Last month I wrote a blog entry detailing Royal Caribbean’s plan to charge for room service ordered during certain hours. This month they have decided to step up efforts to nickel and dime passengers even further by charging 14.95 for a “Chops Grill” (one of Royal Caribbean’s alternative dining restaurants) steak in dining rooms across their entire fleet of ships.
According to a Royal Caribbean spokesperson, beginning February 22 passengers will be able to order a 10-ounce filet mignon in the main dining room on all of their 20 ships. Royal Caribbean has stated that no menu items will be replaced or eliminated from the menu. Passengers will still have a selection of ten complimentary entrees, the 10 ounce filet mignon will simply be an eleventh choice.
There is no doubt this filet is a higher quality of beef than what is normally offered in Royal Caribbean’s main dining rooms. While I have not sampled this offering in the main dining room, I have forked out the 25 dollars for Chops and can attest to its quality. However, I am not sure if I would want to order the filet in the main dining room.
Some of you may ask what is the difference between ordering in Chops or the main dining room. My answer to this question would be, service and quality. In Chops, there are a limited number of passengers dining, the service is top notch and food is generally delivered as ordered. The main dining room on the other hand is usually very hectic and the food is brought from much further away. These logistical problems will undoubtedly lead to complications resulting in a drop in quality.
Pros and Cons of the Additional Charge Steak
Pros
This is a great option for families traveling with children where paying 25 dollars for the whole Chops Grill experience is cost prohibitive.
The 14.95 steak is an option but passengers can still enjoy the standard sirloin steak at no additional cost. No one is forced to spend extra on food.
This will possibly keep families with children out of the specialty restaurants where I dine as much for atmosphere as I do for the cuisine.
Cons
Since no one is being forced to buy this steak, I can only think of one big con. What kind of precedent is being set? Today it may only be a specialty steak but tomorrow, will we be charged for other menu items. It has always been my belief that meals were included in the cost of my cruise. How long before I am presented with a check at the end of my meal?
While this newest initiative by Royal Caribbean has both Pros and Cons, it is clear this is a sign of things to come. How do you feel about additional price menu options being served in the main dining room?