Ahh, is there anything better than eating all day on an elegant cruise? Yes, there is: winning the lottery. But since that might be a bit tricky for most of us, let’s go with the next best thing... eating, and eating well.
Holland America offers at least two complimentary restaurants on every ship, including a full buffet. There are also specialty restaurants available for an extra charge, and newer ships feature even more unique dining venues to explore.
The food onboard Holland America is often considered excellent, and many guests say it’s a step above what you'll find on most other cruise lines. While they may not offer as many complimentary or specialty dining options as cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, they more than make up for it with outstanding food quality.
Need help booking a restaurant, or do you want to know what are our top choices for a romantic night out? Well, hit that Request a Quote button and let's talk! Contacting us is always free of charge, and we will be more than happy to lend you a hand.
Dietary Needs
Holland America is committed to accommodating various dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options. Be sure to notify the cruise line of any special dietary requirements in advance to ensure a seamless dining experience.
The main Dining Room offers an exclusive vegan and vegetarian menu with an extensive list of items to choose from.
Dress Code
Holland America maintains a relaxed dress code during the day, with casual attire suitable for most venues. It’s the classic dress code that we see in most cruise lines, like MSC Cruises. In the evenings, the dress code varies:
- Smart Casual Evenings: Slacks and collared shirts for men; dresses, skirts, or slacks with a blouse for women.
- Gala Nights: More formal attire is encouraged, such as suits or tuxedos for men and cocktail dresses or gowns for women.
Room Service
Good news: room service is free and included in your cruise fare, no matter which stateroom category you choose. That means you can enjoy breakfast in bed, lunch while relaxing in your robe, or even a romantic dinner on your balcony… all at no extra charge. Some stateroom categories even offer access to exclusive room service menus with unique dishes you won’t find elsewhere.
Main Dining Room
- Complimentary dining venue
You can choose a Classic Pre-Set Dining (usually at 5:00pm and 7:30pm) or Flexible Open Dining (between 5:15pm and 9:00pm) for the Main Dining Room (MDR). For the Flexible Open Dining option, simply come to the Dining Room during dining hours and you will be assigned a random table for your party.
The heart of Holland America's culinary experience is the Main Dining Room, a sophisticated space where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in style. Holland America takes pride in preparing fresh food daily, showcasing local recipes based on your itinerary… so don’t be surprised to find Norwegian specialties when cruising the fjords or Caribbean flavors in the tropics. They also highlight a Global Fresh Fish Program, sourcing seafood directly from ports around the world.
Lido Marketplace
- Complimentary buffet
For a more relaxed experience, the Lido Market offers a casual buffet-style setup with a wide range of choices to suit every taste, from international dishes to comfort food favorites. Hamburgers? Yep. Pizza? Sure. A delicious fettuccine? You got it. Oh, The Lido Marketplace shares the same name as the buffet option from Carnival Cruise Line because both cruise lines belong to the same parent company.
The Best Restaurants onboard Holland America
Pinnacle Grill
- Type: additional cost, seafood, steaks.
This is Holland America’s signature steakhouse, serving up dishes like Beef Tenderloin with Lobster Dumplings and a 12 oz Maine Lobster Tail. Lunch is priced at $25, while dinner comes in at $52, and some dishes or additional appetizers may have additional charges.
Food on Holland America is already excellent at the complimentary venues, but Pinnacle Grill takes it to the next level. Top tip: the clothesline bacon is often considered one of the best dishes here. Definitely give it a try!
Tamarind
- Type: additional cost, pan-asian cuisine.
Tamarind is a pan-Asian restaurant located near the top of the ship, offering beautiful views and unique dishes. It works similarly to the Main Dining Room in format, but it’s open only for dinner and costs $35 per guest. You’ll get to choose an appetizer, entrée, and dessert from a menu packed with variety.
Many guests online call Tamarind the most underrated restaurant on Holland America. If you’re a fan of curry, noodles, and upscale dishes like Seared Lobster, this one’s a must-try.
Canaletto
- Type: additional cost, Italian.
Another amazing restaurant that has only gotten better over the years. Canaletto is all about authentic Italian dishes, and they’ll even make special sauces for you, just ask! It’s open for dinner and costs $25 per guest.
The menu includes Italian classics like Spaghetti with Shrimp and Clams, Broiled Lobster Tails, and a Mussel, Scallop, and Calamari Trenette. If you’re craving pasta and seafood with a touch of elegance, this is the place to be.
Holland America Drink Packages
There are several drink packages you can find aboard Holland America. Let’s check them out.
Signature Beverage Package
- Price: $50.95 per guest, per day.
A balanced choice for moderate drinkers, the Signature Package includes:
- Up to 15 beverages daily, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, each priced at $11 or less.
- A selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and specialty coffees.
Elite Beverage Package
- Price: $55.95 per guest, per day.
For those who appreciate the finer sips in life, the Elite Package offers:
- Up to 15 alcoholic beverages daily, each priced at $15 or less.
- Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, including specialty coffees, sodas, and mocktails.
Have It All Package
Price: $60 per guest, per day.
Looking for an all-inclusive experience? The Have It All package bundles
- The Signature Beverage Package.
- Specialty dining experiences.
- Shore excursion credits.
- Wi-Fi access.
Quench Package (Non-Alcoholic)
- Price: $17.95 per guest, per day.
The Quench Package offers:
- Up to 15 non-alcoholic beverages daily.
- Premium coffees, juices, sodas, mocktails, and energy drinks.
Coca-Cola Package (Non-Alcoholic)
- Price: $8 per guest, per day.
For soda enthusiasts, this package provides:
Unlimited fountain sodas.
Access to Coca-Cola Freestyle machines with over 100 flavor options (available on Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam).
Important Notes
- An 18% service charge is automatically applied to all beverage purchases.
- All adults of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must purchase the same beverage package.
- Packages exclude certain venues and items, such as mini-bar purchases, in-room dining, and beverages on Half Moon Cay.
- Packages are non-transferable and non-refundable.
