Is Chops Grille Included in Package Dining?

If you’re planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you’ve likely heard about Chops Grille. This upscale steakhouse is one of the most popular specialty dining options on board, offering premium cuts of steak, seafood, and delicious sides. However, one common question travelers have is whether Chops Grille is included in Royal Caribbean’s dining packages.

Understanding what’s covered under the different dining packages can help you decide if visiting Chops Grille is worth it or if you’ll need to pay extra. In this article, we’ll break down Royal Caribbean’s dining options and whether Chops Grille is included in any of them.

Understanding Royal Caribbean Dining Packages

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of dining options, from complimentary meals to premium specialty dining experiences. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s available:

Complimentary Dining

• Main Dining Room (MDR) – Offers multi-course meals at no extra charge.
• Windjammer Café – A buffet-style dining area available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Casual Eateries – Includes venues like Sorrento’s Pizza, Café Promenade, and El Loco Fresh, which serve snacks and light meals at no additional cost.

Specialty Dining

Specialty restaurants require an additional fee or the use of a dining package. These include:

• Chops Grille – A high-end steakhouse featuring premium beef cuts and gourmet seafood.
• Giovanni’s Table – An Italian dining experience with traditional pasta dishes.
• Izumi – A Japanese restaurant serving sushi, hibachi, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
• Wonderland – A molecular gastronomy restaurant with imaginative cuisine.
• 150 Central Park – A fine dining experience featuring farm-to-table dishes.

Dining Packages

To help guests save money and enjoy multiple specialty restaurants, Royal Caribbean offers the following dining packages:

1. Unlimited Dining Package – Allows guests to dine at specialty restaurants as often as they’d like, subject to availability.
2. 3-Night Dining Package – Guests can choose three specialty dining experiences for a discounted price.
3. Other Specialty Dining Plans – Occasionally, Royal Caribbean offers other dining bundles that provide access to select restaurants.

Is Chops Grille Included in Package Dining?

Chops Grille as a Specialty Restaurant

Chops Grille is classified as a specialty restaurant on Royal Caribbean ships, which means it is not included in the complimentary dining options. However, it can be accessed through dining packages.

Does the Unlimited Dining Package Include Chops Grille?

Yes, the Unlimited Dining Package allows guests to dine at Chops Grille multiple times during their cruise. If you have this package, you can enjoy a meal at Chops Grille at no extra charge, though reservations are required due to limited seating.

Does the 3-Night Dining Package Include Chops Grille?

Yes, the 3-Night Dining Package includes Chops Grille, but you must choose it as one of your three specialty dining experiences. Since availability is limited, it’s best to book your reservation as early as possible.

À La Carte Pricing at Chops Grille

If you don’t have a dining package, you can still enjoy Chops Grille by paying the per-person cover charge, which typically ranges from $50 to $65 per person, depending on the ship and itinerary.

How to Book Chops Grille with a Dining Package

If you plan to visit Chops Grille using a dining package, follow these steps:

1. Purchase a Dining Package – Buy the dining package before your cruise via the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner or onboard once you set sail.
2. Make Reservations in Advance – Chops Grille is one of the most popular specialty restaurants, so reservations fill up quickly. Book as soon as you board or through the Royal Caribbean app.
3. Check Availability for Your Desired Date & Time – If your preferred time isn’t available, consider alternative dining times.
4. Enjoy Your Meal! – Once booked, arrive on time and enjoy the premium dining experience.

Is Chops Grille Worth It?

Chops Grille is often regarded as one of the best specialty dining options on Royal Caribbean. But is it worth it? Let’s break it down.

Menu Offerings

Chops Grille offers a refined dining experience featuring:

• Prime Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and New York Strip Steaks
• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and Grilled Branzino
• Creamy Lobster Bisque and Signature Caesar Salad
• Sides like Truffle Fries, Gruyère Tater Tots, and Mac & Cheese
• Desserts like New York Cheesecake and Warm Chocolate Cake

Value Comparison

• Dining Package vs. À La Carte Pricing – If you plan to eat at multiple specialty restaurants, the dining package provides great savings. A single meal at Chops Grille costs around $50–$65 per person, so a package can be cost-effective.
• Quality & Experience – The premium cuts of steak, personalized service, and elegant atmosphere make Chops Grille a standout dining choice. If you’re a steak lover, it’s a must-try experience.

Customer Reviews

Most guests praise Chops Grille for its high-quality steaks and attentive service. However, some have noted that availability can be an issue if reservations aren’t made early.

Tips for Enjoying Chops Grille on Your Cruise

To make the most of your experience at Chops Grille, consider these tips:

• Book Early – Dining slots fill up quickly, so make reservations as soon as possible.
• Dress Accordingly – The restaurant has a smart casual dress code, meaning no swimwear or shorts.
• Maximize Your Dining Package – If you have the Unlimited Dining Package, consider visiting Chops Grille multiple times to get the best value.
• Try the Signature Dishes – The Filet Mignon and Gruyère Tater Tots are among the most popular menu items.
• Go for Lunch – Some ships offer a cheaper lunch option at Chops Grille, which can be a great way to experience it for less.

Conclusion

So, is Chops Grille included in Royal Caribbean’s package dining? Yes, but only if you purchase a dining package that covers specialty restaurants. The Unlimited Dining Package and 3-Night Dining Package both include Chops Grille, making it more accessible without paying the full à la carte price.

If you love steak and fine dining, Chops Grille is well worth trying. Whether you use a dining package or pay the cover charge, it’s a fantastic culinary experience on your Royal Caribbean cruise. Just remember to book early and savor every bite.