On National Pizza Day, February 9, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line revealed additional details on La Piazza, an Italian-themed zone on the Mardi Gras ship - newbuild launched in 2020 and scheduled for inauguration in 2021 May.
Inspired by Italy’s culture and culinary offerings, La Piazza houses various new food and beverage outlets, along with expanded versions of Carnival's most popular venues. La Piazza is one of the liner's 6 themed zones, the other being The French Quarter, The Lido, Summer Landing, Grand Central, The Ultimate Playground (with the roller coaster BOLT).
Designed like a stroll through a courtyard in Italy with red brick, street lights, ornate iron and tile work, as well as murals of popular piazzas in Venice, Rome, and other cities, La Piazza features “Insta-worthy” touches including a Vespa scooter and a Fiat from 1972, the year of Carnival’s founding with the original Mardi Gras, situated along the promenade.
New spaces feature Bar della Rosa inspired by Italy’s charming cafes with classic cocktails like Aperol Spritz, Italian wines, beers, espresso and cappuccinos, all made with Lavazza.
Piazza Panini offers hand-pressed sandwiches such as Salumeria stuffed with prosciutto, salami, capicola, roasted peppers, and provolone, and Peppe which features mortadella, mozzarella, provolone, tomatoes, spicy olives. Deli favorites and desserts are also offered.
Mardi Gras boasts the largest Cucina del Capitano Restaurant in the fleet, with Italian favorites and a wine list with selections including Zonin Soave and Batasiolo Barolo, enhanced by a decor featuring artwork and memorabilia from the company’s officers, highlighted by oil paintings of the Mardi Gras and her namesake ship that established Carnival Cruise Line back in 1972.
Pizzeria del Capitano offers 5 varieties of artisanal pizzas by the pie or by the slice 24 hours a day, and has also been expanded just for Carnival Mardi Gras. La Piazza’s culinary offerings can be enjoyed al fresco on the Lanai or inside at tables along the promenade.
The first LNG-powered cruise ship in North America, Carnival Mardi Gras debuts from Port Canaveral Florida USA on May 29, with a 7-day Caribbean itinerary program.