Amtrak Food Options And Tipping Information

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  • Опубліковано 29 вер 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 514

  • @ladycarla8370
    @ladycarla8370 2 роки тому +210

    I remember going on the Southwest Chief in 1973 with my parents and two brothers. I was 11 years old and my mom and dad packed so many sandwiches, chips, candy bars, fruit, pop and cookies that it lasted from Kansas City to LA😃 What wonderful memories. One sad part 😩…we thought the train pulled off, leaving our mother in Albuquerque. We cried and before our daddy asked the attendant what they could do, our mama appears and we screamed!!! We asked her where she had been and said “in the cafe car drinking coffee in peace🥰” So glad I found your channel. What a joy you guys are!!!My husband and I will take the train from Portland to Seattle in a couple of months on my 60th Birthday☺️.

    • @donnabaynes3978
      @donnabaynes3978 2 роки тому +19

      Sweet that you refer to your parents as "mama and daddy". Happy and safe travels to you and hubby. n

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +15

      great story! Thanks for sharing it with us, we love it!

    • @annwilliams7808
      @annwilliams7808 2 роки тому +5

      LOL! Poor kids.

    • @marywalker2896
      @marywalker2896 2 роки тому +11

      What a great story . wonderful memories..I am 70 and still call my mama and daddy. Mama and Daddy because that's what they were to me ..

    • @vbrown998
      @vbrown998 2 роки тому +4

      Enjoy your birthday.

  • @susanking8409
    @susanking8409 2 роки тому +3

    I have taken one Acela first class trip and am officially addicted to how fun the train is and cannot wait to book my next trip! I get my fix by watching these videos. Amtrack should get you some free train rides so you can make videos...

  • @deejames1st
    @deejames1st 2 роки тому +12

    This is all so incredibly helpful. Great content. Thank you.

  • @donnas411
    @donnas411 2 роки тому +3

    Thanks for all this information. These travels with you two are great and exciting! I enjoy taking the journey with you! Life of traveling is so fascinating!

  • @LMays-cu2hp
    @LMays-cu2hp 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for sharing how you two felt about eating on Amtrak. My Mother loved traveling first class with a sleeper cabin to the west coast and liked eating in the sit down restaurant. She loved trAin to do g a lot.

  • @JourneyingwithLaura
    @JourneyingwithLaura 2 роки тому +2

    I just rode the Empire Builder from Chicago, departed at 2:15pm. As we pulled into Milwaukee 2 hours later something fell off the dining car and caused a coach car to ‘derail’. No injuries! Everyone was fine but the result (8 hours later) was that we had to leave the dining car behind 😭. Fast food was picked up for us at certain stops along the way for lunch and dinner and brought to our rooms. Breakfast came from the cafe and was delivered to our rooms. No real choices, we got what arrived. I and my car mates were greatly disappointed. Fortunately for myself, I am about to get on the Starlight and then the Zephyr so I SHOULD eventually get to enjoy the traditional dining.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 2 роки тому +2

      Considering how old much of Amtrak's rolling stock is, Amtrak is doing a great job just keeping them running. How many refrigerators have you had lasted more than ten years before buying a new one? There are lots of HVAC, freezer refrigerators, hot water tanks and pumps onboard a train that require significant maintenance over the years of being in use practically 24-7 for decades. Amtrak turns these trains around within hours before their next journey...

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +2

      Wow, how crazy is that! You should call in to customer service and let them know what happened on your trip and you'll probably get a free voucher.

    • @JourneyingwithLaura
      @JourneyingwithLaura 2 роки тому +1

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Yes, I plan on doing just that. I was disappointed but not upset, these things happen, but would like a bit something by way of reimbursement.

  • @TasteofRetirement
    @TasteofRetirement 2 роки тому

    Will be taking the Coast Starlight in September in a roomette from L.A. to Seattle. Question: Do they serve dinner on the last night before reaching Seattle? Need to plan on a late dinner once off the train if they don't. Thank you!

  • @SheConduit
    @SheConduit Рік тому

    Has anyone used a lunchbox sized portable food warmer to heat food on the longer trips?

  • @renekelley2550
    @renekelley2550 2 роки тому +2

    Are there vegan or vegetarian options on the train

  • @hllymchll
    @hllymchll 2 роки тому +1

    13:00 for tipping

  • @arman6119
    @arman6119 10 місяців тому +14

    Nothing better than eating breakfast on Amtrak as you roll thru town with vehicles stopped at crossings on their way to work

  • @jhagestad
    @jhagestad 8 місяців тому +7

    Terrific video guys! You summarized things really well, and it’s clear you’re not just experienced Amtrak travelers, you’re passionate about it as well. Subscribed!

