Feeling hungry before a long train ride is completely normal, but where can you go to fill up?
The era of choosing only between a burger or a packet of crisps has come to an end is thanks to the proliferation of outstanding eateries in Europe’s busiest train stations.
From London to Paris, and from Amsterdam to Stockholm, Euronews Travel is on its way to bring you the finest railway station haute cuisine.
Head Office in London, United Kingdom, 1869
ticket office.
In 2021, French architect Hugo Toro reimagined the space, drawing inspiration from a traditional winter garden from the Victorian era, which is why the space features towering palm trees and chandeliers with a plant theme. Each chandelier consists of 275 intricately cut brass leaves. The space’s highlights also include the skillfully exposed brickwork and a 22-metre bar crafted from marble and walnut wood.
A charcuterie board is ideal for a light meal.
Train Bleu, Paris, France
The train station has its roots dating back to 1901, when former French President Emile Loubet officially opened it.
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The walls were – and still are – adorned with priceless watercolour paintings, accompanied by chandeliers, gold-framed mirrors, frescos, and luxurious leather banquettes that demonstrate an exceptionally high level of opulence.
When it comes to food, expect refined interpretations of classic French dishes – there’s a delicious Provençal-style cephalopod stew, although one of the most popular dishes is the roast leg of lamb, carved tableside.
Wagon Restaurant, Athens, Greece
This innovative restaurant has been transformed into an extraordinary cultural and entertainment space, which features a theatre and a bar, creating an unforgettable experience.
Ligari’s inspiration stems from the so-called train theatre mentioned in Jules Verne’s classic novel “Around the World in 80 Days”, and fittingly, many dishes are inspired by various exotic locations around the globe. We suggest trying the braised veal with rigatoni, tomato sauce, cinnamon, allspice and red pepper.
Luzette, Stockholm, Sweden
Replicas of the original lamps thatonce lit up the station have been installed there in the 1920s.
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The specialty here is seafood and seasonal cuisine – almost all the food comes from local suppliers and the restaurant even has its own fishing boat.
Grand Cafe Restaurant First Class, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Decorative Chinese vases were displayed over the Victorian pub counter.
Be aware of the restaurant’s rather unusual mascot, a white cockatoo named Elvis, who is perched by the bar and has a preference for headbanging sessions.
The menu is a mix of different styles – you’ll find burgers (which are quite tasty) alongside omelets, and one of the most sought-after items is the smoked raw beef sausage.
The Tsar’s Restaurant, Bialowieza, Poland
The train station where this restaurant is situated is now non-operational, which is probably a fortunate occurrence, considering the prime tables are situated directly adjacent to the train tracks.
Built in 1903 under the orders of Tsar Alexander III, Białowieża was selected as the site for his expansive hunting estate – and wolves remain frequently seen in this area.
Almost all of the original architectural elements – including the decorative plasterwork, wooden flooring and terracotta ornamentation – have been cherishes and maintained with care.
The main courses are mostly traditional local dishes, with a standout being a tender and delicious deer steak served with a flavorful spread made from mushrooms and fresh horseradish.
The Counter, Zurich, Switzerland
Main Station, the city’s principal railway station.
Located at the very centre of the station, this excellent eatery offers a sense of complete seclusion. It has a cozy atmosphere with seating for only 23 people.
The minimalist interior design, lit by pendant-style lights suspended from the ceiling, keeps the attention firmly on the food displayed.
It’s not budget-friendly – the lunch degustation menu starts at 195 Swiss Francs (approximately 208 Euro) – but then again, this isn’t your typical train station food. Highlights, especially for those with a sweet tooth, include the bite-sized meringue with cherry and fennel.
Platform Restaurant, Dorset, UK
, southern England.
It was closed in the 1930s, although you may not notice – you will find the “Platform” inside one of several restored railway carriages, including “Brunel”, which was built in 1911.
is famous for.
For pre-dinner drinks, head to the Beeching, a charming carriage dating back to 1958.
