Norwegian Cruise Line has recently introduced a significant change to the menu of one of its most beloved specialty dining venues, Cagney’s Steakhouse. This popular steakhouse, known for its top-quality dishes and premium Certified Angus Beef, has been a favorite among cruisers across all 19 of the fleet’s ships. However, recent updates to the menu have sparked discussions among loyal patrons, with some expressing disappointment over the new offerings.
Cagney’s Steakhouse: A Cruise Favorite
Cagney’s Steakhouse is more than just a dining venue; it’s an experience. Offering a refined atmosphere paired with oceanfront views on select ships, this award-winning steakhouse has become a staple for many Norwegian Cruise Line passengers. Its reputation for serving exquisite cuts of beef, such as T-bone and prime rib, alongside beloved starters like crab cakes and parmesan-dusted truffle fries, has made it a must-visit for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Given its popularity, reservations at Cagney’s are typically required, and for good reason. The combination of quality cuisine and elegant dining ambiance makes it one of the most sought-after dining experiences on board.
The Big Menu Shake-Up: What’s Changed?
For those planning to dine at Cagney’s Steakhouse soon, be prepared for some noticeable changes. On May 28, 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line quietly updated the restaurant’s menu, streamlining options and removing several dishes that long-time patrons had come to love.
Reduced Course Options:
The most significant change is the shift from a four-course meal to a simplified three-course offering. This alteration has caused a stir on social media, with some cruisers expressing dissatisfaction over the reduced choices. Previously, diners could select from a variety of starters, soups, and salads before moving on to their main courses. Now, the appetizers have been consolidated into a single section, eliminating the distinction between starters, soups, and salads.
Appetizer Adjustments:
The new menu no longer includes the beefsteak tomato salad, Oysters Rockefeller, or Ahi Tuna Tartare. These have been replaced by a grilled thick-cut bacon appetizer, which, while still delicious, has not fully satisfied some guests who miss the variety offered by the previous menu.
Changes to the Steak Selection:
Steak lovers may also notice that the variety of cuts has been reduced. The previous menu offered five premium cuts of steak, including a 20 oz porterhouse, which was a favorite for many. The updated menu now offers just four cuts, with the porterhouse being notably absent. The remaining options still include high-quality selections, but the reduced choice has been a point of contention among regulars.
Featured Selections and Seafood:
The featured selections have also been pared down from four to three, with the double-cut pork chop no longer available. Diners can still enjoy the slow-roasted prime rib, surf & turf, and double-cut Australian lamb chops, but the absence of the pork chop may be a disappointment for some.
Similarly, the seafood options have been streamlined, with only two dishes remaining. The cedar plank steelhead trout has been removed, leaving the grilled fisherman’s platter and the grilled jumbo shrimp skewer as the sole seafood offerings.
Fewer Side Dishes:
Even the side dishes have been consolidated. The new menu features just seven sides, down from ten. Favorites like grilled zucchini, potatoes au gratin, and onion rings have been removed, prompting some to question the reasons behind these changes.
Why the Change?
Norwegian Cruise Line has not released an official statement explaining the menu changes at Cagney’s Steakhouse. However, it’s common for restaurants, both on land and at sea, to periodically update their menus. These updates are often driven by a need to balance supply and demand, as well as to keep the dining experience fresh and exciting for returning guests.
While the changes have stirred some controversy, it’s important to remember that menu updates are a natural part of the dining industry. Adjusting the offerings allows the cruise line to manage costs, source the best ingredients, and cater to evolving guest preferences.
Specialty Dining Aboard Norwegian Cruise Line Ships
Cagney’s Steakhouse is just one of many specialty dining options available on Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships. These restaurants offer an elevated dining experience that goes beyond what’s included in the standard cruise fare. Other specialty venues include Food Republic, Hasuki Japanese Steakhouse, La Cucina, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Moderno Churrascaria, and Ocean Blue, among others.
Each restaurant offers a unique cuisine, from Asian fusion at Food Republic to the sophisticated French dishes at Le Bistro. These specialty dining options are designed to provide guests with a memorable culinary experience, often in a more intimate and upscale setting compared to the main dining rooms.
Paying for Specialty Dining
Dining at these specialty venues does come with an additional cost. Norwegian Cruise Line allows guests to either pay for their meals individually, similar to a land-based restaurant, or purchase a specialty dining package. These packages offer a cost-effective way to experience multiple specialty restaurants during the cruise. Prices for the packages start at $99 per person for two meals and go up to $469 for 14 meals, providing flexibility depending on the length of the cruise and the guest’s dining preferences.
Given the potential cost of dining at Cagney’s – with entrees alone ranging from $31 to $55 – the dining package can be a great value for those who plan to indulge in multiple specialty meals.
Looking Ahead: Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Aqua
As Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its fleet, the upcoming Norwegian Aqua, the third ship in the Prima class, will feature an even larger Cagney’s Steakhouse. Set to debut in early 2025, this new iteration of the steakhouse will offer more seating to accommodate the ever-growing demand, ensuring more guests can enjoy this premium dining experience.
Thoughts: Embracing Change at Cagney’s Steakhouse
While the recent menu changes at Cagney’s Steakhouse may come as a surprise to some, they reflect the cruise line’s ongoing efforts to refine and enhance the dining experience for its guests. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Cagney’s or planning your first visit, there’s still plenty to look forward to at this iconic Norwegian Cruise Line dining venue.
As always, the best way to ensure a memorable dining experience is to make your reservations early, especially for popular venues like Cagney’s. And if you’re considering multiple specialty meals during your cruise, the dining package might be the perfect way to explore all that Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer.
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