  • @kathiesullivan2543
    @kathiesullivan2543 2 роки тому +25

    The food was the best part on the California Zephyr. Having the roommette, they feed you three meals a day and towards the end of the trip, we found ourselves skipping lunch as we were too full!

  • @bholmes5490
    @bholmes5490 Рік тому +7

    Being arthritic I have the car attendant bring the meals to my compartment. Wonderful service!

  • @dcrfire
    @dcrfire 2 роки тому +22

    Hey Rob, we are on the Southwest Chief to Flagstaff now, crew change and maintenance stop in Albuquerque,NM, and I wanted to tell you I had the flourless chocolate torte for dessert at lunch! If you are a chocolate lover, this is for you! Rich, melts in your mouth and just enough whipped cream. Hope you get to sample it sometime soon.

  • @DCYote1
    @DCYote1 2 роки тому +19

    I was absolutely blown away by the quality of the food on the traditional dining experience on the Sunset Limited. I still say that steak was one of the most perfectly cooked I have ever had. And the French toast... Wow. I was expecting thin slices like one might find at a Denny's or something. It was truly amazing. And if your breakfast seating is towards the end of the breakfast hours and they have it, they will let you have plenty of extra sausage and/or bacon

  • @lisaharrington6488
    @lisaharrington6488 2 роки тому +20

    The food on the Zephyr was delicious! I had the Café food on the way to California and the Traditional Dining on the way back. Since I have no idea if or when I will get a chance to ride again, I was determined to be bold in my selections and I was not disappointed. Everything I tried was so yummy! Some things I would not traditionally order but I was very pleased with all of their offerings.

  • @TheStevep52
    @TheStevep52 2 роки тому +16

    I’m going to take my first Amtrak trip in early August riding the Cardinal from Cincinnati connecting to the Zephyr and finally the Coast Starliner to LA. Your travel guides have been most helpful and thorough covering everything I’ve wanted to know to be prepared for my trip. Your presentations are casual yet professional. Thank you for making these videos!

  • @wendibear1175
    @wendibear1175 2 роки тому +8

    I’ve never been on an Amtrak train. I really want to. Total bucket list item.

  • @blake1701grogu
    @blake1701grogu Рік тому +12

    Taking my first train ride in January from NYC to Atlanta. Got a roomette reserved and your videos are saving me from a lot of first timer mistakes and making me more excited for the trip.

  • @jaymyers9396
    @jaymyers9396 2 роки тому +33

    Hi, Rob and Ali! Great video, as always. I must have good "flourless chocolate torte" karma because I have always had it available. It is awesome . . . worthy of any top restaurant! I close my eyes and don't think about the calories when I eat it 😊. Keep the faith, Rob: There's a flourless chocolate torte out there, soon, with your name on it!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +2

      haha, thanks! Hoping to get it on the next one, glad to hear it was good!

    • @patriciacanero2110
      @patriciacanero2110 2 роки тому +2

      @@GroundedLifeTravel l love your channel. I was on the Texas eagle. Wish I seen your video before I rode the train
      Would of helped.

  • @youdontknowme5969
    @youdontknowme5969 2 роки тому +7

    Railroad French Toast for the win!!! 😋❤

  • @shirleymeyer5390
    @shirleymeyer5390 2 роки тому +6

    Thank you for all the tips,I love your video's,, I tried to book a trip to Sandpoint, Idaho for aug. the sleepers were taken so this old lady of 82 is going to tough it out by going coach,and after watching your video on going by coach it may not be so bad,, thank you,,

  • @brendalogan6281
    @brendalogan6281 2 роки тому +10

    I can't wait. Watching you two inspired me to do a cross country trip. I had to reschedule my trip from Feb to Oct , unfortunately had to loose my roomette and accept a family room. Really would rather be on upper level for the view.I wish they could lower some of the prices for roomettes. But because of your advise, I did get the credit card with 50,000 points and this trip taking me from Los Angeles to SFO on Coast Starlight then on the Zephyr and lastly on the Capitol Limited is free...using most of my points.Can't thank you enough....also watched your cruise videos and once it seems safe for cruising, I will improve my knowledge by rewatching those videos and book some cruises. Budgeting is always a consideration. I'm 72 and travel solo.It has been such a joy watching you both as you share your lives and travels. God bless!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому

      Awesome that you got the 50,000 points! We just noticed they are not offering it anymore so it didn't last long!

  • @celtglen
    @celtglen 2 роки тому +5

    The hardwood smoked bacon is to die for..seriously.

  • @lelandrogers1078
    @lelandrogers1078 2 роки тому +7

    I saw a video about a Builder that got delayed by snow for so long they gave out of food. The called ahead to the next stop and got Subway sandwiches for everyone.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +3

      That's a great story! Thankfully we've never been delayed long enough for that to happen!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 2 роки тому +2

      On the Capitol Limited after the diner freezer died, Amtrak called out and had a bucket of fried chicken delivered to the sleeper passengers...

