Royal Caribbean’s Windjammer Café Levels Up

If you've cruised with Royal Caribbean before, chances are you've wandered into the Windjammer Café more times than you can count. It’s a buffet mainstay, the place for a quick bite, comfort food, or an international surprise or two. But if you're sailing on the Navigator of the Seas this year, you may notice something different.

It’s not just you—Windjammer has seriously stepped up its game.

Compared to last year, the buffet selections feel more global, more thoughtfully curated, and dare we say, more gourmet. This isn't the typical cruise buffet experience. On a recent sailing, the variety and depth of flavors offered were genuinely impressive—and even frequent cruisers are taking notice.

Here are a few standout dishes that made us pause mid-bite and say, “Wait, this came from a buffet?”

Garlic Eggplant That Converts the Skeptics

Eggplant can be hit or miss for many, but Windjammer’s version was bold and richly savory, stir-fried in a garlicky sauce that balanced sweet and umami notes perfectly. It had just enough heat to keep things interesting and was melt-in-your-mouth tender without being soggy.

Deeply Flavorful Oxtail Stew

This one was a surprise hit. The oxtail stew, slow-braised and generously portioned, offered cruise-goers a taste of something homestyle and hearty. It had layers of flavor—meaty richness, aromatic herbs, and a luscious, gelatinous texture that only comes from hours of simmering. Definitely not your average buffet fare.

Authentic Indian Spread with Roti and Dal

The Indian options this year are not just an afterthought—they’re a highlight. The roti was fresh and flaky, and the dal (lentil stew) was perfectly spiced and comforting. There were also several rotating curries, chutneys, and rice dishes that showed a level of care and balance rarely seen in buffet Indian cuisine.

Custard-Filled Steamed Buns at Breakfast

If you’ve never thought of breakfast as the time for a sweet, pillowy steamed bun, now’s your chance. These soft bao-style buns with a warm custard filling were just the right mix of indulgent and light. Think dim sum meets morning treat. They vanished fast—proof that word got around quickly onboard.

Final Thoughts

It’s refreshing to see a cruise line continue evolving its food offerings, especially in a space like Windjammer where variety can sometimes come at the expense of quality. On the Navigator of the Seas this year, that’s simply not the case. Whether this shift is a test run for broader upgrades or a ship-specific revamp, we’re hoping this elevated approach to buffet dining is here to stay.

For travel advisors and clients who thought they knew what to expect from Windjammer—think again. This is cruise casual dining with a fresh perspective, and it’s well worth a revisit.