11)

JiJi Asian Kitchen serves regional specialties from across Asia each crafted in its own unique style. This restaurant has a flat fee cover charge of $15 for adults and is open for dinner nightly from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The portions are meant to be sharing size, so it is suggested that you order several different options to share among your dining party. With appetizers like pot stickers and spring rolls, as well as a selection of rice and noodles, you will have plenty of great options to compliment your entrees. We particularly liked the Kung Pao chicken.

Cocktail Menu |  Dinner Menu

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (Deck 5)

Fahrenheit 555 is Carnival Cruise Line’s signature steakhouse. This steakhouse has a cover charge of $38 and is open nightly for dinner from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. This restaurant makes for a great elegant night dinner with upscale offerings like oysters and jumbo shrimp cocktail for appetizers and filet mignon and surf & turf for entrees. To top off the evening, you can indulge in a chocolate sphere dessert or mocha-tini after dinner drink. 

Cocktail Menu | Starters | Entrees | Dessert | Wines 1 | Wines 2

Related Post: Carnival Panorama Bar Guide with Menus

Seafood Shack (Deck 10)

The casual Seafood Shack is located aft on deck 10 near the Tides bar and pool. This counter service restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily varying times from 11 am until 11 pm depending on the port of call. The Seafood Shack offers classic favorites like fried shrimp, 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

Carnival Panorama Dining Guide and Restaurant Menus- Other Options

Chef’s table.

The Chef’s Table is an exclusive multi-course dinner hosted by the executive chef. This experience includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a galley tour, and an elegant meal with selections not found anywhere else on the ship. This intimate meal is priced at $95 +18% gratuity. This menu is subject to change based on the chef’s preferences and locally sourced ingredients.

Chef’s Table Menu

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast

For just $6 per person, you can 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. This special event offers 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 kids at heart like us, this is a fun way to spend a sea day breakfast. The experience was offered on the last sea day of our cruise at 8:15 am and 9:45 am. Reservations can be made once on the ship.

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, you can choose from fruit, cereal, continental pastry items, and yogurt for no additional cost as well as breakfast sandwiches for $3-5. During the day, select salads and sandwiches are available as well as other up-charge items including wings, firecracker shrimp, and pizza. There is also a late night menu served from 10 pm to 6 am with most items priced around $5 each. 

Continental Breakfast | Room Service Menu 

Carnival Kitchen

Do you have a cruise planned on Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship? Which of the restaurant menus looks the best to you? Drop us an anchor below with any questions about this Carnival Panorama Dining Guide.

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Thank you! We’re planning to cruise this ship soon. There are so many specialty dining restaurants that I want to try but I wasn’t sure if it would be worth missing out on the main dining. The photos of all the menu’s definitely helped me decide 🙂

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Do you have a 1200 calorie a day menu? I’m on a restricted doctor recommended eating regimen. I will be sailing on the Panorama October 16.

does the Panorama off free dining in the speciality restraunts at any time?? maybe lunch

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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12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

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Some cruisers might think there is no such thing as a “dining mistake” on a cruise. A vacation at sea can be akin to a feeding frenzy, with 24/7 dining options and all the pizza, ice cream and burgers you can eat. How could you go wrong with so many food choices?

However, if you actually care to have sit-down meals at the times you prefer in the restaurant of your choice and if you want to make the most of the dining opportunities provided on the ship, there are better and worse ways to approach your vacation.

A lack of planning can lead to your being dissatisfied with the onboard culinary experience – even though your tummy is full (or possibly, overly full) of food.

I prefer to treat cruises as a week of wonderful eating — like I would a visit to a city known for its culinary offerings — rather than an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord. To optimize the experience, I avoid these 12 dining mistakes whenever possible. If you want to taste all the best things on your next cruise without ever feeling hungry or grossly full, I suggest you fix your culinary strategic errors, as well.

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Not making reservations as far in advance as possible

Cruise lines make a big deal of their multiple onboard restaurants. They neglect to mention that, like the hot new eatery in your hometown, it can be nearly impossible to get a table for four at 7 p.m. on a Saturday night — or at any reasonable dining time on any day of your sailing.

Spontaneity is nice on vacation. However, when it comes to onboard dining in specialty restaurants, a lack of advance planning will leave you dining too early, too late or not at all. If you want that perfect reservation, you’ll need to secure a table in advance.