  • @71jdanziger
    @71jdanziger 2 роки тому +3

    The flourless torte is with Waldo and Carmen Sandiego

  • @michaelfrantz1940
    @michaelfrantz1940 2 роки тому +9

    Another great show! I learn a great deal from watching your shows. And you guys are very entertaining too. Great job!!!

  • @tomw3473
    @tomw3473 2 роки тому +8

    I really enjoy your videos. I've booked a Roomette on the Southwest Chief next August. You've answered a lot of questions I've had. Thanks!

  • @African_Adoptee
    @African_Adoptee 2 роки тому +10

    What a through review. I wish they had more vegan options.

    • @peggycarilli4130
      @peggycarilli4130 2 роки тому +2

      Since we choose to eat vegan meals at home, we are also looking for tasty vegan options while riding on Amtrak. As things stand now, we realize that we might need to eat cheese with the vegetarian option.

    • @janis902
      @janis902 2 роки тому +2

      @@peggycarilli4130 Unfortunately it's a pain to travel vegan. The food choices are so limited. One of the first things I think of when traveling is where I'll get vegan food.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +2

      Thanks! hopefully it was helpful to plan a trip.

    • @African_Adoptee
      @African_Adoptee 2 роки тому +1

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Yes, it was very helpful.

    • @peggycarilli4130
      @peggycarilli4130 2 роки тому +1

      @@janis902 us too!

  • @bookbakery
    @bookbakery Рік тому +2

    Is vegan available? I am not vegan, but I cannot eat dairy (which makes me very sick). Vegan means nothing from an animal. I love steak and can eat hot dogs and hamburgers. I cannot eat anything with dairy. I will call Amtrak and get the low down on this.

  • @cynthiarogers2904
    @cynthiarogers2904 2 роки тому +8

    *YOU TWO ARE AWESOME. THANKS !!!*

  • @SWITCHMASHER
    @SWITCHMASHER 2 роки тому +6

    Thank you once again for an outstanding video. Always so detailed, the good and the bad. It is a shame it isn't like the 60's when I rode the trains from Connecticut to Kansas. The Golden Age of railroad dinning. Again thank you for the video!

  • @donaldscott3921
    @donaldscott3921 4 місяці тому +1

    This is now out of date. At least on the Zephyr - traveled in mid-April - the dining car is open to coach passengers. There is now a fixed price menu with several options for each meal. Breakfast was $20, lunch $25, dinner $45. It was excellent, served on china (or faux china), high quality. $45 may sound steep - but includes salad, main course, good dessert, and a beverage including alcoholic beverage at that price. Dinner items on the train included vegan option, and as I recall chicken and, but I chose an delicious Angus flank steak. Didn't have lunch, but breakfast was also a good value. Service was top-rate. No reservations now for meals in the dining car, at least on our train from Reno to Salt Lake, or back to Reno.

  • @1drummer172
    @1drummer172 2 роки тому +8

    The green chili tamales are absolutely incredible!!!😋

  • @barbaralienhard3490
    @barbaralienhard3490 2 роки тому +9

    Thank you for reviewing these options. We're in a Roomette in April so we'll have dining included. And I wasn't sure how much to tip, and knew you mentioned it before in a video so I'm happy you give that information frequently so we know what you do for tips.

  • @mistiinseattle
    @mistiinseattle 2 роки тому +2

    Crazy question but don't know who else to ask. Do you know if the "vegan" chili is made with vegetables or with the supposed "plant based" fake lab grown meat as are most or all of their other "vegetarian" options ? Asking because I am on a strict medical diet and would like to determine whether there is anything on the train I can eat (won't eat the fake stuff). I will have my fruits and veggies but it would be nice if I could eat something on the train since it is paid for with my roomette. Thanks and I love your channel.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      We aren't sure, you'd probably need to call them to find out

  • @EatWalkLearn
    @EatWalkLearn 2 роки тому +5

    We back in the before times (1986), I worked on Amtrak for the summer as a dining car attendant. We worked 18 hours a day then slept in the employee dorm car at night. A brisk shower woke us up at 5:00 am and then we worked until we closed dinner down. It was a great job! $9.54 hour plus tips, and tips were generally pretty good. We'd leave out of LA and go to either Chicago or New Orleans. There, we'd stay in a hotel for the night, then report back in the morning for the trip home. It was a great job...although I learned about the long-time customs of train workers that goes down through many generations. Those "old timers" didn't really care for part time college kids taking their jobs. I learned a lot that summer!

