🍔 The Truth About Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival Cruise: Everything You NEED to Know
If you’ve ever sailed with Carnival Cruise Line, you’ve probably heard the hype: “You HAVE to try Guy’s Burger Joint!” But is it really worth the buzz? Whether you’re planning your first cruise or you’re a seasoned Carnival veteran, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Guy’s Burger Joint, why it’s become a fan favorite, and how to make the most of it on your next sailing.
✅ What Is Guy’s Burger Joint?
Guy’s Burger Joint is a free, poolside burger spot created in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri. It’s included with your cruise fare and is available on nearly every Carnival ship. With its laid-back vibe, crispy fries, and juicy smashburgers, it’s earned a cult following among cruisers.
🍔 What’s on the Menu?
There are five signature burgers served hot off the flat-top grill:
Plain Jane – Classic cheeseburger, perfect for customizing
Straight Up – The go-to burger with LTOP (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle), SMC (Super Melty Cheese), and donkey sauce
The Ringer – Straight Up plus an onion ring and BBQ sauce
Chilius Maximus – Topped with chili, onion, and cheese
Pig Patty – A juicy burger with a patty made entirely of crispy bacon
💡 Pro Tip: Want to customize? Ask for no bun, double meat, or create your own combo at the toppings bar.
🥬 The Toppings Bar: Where the Magic Happens
Right next to the pickup window is a fully-loaded toppings bar with:
Grilled onions & mushrooms
Sliced pickles, tomatoes, onions, lettuce
Donkey sauce, chipotle mayo, ranch, ketchup, and more
It’s one of the few places on the ship where you have full control to build your perfect burger.
⏰ Best Time to Visit Guy’s Burger Joint
Lines can get long, especially on sea days or right after sailaway. Try visiting:
Right when it opens (usually around 11:30 AM)
Later in the afternoon (after 2:00 PM)
While others are at port or dining in the MDR (main dining room)
🆓 Yes, It’s Included in Your Fare!
That’s right — Guy’s Burger Joint is 100% included in your cruise price. No extra charge, no gratuity, just delicious burgers and fries whenever the grill is open.
🆚 How Does It Compare to Other Cruise Burgers?
Compared to other cruise lines, Guy’s burgers are:
Fresher — cooked on the spot, never pre-wrapped
Juicier — thanks to the smashburger technique
More flavorful — because of the toppings bar and seasoning
Royal Caribbean’s Johnny Rockets? Great — but it’s not free. Norwegian’s burgers? Decent, but not quite in the same league.
🔥 Final Verdict: Is Guy’s Burger Joint Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. Whether you’re team Pig Patty or swear by The Ringer, Guy’s Burger Joint is one of the best quick-service spots on any cruise ship. It’s crave-worthy, customizable, and totally free — what more could you want?