Dining on Carnival Encounter has something for everyone. Guests can enjoy all kinds of food, from casual snacks to fancy meals. There are buffets, burger joints, pizza places, and even special restaurants for those who want something different. Many dining spots are included in the cruise fare, while a few specialty spots cost extra. Whether someone wants breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite, there’s always something fresh and tasty to enjoy on the ship.
Carnival Encounter Complimentary Dining
Cruising with Carnival Encounter means you never have to worry about where your next tasty meal is coming from. From lazy-day brunches to global flavors and kid-friendly classics, there’s something to enjoy around every corner, and it’s all included in your cruise fare. With fresh ingredients, creative menus, and plenty of options for all kinds of eaters, Carnival’s complimentary dining makes every mealtime easy, fun, and full of flavor.
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They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but on Carnival Encounter, it’s brunch that takes the spotlight. Seaday Brunch gives everyone the chance to enjoy both breakfast favorites and lunch specials, no matter when they wake up. You’ll find everything from huevos rancheros and special French toast to rich, cheesy mac and cheese. And if you’re an egg lover, you're in for a treat, there are more egg styles here than you can imagine. It's the perfect way to fuel up before a fun day of exploring the ship.
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Carnival knows that feeding kids can be tricky, which is why the kids' menus are designed to keep little cruisers happy. Available at most onboard dining spots, the menus include familiar favorites like spaghetti and meatballs, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and cheesy mac and cheese. There’s even fresh fruit and vegetables, just the way parents like it. And don’t forget dessert — with choices like banana splits and gooey brownies, kids will be looking forward to mealtime every day. Plus, there’s free late-night pizza and soft serve for those who stay up past storytime.
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When your child is off having fun with their new friends at Camp Ocean, they’ll need something delicious to keep their energy up. That’s where the camper meals come in. These meals are created just for kids and served in a supervised group setting. They’ll enjoy tasty picks like pizza, mini burgers, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, bacon mac and cheese, and chicken tostadas. There are also healthier options like fruit and nacho-baked broccoli and cauliflower. And yes, dessert is a big deal, Oreo chocolate cake and banana rainbow mousse split are just a couple of the sweet surprises waiting for them.
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Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you have to ignore your dietary needs. Carnival’s culinary team is trained to cater to a wide variety of diets, so you can enjoy every bite without worry. Whether you're vegetarian, need gluten-free meals, follow an Indian vegetarian diet, or are watching your carbs, fat, sugar, or cholesterol, there are delicious dishes ready for you. Carnival wants everyone to enjoy the cruise without feeling left out, even when it comes to seconds.
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Dragon Lady serves up bold, vibrant flavors inspired by East Asia in a rich, mysterious setting. The deep wooden interiors and moody lighting set the scene for a dining experience full of aroma and spice. The menu reflects the Australian love for Asian cuisine and includes dishes like fragrant soups, delicate dim sims, flavorful braises, and sizzling stir-fries. Every dish is packed with flavor, bringing the tastes of Asia right to your table. Dragon Lady is a perfect choice when you’re craving something bold and different, all with no added cost.
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Waterfront is Carnival Encounter’s answer to a relaxed and satisfying family dinner. With a menu full of comforting favorites and a warm, modern Australian atmosphere, it’s easy to find something for everyone here. From grilled meats and fresh seafood to tasty vegetarian options, the choices are wide and varied. The kids’ menu changes daily and offers a fun mix of kid-approved classics, so even picky eaters won’t have trouble finding something they like. It’s a great place to sit down and enjoy a proper meal, no reservations or extra charges needed.
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Think of The Pantry as your go-to food court at sea, only better. This casual dining spot brings together a variety of international dishes and Aussie favorites under one roof. You’ll find everything from spicy curries and crunchy stir-fries to fish and chips, soups, salads, and freshly made sandwiches. There’s something for every taste, whether you want something adventurous or something familiar. The Pantry makes it easy for the whole family to grab a plate and find what they love, all while keeping things quick and relaxed.
