Two Princess Cruises restaurants earn five-star honors
Princess Cruises' reputation for exceptional cruise dining is getting a boost thanks to new international recognition for two of its premium, specialty dining restaurants.
Developing new specialty restaurants that invite passengers to elevate their vacations with creative, chef-driven culinary experiences has been a key focus for Princess in recent years. Collaborations with renowned chefs have helped the cruise line's dining reach new heights, with memorable meals at unique specialty restaurants becoming highlights of passengers' vacations - especially on the cruise line's newest ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess.
Princess Cruises' latest dining accolade gives its passengers even more reason to book specialty dining - and to select certain ships specifically for the restaurants they offer on board.
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Two Princess Cruises specialty restaurants receive Five Star Diamond Award
Princess Cruises' Makoto Ocean and The Butcher's Block by Dario specialty restaurants were recognized for excellence in culinary innovation, quality, and service with the 2026 International Five Star Diamond Award for fine dining from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS). The award highlights Princess Cruises' restaurants alongside some of the finest restaurants and chefs from around the world.
Receiving this honor for two restaurants created in partnership with renowned chefs proves Princess Cruises' ability to deliver the same level of quality at sea that guests enjoy in award-winning chefs' land-based restaurants.
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"We are incredibly proud to see both Makoto Ocean and The Butcher's Block by Dario recognized with the 2026 International Five Star Diamond Award," Princess Cruises Vice President of Food and Beverage Sami Kohen said in a press release. "These honors reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences for our guests without compromising what makes our partners exceptional. From the precision and artistry of Makoto Ocean to the bold, authentic flavors of The Butcher's Block by Dario, we work side by side with our partners to bring their signature concepts to sea with uncompromising quality, consistency, and service."
Both restaurants are featured on Princess Cruises' newest ships
Cruise travelers can experience both Makoto Ocean and The Butcher's Block by Dario on board Princess Cruises' newest ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess. Makoto Ocean is also now available on Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess.
Created in partnership with acclaimed chef Makoto Okuwa, Makoto Ocean offers a refined, yet approachable Japanese sushi experience that blends traditional Edomae-style techniques with contemporary creativity. The restaurant has become a passenger favorite for its playful, artfully presented dishes and immersive atmosphere. The menu features a curated progression of handcrafted nigiri, sashimi, specialty rolls, and signature dishes such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, offered à la carte or as part of an omakase-style experience.
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The Butcher's Block by Dario is a bold and theatrical steakhouse concept created in partnership with renowned Italian butcher Dario Cecchini. It delivers a distinctive and memorable dining experience with a lively ambiance and interactive elements. Celebrating the art of butchery with premium cuts of meat, the menu emphasizes nose-to-tail dining, sustainability, and robust flavors, complemented by a curated selection of wines and sides.
Both restaurants are priced at $60 per person on Sun Princess and Star Princess and are included as specialty dining options for passengers who book the Princess Premier package, which includes unlimited specialty dining meals.
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This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 3:27 PM.