Napa Valley Wine Train

This summer, I had the privilege of stepping back in time and getting a true picture of traveling and dining by train by riding the Napa Valley Wine Train, located in Napa, Californa.  At the Napa station, the train made up of original 1915 red and gold Pullman Cars stretched as far as I could see down the track. On board, I sat at a table covered in white linens and fine china, surrounded by ornate woodwork and wide windows decorated with thick, luxurious curtains. My eyes poured over the mouth-watering menu and wine list. Wines are not included in the price of your ticket. They range from around $8-18.

For my meal, I chose the beef tenderloin, which came with a delicious grilled Gorgonzola toast and pan seared asparagus. It did not disappoint. The tender beef melted in my mouth and Gorgonzola toast was rich and yummy.

On my tour, we were on the "first service" which means we were served lunch on the first leg of the trip and would have dessert on the return trip. After lunch the train stopped at Grigich Hills Winery for a winery tour and tasting. Our tour guide seemed a bit stiff and serious, but some of the wines were delicious.

On the return trip to Napa we had dessert service in the lounge car. This was the most disappointing part of the trip. The coffee was hot and delicious, but the dessert was warm, runny and tasteless, instead of chilled and rich.

During the trip, a stop by the kitchen revealed and amazingly narrow, yet fully operational kitchen, brimming with activity. Each plate is made to order and served while the train is in motion.

Below is the meal I enjoyed. Give it try and take a nostalgic trip back in time.

$94 Lunch- Includes Train Fare and Prix Fixe Gourmet Meal. Wine Pairing Separate.

These expertly refurbished 1915-1917 Pullman Cars create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and enjoyment. Meals, crafted by Executive Chef Kelly Macdonald, are prepared in a specially fabricated kitchen car located immediately adjacent to each dining area. As with all our menu choices, the meals are freshly prepared on the train using environmentally responsible ingredients, humanely raised, hormone-free meats and fresh, line-caught fish.

Wine Country Chef's Table: Extraordinary Recipes from Napa and Sonoma

Frommer's Napa and Sonoma Day by Day (Frommer's Day by Day - Pocket)