Think you’ve seen everything the cruise ship menu has to offer? You might be surprised. There are plenty of things you can ask for that aren’t listed on the menu.
From a curry at dinner to a different kind of breakfast, a simple question can sometimes get you something extra. Not everything is available on every ship, of course, but these 10 menu tricks are worth trying on your next cruise.
1. Ask for Indian Curry in the Main Dining Room
If you love Indian food, here’s a question worth asking your waiter: Is there any curry available that isn’t on tonight’s menu? Some cruise ships serve Indian dishes in the main dining room, while others may have something prepared that isn’t advertised.
You might be offered a vegetarian curry with rice, or even a selection of Indian dishes to share. And if you enjoy a bit of spice, don’t be afraid to ask. Just remember that off-menu dishes depend on what the kitchen has available.
And curry isn’t the only dining room trick worth knowing. There are plenty of other cruise secrets that can make your next sailing even better.
2. Hidden Veggie Burgers at the Grill
Fancy a burger without the beef? Even if the poolside grill only advertises meat burgers, there may be a vegetarian option.
Some cruise ships carry veggie patties that aren’t displayed on the main menu. Others serve plant-based burgers at a different dining venue, and you might have to wait a little longer if one needs to be prepared separately.
It’s a handy option if you’re vegetarian, cutting back on meat, or just fancy something different after several days of cruise food.
3. Plant Based Breakfast Options
Cruise ship breakfast buffets aren’t exactly short on bacon, sausages, and eggs. But what if you’d rather start the day with something plant-based? You may have more choices than you first realize.
Many cruise lines offer dairy-free milk alternatives, and some also have vegan sausages or other plant-based breakfast foods. These aren’t always sitting out on the buffet, so check with a crew member.
The selection varies between ships, but you might find something more interesting than another morning of toast and fruit.
And if you’re wondering whether the buffet is worth visiting for more than breakfast, here are 12 reasons to choose the cruise buffet over the dining room.
4. Nutella (or Chocolate) for Pancakes
Pancakes are good. Pancakes covered in chocolate? Even better.
You might not spot Nutella at the breakfast buffet, but the kitchen may have chocolate spread or sauce available. Some ships offer alternative toppings that aren’t displayed alongside the usual syrup and jam.
So if you’re cruising with kids, or just have a serious sweet tooth, this is one request worth making.
5. Order from the Kids’ Menu
Sometimes you don’t want a fancy three-course dinner. Sometimes you just want chicken nuggets and fries. And who says the kids should have all the fun?
Some cruise ship restaurants allow adults to order from the children’s menu, even if those dishes aren’t shown on the regular adult menu. Depending on the ship, you might find mac and cheese, simple pasta, chicken tenders, or other familiar favorites.
You may even be able to order a children’s side dish with your regular meal. It’s not an option everywhere, but when it is, there’s nothing wrong with choosing chicken nuggets over something fancy. After all, you’re on vacation!
6. Request Simple Comfort Food
After a few days of rich sauces, fancy desserts, and endless buffet visits, sometimes a plain meal sounds pretty appealing. Many cruise kitchens can accommodate requests for simpler food.
Think plain grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, rice, baked potatoes, or pasta without a complicated sauce. Ordering a menu dish without certain toppings or sauces is often easier than requesting something completely different.
This can be especially useful for picky eaters, anyone with an unsettled stomach, or if you just want a break from all the indulgence.
Crew are used to these requests and will usually be happy to prepare something simple for you.
7. Off-Menu Coffee Creations
Don’t see your favorite iced coffee listed at the onboard café? Depending on the equipment and ingredients, the barista may be able to make an iced version of a regular coffee, switch your milk, or add a flavored syrup.
It’s a nice way to mix things up, especially when you’re cruising somewhere hot. Just remember that specialty coffees and extras may cost more unless they’re covered by your drinks package.
8. Custom or Surprise Cocktails
If you’ve worked your way through the cocktail menu and fancy something different, why not ask the bartender for a recommendation? Many cruise ship bars can make familiar cocktails that aren’t printed on the menu, provided they have the right ingredients.
You can also tell the bartender what you like. Something fruity? Not too sweet? Maybe a little stronger? They may be able to suggest something you’ll love.
Custom drinks may cost extra or fall outside your drinks package, but finding a new favorite cocktail is all part of the fun.
9. Cheese Plate to Go
Too full for dessert, but still tempted by the cheese plate? You can ask your server whether it’s possible to take it back to your cabin.
Some dining venues allow takeaway food, while others have restrictions on removing dishes from the restaurant. If you’re able to take a plate away, it’s best to enjoy it soon afterward, as not every cabin cooler is suitable for safely storing perishable food.
A little cheese on your balcony with a glass of wine as the sun sets sounds lovely. Food poisoning? Not so much.
10. Special Dietary Menus on Request
If you’re gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, or following another special diet, don’t assume the standard menu shows all your choices. Many cruise lines offer alternative dishes, and some have separate menus or meals that can be prepared for specific dietary needs.
Royal Caribbean, for example, offers vegan menus on request in the main dining room. But here’s the important part: don’t leave everything until you’re onboard.
Some cruise lines require advance notice for certain meals and allergies. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, asks guests to submit special dietary requests at least 45 days before sailing.
It’s best to contact your cruise line before your trip, then speak to the dining team again when you board. If you have a serious food allergy, explain exactly what you need. Cruise ship kitchens handle many ingredients, and there’s no guarantee that every dish can be made completely free from allergens.
A little planning before you sail can make dining onboard much easier.
Wrap-Up
The printed menu is just the starting point for what you can enjoy on a cruise. From off-menu favorites like curry and veggie burgers to special menus for gluten-free, vegan, or low-sugar diets, there are so many ways to customize your meals.
Letting the crew know your preferences — or asking what else is available — can transform your dining experience and make sure everyone at the table gets exactly what they want.
And food isn’t the only thing worth asking about. There are also 20 free things you can request from Guest Services that many passengers overlook.
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