All food is included on Princess cruises unless it’s a specialty dining restaurant. So main dining rooms, buffets, pizza parlor, cafes, pool, etc. There are lots of little restaurant types all over that come with the fare. The website will tell you which ones are specialty. It’s like the steakhouse and Italian restaurant. Also, FYI, the only drinks that are free are filtered tap water, coffee, cocoa, tea, milk and juices like orange and apple. You have to pay for sodas or just bring it on the ship either at embarkation or at whatever port from a grocery store. Alcohol of course you have to pay. But you are also allowed a bottle of wine or bubbly per person to bring on at check in. You can just mix the orange juice and make mimosas. Ha.
The stuff you need to pay for as extra will be the port excursions, specialty dining, specialty drinks, specialty coffees, spa treatments, casino, and any purchases at the shops. When you don’t need any of that stuff, it can be a good deal since you are paying for your transportation, hotel stay, food, entertainment, and provided activities.
I’m glad you guys are looking into it. Hope you come!