Chops Grille

The Logbook — Real Guest Soundings

Depth Sounding: This is a first-person account captured “in the wake,” edited to our venue standards for clarity. Individual sailings vary by ship, itinerary, and crew.

Sailed aboard Oasis of the Seas.

Chops Grille Review: A Premium Steakhouse Experience at Sea

Introduction. My overall impression of Chops Grille on Royal Caribbean is that it's a standout specialty dining option that delivers an upscale, indulgent steakhouse vibe right in the middle of your cruise adventure. It's the kind of place where you can escape the hustle of the ship and enjoy a refined meal that feels like a land-based fine dining spot, with premium cuts of meat and attentive service making it worth every penny for a special night out. I visited Chops Grille on the Oasis of the Seas during a 7-night Caribbean cruise in September 2025, opting for a 7:30 PM dinner reservation. The general price level is fixed-cover charge style: around $55 per person for dinner (including appetizer, entree, dessert, and shared sides), plus gratuities — a premium upgrade from the Main Dining Room and excellent value for the quality.

Food

The food at Chops Grille truly shines as the star of the show, with a menu focused on hand-cut USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood that elevates classic American steakhouse fare. I started with the colossal shrimp cocktail — plump, chilled prawns with a zesty horseradish cocktail sauce and remoulade. For my entree, I chose the 9-oz. filet mignon, perfectly seared to medium-rare, buttery and tender, lifted by house-made béarnaise. We shared grilled black pepper bacon (slow-cooked Berkshire pork with a sweet-spicy glaze — dangerously addictive), truffled French fries dusted with parmesan and white truffle oil, and creamed spinach that was velvety and comforting. Dessert was the warm chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream — decadent without being heavy.

On busier nights, some diners note the occasional inconsistency (e.g., an over- or under-cook), but in my case the server replaced a slightly off steak immediately — the kind of recovery that makes the meal feel bespoke. Overall, ingredients are top-tier (think Linz Heritage meats and fresh Maine lobster add-on), plating is elegant, and the flavors balance tradition with smart twists.

Service

Service was exemplary — polished yet warm. Our waiter, Marco, knew the menu inside-out, suggested a bold Cabernet with the ribeye, and timed check-ins perfectly. The team handled a mild nut allergy with care and even provided a gluten-free bread option. Peak nights can feel brisk due to demand, but that kept the pacing lively rather than rushed. The host and sommelier added to the VIP feel — a welcome contrast to the sometimes impersonal cadence of big-ship dining.

Atmosphere

The room is sophisticated and intimate: dark woods, soft leather, warm lighting, subtle jazz — a calm, romantic escape from high-energy decks. On Oasis-class, ocean-view windows add a serene backdrop. Older ships may feel more classic than flashy, which keeps the focus on the food and company.

Conclusion

Chops Grille impressed with premium steaks, flavorful sides, attentive service, and an intimate vibe — a worthwhile splurge that elevates the cruise experience. Minor variances only underline the team’s commitment to making things right. Rating: 4.5/5. Recommended for food lovers, couples, celebratory nights, or anyone upgrading from the MDR. Dinner typically runs $39–$65 (ship/itinerary dependent); lunch is a stealth value at $21–$25. Pro tip: book early in Cruise Planner and consider the Unlimited Dining Package if you’ll dine more than once.

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