Diners in Holland will soon be able to enjoy a four-course meal in a panoramic domed rail carriage as they are whisked around the country by train.
The Panorama Rail restaurant is located across three 1960s carriages, one of which features the glass domed roof. Twice a week, guests will be transported across the country by a 65-year old locomotive in a three-hour round trip that passes through Rotterdam, The Hague, Haarlem and the country’s famous tulip fields.
Over 100 diners can take the train at any one time. The carriages, which all contain existing kitchens, have been fitted with LED lighting and functional furniture – which is bolted to the floors but can be removed to make way for dancing, presentations or film screenings.
The distinctive panorama carriage is one of only a handful in the world. It was originally created in the 1960s for a trans-Europe train but had long been out of use before the Panorama Rail Restaurant purchased and renovated it.
Food on the trips will be served by Dutch celebrity chef Julius Jaspers, owner of the Amsterdam restaurants Julius Bar & Grill and Happyhappyjoyjoy. He is also a former juror on the Dutch versions of TV shows Masterchef and Top Chef.
“A trip to this restaurant is a real event,” said restaurant spokesperson Jouke Schaafsma. “You’re not just eating, or just sitting on a train. You get a sense of history, a sense of wonder at the view and a sense of modern, fun design. Coupled with that, there is the amazing food and atmosphere. It’s a unique experience.”
Journeys will begin on 1 April 2016. The service was originally launched in August last year but has been revamped for 2016 with a new menu.
A weekly service will run through Belgium to Austria, taking guests on skiing trips. A third service will allow groups to hire the train and restaurant to run on special routes along the line.
