Published on January 2, 2026
Cruise travelers booking specialty dining on Royal Caribbean ships may notice a subtle but important change.
The update affects Izumi, the cruise line’s well-known Japanese restaurant.
Specifically, it changes what is included in the hibachi dining experience.
Izumi is available on most Royal Caribbean ships.
It is also one of the most popular specialty restaurants in the fleet.
Many travelers choose it for its live cooking and interactive atmosphere.

Understanding this menu update helps travelers plan meals better and avoid surprises onboard.

What’s Different at Izumi Hibachi Tables

Guests dining at Izumi’s hibachi tables are now receiving a simplified meal.
Chefs still prepare fried rice directly on the heated grill.
Guests also receive the protein of their choice.

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However, grilled vegetables are no longer included automatically.
Previously, vegetables were served alongside rice and protein.
This change has been consistently observed across multiple ships.
The update appears to be a standard adjustment rather than a temporary issue.

Can Travelers Still Order Vegetables?

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Yes, vegetables are still available at Izumi hibachi.
However, they are no longer a default side.
Guests must now select vegetables as one of their meal choices.
The hibachi experience includes up to two selections.
Travelers can choose two proteins or one protein and vegetables.
Those wanting an additional option can add a third choice for an extra fee.
This change makes menu planning more important for diners.

Why This Matters for Cruise Planning

For many travelers, dining is a key part of the cruise experience.
Understanding menu inclusions helps manage expectations and budgets.
This is especially important for families and long sailings.
Cruise lines regularly adjust menus to manage supply, waste, and consistency.
Such changes align with international food service regulations followed at sea.
These standards are guided by maritime safety and tourism authorities.
Travelers benefit most when they review dining details in advance.

Izumi Hibachi Pricing Overview

Izumi remains a premium dining option.
Hibachi dinner pricing typically sits around seventy dollars per adult.
Lunch is usually offered at a lower rate.
Both lunch and dinner share the same menu.
Prices may vary by ship and sailing date.
Pre-booking dining before departure often results in lower costs.
Travel experts generally recommend reserving specialty dining early.

Recent Updates to the Izumi Menu

The hibachi change follows a broader refresh of Izumi’s menu.
The fixed-price dining option recently increased in cost.
This reflects wider trends in global hospitality pricing.
A new dessert has also been introduced.
It replaces a previous chocolate option.
These updates aim to keep the menu modern and appealing.
Another adjustment includes simplified beef offerings at hibachi tables.
This helps standardize preparation across the fleet.

Why Izumi Remains a Cruise Favorite

Despite these changes, Izumi continues to attract high demand.
Royal Caribbean considers it the most visited specialty restaurant onboard.
Its popularity comes from food quality and live entertainment.
Hibachi dining combines cooking, performance, and social interaction.
This “eatertainment” format appeals to couples, families, and groups.
Travel behavior studies show interactive dining enhances vacation memories.
Many ships also offer sushi bars and quick-service sushi options.

Practical Tips for Cruise Travelers

Travelers planning to dine at Izumi should prepare in advance.
• Review specialty dining menus before boarding
• Decide meal preferences ahead of time
• Pre-book dining for better pricing
• Ask staff about customization options
• Plan dining budgets carefully
These steps help travelers enjoy the experience fully.

Final Travel Takeaway

The Royal Caribbean Izumi hibachi menu update represents a shift, not a downgrade.
It gives travelers more control over what they order.
However, it requires better planning than before.
For travelers who value interactive dining at sea, Izumi remains a standout option.
Knowing what’s included ensures a smoother and more enjoyable cruise experience.
Informed travelers always get the most from their journey.

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Tags: cruise dining update, cruise specialty restaurants, cruise travel guide, hibachi at sea, Royal Caribbean food news

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