To splurge or not to splurge – Carnival Cruise Line Speciality Restaurants
One of the best parts of my job at Atlas Cruises & Tours is getting the chance to hop onto new cruise ships and give you the lowdown on what to expect. I love being able to help you make the most of your cruise—and save a few bucks along the way! My recent adventure was on the Carnival Jubilee, the latest and largest ship in Carnival’s Excel-class lineup, joining the ranks of its sister ships Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. Carnival’s Excel Class ships feature popular dining options like Shaq’s Big Chicken and Rudi’s Seagrill, offering unique culinary experiences onboard. The Carnival Jubilee launched in December 2023, and some of you might remember the original Jubilee, which sailed from 1986 for nearly 20 years under Carnival’s flag.
When I first stepped onboard, I couldn’t help but marvel at how far Carnival ships had come from comparing this ship to its predecessor. From 3 dining options on the original Jubilee to about 12-15 on the new and improved Carnival Jubilee, it is clear how Carnival went from industry underdog to industry leader simply by comparing these two ships. Moreover, I think it’s safe to say that Carnival has put a lot of time and energy into overhauling the culinary experiences on their ships. While some options are built into your cruise price others will require you to reach for your Sail n Sign card. Let’s face it… your time onboard will be over before you know, so to ensure you don’t spend these precious moments on mediocre experiences, I did some investigative work and tried as many of these new dining options on my last cruise. Below, I’ve laid out my experience—course by course—from some amazing highlights to a few surprises, helping you decide what’s truly worth savoring aboard the Carnival Jubilee. Popular Carnival Cruise Line Recipes
Specialty Restaurants Onboard
Fahrenheit 555: Steak-Lovers’ Dream
Let’s start with Fahrenheit 555, Carnival’s hugely popular steakhouse. You’re looking at $49 per person, which, I’ve got to say, is a sweet deal for what’s on offer. Previously, I would book this place during less appealing shows because dinners could last a bit long. But let me tell you, on the Jubilee, things have changed. The service was both friendly and speedy—each server seemed to know my name, making me feel like a VIP (Mr. Carlos, here’s looking at you!).
First up was tasty pork belly, though it could’ve been a tad warmer. What followed was a lobster bisque so delicious it took Herculean effort not to lick the bowl! When the Surf & Turf arrived, a lobster tail and petite filet mignon were perfectly cooked and paired with just the right amount of butter. Next came the pièce de résistance, a dessert where a chocolate sphere magically melts under a hot chocolate pour. For just $49, this gourmet indulgence is a must-try.
Rudi’s Seagrill: Seafood Delight
Rudi’s Seagrill, guided by the culinary prowess of Chef Rudi Sodamin from Carnival’s sister brand Holland America, was a seafood haven. Only found on the Jubilee, Mardi Gras, and Carnival Celebration, this spot really knows how to impress. A popular menu item here is the fried buffalo shrimp, which seafood lovers rave about.
I kicked things off with a Seagrill Sangria—light, fruity, and refreshing. The Fried Calamari set the bar high with its perfect crunch, followed by a basic but refreshing house salad. The famous Crab-stuffed Lobster didn’t disappoint, huge in both portion and flavor—a real treat! Ending with a White Chocolate Bread Pudding was just right—not too over-the-top sweet. If you’re going for one specialty dining experience and you love seafood, make it this one.
Chibang! A Mix of Cultures
Carnival tried something different with Chibang!, a spot touting a Chinese-Mexican “fusion” experience. But, honestly, “fusion” might be stretching it. Think of two menus in one place. The first time’s free, with later visits costing $8, but the multiple courses came too quickly for my taste, raising a few eyebrows at my table.
The Tacos de Asador required self-assembly, which wasn’t my thing; the meat was a bit tough. The Mandarin Honey Crunch Salad wasn’t as crunchy as advertised since it sat too long. Out of this, the Sweet & Sour Shrimp was a win with great flavor. Dessert, a coconut version of Tres Leche, was alright. If you’re weighing options, swinging by just once might be enough for Chibang!
Cucina del Capitano: Italian Comforts
Cucina del Capitano offered up some family-style Italian fun. The recipes come straight from Carnival’s ship captains, and there’s no charge for the first visit, which is pretty neat. Crispy chicken is a popular menu item here, adding to the variety of delicious options. Portions are generous, making dessert an impossible feat for me flying solo.
