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July 10, 2025

Now ‘Serving’ Our Guests with an Enhanced First Class Experience on Acela

As we continue to focus on elevating and investing in the Acela First Class experience, we introduced several new upgrades onboard last month, including: new plates and service ware, updates to our presentation and service delivery, and a refreshed Spring/Summer menu of our ongoing, successful partnership with Stephen Starr restaurants.

These elevated touches will add to the experience onboard and improve expectations for what to expect on Amtrak and Acela First Class. In addition, they reflect a larger commitment to redefining hospitality and positioning Amtrak as the leader in premium service.  This includes a full set of new items and service changes creates an impressive impact with every meal served to our guests, featuring hot towels distributed before entrée service, linen tablecloths, glassware and linen coasters for all beverages, and a suite of new plates designed with inspiration from the distinctive Acela logo.

Acela First Class customers will also be delighted to enjoy a continuation of culinary artistry brought to you by restaurateur Stephen Starr. Starting this spring and through summer, our new signature selections, only available onboard Acela First Class, include the following, new rotating selection of signature dishes from iconic STARR restaurants.

  • Charred Bobo Chicken from Anselm – Offered for the first time in Acela First Class, the Charred Bobo Chicken features a marinated chicken breast, lightly charred to perfection, and served with a spicy, creamy aji verde sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. Accompanied by roasted acorn squash, this dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
  • Ricotta Ravioli from Parc – Paying tribute to the beloved French bistro, where good food, good wine and great company create an unmistakable love of life, this dish features handmade pillows of pasta filled with creamy ricotta, served with a rich plum tomato sauce, fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
  • Crab Enchiladas from El Presidente – Another first-time offering in Acela First Class from this festive neo-retro Mexican eatery in Washington DC, guests can savor Lump Crab Enchiladas, a delightful Mexican dish that combines the earthy flavors of corn tortillas stuffed with succulent lump crab, coconut, poblano peppers and corn. This exquisite creation is glazed with a rich guajillo chili sauce, and topped with tangy lime crema and a sprinkle of queso fresco.

We’re proud to show our guests that First Class means something exceptional. We strive to distinguish your time with us through elevated amenities and unparalleled services.

First Class guests can also enjoy priority boarding, other premium amenities, complimentary  onboard food and beverage services,  privileged access to station lounges in Boston South Station, Moynihan Train Hall in New York City, William H Gray III 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, and Washington Union Station, 50% bonus points for Amtrak Guest Rewards members, and more. Learn more about Acela First Class here.