Makoto Ocean and The Butcher’s Block Secure Top Hospitality Honors
Princess Cruises continues to elevate the standard of cruise dining, as its standout specialty restaurants—Makoto Ocean and The Butcher’s Block by Dario—have been awarded the globally acclaimed 2026 International Five Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS). This prestigious honor marks a significant milestone, positioning these dining concepts among the finest not only at sea but across the entire luxury hospitality industry.
Industry Recognition for Culinary Excellence Drives Guest Appeal
As the AAHS’s signature honor, the Five Star Diamond Award spotlights venues setting new benchmarks in cuisine, innovation, and elevated service. Makoto Ocean, helmed by lauded chef Makoto Okuwa, delivers an artful take on Edomae-style sushi—blending tradition with inventive, modern touches. Meanwhile, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, inspired by famed Italian butcher Dario Cecchini, curates a bold steakhouse experience that emphasizes sustainability, top-tier meat quality, and interactive guest appeal.
| Restaurant | Concept | Signature Elements | Ships Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makoto Ocean | Modern Edomae-style Sushi | Artistic Presentation, Chef Makoto Okuwa Collaboration | Star Princess, Sun Princess, Diamond Princess, Sapphire Princess |
| The Butcher’s Block by Dario | Italian Steakhouse | Premium Cuts, Nose-to-Tail Dining, Interactive Ambience | Star Princess, Sun Princess |
Strategic Partnerships Set New Bar for At-Sea Experiences
According to Princess Cruises Vice President of Food and Beverage Sami Kohen, these awards are the result of aligning with top culinary talent to deliver “uncompromising quality, consistency, and service.” The Makoto Ocean experience leans on Chef Okuwa’s 25+ years of expertise, bringing a modern yet authentic sushi journey to a diverse audience. For guests seeking steakhouse flair, The Butcher’s Block draws from Cecchini’s world-renowned butchery philosophy—offering not only premium meats but also a lively, immersive dinner setting.
Recognition Strengthens Princess Cruises’ Brand Leadership
Receiving the Five Star Diamond Award bolsters Princess Cruises’ status as a premium hospitality leader. It also adds to recent accolades, including Condé Nast Traveler naming Sun Princess its Mega Ship of the Year for the second year running. These recognitions span a broad, global footprint, with dining excellence identified as core to guest satisfaction and brand differentiation.
Actionable Takeaway: Enhanced Guest Experience and Upside for CCL Brand
This milestone places Princess Cruises at the forefront of culinary travel innovation—a factor increasingly valued by luxury-conscious guests, and a potential catalyst for continued strong demand and positive buzz for Carnival Corporation (NYSE/LSE: CCL). Whether you’re a food-loving traveler considering your next voyage or an investor seeking signals of brand strength, this award signals a competitive edge that is hard to replicate. For more on their dining program, visit princess.com/dining.
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