If you’re planning a Disney Cruise, you’ve probably heard about Palo Brunch.
It’s one of the most talked about dining experiences onboard. Many cruisers say it’s a must do, while others wonder if it’s really worth paying extra when so much food on a cruise is already included.
After sailing on Disney Cruise Line many times and eating at Palo brunch on multiple ships, I’ve learned exactly what you can expect — and whether it’s actually worth the extra cost.
If you’re trying to decide whether to book Palo Brunch, here are 10 things you should know before you reserve your table.
Most of the photos here are from our recent Disney Dream cruise, but the menu is the same for all the ships.
1. Palo Brunch Is an Adults?Only Experience
Palo is Disney Cruise Line’s adult only Italian restaurant, and brunch is available on most sea days during your cruise.
You must be 18 years or older to dine at Palo, which means it’s one of the few places on the ship where you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere away from the busy family dining venues.
For many guests, Palo brunch is a chance to slow down, enjoy excellent food, and take in the ocean views without the hustle and bustle of the main dining rooms.
The restaurant itself has a warm, elegant atmosphere with large windows overlooking the sea. Window tables are particularly popular, so if you want one, it’s worth requesting it when you check in.
2. The Cost of Palo Brunch Is $55 Per Person
Palo brunch currently costs $55 per person, which is charged to your stateroom account.
An 18% gratuity is added to your bill.
This price includes:
- A multi course brunch meal
- A complimentary glass of Prosecco, Mimosa or Cloudem Blue
- Coffee, tea, and soft drinks
Alcoholic drinks such as cocktails or specialty wines are available for an additional charge.
Although this is an upcharge restaurant, many guests feel the experience offers good value because of the quality of the food and the exceptional service.
Compared with specialty dining prices on many other cruise lines, Palo is actually very reasonably priced.
There is also a Dessert Menu which you can see below which is included in the Brunch price.
3. Reservations for Palo Brunch Fill Up Quickly
One of the biggest challenges with Palo Brunch is getting a reservation.
Because the restaurant is relatively small and brunch is only offered on sea days, availability can disappear quickly.
Reservations open based on your Castaway Club status:
- Pearl and Platinum members can book first
- Gold members next
- Silver members after that
- First time cruisers last
If you don’t manage to get a reservation before your cruise, it’s still worth checking the Disney Cruise Line app as soon as you connect to ship’s wifi at the port. Sometimes extra reservations are released or cancellations appear.
Another option is to visit the dining team on embarkation day, where the crew may be able to help you find availability.
Related: Disney Cruise Bookings – How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting What You Want
4. Palo Brunch Is a Relaxed Multi Course Meal
Unlike the quick breakfast or buffet options elsewhere on the ship, Palo Brunch is designed to be a slow and relaxing dining experience.
Your meal typically lasts around 90 minutes to two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the food and the views.
After you are seated, your server will bring:
- Fresh bread and pastries
- Your welcome drink
- The brunch menu
The bread and pastries are so tempting, but maybe try just a bit of each one, as you can easily fill up before your food starts arriving! For me the almond croissant is one of my favorite things on the ship.
You can order multiple dishes from different sections of the menu, creating your own multi?course brunch experience.
The service at Palo is consistently excellent, and your server will guide you through the menu and offer recommendations if you’re unsure what to choose.
5. The Palo Brunch Menu Has Something for Everyone
The Palo Brunch menu offers a wide range of dishes, from traditional breakfast favorites to more substantial Italian inspired entrees.
Antipasti
The meal usually begins with an antipasti selection which can include items such as:
- Alaskan King crab legs
- Shrimp and mussels
- Marinated olives
- Italian cured meats
- A selection of cheeses
This is a great way to start the meal and sample a variety of flavors before moving on to the hot dishes.
If you have any special dietary needs your Server will make sure that the Antipasti is something that you are able to eat.
This was the selection that my vegetarian daughter had last time – the cheese was particularly good.
Brunch Favorites
If you’re in the mood for a more traditional brunch, there are plenty of options.
Waffles and Pancakes
Served with Maple Syrup, Whipped Cream and Mixed Berries
- Apple Cinnamon Waffles
- Strawberry waffles
- Buttermilk pancakes
- Blueberry pancakes
My favorite is the Strawberry Waffle.
