Debated whether to put this here or in the travel forum. I’ll start here. I’ve had limited experiences with all inclusive resorts, but my experience (plus instinct) leads me to believe the food just won’t be that good. Obviously, given the pricing structure, there’s an incentive for them to be cheap. Are there exceptions, assuming you’re willing to pay for it?
My family and I stayed at the Marriott in St Kitts this summer and went for the all-inclusive package. It was well worth the money and the food was very, very good. It was by far the best all-inclusive we’ve eaten at. Most are mediocre at best, but this resort was really good.
Some of them have restaurant options for small supplements
Alan
We stayed at Carlisle Bay in August, and were on a full board deal, we were quite pleased with the food.
I would say there are probably more examples of bad food than there are examples of good food. The draw at AI resorts is really the “free” booze. One of the issues is that since you have paid the AI rate you feel the need to eat at the resort and not explore the local food scene,
George
Wife and I have done 3 AI…first thing, the house wine included always sucks. Second, they don’t pay for top chefs at AIs, so you have to go in with low expections on the food…and you may be pleasantly suprised. Third, try to eat items that are cooked in front of you, rather than sitting under a heat lamp…eggs, bacon, etc for breakfast…grilled food off of the grill…wait if you have to, fresh pizza, Fresh fruit, but if the fruit looks old or running low, ask them to bring out a new batch.
Now our favorite AI for the food was the Paradisus Palma Real - Royal Service package in Punta Cana. The resort itself and rooms are stunning. Very impressed with all aspects of this resort.
I try to find resorts that grill up fresh, whole fish (often done in their casual, beachside restaurants). Food doesn’t get better than that for me.