Ideally, you will make your specialty dining reservations online before you set sail. On some ships, suite passengers get early access to the best times. Make your dinner plans as soon as you’re able. If not, make it a priority to book a table as soon as you’re on the ship.

For restaurants that don’t take advance reservations, you’ll need to strategize your evening. For example, on a recent Carnival Celebration cruise, guests needed to request a table through the line’s app if they wanted to dine at included venues, such as Chibang! or Cucina del Capitano. However, if you waited to request a table until you were ready to eat, you might have found yourself, as we did, with an hourlong wait.

If you’re able, you should put your name on a list or request a table 30 to 60 minutes in advance of when you wish to sit down, knowing you might end up eating earlier than you intended.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Missing the mid-cruise specials

On the other hand, if certain restaurants aren’t driving enough business, cruise lines will run promotions mid-cruise to entice more diners into the emptier venues. Or, the ship might run lunch or brunch specials in restaurants normally open only for dinner.

I noticed this on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore . Certain nights were designated all-you-can-eat sushi nights for a flat fee at the Kaito Sushi Bar. The Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse offered brunch on a sea day for less than its typical surcharge. If you’re interested in a nicer meal in an intimate setting for the right price, don’t forget to look for the mid-cruise specials printed in the daily newsletter.

Eating in the main dining room on the first night

It’s tradition for many cruisers to eat in the main dining room on the first night of the cruise. You’re still getting the lay of the land, and if you’ve selected assigned-seating dining, you’re eager to meet your waiters. Also, some avid cruisers remember a time when the best dishes, such as lobster, were served on the first night and don’t want to miss them – even though the cruise lines now often save their best dishes for formal night.

Because of this mindset, reservations can be easier to get in specialty restaurants on the first night of the cruise. Some lines even offer incentives if you book a table on the eve of embarkation. Carnival , for example, offers a free bottle of house wine or 50% off the regular wine list to cruisers who choose to dine in certain extra-fee restaurants on night one.

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Don’t miss out on the food and possibly a freebie by not considering a specialty restaurant for your first dinner on board.

Always eating as a family

You often see the multigenerational family cruise advice that everyone can do their own thing during the day and then come together at dinner and spend the evening as a family. This is great advice for families with teens and older children, but it’s not always ideal for little kids.

When I cruise with my children, I find our dining choices to be vastly different. My son has no use for a leisurely sit-down meal in a waiter-served restaurant. He wants to go to the buffet, grab food, eat and be done.

My picky eater daughter has no interest in a seafood restaurant, nor do I want to pay specialty dining fees for her to take two bites and declare she’s finished. (Know that many specialty restaurants will serve the regular kid’s menu of pizza and chicken tenders and not charge your children to dine.)

So on some nights, my husband and I will take the kids early to the buffet or a fast-casual restaurant before depositing them in the kids club, at which point we are free to enjoy a date night in the main dining room or in an upscale steakhouse or French restaurant on board. And everyone is happy. (I’ve even ordered room service for the kids on lines like Holland America that don’t charge.)

Forgetting about free room service breakfast

So many cruise lines have added delivery fees or a la carte pricing to their room service menus that budget-conscious cruisers have stopped considering in-room dining as an option. So it’s easy to forget that most lines have not yet slapped a price tag on Continental breakfast.

The options might not be vast, but sometimes you just want to sip a coffee and munch on some fruit or a croissant out on the balcony while you watch the sunrise. You’re always welcome to grab a more filling meal elsewhere on the ship later.

Room service is great for appeasing kids with cheerios and muffins while everyone gets ready to go up to the buffet. You can also order little boxes of cereal to keep on hand as afternoon snacks.

Sticking to the menu

Cruise ships don’t really have a secret menu like In-N-Out Burger, but sometimes galley staff can indulge you in a little creativity.

Luxury lines encourage it. Seabourn volunteered to cook my friends and me a vegetarian Indian feast, and SeaDream kept a secret stash of chocolate-chili ice cream that I could request whenever I wanted. That doesn’t mean mainstream cruise lines are hard-liners when it comes to the set menu, though.

Nearly every cruise ship I’ve sailed offers a veggie burger wherever regular burgers are found, including at private island barbecues, but you’ll hardly ever see one listed on a menu. I often ask for a side of roasted broccoli in the main dining room. The Carnival Pride staff got that one spot on, but the MSC Seashore folks delivered some sad steamed veggies I never ordered again.

Related: What not to eat on a cruise

At Royal Caribbean’s Sorrento’s pizzeria , you can request vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free pizza, even if you don’t see those choices listed on a menu.

