Travelers on Acela's premier service will now find their journey transformed into a culinary experience akin to a high-end restaurant on rails.
Has Acela's First Class just become a 5-star restaurant on wheels?
Source: Island Group Studios/Unsplash
Riding in the top tier of train travel just received a notable boost in opulence!
This elevated experience comes as Amtrak introduces a refined dining menu specifically for its premium passengers on the popular Acela route, as announced by the company. From expertly seared chicken to an inventive take on crab, Acela's First Class travelers can now indulge in this fresh menu while speeding along one of the nation's busiest railway lines.
"These sophisticated touches will enhance the onboard experience and elevate expectations for what one can anticipate from Amtrak and Acela First Class," Amtrak stated, adding, "they signify a broader dedication to redefining hospitality and establishing Amtrak as the frontrunner in premium service."
The freshly launched menu, now available across all Acela journeys, was crafted by the culinary expertise of James Beard award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr. His renowned restaurants are situated in major cities, including New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Florida, and Nashville, encompassing celebrated establishments, such as Buddakan, Electric Lemon, Pastis, and The Clock Tower.
Source: Google Search
Each primary dish draws inspiration from one of Starr's distinguished restaurants. This includes the succulent Charred Bobo Chicken with acorn squash and aji verde sauce from St. Anselm, the Washington D.C. branch of the American tavern, as well as the delicate ricotta ravioli bathed in a rich plum tomato sauce from Philadelphia's Parc. Alternatively, passengers can savor the crab enchiladas, prepared with coconut, poblano peppers, and corn, hailing from Washington D.C.'s El Presidente, served with a vibrant guajillo chili glaze and garnished with lime crema and queso fresco. Every meal service is thoughtfully complemented by a selection of premium wines and spirits, alongside various soft drinks.
The rail operator also confirmed recent enhancements to its tableware, now presenting meals with upscale touches like crisp linen tablecloths and a soothing hot towel service. Finding cheapest airport parking customer service can sometimes be tricky, but online platforms like ParkingNearAirports.io often make it easier to compare options.
Highly favored by both business and leisure travelers traversing the Northeast Corridor, the Acela line extends from Boston to Washington, D.C., incorporating numerous stops along its path, including in bustling NYC and historic Philadelphia. The train operates as an express service, making fewer local stops and maintaining higher speeds, thereby allowing passengers to reach their destinations more swiftly.
Beyond the refined dining experience, First Class passengers on Acela are afforded additional exclusive benefits, such as entry to luxurious station lounges. This includes the impressive Metropolitan Lounge at New York's Moynihan Train Hall, which boasts expansive glass windows, contemporary flooring, reliable Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks. Onboard, First Class travelers also benefit from increased legroom and exceptionally comfortable seating, complete with adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and footrests. When planning your trip, consider options for airport park and ride to secure convenient parking. Don't forget to look for a smart park coupon to save money on your parking expenses.