    • @grouchodarx8868
      @grouchodarx8868 2 роки тому +6

      I remember Amtrak travel back in the early 80s! NOT very "culinary-friendly" in the dining car. LOL. My mom and I took a trip on Train 4 to Chicago and she ordered one of the "microwave cheeseburgers" from the diner...She drank alcohol the rest of the way. LOL. My grand-dad was a chef on that same route back when it was the Santa Fe and I, currently, am a chef on the Coast Starlight.
      While the food quality is nowhere as good as it was during the Clinton Years, Amtrak struggles to maintain a balance between "food quality" and "cost effectiveness" in large part, because of U.S. House Representative John Mica's (R., FL.) theatrics when it came to Amtrak food operational costs and his efforts to contract out Amtrak food service in entirety. I, personally, feel that Amtrak made a huge mistake by contracting out its commissary operations. Now there is neither food product nor food quality consistency...in large part because of the contractor's efforts to secure product for the "least amount".

    • @EatWalkLearn
      @EatWalkLearn 2 роки тому +2

      @@grouchodarx8868 This is a great story. And yes, sadly, Amtrak is beholden to Congress' monetary whims. Hopefully it will return to some sort of glory days one day!

  • @doris3594
    @doris3594 2 роки тому +4

    We are planning a zephyr trip from Chicago to Emeryville and I am a vegan. Sadly there aren’t more choices in the menu for breakfast options and dinner options. I see there is a vegan chili. Hopefully Amtrak will notice that more people are eating this way and try to accommodate this growing population. I’ve read some sources that 6% of our US population is vegan which accounts for 9.7 million vegan Americans and I’m certain many would be more apt to want to take Amtrak long distance if they saw more options.

    • @bookbakery
      @bookbakery Рік тому

      Some of us have to choose vegan because of food allergies. I am allergic to dairy. I plan to bring one bag full of food.

  • @andycross1986
    @andycross1986 2 роки тому +10

    I took a ride on the Empire Builder back in October 2021. Great meal service! And they had the new flexible menu; but I think the options were a little different (I think). The only downer, not sure what happened, on the last morning the chef did not board the train; and we were left with yogurt, cereal or French toast for breakfast. I pray that was just a one-off. Has that ever happened to y’all? (Or anyone else)

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +5

      We once had the dining car attendant quit his job in the middle of the route after he had forgotten to put salad and rolls on the train. That is the only thing close.

    • @truthsayers8725
      @truthsayers8725 2 роки тому +2

      @@GroundedLifeTravel hi! ive commented before but when we boarded the Crescent to head BACK to ATL from NoLa, they didnt have any breakfasts. the train sat there overnight of course and they were about 30 minutes late in boarding. not sure what happened there. this was Oct 21. we also only had hot dogs or hamburgers for lunch/dinner. not sure why this was, they had all night to restock the food...
      we had roomettes and there was a snack type car in the consist but we knew nothing about how to eat in any dining car. maybe the Crescent doesnt have a dining car other that the Snack car? your other videos have had such GREAT LOOKING food! i want to ride a train with some of that wonderful food

    • @fanfictionsoundtracks6832
      @fanfictionsoundtracks6832 2 роки тому

      @@GroundedLifeTravel That sounds like something from a dramatic movie

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 2 роки тому

      @@truthsayers8725 It was probably do to covid- they just recently I think like 2 months ago put the dinning cars back on the trains. West trains out of Chicago and San Antoniono going to LA will have traditional dinning with the auto train, and all trains east of San Antonio and Chicago will have flexible dinning. Also dinning is now only reserved for sleeper passengers coach are not allowed to get it yet, but it might change in a few months.

  • @sallymonroe7767
    @sallymonroe7767 2 місяці тому +1

    The meals look tasty - had no idea what to expect. You do a GREAT job of telling and showing what the various options are.

  • @paulrivera5231
    @paulrivera5231 2 роки тому +5

    Now I know why I like your channel so much even though I don’t travel 🧳 and have no intention of taking the train 🚂.
    There’s sooo much anger everywhere. It’s on UA-cam and the news, etc. Yet, when I watch your videos I feel a sense of peacefulness. It’s very relaxing 😎.
    Great 👍 job folks !!!

  • @sozofam2164
    @sozofam2164 Рік тому +3

    Riding the train more these days and enjoying your videos!

  • @sugarcookiecube
    @sugarcookiecube 2 роки тому +3

    You are the cutest couple with great advice! I am looking forward to my Empire Builder train trip in October.😁

  • @jarmond1
    @jarmond1 6 місяців тому +1

    Get you a woman who looks at you while you talk the way she looks at him while he talks.

