Carnival Cruise Line just made a splash with exciting new details about the food and drink scene at Celebration Key, their highly-anticipated private destination set to open in Grand Bahama in July 2025. With over 30 dining and beverage spots across the island, the offerings promise a dynamic mix of local Bahamian cuisine, beachside classics, fresh seafood, and much more. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a sit-down dining experience, Celebration Key will have something for everyone.
A Culinary Paradise
Celebration Key will boast an impressive variety of food options, including:
- Four full-service restaurants
- A multi-station food hall
- Nine food trucks
- Five snack shacks
- Two counter-service kiosks
- 12 bars
Carnival has ensured that no taste or preference will be left unsatisfied, from seafood lovers to BBQ aficionados to those craving a burger or taco.
Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the importance of food in the guest experience:
“Great food and beverage options are essential to the Carnival experience, and we’ve designed Celebration Key with an array of dining opportunities, whether our guests want a casual snack, a quick meal or a full dining experience.”
Full-Service Restaurants & Food Hall
Mingo’s Tropical Bar & Kitchen
Located at Calypso Lagoon, this restaurant offers waterfront dining and features local favorites like fried fish and conch fritters, along with burgers, seafood, tacos, and more. Mingo’s Bar will serve tropical cocktails, perfect for cooling off after a day of island fun. For a quicker option, Mingo’s Express food truck will be nearby with grab-and-go meals like hamburgers and fish sandwiches.
Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brews
Also at Calypso Lagoon, this restaurant serves slow-smoked meats with an array of sauces. Complement your meal with craft beer from Bahamian breweries, all in an open-air dining environment.
Gill’s Grill
At Starfish Lagoon, this family-friendly spot specializes in Caribbean seafood, offering everything from shrimp and lobster to land-based classics like chicken and burgers. For kids, there’s a dedicated menu to keep the younger sailors happy.
Captain’s Galley Food Hall
If you’re traveling with a group, the food hall at Starfish Lagoon is a great stop. Offering burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken, pizza, Mediterranean bowls, tacos, and burritos, this venue is sure to have something for everyone.
Food Trucks & Snack Shacks
Carnival is taking beachside dining to the next level with nine food trucks scattered around the island. These trucks will serve a combination of beach favorites and Bahamian treats, like conch fritters. For more convenience, self-ordering kiosks and snack shacks will make it easy to grab sandwiches, wraps, salads, and refreshing beverages.
Sip & Chill: Swim-Up and Swings Bars
Celebration Key will not only be a feast for the senses, but also a haven for drink lovers. Swim-up bars at Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon will let guests enjoy their drinks while relaxing in the water. The Long Necks Bar at Calypso Lagoon offers 100 in-lagoon seats and a DJ-curated atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, the Sunshine Swings Bar at Calypso Lagoon features 40 swings where you can sip a cocktail while swaying in the breeze.
At Starfish Lagoon, the Parrotfish Swim-Up Bar will serve tropical cocktails and mocktails, perfect for cooling off after a day under the Bahamian sun.
Sweet Treats and Caffeine Fixes
Need a pick-me-up? Head to Suncastle Grounds Coffee at Paradise Plaza, where hot, cold, and frozen coffees are available. For a sweet treat, Yumshine Scoops will offer a variety of ice cream flavors to help guests beat the heat.
Pearl Cove Beach Club: An Exclusive Retreat
For those looking for a more refined experience, Pearl Cove Beach Club is the adults-only escape at Celebration Key. This exclusive area features:
- A full-service restaurant with an elevated menu
- A bar and lounge
- An infinity pool with a swim-up bar
Pearl Cove Beach Club offers three access packages, which range from club access with a welcome drink to all-inclusive options that include open bar (maximum of 10 drinks) and lunch.
Introducing “Island Eats”
To add even more value, Carnival is launching the “Island Eats” program at Celebration Key. Each guest can enjoy one complimentary meal at quick-service outlets, snack shacks, or food trucks, or opt for 25% off one entrée at full-service restaurants (excluding Pearl Cove Beach Club).
Carnival’s new private destination promises to be a standout, not only for its pristine beaches and exciting activities, but also for its exceptional culinary and beverage offerings. Celebration Key is shaping up to be a destination where guests can immerse themselves in local flavors, grab casual bites, and enjoy laid-back luxury all in one place.
