Icon of the Seas Central Park: What to expect

Central Park has been a beloved neighborhood onboard Royal Caribbean ships since Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009. 

On Oasis Class ships, Central Park is pretty standardized. If you have seen one, the rest are relatively similar. 

While Central Park on Icon of the Seas is still a hub for live plants, restaurants, and shops, it is unlike any reiteration done before, though it’s still located midship on Deck 8. 

Here’s what’s included and what costs extra in Central Park:

Read more: The flourishing garden on Symphony of the Seas has over 20,000 plants, and it’s my favorite spot onboard

For the first time ever, Royal Caribbean has relocated the popular Izumi Sushi and Hibachi to Central Park. 

On older ships, the location of Izumi greatly varies, if it is even present onboard. It could be located in the Royal Promenade, adjacent to Casino Royale, or on a higher deck. Some don’t even have teppanyaki tables, just sushi. 

Read more: Icon of the Seas Royal Promenade: What to expect

Royal Caribbean also added a walk-up window that serves sushi and other Japanese-inspired snacks. Whether you are craving some sushi to-go or want a sweet treat, you do not have to worry about making dining reservations and sitting down for a lengthy meal. 

Like onboard Oasis Class ships, Chops Grille will remain in Central Park. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean previews all the restaurant and dining choices coming to the world’s largest cruise ship

For the first time, however, you will be able to hand-select your cut of meat at the butcher’s display. 

Another fan-favorite returning to this neighborhood is Park Cafe. 

The legendary Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich will be available here, as well as other breakfast and lunch sandwiches and salads. Plus, Park Cafe will be open for dinner on Icon. 

If you aren’t feeling the Windjammer crowds on embarkation day, this is a great place to go! 

Read more: 15 Royal Caribbean boarding process tips for a fast embarkation

There’s also a walk-up champagne bar, Bubbles, which serves champagne and champagne cocktails by the glass.

Empire Supper Club is a new specialty restaurant that, as of January 2024, can only be found onboard Icon of the Seas. 

The venue was designed to be reminiscent of the 1930s in New York City. This upscale restaurant will have two seatings for guests each night: 6:00pm and 8:30pm. 

The eight-course menu will feature premium American cuisine with dishes like caviar and wagyu. 

Additionally, this dining experience will combine food and music. There will be a three-piece band playing a different song during each course. 

This premium dining experience costs $200 per person. If you have the Unlimited Dining Package, you can pay a $130 upcharge to eat at Empire Supper Club. 

Finally, Lou’s Jazz N’ Blues, another new venue, is the perfect place to either pop in before dinner or afterward for a nightcap. 

Read more: Icon of the Seas Surfside neighborhood: What to expect

If you’re seeking a to-go beverage, Trellis Bar, another Oasis Class favorite, will be right across the way in Central Park. 

Don’t forget to check out the light snacks menu! You can enjoy small treats like mac and cheese poppers, crab cake fritters, crispy truffle fries, and more.