Portside BBQ on Royal Caribbean: A Complete Dining Experience

Introduction

Portside BBQ is Royal Caribbean’s first-ever barbecue restaurant, offering guests a bold and authentic BBQ experience at sea. Introduced on Oasis of the Seas, this specialty restaurant serves slow-cooked meats, rich flavors, and classic Southern sides. Whether you crave smoked brisket, pulled pork, or St. Louis-style ribs, Portside BBQ delivers hearty portions and mouthwatering flavors.

This guide explores everything you need to know about Portside BBQ, including its level of formality, dress code, ambiance, menu, and entertainment.

Level of Formality at Portside BBQ

Portside BBQ is a casual dining restaurant, making it an easygoing and relaxed option for guests. Unlike fine dining venues on Royal Caribbean ships, Portside BBQ encourages a laid-back atmosphere where guests can enjoy slow-cooked barbecue without worrying about formal attire.

The restaurant is family-friendly, welcoming guests of all ages. It’s a great spot for groups, couples, and solo travelers looking for a flavor-packed meal.

Dress Code at Portside BBQ

The dress code at Portside BBQ is casual, allowing guests to wear comfortable cruise attire. Since the restaurant is located near the pool deck, many guests arrive in shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals.

While swimwear is not permitted, guests can wear cover-ups or casual clothing after spending time at the pool. Unlike formal dining venues, Portside BBQ does not require dress shoes, jackets, or elegant evening wear.

Look, Feel, and Ambiance of Portside BBQ

Portside BBQ features a rustic and welcoming design, blending wood-paneled walls, brick accents, and warm lighting. The restaurant’s casual décor and open seating create a laid-back atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic backyard barbecue joint.

Guests can choose between indoor seating with cozy booths or outdoor seating with ocean views. The relaxed vibe, smoky aromas, and friendly service make Portside BBQ a standout dining venue on Royal Caribbean ships.

Menu at Portside BBQ

Portside BBQ serves authentic barbecue favorites, cooked low and slow to perfection. The menu includes Texas-style brisket, pulled pork, chicken, St. Louis-style spare ribs, burnt ends, sausage links, and smoked turkey legs.

Meats & BBQ Platters

Guests can enjoy a variety of smoked meats, including:

• Texas-Style Brisket – Slow-smoked, marbled brisket with a bold hickory flavor.
• Pulled Pork – Tender, juicy pork, shredded and served with house-made BBQ sauce.
• St. Louis-Style Spare Ribs – Fall-off-the-bone ribs, seasoned with a smoky dry rub.
• Burnt Ends – Caramelized, flavorful brisket tips with a rich, smoky taste.
• Smoked Turkey Legs – Juicy turkey legs, slow-cooked for maximum flavor.
• Sausage Links – Smoked sausage with a hint of spice and charred edges.

Classic BBQ Sides

Portside BBQ offers Southern-style sides, including:

• Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy pasta with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
• Homestyle Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread, served warm.
• Baked Beans – Slow-cooked beans with smoky burnt ends.
• Coleslaw – Crisp cabbage, carrots, and tangy dressing.

Desserts

Guests can indulge in sweet treats, including:

• Banana Dream – A rich banana pudding with vanilla wafers and whipped cream.
• Brookie – A brownie-cookie mashup, combining chocolate and cookie dough flavors.

Drinks & Cocktails

Portside BBQ serves Southern-inspired drinks, including:

• Portside Spiked Palmer – A classic Arnold Palmer with bourbon, peach, and mint.
• Iced Tea & Lemonade – Refreshing, house-made beverages.
• Craft Beers – A selection of local and international brews.

Entertainment at Portside BBQ

Portside BBQ offers live music performances, enhancing the laid-back and festive atmosphere. Guests can enjoy country, blues, and rock music, creating a true barbecue joint experience.

The restaurant’s casual setting, flavorful food, and lively entertainment make it a must-visit dining spot on Royal Caribbean ships.

Conclusion

Portside BBQ on Royal Caribbean offers a bold and authentic barbecue experience, perfect for guests seeking slow-cooked meats, rich flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether enjoying brisket, ribs, or Southern sides, guests can expect a memorable meal at sea.