Quickly paired courses mirrored Chibang!’s service speed. But the hot bread was a welcome start, and Nonna’s Meat Ball—drenched in cheesy goodness without pasta—was cooked and seasoned just right. The classic Caprese Salad hit the mark, fresh and flavorful, and the Chicken Parmesan was tender. Feel free to ask for pasta on the side—they’re happy to help! It’s worth visiting, even if just for that first freebie.
Teppanyaki: Dinner and a Show
Carnival’s Teppanyaki restaurant promised a Japanese hibachi feast at $38 per person. Reservations are needed and early birds (and allergy mentioners) definitely get the worm—or sushi! A shrimp appetizer was expertly adjusted to accommodate a shellfish-allergy guest, emphasizing inclusive dining.
Our chef’s performance was whimsical, though it felt familiar if you’ve seen a Benihana show. Still, if you’ve never experienced hibachi live, this is a fun way to eat great food at sea! Those familiar might be okay skipping this one, but newbies should dive in for a sizzling treat.
Emeril’s Bistro 717: Big Flavor in Small Plates
Ever heard of the celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse? His expertise shines on the seas with Emeril’s Bistro 717, adorning the Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee ships. Another popular venue on the Carnival Jubilee is Coastal Slice, a convenient cafeteria-style setting where guests can enjoy a variety of pizzas, including both complimentary and premium options. What could be a budget-breaker on land turns accessible aboard—for $6 or $8, expect flavors that pop.
The food order at Emeril’s Bistro works like your favorite fast-casual spot. Order, number your table, then dig in to delights like the Old Bay Fried Chicken Wings—the best I’ve tasted in ages! These crispy, meaty delights were followed by a flavorful Shrimp & Oyster Po-Boy—a true Creole standout.And because no cruise is complete without dessert, Emeril’s beignets came out like fluffy miracles dusted with powdered sugar. Bring friends; you’ll need the help to finish them! The dishes were expertly seasoned and crafted, highlighting Emeril’s magic for tantalizing your taste buds.
Other Restaurants Onboard the Carnival Jubilee
Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse: BBQ and Brews
If you’re a fan of smoky, savory BBQ and craft brews, then Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse on the Carnival Jubilee is your go-to spot. Nestled in the lively Summer Landing zone, this restaurant, designed by none other than Carnival’s Chief Fun Officer, Guy Fieri, offers a mouth-watering array of BBQ delights and refreshing craft beers. The menu is a carnivore’s dream, featuring succulent brisket, juicy sausage, tender baby back ribs, and perfectly dry-rubbed chicken. Each dish is crafted with Guy Fieri’s signature flair, ensuring a flavor-packed experience that will leave you craving more. The BBQ here is not just food; it’s an event, with each bite delivering a burst of smoky, savory goodness.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the food. Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse also boasts its own craft brewery, churning out a variety of unique beers. From a robust smoked porter to a crisp farmhouse ale, a hoppy IPA, and a smooth toasted amber, there’s a brew to complement every BBQ dish. And for those curious about the brewing process, the brewery offers tours and tastings of their latest creations. One of the standout features of Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse is the complimentary lunch menu, offering a range of delicious options like chicken sandwiches and burgers. Plus, the restaurant’s loyalty program rewards repeat visits, making it even more enticing to come back for more. Which Carnival Cruise Ships Have Guy’s Burger Joint
“Big Chicken“
Onboard the Carnival Jubilee, Big Chicken is a must-visit dining venue crafted in partnership with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. This casual spot serves up a variety of mouthwatering options, including crispy chicken tenders, fried chicken baskets, and the signature Shaq-size sandwich. Made with NAKED TRUTH® Premium Chicken, which is humanely raised and free from hormones and antibiotics, every bite is packed with quality and flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a quick snack, Big Chicken delivers bold, satisfying tastes—all at no extra charge.
As my culinary voyage aboard the Carnival Jubilee ends, I hope these insights whet your appetite for an unforgettable experience at sea. Whether it’s savoring succulent steaks at Fahrenheit 555, diving into the ocean’s bounty at Rudi’s Sea Grill, or exploring fusion flavors at Chibang!, the Carnival Jubilee offers a delightful dish for every palate and mood.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and dining stories! Have you sailed on the Carnival Jubilee or planning a cruise soon? Drop your experiences, questions, or favorite dishes in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Most importantly, let us at Atlas Cruises & Tours help make your dream cruise a reality. Carnival Cruise Line Recipes
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