When I first heard about the Bonsai Sushi restaurant on Carnival Cruise ships, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. Sushi, after all, is one of those dishes that can be hard to get right outside a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Could a cruise ship really serve fresh, high-quality rolls that rival a city sushi bar? Curiosity eventually got the better of me during my Carnival Cruise and I decided to give Bonsai Sushi a try. From the very first bite, it exceeded every expectation with its fresh ingredients, beautiful presentation, and surprisingly authentic flavors.
After that experience, I knew I had to share everything I learned. Here’s my detailed guide to Carnival Bonsai Sushi menu including prices, my honest review and a few helpful tips to help you make the most of your dining experience onboard.
What is Bonsai Sushi on Carnival Cruise Ships?
Bonsai Sushi is a specialty dining venue on select Carnival Cruise Ships that offers an authentic Japanese dining experience. The restaurant features a serene atmosphere decorated with traditional bonsai trees and modern Asian décor, creating a peaceful dining environment.
The Carnival Cruise Bonsai Sushi menu includes a wide variety of fresh sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls, soups, and traditional Japanese appetizers, all prepared by skilled chefs using high-quality ingredients.
Guests can complement their meals with a selection of sake and Japanese-inspired desserts, while enjoying attentive table service in an intimate setting.
The restaurant provides an upscale yet casual dining option that combines the convenience of cruise dining with the Japanese sushi bar.
Carnival Bonsai Sushi Menu for Lunch & Dinner
Here is Carnival Bonsai Sushi lunch and dinner menu:
Carnival Bonsai Sushi Bar Menu
Here is the Bonsai Sushi Carnival menu for drinks:
How Much is Bonsai Sushi on Carnival Cruise?
Bonsai Sushi on Carnival Cruise Line follows à la carte pricing meaning each item is priced separately so you only pay for what you order. Appetizers are reasonably priced at $5 each, while soups and salads range from $3 to $3.50.
The sushi and sashimi costs $2.50 per piece. Specialty rolls like the California Roll and Spicy Tuna Roll are priced at $9 each, while the Bang Bang Bonsai Roll and Tempura Roll cost $10 each. Chef specials roll includes the Bento Box for $17 and the Ship for 2 Platter for $34. The Ramen Bowl is priced at $8, and for dessert lovers, the Green Tea Cupcake and Yuzu Custard are both available for $3 each.
The drinks at Bonsai Sushi are not included in your dining fare and comes at an extra cost. However, if you have a Carnival drink package, cocktails, wines and beers at Bonsai Sushi are already covered.
Note: Please note that Bonsai Sushi prices may vary slightly by ship and sailing date. There is no set cover charge, as guests pay per item ordered, making it flexible for different budgets and appetites.
Which Carnival Ships have Bonsai Sushi?
These Carnival ships in the fleet have Bonsai Sushi Restaurant.
- Carnival Jubilee
- Carnival Celebration
- Carnival Mardi Gras
- Carnival Venezia
- Carnival Firenze
- Carnival Horizon
- Carnival Panorama
- Carnival Vista
- Carnival Radiance
- Carnival Sunrise
- Carnival Sunshine
- Carnival Breeze
- Carnival Dream
- Carnival Legend
- Carnival Pride
- Carnival Spirit
Where is Bonsai Sushi on Carnival Cruise Ships?
Let’s find the Bonsai Sushi locations on different Carnival Class Ships:
- Carnival Excel Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 8 on Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Mardi Gras that also has other dining options like ChiBang, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Rudi’s Sea Grill, Cucina Del Capitano and Bar options like Havana Bar and Marina Bar.
- Carnival Venice Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 5 on Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze that also has other dining options like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, IL Viaggio and Bar options like Piano Bar 88, Frizzante Bar and Amari Bar.
- Carnival Vista Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 5 on Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Vista that also has other dining options like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bar options like Piano Bar 88, JavaBlue Cafe, and Alchemy Bar.
- Carnival Sunshine Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 5 on Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Sunshine also has many drinking options like Red Frog Pub, Piano Bar 88, Casino Bar, and Alchemy Bar.
- Carnival Dream Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 5 on Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze.
- Carnival Spirit Class: Bonsai Sushi is on Deck 2 on Carnival Legend, Carnival Pride and Carnival Spirit that also has other dining options like Truffles Restaurant and Bar options like Red Frog Pub and Alchemy Bar.
What is the Dress Code for Bonsai Sushi Restaurant?
Bonsai Sushi Restaurant follows a Cruise Casual dress code, which means guests can dress comfortably but should still maintain a neat appearance. You can wear items like khakis, jeans, casual dresses, collared shirts, or nice blouses.
While the atmosphere is relaxed, beachwear, flip-flops, tank tops, and overly casual attire should be avoided.
When Does Bonsai Sushi Open on Carnival Cruise Ships?
Bonsai Sushi on Carnival Cruise ships offers flexible dining hours to accommodate guests’ schedules. During sea days, you can enjoy both lunch and dinner service with lunch starting at noon and dinner service beginning at 5 p.m.
On port days, the restaurant operates dinner service only starting at 5 p.m., giving guests plenty of time to return from their shore excursions and enjoy the interactive dining experience.
For the most current information about Bonsai Sushi’s operating hours and availability, you can check Carnival Hub app or Fun Times daily program.
These tools are regularly updated with the restaurant’s hours, special promotions, and any schedule changes during your cruise.
Carnival Bonsai Sushi Reviews
Bonsai Sushi is one of Carnival’s most underrated specialty dining venues, and after trying it multiple times across different ships, I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem worth experiencing.
On my last visit, I chose to sit at a table instead of the sushi bar. The space felt welcoming, and the staff were attentive from the start. Menus were ready when I arrived, and my server walked me through popular options and offered helpful recommendations.
When it comes to the food, it is hard to pick a favorite. Personally, the Spicy Tuna Roll is my go-to for its perfect balance of heat and freshness, while the California Roll is simple, light, and consistently satisfying. I also tried the Bang Bang Bonsai Roll, and the bold flavors completely won me over. Presentation is another highlight; the rolls are plated thoughtfully, the sauces are drizzled just right, and every dish looks as good as it tastes.
The drinks menu is worth noting as well. Bonsai Sushi offers more than standard beverages, including refreshing cocktails and sake that pair wonderfully with the sushi.
Bonsai Sushi is especially popular on sea days and in the evenings, making it a perfect option for those seeking a sit-down meal without the formality of the main dining room. Whether you’re dining alone, with friends, or trying something new, it’s absolutely worth adding to your Carnival cruise dining list.
FAQs – Carnival Bonsai Sushi Menu
Is Bonsai Sushi Free?
Bonsai Sushi operates on an a la carte pricing system where guests pay per item ordered from the menu. The prices range from $5 for simple appetizers up to $34 for specialty rolls.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation at Bonsai Sushi?
Reservations are not required at Bonsai Sushi since it operates on a walk-in basis, but they are recommended during peak dining times and on sea days to avoid waiting.
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