One of the highlights of a cruise for many guests is the array of spectacular food on offer at any time of the day. With this firmly in mind, P&O Cruises has introduced a new menu at its gastro pub, The Keel & Cow, on board Arvia and Iona. 

The elevated modern Keel and Cow menu launched on board Iona on Saturday, July 4, and on Arvia on Sunday, July 5. The refreshed menus offer diners new dishes and greater choice whilst retaining the much-loved pub classics. With a variety of fresh starters, mains, and desserts, guests will also find an expanded vegan menu, as well as lighter options for summer.

Keel & Cow menu pub classic fish and chips

New starters include salmon Scotch egg with masala mayo and lime, pork and chorizo sausage roll with pickled red onions, Southern fried chicken with truffle aioli and parmesan, and vegan jackfruit and nori ‘no fish cake’ with tartare sauce.

The restaurant’s signature steak offering remains at the heart of the menu, with rump, fillet, sirloin and ribeye steaks served with a choice of sauces and sides. Triple-cooked chips have also joined the line-up for the ultimate steakhouse experience. 

As well as steaks, there’s the option of pork chop served with chimichurri hasselback potatoes, garlic butter roasted half chicken and grilled Cajun-style salmon fillet. The Keel & Cow Best of Both Beef Crumpet is set to win fans, too. It features five-hour slow-cooked brisket, Black Angus sirloin, mushrooms, crispy onions and red wine sauce.

Keel & Cow menu beef brisket

Pub-grub fans need not worry, as favourites, including a selection of pies, classic fish and chips, the Prime Minister Burger (with a choice of cheddar or blue cheese) and a vegan alternative, remain firmly on the Keel and Cow menu. 

New dessert additions include a triple chocolate brownie made with milk, dark and white chocolate and a Keel & Cow Strawberry Eton Mess with strawberry gelato.

“Food is an integral part of the holiday experience, and our guests consistently tell us how much they enjoy the variety and quality of dining available across our fleet,” said Carnival UK and P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow. “The new Keel & Cow menu builds on everything guests already love about the venue, while introducing exciting new dishes, more choice and elevated presentation. Whether it’s a perfectly cooked steak, a comforting pub classic or one of our new lighter options, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

With more than 30 places to eat and drink available on board both Arvia and Iona, P&O Cruises has established something of a reputation among cruising foodies. The cruise line’s Food Heroes programme also brings together some of Britain’s most celebrated culinary talent, including celebrated chef Marco Pierre White, award-winning drinks expert Olly Smith and renowned Spanish chef Jose Pizarro, helping to create memorable dining experiences for guests throughout their holiday.

Keel & Cow reservations are available to pre-book for guests cruising on both Arvia and Iona.

Sam Huff