Changes are underway for dining experiences on a well-known cruise ship, and reactions among passengers are mixed.
Carnival Cruise Line is currently trialing a new complimentary lunch menu, called Chicken, Waffles & Waves, on some of its ships. This menu features a mix of fried chicken, waffles, and classic barbecue dishes. Recent reports highlight that multiple Conquest-class ships, such as Carnival Freedom, Liberty, Glory, and Valor, are part of this testing phase.
The company is expanding its menu, focusing on a broader variety of comfort foods. While some barbecue options will remain, the shift marks a notable change from previous offerings that centered predominantly on barbecue.
According to John Heald, Carnival’s brand ambassador, “We’re testing some new food options” and said this week, “we have some very, very exciting new food options.”
The testing isn’t just limited to lunch. This new dinner menu is also being introduced, with Carnival Liberty reportedly serving lunch on deck 10. The lunch concept features the namesake chicken and waffles, though they are served separately, allowing guests to freely mix and match. Choices include classic fried chicken, spicy versions, and honey-glazed options alongside chicken tenders in various flavors.
For barbecue enthusiasts, options include slow-cooked pork butt or beef brisket, paired with sides like macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad.
This new dining venue incorporates elements from Carnival’s existing food partnerships with noted personalities, such as Guy Fieri’s Pig & Anchor BBQ and Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken; however, it is not officially linked to either brand.
What’s appealing about this new venue, similar to Carnival’s other casual eateries, is that it’s complimentary for guests, which is great for those watching their budgets.
Initial feedback indicates that the new concept is still evolving. Some passengers have praised its convenience, appreciating shorter lines compared to crowded buffets. However, others argue the menu leans too heavily on fried items, calling for healthier options.
“You can eat greasy, fried food even on land,” one commenter noted, suggesting that Mediterranean food would be a beneficial addition.
Others were not as impressed with the new offerings, with one person mentioning on Reddit that they found the chicken overcooked and dry, while others wished the waffles had a crisper texture.
There seems to be a split among long-time crew members too, as some find the previous barbecue dishes appealing, while others describe them as inconsistent—ranging from “delicious” to “hit-or-miss” or even “terrible.”
Some Reddit users hope that the new Chicken and Waffles concept will improve upon the older barbecue setup, especially if it can replicate the experience offered by Shacks Big Chicken.
There’s some curiosity about the new setup, with one person on Reddit describing it as a potential great brunch spot.
Cruise lines seem to be moving towards more casual dining options as traditional meal settings change. Similar to what they’ve done with the “Bagel at Sea” breakfast concept, this new approach reflects a trend toward quicker dining experiences that align better with modern travel habits.
A recent report underscores that the conventional focus on buffets or main dining rooms is shifting significantly.
Carnival has yet to provide any further comments on these changes.