  • @suesturges6022
    @suesturges6022 2 роки тому +2

    How long ahead of time do you need to get your ticket for a sleeper? Want to travel west from Iowa. Also is it easy to get tickets to spend time in other places like a redwood forest then a different ticket to continue on? Is it worse now with pandemic changes. Employees have the vaccines needed? Wear masks? More people or less now? Traditional dining would be better for us. We are seniors and hope it is safe. Thank you so much for all your advice! February 1, 2022

  • @keithtimmons378
    @keithtimmons378 2 роки тому +4

    My wife and I are enjoying your videos. Traveling on Amtrak is on our bucket list. We live in Oxford, Alabama only 8 miles from the Amtrak station in Anniston, Alabama. I think the train is called the Crescent. Your videos have given us valuable information.

  • @jaybee4307
    @jaybee4307 Рік тому +2

    I recently took the Coast Starlight in a bedroom. The experience was awesome and food amazing. Flatiron steak was tasty

  • @brendapayne6603
    @brendapayne6603 2 роки тому +5

    I wonder if you can go into the Metropolitan Lounge after you get off the train and get complimentary food and drinks if you were a sleeping car passenger. Have you done that?

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +4

      That is a great question, and we have never tried it. I guess we were in a hurry to get to the hotel. We will try it soon.

    • @deeann7777U
      @deeann7777U 2 роки тому +3

      I have done that in the Metropolitan Lounge at the Chicago station. The buffet there offered free snacks and beverages, but not full meals.

    • @celtglen
      @celtglen 2 роки тому +2

      The answer is yes. Just show your ticket for entry. You can also check your carry luggage in the lounge if you have a few hours to kill walking around where you are.

  • @joaniedaniel9889
    @joaniedaniel9889 2 роки тому +2

    I truly enjoy your videos they answer a lot of questions. Thanks

  • @NOFAPC
    @NOFAPC 2 роки тому +3

    FYI keystone trains don’t have bar cars either…

  • @rochelleb973
    @rochelleb973 2 роки тому +5

    The food seems pretty good

  • @thebattery500
    @thebattery500 2 роки тому +1

    Wouldn't eat anything on any of these menus...

  • @VictorRuiz-nt1xm
    @VictorRuiz-nt1xm 2 роки тому +4

    Grest video/info once again. As part of my bucket list I will be taking my first train ride this coming June from Miami to New York (Silver Meteor I think ?) . As part of my 65th birthday. Can I purchase beer or drinks on the train ? Thanks once more for sharing your experiences with us.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      Yes you will be able to, and have a great birthday!

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 2 роки тому

      Happy Belated Birthday, hopefully all your wishes came true!!! Also how was the trip?

  • @deniseculton
    @deniseculton 2 роки тому +4

    I was 4 the one and only time I was on a train. 51 now. I still have a few memories. Mostly seeing the snow in the Cascades as we went to Eastern Washington.

  • @mycontainergarden
    @mycontainergarden Рік тому +3

    I love this! Reminds me of when I was eight years old and traveling with my Mom across country! What an Adventure!

  • @gigicostlow4414
    @gigicostlow4414 2 роки тому +3

    I ride the City of New Orleans between Memphis and Chicago though haven't been on it in around 3 years or so. How they used to do the dining car years ago was, sleeper and first class passengers ate first and only after they were done and cleared out did they let coach class in. They had prices on the menus then because coach had to pay for their meals. The pork chops I loved cost around $18.00. Of course I didn't have to pay thank goodness. They also had the cafe downstairs in the lounge car which is where most of the coach class got their food. The last time I rode only first class and sleeper car folks could eat in the dining room and I believe the prices weren't on the menu anymore. Not long after my last ride they went to Flex dining and changed things food wise on the train. I don't think traditional is back on the City of New Orleans yet. I have had to share a table in the dining car with strangers a few times but I didn't mind since I was alone. Was nice meeting new people and having someone to have a conversation with. One time the dining car was full and I stood up and asked if the song City of New Orleans went through anyone's head when they got on. The whole dining car started singing it. It was a blast! I have to say I have never been disappointed with the food or the service on the train. Union Station in Chicago has a food court with a variety of food available to eat there or take with you on the train.

  • @cimor1
    @cimor1 2 роки тому +5

    We’ve had the flourless chocolate torte many times on the sunset route this past New Years, though they did run out of the cheese cake

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +3

      Good to know, was it good?

    • @cimor1
      @cimor1 2 роки тому +3

      @@GroundedLifeTravel yes! Delicious! I think it were my children who ate all the chocolate torte Amtrak had😭at least they gave me a bite 😅

  • @lah5839
    @lah5839 2 роки тому +1

    Is it just the dining car menu that is included for sleeping accommodations, or is the Cafe food included as well?

