Amtrak Elevates Acela First Class Menu with New and Returning Seasonal Options

Featuring dishes from award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr

WASHINGTON –  Amtrak and STARR Restaurant Group, led by James Beard award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr, are continuing their collaboration to provide premium, delicious meals for Acela First Class guests. Rolling out this winter, the updated menu features an array of new dishes and the return of popular favorites, reflecting Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to providing a premium Acela First Class experience.

“Serving elevated offerings in Acela First Class in partnership with STARR Restaurant Group adds an exceptional touch to our customers’ experience onboard on our trains,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch. “Whether enjoying a new option or a returning favorite, we’re thrilled to offer delicious food and beverage options to savor while relaxing on board, bypassing the traffic and uninspired fast food options at rest stops along the Northeast Corridor.”

🍴WHAT’S ON THE MENU: The new, rotating menu includes the following dishes on both NextGen and FirstGen Acela trains.

• Dishes from STARR Restaurant Group available for lunch and dinner:
  • Lasagna al Forno from Pizzeria Stella: A returning favorite, this selection brings together traditional lasagna noodles layered with tomato sauce – perfectly balanced with just a hint of sweetness, rich ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Black Pepper Beef from Buddakan: Also a previously popular option, Buddakan’s Black Pepper Beef features choice tenderloin perfectly marinated in a spiced black pepper sauce, wok-tossed with herbs and red finger chiles, and finally topped with crispy Chinese crullers.
  • Spaghetti Bolognese from Parc: Offered for the first time in Acela First Class, Parc’s timeless Spaghetti Bolognese features pasta tossed in a rich, slow-simmered beef Bolognese sauce, finished with freshly grated Grana Padano cheese and served alongside crisp garlic toast.

• In addition to these dishes, Amtrak is also introducing new creations curated by its Executive Chef, including:
  • Caramelized Apple Bread Pudding as a new breakfast offering
  • Chilled Harissa-Spiced Salmon as a new lunch and dinner offering

📷BIG PICTURE: Amtrak and STARR Restaurant Group have elevated the Acela First Class dining experience with a rotating selection of seasonal menus. Drawing from his portfolio of acclaimed restaurants that span Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, Starr brings onboard the culinary vision and refined service from his award-winning restaurants.