And in the main dining room, you can always order appetizers as entrees, entrees as appetizers and get a scoop of ice cream on whatever dessert you like.

Skipping the extra-fee venues

I’m sympathetic to cruisers on a budget, as I’m often one of them. We all have to make choices about where and how we spend our vacation dollars.

Please do budget some money, if you can, to try a few of the extra-fee restaurants on cruise ships. They add variety to your onboard dining, and many offer great value for the money compared to land-based restaurants. The ambience is quieter and more intimate than in the main dining room, which can be loud and overwhelming, depending on your table.

Additionally, the food can be outstanding. I’m a fan of both Jamie’s Italian and Giovanni’s Table on Royal Caribbean , the steakhouse on Carnival, the Pinnacle Grill on Holland America and the Eden Restaurant on Celebrity Cruises .

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The best meals you can have at sea

Some extra-charge dining experiences, like teppanyaki venues and churrascarias on various cruise lines, can be more fun than the typical sit-down restaurant. You don’t have to be a foodie to get a lot of satisfaction from specialty restaurants.

Not trying new foods

Cruise ships have all your foodie favorites, whether they be juicy steaks, cheesy pizza or freshly rolled sushi. It’s easy to indulge in feel-good food, but when meals are included, I’d encourage you to live a little dangerously.

A cruise is a perfect opportunity to try something new because you can ask for something else if you don’t like it. If you haven’t ordered a ridiculous amount of food already, you can get a second entree or dessert for no extra charge. Try buttery escargot or your first baked Alaska ; Carnival routinely has frog legs and alligator fritters on the menu.

If you’re worried about food waste, order one dish for your table to share. If you love it, you can always order another.

Eating too early or too late

This dining mistake is not always something you can control. If you want set-seating dining, you’re often looking at a 5:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. dinner time, when 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. would be preferable. My problem is an early dinner leads me to go on a snacking spree before bed, when pretty much only pizza and ice cream are available. A late dinner has me hunting for food at 5 p.m. and ending up with a pre-dinner burger.

One way around this is to select a cruise ship’s anytime dining plan and figure out how to work the system to get the dining time you want. This might involve agreeing to share a table with strangers, making reservations or requesting a table at least a half-hour before you want to eat.

As I said earlier, making reservations for specialty restaurants as early as possible is the best way to ensure better dining times. Alternatively, if you’re flexible, simply go where the waits are shortest. Norwegian Cruise Line ships often have real-time displays indicating which dining venues have shorter or longer wait times for tables. Of course, the buffet and other fast-casual venues will have you eating in a jiffy.

Not hoarding snacks

You might be thinking, “But Erica, there is food everywhere on a cruise ship. Why would I hoard snacks?”

The truth is, while food is plentiful at 4 p.m. on a cruise ship, it’s not always the food I want to eat at that time. At home, I eat fruit, baby carrots or granola bars mid-afternoon.

While I wholeheartedly agree that a cruise is not the right time to diet, I also find that some days I can’t stomach another cookie or slice of pizza, which is what’s available between meals on board. Sometimes all I want is a simple yogurt or a bowl of grapes in the afternoon when they are nowhere to be found.

My solution: Case the breakfast buffet for healthy items and store them in your cabin’s minifridge for mid-afternoon snacking. Fruit, yogurt, muffins, hard-boiled eggs and small boxes of cereal all work to satisfy those late-day cravings without resorting to something straight from the fryer.

Or, make a PB&J at breakfast to eat later in the day. It’s an especially good strategy when you’re traveling with small children.

Wasting food

When you’re at sea, you should strike a balance between trying new things and wasting food. Food waste is a huge issue on cruise ships. The number of half-eaten room service dinners and pizza crusts I saw on my last cruise was appalling (especially since the pizza was so good).

Take small portions at the buffet, where you know you’re going to want to try a few different dishes. Pick one dessert to try, and then go back for seconds, rather than piling your plate high with all the choices. Have everyone at your table choose their own desserts rather than bringing back a pile of cookies for the table that no one actually eats.

Related: 9 best cruise ship desserts to tempt you at sea

Ask for one slice of pizza instead of two, and handle the soft-serve machine gently so you don’t end up with a towering cone you can’t finish. Don’t order room service breakfast for your friends as a prank, and don’t be afraid to say no to unwanted fries. Ask for smaller portions if you don’t eat a lot (though sometimes you can’t convince your waiter to bring you one), or share a dish with a friend.

