Hotels and cruise lines are going old school with the food they serve
Hotels and cruise lines are reviving classic ingredients like tallow, passata, and locally sourced products while reimagining food courts as premium dining spaces, with Norwegian Cruise Line’s Indulge Food Hall and The Cosmopolitan’s Block 16 Urban Food Hall leading the shift. The trend emphasizes nostalgia, authenticity, and deeper flavors, as seen at events like the Natural Products Expo West and through partnerships with chefs like Giada De Laurentiis.
Hotels and cruise lines are embracing a retro culinary revival, focusing on familiar yet elevated ingredients and dining concepts. At last month’s Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California, industry professionals highlighted the resurgence of staples like tomatoes—now used for bold, natural flavors—and tallow, which is making a comeback for its taste and nutritional benefits. Local products are also gaining prominence, integrated into hotel amenities to celebrate nearby communities. Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima-class ships feature Indulge Food Hall, a fare-included dining experience with nine global food stations, including an Indian kitchen with tandoor ovens and a Texas Smokehouse with a real smoker. Similarly, The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas launched Block 16 Urban Food Hall, blending gourmet twists on classic food court favorites like Momofuku’s Bang Bar and Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. Tomato passata, a smooth, uncooked tomato product, is gaining traction for its pure flavor, favored by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, who uses it in dishes like spicy mascarpone pasta alla vodka on Crystal cruise ships. The trend reflects a broader industry move toward nostalgic yet authentic ingredients that deliver deeper, cleaner tastes. Blood oranges are another fruit experiencing renewed popularity, alongside other retro ingredients being reimagined for modern menus. This shift marks a departure from overly processed or overly trendy options, instead prioritizing comfort and familiarity with a refined touch.
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