  • @omennemo8844
    @omennemo8844 2 роки тому +4

    I traveled by Amtrack to go to Calif, and Texas in the 90s. When I traveled in the 2000, I saw a big difference. The ticket went up over 50%. Maybe more. I know it was a ridiculous price. The Attendant didn't answer my call bell so I could order my meals. The meals were like Marie Calendar freezer food. They used to have good steaks for dinner. I was disabled and had a hard time walking up the narrow stairs. The toilet and electricity didn't work which had us going up and down those stairs. The train hit a bump and tossed me from side to side when I was walking down the stairs and I injured myself. It took a long time to get compensated for that. Ever since the government bought Amtrack everything went down. The dinners included steaks just to give you an example. This last time I saw a big difference in the menu. They also had wine tasting and a movie and playroom where the children could watch cartoons. They didn't have that. The employees told me that when the government took over the rails all that stopped. My last trip was a nightmare.

  • @vbrown998
    @vbrown998 2 роки тому +2

    If you bring your own food, will a microwave be available? You may answer this later, I’ll keep viewing. Thanks. Found the channel today and I am binge watching. Love it.

  • @jdjour
    @jdjour 2 роки тому +3

    Your dining tips are much appreciated. I am wondering if gluten free options are available. I am willing to bring some of my own food, but I think I would need at least one nutritious dining car option per day on a two day trip with a roomette.

  • @paulknies5355
    @paulknies5355 Рік тому +1

    What food is available on capital limited

  • @ginamartin718
    @ginamartin718 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks guys. Im considering going to Vegas by train and just stumbled across your feed. Awesome thanks again. Otherwise I would not have know what to expect.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks! If you do go to Vegas, the last part will be on a bus, the train doesn't go the whole way there.

  • @brianpeters5694
    @brianpeters5694 2 роки тому +3

    You guys do a great job of giving passengers options, (including photos!) depending on the class of train or the length of your trip. My experiences with Amtrak have all been on the Coast Starlight (or the Cascade trains) where the food was quite enjoyable. Lots of fresh, locally grown fruits, salads and meat selections. The views are wonderful. From the photos you've shown, the selection of alcohol beverages is all low end product, no premium beers, wine or alcohol. The snack bar food selection is not worth the money from my point of view. It's akin to 'fast food' served all over North America. Poor quality and largely unhealthy selections. I will travel Amtrak again, hopefully later this year. The crews are fun, the views are spectacular and it's a train....and that's always good. I'd love to see you do a comparison story about the food and beverages served aboard VIA RAIL's "The Canadian" from Vancouver to Toronto. I'll be trying that early next year!

  • @melviasheppard8466
    @melviasheppard8466 2 роки тому +6

    Hot dog for $7.50. Please bring your own snacks ! Sometimes they can't take your credit or debit cards.
    Bring Your Own Snacks !!!!!!!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      We usually do bring as much as we can if in coach, that is the best idea!

    • @alyssag830
      @alyssag830 2 роки тому +2

      And drinks

  • @CircleofGrace1
    @CircleofGrace1 2 роки тому +1

    Again awesome.....Southwest Chief was my ride once I got to Chicago via NJ and then road it on top level coach down to Albuquerque, NM where I now reside😀 the past 11 years.

  • @wiggydebates3944
    @wiggydebates3944 2 роки тому +3

    I've only done a short trip from St. Paul to Wisconsin Dells and back, but it was lovely. My son used to go to college from Marion IL to Fargo, ND. THAT was a long haul in coachl, but the amount of luggage they'd allow made it THE way to go and from college each school year.

  • @bossanovamurdock5253
    @bossanovamurdock5253 2 роки тому +2

    I'm surprised after all these years they still have pizza on amtrak

  • @christinashepard8787
    @christinashepard8787 2 роки тому +3

    I love all your videos .. in 2018 we traveled by train Boston to glacier with vacations by rail. Fantastic vacation. My husband will tell you the train was the best part of our 16 day vacation in the national parks…lol now we will be going all the way to Seattle to catch a cruise to Alaska. Your videos sure help us thank you for your hard work

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +3

      That is awesome! Great idea to pair the cruise and train together

  • @danielonn2002
    @danielonn2002 9 місяців тому +1

    I booked a bedroom from Lamy to Los Angeles this January and I love the included meals. Last January I got lunch out of Lamy Dinner and Breakfast plus the Metropolitan Lounge.

  • @suewolf3279
    @suewolf3279 2 роки тому +1

    We were looking at doing the LA to Seattle train but after seeing one of your videos I guess the wildfires has interfered with that train. We then were interested in going cross country up in Canada. I would like to find a way to make several stops going cross-country in the US on a train. I'm wondering how much that would drive up the cost of the train tickets. I have a lot of research to do. I'm very good at cruises, and I love the trains in Europe. I just really do not think about doing a train in the US. We're senior citizens and we would like to see more of our own country. Thank you for such excellent videos.