Egg Dishes
There are several classic egg dishes available as well.
Options include:
- Cheese and Ham Frittata
- Zucchini Frittata
- Three Cheese Omelet
- Tomato and Onion Omelet
- Poached Eggs on Toasted Buttered English Muffin
- with choice of:
- Rosemary Ham, Hollandaise Sauce
- Spinach, Asparagas, Mornay Sauce
- Sliced Smoked Salmon, Hollandaise Sauce, Caviar
These are beautifully presented and cooked to order.
Soups
- Heirloom Tomato and Basil
- Celery with Spiced Italian Sausage and Virgin Olive Oil
It may not seem like the right time of day to have soup but I would highly recommend the Heirloom Tomato and Basil soup.
Flat Breads
- Margherita
- Goat Cheese and Sun Dried Tomato
- Calzone – Proscuito, Basil, Bell Peppers and Mozarella
Entrees
If you’re feeling hungry, the entree section includes more substantial dishes.
Entrees on the menu:
- Rollatini Melanzane
- Lasagna Bolognese
- Parmesan- Crusted Chicken Breast
- Veal Saltimbocca
- Wild Mushroom Ravioli
- Grilled Cut Sirloin Steak
- Roasted Red Snapper Filet
One of my personal favorites is the Wild Mushroom Ravioli, which is rich, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Desserts
Even after a full brunch, it’s hard to resist the dessert menu.
- Italian Zabaglione
- Warm Amaretto Chocolate Fondant
- Raspberry Chocolate Tart
- Buttermilk Panna Cotta
- Limoncello Torte
- Warm Apple Cinnamon Sticky Bun
The desserts are beautifully presented and make a perfect finish to the meal. But usually by this point you are so full it can be difficult to enjoy them!
6. There’s a “Secret” Menu Item You Can Still Order
Not everyone knows that Palo still has a secret menu item available at brunch.
The Grape and Gorgonzola Pizza.
This unusual combination of sweet grapes and tangy blue cheese may sound surprising, but it’s incredibly delicious and is one of my favorites!
If you’re curious, simply ask your server for one.
7. The Service at Palo Is Exceptional
One of the things that makes Palo special is the level of service.
Your server typically looks after only a few tables, which means they have time to explain the menu, offer suggestions, and ensure everything about your meal is perfect.
The pacing of the meal is relaxed and attentive without ever feeling rushed.
This is one of the reasons many guests feel Palo brunch is worth the extra cost.
8. Palo Brunch Is Perfect for a Sea Day
Because Palo brunch is usually offered on sea days, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a slower morning on the ship.
Instead of rushing to a buffet, you can take your time, enjoy great food, and watch the ocean as the ship sails.
Many guests plan Palo brunch on a sea day when they want a more relaxed schedule.
It’s also a great option for couples celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a peaceful break during the cruise.
9. Tipping at Palo
An 18% gratuity is automatically added to a Palo brunch check.
This is divided between all of the Palo dining team.
If you want to leave extra for your particular Server you can do that by adding it on the check. If you do this then your Server will get the whole of the extra amount.
Given the high level of service, many cruisers feel the staff at Palo deserve recognition for the excellent experience they provide.
10. Is Palo Brunch Worth It?
This is the question many Disney cruisers ask before booking.
In my experience, Palo brunch can absolutely be worth it, particularly if you enjoy leisurely meals and high?quality food.
The service is outstanding, the restaurant has beautiful ocean views, and the menu offers a wide variety of delicious dishes.
However, if you are perfectly happy with the included dining options and prefer a quicker breakfast before heading to activities around the ship, you may not feel the need to pay extra.
For many guests though, Palo brunch becomes one of the highlights of their cruise.
Palo brunch remains one of the most popular specialty dining experiences on Disney Cruise Line.
With its relaxed atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious menu, it offers a wonderful way to enjoy a slower morning at sea.
If you’re planning your cruise and wondering whether to book it, my advice is simple: try it at least once.
It’s a unique experience that many Disney cruisers return to again and again.
Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 60 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 250,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.