Traditional Dining

As an exclusive, complimentary offering for customers traveling in private rooms, traditional dining service is provided in the Dining Car on the Auto Train, California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle (between San Antonio and Los Angeles).

Traditional dining features seasonal menus with a variety of entree selections. Complement your meal with a wide selection of beverages, including beer, wine, spirits (the first one is on us). Be sure to leave room for dessert — there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. In addition to our regular menu, kids can order all their favorites onboard.

Café service is also available to all customers along these routes, offering a variety of meals, snacks and beverages for sale.

Traditional Dining on Auto Train

  • Chef-prepared dinner with table service in the Dining Car
  • Selections for the kids
  • Complimentary wine with dinner
  • A continental breakfast served prior to arrival
  • Complimentary room service

Traditional Dining on Western Routes

  • Chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and a three course dinner
  • Selections for the kids
  • An array of appetizers with dinner — and the first alcoholic drink is on us
  • Table service offered in the Dining Car with glassware, cutlery and white linen tablecloths
  • Complimentary room service

Sample Menus


Get a taste of traditional dining selections by sampling each route menu:

Our menus are updated regularly, so selections and prices are subject to change.

*Service between San Antonio and Los Angeles only. See the flexible dining menu for service between Chicago and San Antonio.

A Few Sample Dishes from Our New Menu

Grilled Atlantic Salmon

Tortellini with Pesto Cream

Carrot Cake

Making Reservations

Customers on routes with traditional dining service can make reservations for lunch and dinner — served in the Dining Car or by complimentary in-room service.

Meal Times

Breakfast: Available 6:30 - 9:30 am
Lunch: Available 11:30 am - 2:30 pm
Dinner: Available: 5:00 - 9:00 pm

Final seatings at 9:30 am, 2:30 pm, 9:00 pm respectively. A ‘last call’ is made 15 minutes before period ends. Exceptions may apply based on train schedule or in the event of a delay.