That way, when you do genuinely want to try something and end up not liking it, you don’t feel as bad ordering a replacement dish you truly intend to eat.

Not pacing yourself

As I mentioned earlier, a cruise can be a nonstop smorgasbord if you let it. While it’s fun to give in to your guilty culinary pleasures for a day or two, a week of constant eating and fried, sugary, high-fat foods can make you feel ill.

Remember: It’s not a competition or about getting maximum value by eating all the included food offerings. It’s OK — dare I say, encouraged — to pace yourself. Don’t pick up that cookie just because it’s there. Don’t eat pizza every single day. Actively seek out a — gasp — salad to balance out the giant steak you’re eating.

Showing a little restraint will keep you from feeling bloated and gross by day four of your sailing. More importantly, it will also make the food indulgences you choose more special because you can truly appreciate those delicious meals.

Bottom line

It’s difficult to go hungry on a cruise ship, especially if you’re willing to pay for food, but it is possible to leave a meal feeling dissatisfied. No one wants that on their vacation.

A little forethought and some self-restraint go a long way toward making your onboard culinary experience memorable and enjoyable.

When you fix your cruise ship dining mistakes, you can avoid some of the frustrations surrounding access to the best restaurants and the mealtime ambience you prefer. If you can make it through a week on board without overeating or feeling hungry waiting for mealtimes, you’ll know you’ve mastered the art of cruise ship dining.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

COST of day trip to Moscow ??

By densol , February 26, 2012 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

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We have just booked a cruise to the Baltics for next year. I am trying to find out the average cost for a day trip to Moscow from STP. I have searched several times, and whilst I have read reviews and reports about the trips etc - I cannot actually see any examples of the costs. I imagine its quite expensive - but we want to do it so I need to budget LOL !!

Any ballpark figures ? :D

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We have just booked a cruise to the Baltics for next year. I am trying to find out the average cost for a day trip to Moscow from STP. I have searched several times, and whilst I have read reviews and reports about the trips etc - I cannot actually see any examples of the costs. I imagine its quite expensive - but we want to do it so I need to budget LOL !! Any ballpark figures ? Thanks

We did the Moscow trip through our cruise ship in late July 2008. Its cost was a little under $1000 pp. Now, that cost through this cruise line is a little over that $1000 pp cost. Now, most are using the high-speed rail connection versus the air flights as we did. I have seen some other numbers from other cruise lines and/or private firms that run $700-850.

Why cheaper or the differences? As cruise lines are pressured to keep their "sticker price" low, they need to make up some "margin" with ship tours, beverages, spa stuff, etc., to help cover their costs and gain some profit. Second, different tours provide various features. Our tour included going inside the famed and spectacular Kremlin Palace. Most Moscow tours don't feature that option and you cannot just walk up there and get in on your own. That Palace is where the Czars were crowned and all of the current/recent Russian leaders assumed their powers.

We could have saved a little if we had used a private tour to go to and visit Moscow, but, with my wife's pushing, we felt it was worth it to pay a little more, do it through the cruise line. If there had been any problems or mix-ups, it was the ship's duty to "make it right" and we would not have to worry.

If you have three days in St. Petersburg and/or have been there before, then the Moscow tour can work out very well. It's not cheap, but in my view, worth it!! Both are a few of my visuals from this super great city with such interesting history and dramatic architecture.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik . Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 66,454 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 60,364 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

One of the Kremlin Wall Towers in Moscow:

Walking on the famed Red Square of Moscow:

St. Basil's sits on Red Square and dates back to its 1555-61 construction on the orders of Ivan the Terrible (Ivan IV). It commemorates the capture of Kazan and Astrakhan and marks the geometric center of the city. This location has been the hub of its growth for Moscow since the 14th century. It was the tallest building in Moscow until the completion of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower in 1600. This church was near destroyed in the 1930’s when Stalin was in control.:

Here is a small sampling of the Kremlin Royal Treasures of the Czars: Eggs & Jewels insicde the famed Armory.:

Moscow’s subways are called the “People’s Palaces” with their marble coverings and unique designs for each of the different and many stations.:

This is the interior for Moscow's most historic church, Assumption Cathedral or the Cathedral of the Dormition, inside the Kremlin walls. It is the mother church of Muscovite Russia. The church stands on Cathedral Square and was built in 1475–1479 by the Italian architect Aristotele Fioravanti. It was erected on the spot of an older 14th century cathedral of the same name:

We did the day trip to Moscow with Alla-tour and were very pleased with our tour. Our guide whose English was great was a wealth of information and the day went very smoothly. I checked the web site and Alla's prices for 2012 range from $884 a person for two down to $542 a person for 6 with the 5% cruisecritic discount. So if you can get a group together the per person price goes down considerably. You can try to do this on the roll call section of cruisecritic.

