The midnight buffet – a storied tradition once synonymous with the cruise experience. This grand spread of gastronomic delights lit up late-night imaginations, reflecting the opulence and decadence of the high seas. But as time passed, these glorious feasts started to lose their sparkle, fading into the backdrop of changing dining preferences and perceptions.
Before we dive into the new version of the midnight buffet on Carnival Cruise Line, let’s journey back to the heyday of this unique tradition. The midnight buffet originated in the mid-20th century, seen as the quintessential symbol of abundance and indulgence offered by cruise ships. This elaborate, extravagant event was expected and eagerly anticipated by cruisers who loved the idea of feasting under the starlit skies.
But with changing times came changing tastes. As cruise lines began focusing on healthier lifestyles, sustainability, and waste reduction, these indulgent spreads were seen as less attractive. The buffet’s grandeur was increasingly seen as excess rather than luxury. Moreover, with the advent of 24/7 dining venues and specialty restaurants on ships, passengers found more flexible and diverse culinary options that catered to their personal preferences and schedules. With that, the midnight buffet gradually lost its charm, and by the early 21st century, had almost disappeared fleetwide.
However, the past few years saw a revival in interest. Nostalgia, a longing for pre-pandemic cruising traditions, and a craving for a touch of indulgence in uncertain times led passengers to call for the return of the midnight buffet. A careful balance was to be struck: bringing back the late-night allure without the overindulgence of the past.
And this week, Carnival Cruise Line answered the call with the introduction of their reimagined midnight buffet, rolled out fleetwide. Reflecting both the traditions of the past and the sensibilities of the present, the new menu is a limited yet flavorful offering designed to satisfy those late-night cravings without going overboard.
What can you expect from the new Carnival Cruise Line Midnight Buffet?
First off, don’t expect it to be anything like the midnight buffet from 20 years ago. Gone are the endless arrays of food choices displayed along chocolate fountains and ice carvings. Today’s midnight buffet is more like a no-frills grazing table of late night snacks. In fact, Carnival isn’t quite sure whether to call it the “Midnight Buffet” or “Late Night Snacks” as evidenced by the two different names. While the Carnival Hub app calls it the “Midnight Buffet” signage on the food line is devoid of that monicker.
As you can see in the menu, choices are pretty limited. You have Chicago Pizza (which is nothing like Chicago-style pizza, it’s more like mall Sicilian), fried chicken tenders, hot dogs, an Italian meatball sub, ham and cheese roll, chicken soup, some salads and snacks like chips and cookies. If you were expecting shrimp and crab legs, I’m sorry to let you down.
Here is a look at the new midnight buffet on its debut night on the Carnival Celebration on July 15, 2023. On this particular ship, the buffet was set up at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse + Brewhouse on Deck 8 aft – in the same buffet line that serves breakfast each morning.
The return of the midnight buffet is a nod to the cruising traditions of old, reimagined for the modern cruiser. With its limited menu, Carnival Cruise Line has successfully attempted to reignite the magic and excitement of late-night feasting which may continue to evolve based on guest feedback. For my initial thoughts on the debut of the midnight buffet, check out my review of an 8-day Southern Caribbean Cruise on the Carnival Celebration.