Trend alert: some of the top food experiences in Europe are found right in the region’s train stations! Yes, you read that right. If you are a foodie (or a person who hates the term “foodie” but loves food), then we’re here to tell you that your next out-out-this-world dining experience isn’t even out of the train station! These hubs have upped their culinary game to provide travellers a souvenir of something delicious without having to travel the distance.

From champagne in London's Kings Cross St Pancras to a sushi in Barcelona, it’s time to explore Europe's finest train stations with your stomach.

Le Train Bleu, Gare de Lyon | Paris

Fine dining on wheels

It seems unfair to call Le Train Bleu a "train station restaurant", since it's more like an ode to the train of the same name. And although the original Train Bleu (otherwise known as the Calais-Mediterranée Express) completed its last journey back in 2007, its memory lives on through a truly unique dining experience. Expect delectable food and decadent surroundings, all to match the elegance of the luxury overnight express service. 

Pro tip: Couldn’t get a reservation or caviar isn’t in your travel budget, but you still really want to check out the opulent decor and get a feel for (selfie at 🤭) this iconic establishment? You can go in and just have a coffee or a fresh pressed juice!

1e Klas, Centraal Station | Amsterdam

A gastronomic trip back in time

For first class dining in Amsterdam, you don’t even have to leave the station! Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas, on Platform 2 of Amsterdam Centraal Station, has an extensive menu with quick turnaround to accommodate those with a train to catch. Embrace Holland in all its glory by opting for an Ossenworst of Apfelstrudel or soothe your soul with a cold brew. Much of the menu is dedicated to beer, so make sure you plan a comfortable break between connections. The physical restaurant itself maintains its original feel with decor and furnishings similar to the stylings from when it first opened its doors in the 19th century.

Champagne Bar and Grand Brasserie, St Pancras International | London

The convenience of a train station with a high-end feel

No round-up of train station restaurants would be complete without this effervescent number. On the upper concourse of the station you’ll find St Pancras by Searcy's Champagne Bar, the perfect way to start or end a long journey. Relish the stunning view from above as trains come and go while you enjoy some bubbles and assorted bites. Then, opposite the champagne bar is St Pancras Grand Brasserie – an elegant eatery that merges the old-fashioned glamour of train travel with a delectable British menu. If you’re there on a Friday or a Sunday evening you may even be treated to a spot of soul or jazz music.

The Booking Office, St Pancras International | London

Old school charm with a new school approach 

Ah but wait, there's more. Adjoining the magnificently restored St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, The Booking Office Bar and Restaurant brilliantly captures the romance of the railways. Set in the historic former ticket office, the tradition of the building is brighter than ever with its splendid high ceilings and traditional decor plus a cocktail menu that celebrates and reimagines lost recipes from its Victorian past. If you have time to spare, don’t miss their popular afternoon tea service that comes with a classic selection of teas, finger sandwiches and decadent pastries.

La Mundana, Estación Barcelona-Sants | Barcelona

An unpretentious take on fine dining, steps away from the station

As a Bib Gourmand recipient in 2023, it’s no surprise that La Mundana serves up masterful takes on Spanish, Japanese, French and other European classics in scrumptious tapa form. The surprise lies in the restaurant’s welcoming, or as their team describes it, "unpretentious," fine dining experience. You’ll enjoy elevated dishes that seem too creative and beautiful to each – but do eat them and savor every single layered bite of patata bravas, croquetas, Korean ribs, prawn carpaccio and other La Mundana classics. With a reasonable price point and proximity to Barcelona’s Sants station, you’ll find both locals and travellers passing through. So be sure you have a reservation that aligns with your travel plans because this gastro-pub, like your stomach after a visit to La Mudana, won't be empty anytime soon.

Salm Bräu*, near Wien Hauptbahnhof Station | Vienna

A full belly that’s just a hop, skip and a jump away

*This one isn’t technically in the train station, but it’s too good to not include on the list, so humour us if you don’t mind.

A trip to this traditional microbrewery is, more than any other stop on our list, for the hungry and thirsty. This brewpub’s hearty menu features popular local dishes like sausages, goulash and, of course, schnitzel, along with an impressive beer list to boot. With its large portions and affordable prices, many locals and tourists alike pull up a stool at this beer garden. 

La Brasserie de la Gare Brussels Midi | Brussels

Because you can't argue with "Michelin Guide recommended"

This can’t-miss has the Michelin Guide stamp of approval for classic Belgian cuisine for locals and tourists alike. La Brasserie de la Gare makes a little nod to its prime location by the bustling Midi station by hanging old train lanterns, train timetables and railway workers’ hats around the restaurant. And that’s not the only notable decor element. The unmissable paintings adorning the walls were done by none other than Paul Vankueken, the restaurant owner’s father. 

But what about the menu? From shrimp croquettes to frites, all the Belgian classics are prepared with finesse here. The owner also proudly stocks a wide array of wines that are high in quality and at a low- to mid-price point. A good man, that Monsieur Vankueken.

All’Antico Vinaio: Stazione Centrale | Milan

For those who get all their food recs from TikTok

You may have seen the owner of All’Antico Vinaio passionately crafting double-decker Italian subs with the freshest ingredients in all of social media. Now you can taste them in real life and in Stazione Centrale in Milan. Next time you take a pit stop in Milan, the first location opened outside their hometown of Florence, head to All’Antico Vinai for made-to-order sandwiches that will beat just about anything you can buy at train bar car. 

Made on the freshest of fresh schiacciata bread, one bite is all it takes to understand why these gluteny pillows go viral regularly. Although these tasty toasties hail from Tuscany, when you’re on the rails in Italy, do as the Tuscans do and dive into the popular ‘Favolosa’ sandwich that is stacked with Sbriciolona salami, pecorino cheese spread lovingly made in-house, artichoke spread and spicy eggplants. 

Terminus Nord, Gare de Nord | Paris

An authentic brasserie experience right next to your terminal

Get all the charm of Paris, and all the taste of a traditional brasserie, without having to hit the winding streets of the charming capital city. All of the French food all-stars grace this menu. Think: escargot, mussels and fries, coq au vin and crème brûlée – the true crème de la crème, if we may. And if you are looking for a little screen-free entertainment, cosy up to the staff to hear tales of celebrities and legends that have eaten right where you are sitting. 

The verdict is in! The evolution of train station dining is YUM!

Gone are the days of selling a soggy sandwich for 15€ at the train station – this isn’t air travel, is it? Travellers are demanding (and deserve) exciting, authentic experiences right on their travel routes. Inventive bakers, chefs and restaurateurs are stepping up to the plate – literally. This list is just a taste of the incredible meals and dining experiences you can have while waiting for your next connection. The best way to find new gems inside these stations is by hopping on a train, trying them out for yourself and recommending them to friends to get the word out. And we hope you include us as one of your travel friends, so let us know what places to add to our next edition. 

Until then, bon appétit!

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