We did not go to the Palace and as Terry says this is not included generally in tours. However, we did go to the Diamond Fund, an amazing display of crown jewels and jewelry in the Armoury building but not really part of the Armoury. I would think you could include this if you had a small group and really wanted to see it. It is quite small and does not accommodate a large group. You can google "diamond fund kremlin" to learn more.

Here are some of my pictures

Red Square with St. Basil’s at the far end

Kremlin Cathedral Square

Bolshoi Theatre

Treasures at the Armoury

200 ton Tsar Bell

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

We did the day trip to Moscow with Alla-tour and were very pleased with our tour. Our guide whose English was great was a wealth of information and the day went very smoothly. I checked the web site and Alla's prices for 2012 range from $884 a person for two down to $542 a person for 6 with the 5% cruisecritic discount. So if you can get a group together the per person price goes down considerably. You can try to do this on the roll call section of cruisecritic. We did not go to the Palace and as Terry says this is not included generally in tours. However, we did go to the Diamond Fund, an amazing display of crown jewels and jewelry in the Armoury building but not really part of the Armoury. I would think you could include this if you had a small group and really wanted to see it. It is quite small and does not accommodate a large group. You can google "diamond fund kremlin" to learn more.

Well said, cadreamer! (nice photos, by the way).

We also used Alla. She is just a super person to work with and, if you get a group together, she will accomodate what YOU want to do!! You can check-out her Moscow tour at:

http://www.alla-tour.com/tours/1

As cadreamer suggests, go to your roll call on Cruise Critic & see if you can get a group together.

Terry, your pix, per usual, are awesome! Still envious! :)

Terry, your pix, per usual, are awesome! Still envious! :) jill

Appreciate, Jill, the kind comments! Envy is GOOD!!

Below are a few more visuals on Moscow that are more "interesting". Fascinating to having seen both cities, back-to-back. It really puts all of this unique Russian history and architecture in better perspective.

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik . Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 67,001 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

The famed KGB (Secret Police) Headquarters in Moscow where many entered and did not exit (alive) during the 1950’s and 1960’s:

Kremlin Treasures: Royal coaches:

Young Military Officers on the streets of Moscow with Soviet "High Hat".:

These are the series of smaller domes on the top of the Church of the Deposition of the Robe in the Kremlin Cathedral Square area.:

Inside the newly, more westernized GUM Department Store:

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Ratings and reviews

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This was our first visit to Moscow so I choose the Lodgepole from other reviews. It was a great choice for an interesting dinner. We had a reservation and got there a little early. Were seated right away and had a lovely conversation about the... area and restaurant Michael. They eventually got pretty busy even on a Wednesday night. The kitchen is open and at the back of the dining room. My understanding is it's a family business. They really have a great menu. We decided to just get entrees and they gave us the Fried Palouse Garbanzos snack on the house. They have a nice wine list. No hard liquor, just beer and wine. It was recommended that the pan chicken was a specialty so I got that and it was really nice. They use chilies in the cooking but not so it overwhelms the flavors of everything else. My husband got the lamb chops and they were cooked perfectly. The food is locally sourced (when possible). Good food, good menu, great service and a friendly vibe. More

Due to COVID limitations, there are only a few tables inside for fining so make a reservation. Everything from the deviled eggs starter and baguette to the wagyu beef, gnocchi and pan roasted chicken was outstanding. We even went in for dessert-apple cake and ice... cream pie. Generous portions all around, and superbly attentive service. Free parking downtown and lights in the Main Street trees made for a lovely date night experience. More

We were expecting a "good" dinner, yet were blown away by the quality, sparkling freshness and creativeness of the dishes served. From the Market Salat over Clams, to Scallops and Lamb Chops, to the Strawberry-Rhubarb dessert: Every dish delivered a crisp surprise journey for our... tastebuds. This place would be stand out restaurant in any city, and here we are in Moscow ID. Thanks for a great evening! More

Pricey, poor service, disappointing food. The service was questionable and we had to wait an hour for the food and it was below average. Crostini was burnt, duck overcooked, kale was charred. The beef rigatoni had good flavor but at its price point, a focus... on pasta and minimal beef. Would not return. More

