Carnival Announces New & Updated Dining Options

Carnival Cruise Line has announced some new dining concepts and some updates to existing restaurants that will be rolled out in the coming months. Here is the full announcement:

Today, Carnival Cruise Line revealed The Next Course, a new wave of culinary experiences featuring restaurants and bars launching on  Carnival Festivale in 2027 and Carnival Tropicale (debuting in Galveston) in 2028, and with new innovative dining experiences now being rolled out across the fleet.

Carnival carries more than six million guests and serves over 100 million meals annually, giving the cruise line unique dining trend insights which fueled the new culinary offerings. 

To unveil The Next Course, Carnival hosted an immersive event in New Orleans with Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse that gave attendees a behind-the-scenes look into Carnival’s culinary future.  

“Our approach to dining combined with our team’s amazing service is a driving force behind Carnival’s success,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Our latest culinary adventure marks a bold step forward to give guests an unforgettable experience with a variety of new vibrant flavors fleetwide.”

New Restaurants and Bars

The Next Course line-up will feature new innovative specialty restaurants and bars, including:

• Emeril’s Coastal Seafood: Coastal-inspired cuisine from Emeril Lagasse.

Welcome to Emeril’s Coastal Seafood, where flavors from the Gulf to New England are infused with his signature Creole flair. Discover a vibrant take on coastal cuisine blending rich heritage, fresh ingredients and inventive touches in every dish. Settle into a dining experience that captures seaside charm with effortless sophistication — refined, yet relaxed. From fresh oysters and Gulf shrimp to whole roasted fish and chef-driven specialties, the menu celebrates the best of land and sea. Each plate is based on traditional recipes, sprinkled with energy, and finished with that signature kick. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply craving something soulful, you’re invited to unwind, indulge, and savor the coastal journey.

• Uku Lei Lei: Hawaiian specialties and Asian classics.

Step into a vibrant island escape where the spirit of Hawaii meets bold Asian flavor. At Uku Lei Lei, you’re invited to indulge in a tropical-inspired menu — all in a colorful setting designed to capture the lush beauty and warmth of the Hawaiian Islands. From your first bite, the experience is all about discovery. Savor delicious dishes like Mongolian beef short rib, dive into fresh poke bowls, or treat yourself to tropical-infused desserts that deliver a sweet finish. Every dish blends familiar favorites with unexpected twists, bringing together the best of the Pacific’s most irresistible flavors. With its relaxed, island vibe, vibrant textures and attentive service, Uku Lei Lei offers a fun, feel-good dining escape where tradition meets innovation — and every visit feels like a celebration. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Uku Lei Lei is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

• Fetaccine: Mediterranean-inspired, combining Italian favorites and Greek specialties.

Inspired by the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean, Fetaccine is where Greek seaside flavors meet rich Italian culinary tradition. With its breezy, seaside vibe and welcoming hospitality, Fetaccine turns every meal into a laid-back culinary escape. Start with sizzling shrimp saganaki, then dive into favorites like chicken parmesan or perfectly prepared Greek lamb chops. Have room for dessert? The cannolis are a must! Each dish celebrates time-honored recipes while adding just the right touch of something fresh and new. So join us where great food, good company and a love of Mediterranean culture come together in every flavorful bite. Tip: Great news! Your first meal at Fetaccine is on the house… and additional visits are just $8.

• Le Bistro Musicale: Classic French cuisine in a relaxed, music-filled Parisian setting, which will be exclusively on Carnival Festivale.

At Le Bistro Musicale, you’ll surround yourself with the timeless charm of a Parisian café and savor a menu that reads like a love letter to classic French cuisine. From crisp steak frites and indulgent chicken cordon bleu to rich French onion soup and freshly shucked oysters, each dish is crafted with care and a touch of artistry. It’s familiar comfort food, elevated just enough to feel special while staying warm and welcoming. Whether you’re stopping in for a leisurely breakfast, a casual bite or a romantic dinner, Le Bistro Musicale fits any mood with ease. And with nearby live music, there’s always that extra touch of French flair in the air.

Carnival Festivale will also uniquely feature several new bar outlets, including:

• The Spark: Vibrant lounge featuring live performances and cocktails inspired by iconic songs.
• Mix: Playful bar where guests can order creative cocktails or craft their own drinks, layering unique flavors.
• Festival Grounds Coffee & Bar: Specialty coffees and cocktails served in a dynamic space.

Fleetwide Culinary Enhancements

Carnival’s The Next Course also introduces new fleetwide dining options: 

• Refreshed Menus: New culinary creations in the Main Dining Room for breakfast, brunch and dinner; Lido Marketplace including, a new Lido Family Menu offering daily kid-approved favorites; and BlueIguana Cantina with daily rotating specials.
• Bagels @ Sea: Freshly baked bagels with assorted toppings.
• Chef’s Table Menu Revamp: Elevated multi-course dinners with regionally inspired flavors.
• Pop-Ups: Fruity & Frosted Breakfast Bars and Ice Cream and Milkshake Bars add new fast-casual options to Excel-class ships, and a variety of other fun pop-ups fleetwide.
• Mobile Coffee Shop Order & Pickup: Expanded grab-and-go options and mobile ordering for greater convenience.
• Express Dining: Offers faster, more convenient dining in the Main Dining Room.

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, simply request a free consultation with one of our expert advisors.