  • @rosiehendricks490
    @rosiehendricks490 2 роки тому +8

    Hi I came across your channel this week by accident. I can’t stop watching I find it so interesting. I can’t travel on the Amtrak because I’m from the UK 😀but I’m just enjoying the content. My son is a train fanatic has been since he was very little. He is now 20! Maybe that’s the reason why your videos popped up as a recommended watch. I’m glad they did ☺️

  • @lauradawes1963
    @lauradawes1963 2 роки тому +2

    Somehow you both are comforting as well as adventurers to me. Keep up a great job. Maybe my hubby and I will take an Amtrak train vacation. I would love it a lot. Thanks, Laura from New Hampshire

  • @user-bq9nc4mg3s
    @user-bq9nc4mg3s 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you both for these informative videos. It helped me greatly in planning my first AmTrak trip from Chicago to San Antonio. More trips to come on AmTrak.

  • @governorjay
    @governorjay 2 роки тому +3

    Hi Allie and Rob, you have some great information here... thanks for sharing.

  • @Worldwheelchairwarriors
    @Worldwheelchairwarriors Рік тому +1

    What if you are deaf and you can't hear the announcements?

    • @whothou
      @whothou 5 місяців тому

      probably just let someone know your disability.

  • @lynnjakubo6062
    @lynnjakubo6062 2 роки тому +3

    Thank you so much for providing tip info. We took our first long trip - 3 trains over 5 days - and We had some problems with one of the dining car attendants on our recent trip Southwest Chief trip. He apparently didn’t think we were tipping enough. But now I know that we were tipping sufficiently.
    Thank you again for all the info you provided- you are the reason we are doing Amtrak and we love it.

  • @sunriseschubert4391
    @sunriseschubert4391 2 роки тому +2

    Wow! Much better food 🍲 than on the airplane!

  • @StillPlaysWithModelTrains1956
    @StillPlaysWithModelTrains1956 Місяць тому

    Just restore Dining Car Service on ALL Over-Night Trains East of the Mississippi for Crying Out Loud! I can get better food from Uber-Eats or Door-Dash compared to the Flex-Menu garbage Amtrak now serves.

  • @markakira8988
    @markakira8988 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you for this effort. Working on my dad's bucket list and this is very helpful. I appreciate this more than you know. Thanks again.

  • @suewolf3279
    @suewolf3279 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you for the info

  • @maxvanbalgooy
    @maxvanbalgooy 2 роки тому +2

    The Texas Eagle from San Antonio to Chicago has a cafe car to purchase food, but coach passengers weren’t allowed to sit down-they had to eat at their seat. The train was full, so eating at your seat wasn’t comfortable. The inconsistent service among Amtrak lines is confusing.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому

      It is different on almost every line for some thing, you are correct

  • @creinicke1000
    @creinicke1000 4 місяці тому

    I'm trying to sort out the cost of flying vs the cost of train.. and also.. (I'm cheap) the cost of driving. How about from small town in WI like LaCrosse (have to transfer thru Chicago and trains are always late!) And From Chicago to Denver? (just using this route as an example because it's a 2 day drive.. and I think train is similar time if delayed.. So why not fly? could be around 5-600.00 cost but only a LONG day, would have to drive up to Minneapolis 2.5 hours.. and I think it's a 4 hour flight and have to get there 2 hours early.. so it's an ALL day trip... but only one day. From what I can tell the cost of train room or roomet would be the same, but take so much longer.

  • @marleneyoung6575
    @marleneyoung6575 2 роки тому +3

    Do you think it is safe to take Amtrak from Fort Lauderdale to Manhattan in the middle of winter? (February) I have never been on Amtrak. Would like to go but don't know how the trains do in snow.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 2 роки тому +2

      Trains usually run as the railroads do have plows. Having said that, there might be a significant delay for the plows to clear the tracks. But the plows will eventually clear the track. Icy tracks aren't a problem though as trains use sand for traction. I had to wait on the Empire Builder in the Cascades a few hours after a snowstorm dropped several feet of snow on the tracks. Great watching snow plows work. Inches are nothing... Trains run, maybe late, airlines cancel... Be smart, plan to get to your destination a day earlier than you need to be there for that wedding or birthday... That extra day really eliminates worrying about being on time significantly...

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому

      I would think it would be fine

  • @umberceri1441
    @umberceri1441 2 роки тому +2

    This is my first video with you two! I have to say you two are a terrific couple!

  • @macsyung8757
    @macsyung8757 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you guys, that was a very enjoyable and educational video! I'm certain I will watch it again!