Securing a reservation at this restaurant requires planning weeks in advance. After multiple trips to Pullman/Moscow where I forgot to book far enough in advance, I finally remembered to snag a reservation. Only the 4:30p and 8:30p slots were available, and at the time they... claimed an 8:30p closing time online. I called and received assurances that booking at 8:30p would be fine and would not imperil our ability to order the tasting menu. Upon our arrival, we were greeted warmly and seated promptly, and we placed our order for the tasting menu, with the intention of pairing wines. Moments later the waitress returned and informed us that the kitchen said it was too late and that they would not be serving any more tasting menus that night. When I objected and told her that I'd called in advance to ask about that issue SPECIFICALLY, she just shrugged and gave us back the menus. Due to the hour and nowhere else nice being open by then, we decided to proceed with ordering entrees, but we were so upset that we didn't order anything else. Our entrees were not particularly memorable, and when our party left, about the only positive comment we had to share was that at least we saved a lot of money. I will never return. More

In the interest of full disclosure, we ate here on opening night so please read this review with that in mind. However, our experience left us a bit disappointed. We ordered a few beers without getting carded (we're young) and waited 1.5 hours for our... food. Lodgepole has a fun atmosphere and great decor, so it wasn't too painful. They brought out an appetizer ($4.50) as an apology for the long wait and asked if we wanted any more beers. I asked if mine could be brought out with my meal, but the service brought it out before anyhow. The server was polite, but obviously overwhelmed. Their menu seemed too eclectic while lacking any interesting dishes. They were out of my first choice (being opening night) so I went with the steak. When my $25 dinner did arrive, it was cooked rare just like I asked and was seasoned well. The sides included a plain, mildly overcooked russet potato and cumin carrots. The dish was cooked with great technique, but had very little flavor and "soul" which left me and my friends feeling like it wasn't worth the price. Other friends, who had eaten there a few days after us, told us the same thing. We will try Lodgepole again in a few months - hopefully they will improve. More

Yes, the menu is NOT complicated BECAUSE the chef knows what he/she is doing and prepares THE BEST! Yes, the price reflects quality food. Go somewhere else to get GMO pablum. Yes, the atmosphere is new and fresh and well thought out. You will not... be disappointed trying out this new startup!!! Congrats on some fantastic seasonal salmon! The wait staff was accommodating and educated but not STUFFY! More

Just happened to drive by and found this little gem. Evidently opened not too long ago. No wait for seating, we sat on the patio, enjoyed the beautiful evening and a fabulous meal. We are from Southern California and I am a bit picky due... to the fact my husband is a great cook. If we eat out, it must be worth it. This was definitely worth it. From appetizers to dessert, all were prepared excellently. In my humble opinion, Moscow is limited on fine dining options...so far after trying the most popular around town....this is my new fave. More

Stopped in for drinks and a couple appetizers and was very impressed. The happy hour offerings are diverse and well priced. We tried both the magic hour and flower child drinks. Both were very fresh tasting. The Hama Hama clams were so good. Cannot recommend... them enough. We also tried the pickled deviled eggs which were a great take on a classic. The patio tables are spaced out nicely so while it was busy, it still felt relaxing. Will make a point to eat here any time I'm in the area. More

We stopped here for lunch and it did not disappoint!! The adorable girl that seated us recommended the chicken and waffles and they were fantastic!! We will definitely be back!

Consider Lodgepole when you are going out for a special occasion. I had the steak and my husband had the chicken. Both were very good, but the steak did outshine the chicken. The waitstaff were attentive and very knowledgeable about the wine list and menu.... Great experience, we'll be back! More

Something I have discovered during my trip to America is that there is a tendency to feed customers with lots of food. So much so that they have to ask for a doggy bag. You know what, personally I would rather have a meal that... I can enjoy and finish then and there. And so, when I was presented with a delicious reasonably sized meal at the Lodgepole Restaurant, I already knew I was going to enjoy this. And I did - delicious! Teamed with some great service and some tasty beer, and I had a great experience with some colleagues. More

Best upscale dinning in Moscow. Great menu offerings as well as a Happy Hour Menu. Staff has always been professional and attentive.

Well thought out menus incorporating locally grown food as available. Their 5 Course Dinners are excellent!

Even during a very busy night, Lodgepole providesd excellent quality in both food and service. Be sure to make reservations in advance!

LODGEPOLE, Moscow - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor

• Service: 4.5

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