Do You Pay for Food on MSC?

Joan Aug 08, 2026

Ever wonder about the dining arrangements when you're sailing with MSC? You might be curious, "Do you pay for food on MSC?" The short answer is: it depends.

Brand New MSC Cruises Menus: Exclusive Photos and Downloadable PDF!
Brand New MSC Cruises Menus: Exclusive Photos and Downloadable PDF!

MSC offers a range of dining options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Let's dive into the details to help you plan your culinary journey aboard MSC ships.

MSC Cruise Food Review
MSC Cruise Food Review

Included Dining Options

First, let's explore the dining experiences that come free with your cruise fare.

Do MSC Cruises Include Meals? Your Guide To Whats Included | Emma Cruises
Do MSC Cruises Include Meals? Your Guide To Whats Included | Emma Cruises

MSC Yacht Club members and suite guests enjoy complimentary dining in specialty restaurants, always a treat. For everyone else, the main dining rooms and buffets are included in your fare.

Main Dining Rooms

My first cruise of 2021! MSC Virtuosa Maiden Voyage Review
My first cruise of 2021! MSC Virtuosa Maiden Voyage Review

Formal, elegant, and cooked-to-order, MSC's main dining rooms serve multi-course meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No additional charge here.

You can reserve a specific time or go with open seating. Either way, you'll enjoy a variety of international and local dishes, prepared by MSC's talented chefs.

Buffet Restaurants

MSC Cruise Food Review After 5 Sailings
MSC Cruise Food Review After 5 Sailings

Casual and convenient, MSC's buffet restaurants offer extensive international and theme-based cuisines, available throughout the day. No cover charges apply.

With an array of dishes, live cooking stations, and plenty of seating, these buffets are perfect for quick bites or leisurely meals. Plus, they're great for kids and families.

À La Carte Specialty Restaurants

MSC Seascape Dining Options: What’s Included and Where to Eat
MSC Seascape Dining Options: What’s Included and Where to Eat

Now, let's talk about the "do you pay for food on MSC" part. If you're fancying a specific cuisine or want an extra-special dining experience, you'll find it in MSC's specialty restaurants.

For a surcharge, you can indulge in gourmet French cuisine at MSC Eataly, savor traditional Italian pizza at La Pizza e-Pastabar, or enjoy teppanyaki-style dining at the Asian-inspired specialty restaurant, just to name a few.

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MSC Seascape
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Eataly

MSC's partnership with Eataly brings authentic Italian flavors to the high seas. For a cover charge, relish a five-course Mediterranean-inspired meal curated by renowned chef Italian Carlo Cracco.

Be sure to pair your dishes with expertly selected Italian wines – an additional cost – for the complete experience.

Other Specialty Restaurants

MSC offers a range of specialty dining experiences, each with its own cover charge or À la carte pricing:

  1. La ಮೂಲಕ e-Pastabar: Savor Artisanal pizzas, fresh pastas, and other Italian delights at this bustling, convivial spot.
  2. Teppanyaki: Watch as your chef-cooked meal comes to life on the hot grill in this interactive dining experience.
  3. Others: Explore the diverse cuisines available at MSC's other specialty restaurants, such as Butcher's Cut, Seafood Restaurant, and more.

Reservations and surcharges may apply, so be sure to check MSC's website or consult your cruise consultant for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Dining Packages and Tips

MSC does offer dining packages that can help you budget for specialty dining experiences. The packages usually include credits that can be used at select restaurants, and they may provide additional discounts or perks.

To make the most of your MSC dining experience, consider these tips:

  • Book specialty restaurant reservations early, as spots fill up fast.
  • Check your cruise personalizer or MSC app for up-to-date pricing and availability.
  • Take advantage of MSC's late-night snacks and complimentary room service for those midnight munchies.
  • If you're watching your wallet, stick to the complimentary dining options and consider skipping drinks or tips.

Embrace the anticipation of your onboard culinary journey – whether it's a complimentary feast or a splurge-worthy experience, there's always something delicious in store. Bon appétit!