  • @squalli1297
    @squalli1297 2 роки тому +6

    Good stuff!! Offering complimentary meals to sleeper car passengers started in the early 90's. Although I'm good with having one meal/day, it really pushes my limits by having 3. Too bad Amtrak won't give sleeper car passengers discounted fares for not wanting meals. It's good food, but I need to force feed in order to get the full value of fares on long distance trains or it's my loss. Coach travel overnight is not an option. Amtrak had 1950's Slumbercoaches in service on some Eastern routes offering no frills sleeper car service without meals, but unfortunately they were all removed from service after Viewliners were introduced. I'm really dating myself....

    • @Beyloveseverybody
      @Beyloveseverybody 2 роки тому +2

      yes you are, but it's ok.😁

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      Those slumbercoaches sound awesome!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 2 роки тому

      @@GroundedLifeTravel There were no locks, just curtains. There is far too much crime today for unlockable sleeper berths...

  • @phyhau4218
    @phyhau4218 2 роки тому +2

    Are there Microwaves on amtrak thank you love your videos

  • @mzondi1970
    @mzondi1970 Місяць тому

    My wife and I are leaving out of Kansas City Missouri and taking our first trip to the West Coast we are going to Arizona Flagstaff I believe I would love to know the menu I'm quite picky

  • @dlagrua
    @dlagrua 5 місяців тому

    As a 21 yr Amtrak rider, I very much appreciate this couples videos and their honest opinions on travel. . I must disagree on one point. We've tried them many times but The Flexible meals are absolutely terrible, not even as good as a premium TV dinner. If you read the Flex labels they are loaded with salt, sugar and all kinds of toxic chemicals. Last time we were on the Cardinal we rejected the flex meals and just chose the cheeseburgers; not healthy but a better taste than flex.
    I would also appreciate their opinion on Superliner bedroom A that is pretty tight.

  • @scottprice4813
    @scottprice4813 2 роки тому +1

    You guys are a wealth of information . I took the California Zephyr westbound from Chicago back in 2006. In October I’m getting on in Denver. It’s an 8 am boarding - will I get breakfast in the dining car or is it better to just secure a place in the sightseer early on? New cars on this route to your knowledge? Thank you

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому

      Denver is a long stop so I'd drop my bags off in my room, then go right to the dining car for breakfast. You'll probably be able to eat and have barely left Denver when you are done. Then you could go to the lounge afterward. These will be superliner I and II cars which there is really almost no difference, neither of them are newer, but they are still nice.

  • @jane3069
    @jane3069 8 місяців тому

    I just took the Texas Eagle from Chicago to Arizona. I had a sleeper. I enjoyed my time in the sleeper, even tho my door kept slamming open. What I didn't like was the flexible dining. It was awful. The meal I didn't mind was the breakfast, which consisted of a muffin and yogurt. I still love going amtrak, but I will stay away from the flexible dining routes.

  • @AA_8184_1
    @AA_8184_1 2 роки тому +3

    Another great comprehensive overview. Excellent job as always!

  • @bossanovamurdock5253
    @bossanovamurdock5253 2 роки тому +2

    Do they still have the smoking cars a nice cigarettes would be nice after all these amazing meals

  • @frankrueter5218
    @frankrueter5218 2 роки тому +3

    Wish that there were additional salad dressings available as I really don't like what is offered. Thousand Island is my go to. When I first took the SWC #3 & #4 back in 2013 it was offered along with a number of others as well. Since it isn''t I just go dry. Used Amtrak yearly since 2013 with the exception of 2019. Great way to trave, I call it "Adventures on Amtrak" as you really don't know if you will arrive on time of a day late!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @toddnicholas4056
      @toddnicholas4056 2 роки тому +2

      You can always bring a bottle of Thousand Island on the trip, better than dry...I'm planning on bringing Frank's Hot Sauce and blue cheese dressing with me for my long distance loop route (Chicago to Seattle to LA to New Orleans to Chicago) in April...

  • @odelyalevy
    @odelyalevy 2 роки тому +2

    What about vegan if I am?

  • @piggylipscomb8018
    @piggylipscomb8018 Рік тому +1

    I'm late to it, but I love 💘 💕 ❤ your channel.
    Thank you for posting these helpful videos!

  • @glorydays8374
    @glorydays8374 2 роки тому +2

    I am new to your channel and my question is for the roomate opption, will the attendant bring dinner to the cabin if requesting that, or a breakfast or lunch?

  • @verak66
    @verak66 6 місяців тому

    New to your channel. Was hoping for more discussion of the vegan options. Many UA-camrs skate past this for some reason. If you're vegan (I am) it is a constant concern/problem.