When I first heard that Carnival had teamed up with Shaquille O’Neal to bring Big Chicken onboard, I knew it wouldn’t be just another cruise restaurant.
I had tasted Big Chicken on land before, but finding my favorite spot onboard a Cruise Ship was a surprise. I don’t know about other cruisers, but I was genuinely excited to see it right on the ship.
And I was right. It’s more than a place to grab a quick bite. Big Chicken is a fun, flavorful experience that carries Shaq’s larger-than-life personality.
If you’re planning your next cruise, checking out the Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken menu should definitely be on your must-try list.
What is Shaq’s Big Chicken on Carnival Cruises?
Shaq’s Big Chicken on Carnival Cruise Ships is one of the most popular complimentary dining spots at sea. It was created by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who is also Carnival’s Chief Fun Officer. The restaurant is found on the Lido Deck close to the main pool area.
The design of Big Chicken is fun and casual with bright colors and a welcoming vibe that matches Carnival’s lively atmosphere. There’s both indoor seating for a cozy, air-conditioned meal and outdoor seating where you can relax with your food while watching the ocean. The layout is simple but stylish, with a sporty theme that reflects Shaq’s personality and adds to the overall cruise experience.
When it comes to food, Shaq’s Big Chicken serves up comfort favorites like crispy chicken tenders, juicy chicken sandwiches, breakfast biscuits, and golden fries. Everything is freshly prepared and included in your cruise fare, so you can enjoy it as often as you like.
Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken Menu 2025
Here is the Shaq’s Big Chicken Carnival Menu 2025:
Which Carnival Ships have Shaq’s Big Chicken?
Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken is found on four Carnival Ships. These ships are given below:
- Carnival Jubilee
- Carnival Celebration
- Carnival Mardi Gras
- Carnival Radiance
Where is Shaq’s Big Chicken Restaurant Located on Carnival Cruise Ships?
Let’s find the Shaq Big Chicken locations on different Carnival Class Ships:
- Excel Class Ships: Shaq’s Big Chicken on Deck 16 on Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Mardi Gras. This deck is full of places to eat and drink including Blue Iguana Cantina, Streat Eats, Seafood Shack, Lido MarketPlace, Red Frog Tiki Bar, and Tides Pool Bar.
- Sunshine Class Ships: Shaq’s Big Chicken is on Deck 9 on the Carnival Radiance. This deck also has lots of food and drink spots like The Deli, Blue Iguana Cantina, Seafood Shack, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lido MarketPlace, Red Frog Rum Bar, and Blue Iguana Tequila Bar.
When does the Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken Open?
Shaq Big Chicken restaurant on Carnival Cruise Ships is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It starts serving breakfast early in the morning around 7:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM.
For lunch and dinner, Shaq Big Chicken Carnival open from late morning until late evening, sometimes as late as 10 PM. The exact hours can change depending on the ship and the day’s schedule, so it’s a good idea to check the Carnival daily program or Hub App on your cruise.
Is a Reservation Required at Shaq’s Big Chicken?
No reservation is needed at Shaq’s Big Chicken. You can just walk up to the counter, place your order, and enjoy your meal. It works like a quick-service spot, so it is easy for families and groups who do not want to plan ahead.
At busy times you might wait a little, but most of the day you will find tables available. This makes Shaq’s Big Chicken a simple dining choice on Carnival ships.
What is the dress code at Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken?
There is no strict dress code at Shaq’s Big Chicken. Since it’s a casual, poolside restaurant, most guests stop by in comfortable cruise wear like shorts, t-shirts and sandals.
You can even grab a quick bite in your swimwear with a cover-up. The relaxed setting is designed for convenience, making it easy to enjoy your meal without worrying about formal attire.
Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken Review
Shaq’s Big Chicken turned out to be one of the most enjoyable food spots I tried onboard Carnival. I had already experienced it on land, but tasting during cruise gave the restaurant a whole new charm.
During my cruise, I tried it at different times and found something to enjoy every time. For lunch on embarkation day, I headed straight to Shaq’s Big Chicken instead of the buffet and it was the best choice. The crispy chicken tenders with fries were perfect for first meal onboard.
On the second morning, I decided to try breakfast there, and the chicken-and-biscuit sandwich was warm, filling, and paired perfectly with a cup of coffee, giving me the right start for a busy day.
By the fourth night, I was already hooked, so I went back again for dinner. The spicy chicken sandwich stood out as my top pick. It had just the right amount of heat and dipping it in the different sauces made it even better.
Other cruisers also shared their thoughts. Many raved about the tenders and fries, calling them the best casual meal on board.
A few guests enjoyed the hot honey chicken strips served at breakfast, which gave a sweet-and-spicy kick to start the day. Not everyone was a fan of the breakfast biscuits. Some felt they were a bit dry and preferred just eating the chicken. Still, most agreed the quality and taste were worth the short wait, and the crew kept service fast and friendly.
Overall, Big Chicken has earned more positive reviews than negative ones. It isn’t meant to replace fine dining, but it shines as a casual, go-to spot for quick, delicious comfort food.
If you’re planning your next sailing, make sure to try the Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken at least once — chances are, you’ll want to go back again.
FAQs – Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken Menu 2025
Is Shaq’s Big Chicken Free on Carnival Cruise?
Shaq’s Big Chicken is completely free on Carnival Cruise ships. It’s part of your cruise fare, so you don’t have to pay extra. You can enjoy chicken sandwiches, tenders, and fries from the menu at no additional cost.
Can you Visit More Than Once at the Carnival Shaq’s Big Chicken?
You can visit Shaq’s Big Chicken as many times as you want during your cruise. It’s included in your fare, so you can stop by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even just a quick snack whenever it’s open.
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