Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley Wine Train Restaurant Review:

As at every train station, people here seem from elsewhere, cued by tour group name tags, accents and fussier-than-usual apparel --- apropos for a formal photo prior to the excitement of “all aboard!” Journeys vary by train car: if it's a special occasion, splurge for a Vista Dome booking, a gleaming antique Pullman car with plush, elegant booths and a glass-domed ceiling that casts a romantic, dusk light. A sparkling wine toast kicks off a four-course, well-engineered meal served en route. Hors d’oeuvres may include smoked salmon crêpe or yam ravioli, followed by seasonal soup or salad. Mains include the roast beef tenderloin atop vegetable-potato sauté in a Zinfandel reduction with horseradish cream; grilled salmon marinated in fresh herbs on sweet pea mashed potatoes with caper pesto and roasted peppers; or grilled lamb chops in a Merlot reduction. Engaged servers foster the romantic spirit and pamper with the professionalism of yesteryear. Take a wobbly walk to the train’s caboose to soak up the moonlight prior to dessert --- perhaps crème brûlée with blueberries or Grand Marnier cheesecake with fig reduction. Note: It’s called the Wine Train for a reason, and BYO is a savvy option. Check the schedule for lunches, wine education dinners or, for the truly “loco,” the chance to book the jump seat to observe the conductor and engineer in action.