The Dining Car

Train car restaurants are somewhat of a staple novelty across Canada, so you can imagine my delight when I realized I was going to get to eat 4 meals in a real live dining car on my way from Toronto to Winnipeg.

Everyone knows trains are more fun and comfortable than their more convenient brother, the airplane, but one key factor that may sway more and more long distance traveller's to the train is the food. Forget small plastic trays filled with small portions of flavoured cardboard, those who are willing to stick it out on the train are rewarded with an array of fine dining options, and superb service.

I did not call in advance to advise of my dietary restrictions (not recommended, always try to call, especially if your allergies are more severe) but there was always at least one option that was both gluten and dairy free, and sauce could easily be put on the side (fresh made food! Gasp!)

Breakfast: Day One

I chose the transcontinental, eggs with sausage and hashbrowns. The sausages were amazing, perfect blend of salty with a bit if sweet, the eggs were poached nicely though they could only do medium, and the hashbrowns were a great addition.

Lunch

The salmon flower, which was mostly just a round piece of salmon covered in butter and garlic (or no butter for you strict lactose folks) was only a sign of what was to come for dinner. Unfortunately I had to opt out of desert as ice cream was the only option.

Dinner

The highlight of a great dining experience! Lightly fried Halibut accompanied with grilled vegetables and scalloped mashed potatoes. I didn't care about the cream in the potatoes because it was one hundred percent worth it. How they were able to get good fish and keep it so fresh on the train I do not know, but thank god they did! Again I had to opt out if desert with 2 cake choices, but I did not care at this point.

Breakfast Day 2

We arrived in Winnipeg early Thursday morning, and I had agreed to meet my friend for breakfast, but the train got in early so I figured 2 breakfasts never hurt anyone. I just got the continental breakfast (oatmeal or cold cereal, a muffin and fruit) in anticipation of my second breakfast close at hand. The oatmeal was a small bowl, but came with brown sugar and real maple syrup, and I wrapped the muffin up to bring to my friend. Not the most glorious end to my dining experience but an easy option for the sensitive or light eater.

While the food was amazing, It's the overall experience that really makes the dining car worth it. Whether it was hearing about 2 German ladies traveling across Canada, an Australian tracing his roots, business travelers taking their time, or an unexpected meeting with a friend of a friend, the dining car is about meeting your fellow travelers.

Unless you are really counting your pennies, spend the extra few dollars on the dining car. The food from the snack bar may not be as bad as airplane food but isn't anything you couldn't find in the freezer section of your grocery store.


 

Posted with Blogsy