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At Angelo’s, Italian passion is served on every plate. From the starters to the desserts, the menu is packed with Italian classics made with care and love. Enjoy dishes like caprese salad, hearty chicken parmigiana, rich lasagne, and smooth, creamy tiramisu. The setting is elegant but welcoming, with black-and-white portraits of famous Italian faces by photographer Angelo Frontoni adding a little cinematic charm. It’s the perfect place for a laid-back dinner full of flavor and a little bit of la dolce vita, and yes, it’s all included.
Carnival Encounter Specialty Dining
On board Carnival Encounter, specialty dining goes far beyond the usual. It’s about creating memorable experiences, one dish at a time. Whether you're looking for fun themed meals, fine dining crafted by top chefs, or just a sweet treat by the pool, there’s something for everyone. Each venue offers its twist on flavor, atmosphere, and presentation, so no matter your mood or appetite, you’ll find something exciting on your plate.
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Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast
Step into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss® for a one-of-a-kind breakfast that flips the idea of a birthday party in its head. Celebrate with playful characters, festive music, and a creative menu including One Berry, Two Berry Waffles, Red Velvet French Toast, and the iconic Green Eggs and Ham.
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An exclusive gourmet experience begins with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a galley tour and a private, multi-course dinner with the Master Executive Chef. Intimate, luxurious, and perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
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Enjoy meals anytime in the comfort of your cabin. From breakfast in bed to late-night snacks, Carnival's 24-hour room service delivers a wide variety of delicious options right to your door.
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Recharge with handcrafted coffees, teas, and hot chocolates paired with sweet treats like pastries, cakes, and milkshakes. The Coffee Bar is your perfect pick-me-up spot at sea.
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You don’t have to book a table at the steakhouse to enjoy premium cuts and bold flavors. Carnival makes it easy to enjoy steakhouse-quality meals right in the main dining room. Choose from favorites like filet mignon, New York Strip, broiled lobster tail, or a decadent surf & turf combo. Whether you're celebrating something special or just treating yourself to something indulgent, these upgraded dishes bring the steakhouse experience straight to your table.
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Why limit yourself to just one drink when you can sip all cruise long? With the Bottomless Bubbles™ program, you can enjoy unlimited soda and juice throughout your sailing. Whether it’s lunchtime, showtime, or poolside lounging, your favorite cold drinks are always within reach. Purchase Bottomless Bubbles at any of the Lobby, Casino, or Pool Bars and sip to your heart’s content for the entire cruise.
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Craving something cool and sweet? Head over to New Zealand Natural and scoop up your favorite ice cream flavors, whether you’re a one-scoop wonder or a multi-scoop enthusiast. In addition to creamy ice cream, this spot also serves rich espresso coffees, dreamy milkshakes, and other refreshing treats. It’s a great way to cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the view.
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Australian celebrity chef Luke Mangan brings his signature flair to sea with Luke’s Bar & Grill, a dining venue designed for food lovers looking for something truly special. The menu showcases creative dishes made from quality ingredients, offering something unique in every bite. Highlights include the famed Kingfish sashimi with Nam Jim dressing and the richly flavored crab omelette with enoki mushroom salad and miso broth. With a resume that includes cooking for global celebrities and royalty, Luke Mangan’s food speaks for itself, and your taste buds will be glad it does.
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Just steps away from the pool, Luke’s Burgers is the perfect spot to grab a casual bite while soaking up the sun. This isn’t your typical burger bar; every item on the menu is crafted with care by celebrity chef Luke Mangan. You’ll find juicy burgers stacked with flavor, tasty hot dogs with creative toppings, and crispy, perfectly seasoned chips. It’s a laid-back dining option that proves you don’t have to dress up to enjoy something delicious.
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At Trattoria, warm hospitality and home-style Italian cooking come together to create a dining experience that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. The menu features rustic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, served in a relaxed setting where everyone feels welcome. Enjoy pasta, wine, classic entrees, and plenty of good conversation. Whether it’s a date night or a family dinner, Trattoria is sure to be a favorite stop on your cruise.
Other Carnival Cruise Ship Dining & Restaurants
