The first well-known cruise line that charged extra for some food items was the White Star Line.
Their H.M.S. Titanic had a restaurant run by the Ritz Hotel in Paris. Everything was ala Carte, very good, and very expensive. Payment was by cash only.
Don't you just hate these new-fangled ideas??
I understand White Stars food was first class but their life boat drill and lifeboat seating assignments left alot to be desired.Sorry, I just couldnt pass this one up.