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Dinner on The Orient Express

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There are few dining experiences in the world that carry the same mystique as dinner aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Synonymous with glamour, romance and the golden age of travel, this famous train transforms an evening meal into a theatrical journey through history, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence.

Dinner on the Orient Express is an event in itself. From the moment you prepare for the evening to the final notes of the pianist drifting through the bar car, every detail has been designed to evoke timeless indulgence.

THE SETTING

The setting for dinner on the Orient Express is nothing short of extraordinary. The meticulously restored 1920s dining cars are masterpieces of Art Deco design, each one lovingly preserved to reflect the glamour of a bygone era.

There are three dining carts aboard the Orient Express – Étoile du Nord, Côte d’Azur, and L’Oriental – each with their own character. Lalique glass panels shimmer in the soft light; intricate marquetry details adorn the walls, and crisp white linen is laid with polished silver and crystal stemware.

As dusk settles outside the windows, dinner on the Orient Express takes on a magical quality. Candlelight flickers softly against polished wood, conversations hum gently and the rhythmic motion of the train provides a soothing backdrop.

The Orient Express dress code for dinner is formal, and unapologetically elegant. Men are expected to be in black tie — a tuxedo or dinner jacket with bow tie — while ladies embrace elegant evening gowns, chic cocktail dresses, or sophisticated formalwear. 

THE DRINKS

Aperitif hour begins as the sun slowly fades. The unmistakable sound of cocktails mixing can be heard as negronis, spritzes, and sours are crafted. Crystal coups are filled with champagne, while the sommelier offers a carefully curated selection of European vintages.

Pre-dinner drinks can be taken in the comfort of your cabin or alternatively in the dining cars and grand suites. Stewards move through the train, ensuring that your glass remains topped up.

THE MENU

What sets the menu on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express apart is that everything is prepared fresh onboard by skilled chefs working within the train’s kitchens.

The Orient Express menu is typically inspired by the regions through which the train travels. A journey through France might feature delicate lobster with citrus beurre blanc, followed by tender beef fillet accompanied by truffled pommes fondantes. Travelling through Italy may bring handmade pasta, rich risotto or perfectly executed tiramisu.

The one element that remains consistent across all meals on the Orient Express is quality. Ingredients are fresh and seasonal, delivered to the train en route to ensure the highest standard. Presentation is elegant without excess – plates arrive beautifully composed, balancing flavour, colour, and texture.

THE DINNER 

Dinner on the Orient express unfolds at an unhurried pace, guided by the gentle rhythm of the train along the tracks. 

The multi-course meal may include an amuse-bouche, starter, main course, cheese selection and dessert, followed by coffee and petits fours. Each course feels thoughtfully timed, allowing guests to savour every bite.

The evening rarely ends with the final course. Guests drift to Bar Car ‘3674’ where a pianist plays softly beneath low lighting and polished brass fixtures. Signature cocktails are mixed with flourish, and champagne continues to flow.

For those who linger into the early hours, a midnight brunch is offered — lobster rolls and truffled club sandwiches providing a delicious encore to the evening’s fine dining.

Ultimately, dinner on the Orient Express is about far more than the menu. It is about atmosphere, ritual and the art of slow travel. The combination of exquisite food on the Orient Express, impeccable service, and an unforgettable setting creates a dining experience unlike any other.

If you are looking to book an Orient Express holiday, then get in touch with our expert team to plan your rail holiday of a lifetime.