Palace on Wheels food Review: what's on the menu ?

When you hear the words “Palace on Wheels”, images of royal cabins, vintage charm, and exotic destinations come to mind. But there’s one experience that truly defines this luxury train journey—the food.

Because on this train, meals aren't just meals. They're ceremonies of flavor, served in restaurants that look like royal banquet halls, on tables set for kings and queens.

If you’re curious about what’s on the menu or wondering how luxurious food on rails can really get, you're in for a treat. Here’s everything you need to know about the food served on Palace on Wheels luxury train—from breakfast to dessert, and everything in between.

🍽️ Dining Ambience: The Maharaja & Maharani Restaurants

Palace on Wheels hosts two regal dining cars—named Maharaja and Maharani—designed with opulence in mind. Imagine carved woodwork, soft golden lighting, crystal glassware, and courteous servers dressed like royal attendants.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a palace, even before the first dish arrives.

🥐 Breakfast: A Gentle Royal Wake-Up

Your mornings on the train begin with the gentle clinking of tea cups and the aroma of freshly brewed Darjeeling or masala chai.

Breakfast Highlights:

Fresh fruits, yogurts, and juices
Eggs made to order (sunny-side, omelets, boiled)
Indian breakfast options like aloo paratha, poha, and idli-sambar
Croissants, toast, butter, and preserves

Served either in your cabin or in the restaurant, breakfast is both hearty and graceful—designed to fuel you for a day of forts and safaris.

🍛 Lunch: A Fusion of Cultures and Cuisines

Lunch on board is a delightful blend of regional Indian thalis and international selections. As you pass through different cities, the menu often reflects the culture outside your window.

Typical Lunch Options:

Rajasthani thali with dal baati churma, ker sangri, and gatte ki sabzi
Mughlai dishes like chicken korma or mutton rogan josh
Continental dishes like grilled fish, pasta in creamy sauce, or baked vegetables
Fresh naan, rice, and raita
Dessert like gulab jamun, kheer, or tiramisu

Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are always available—and if you have dietary preferences, just let the staff know. They’ll take care of it, with a smile.

🍷 Evening Snacks & High Tea: Royal Refreshments

Evenings aboard are magical. After your sightseeing tours, you return to the train where refreshments await—served with live music, conversation, and sometimes, a view of the sunset over a desert.

What’s Served:

Samosas, pakoras, and finger sandwiches
Cookies and fresh fruit platters
Coffee, Indian tea, herbal infusions
Wine and cocktails (available at the bar for additional cost)

This is the perfect time to unwind, share stories with fellow travelers, or just watch India glide by your window.

🍽️ Dinner: A Grand Finale Every Night

Dinner on Palace on Wheels feels like the kind of experience where you dress up even if you don’t have to.

What to Expect:

Candle-lit tables with gourmet plating
Signature Rajasthani dishes and rotating international cuisine
Chef’s specials based on the day's region
Multi-course servings (appetizer, main, sides, dessert)

Each meal ends on a sweet note—often with desserts like malpua, rasmalai, or chocolate mousse. And yes, there’s always hot masala chai if you ask.

🌱 Vegetarian, Vegan, Jain, Gluten-Free? No Problem.

One of the best things about dining on Palace on Wheels is the personalized attention. If you’re:

Vegan
Following Jain food restrictions
Need gluten-free meals
Have allergies or health-based diets

…you’ll be well taken care of. Just inform the train staff at the time of booking or upon boarding. The onboard chef team ensures meals are prepared accordingly without compromising on taste or presentation.

🥂 Drinks and Bar Service

While meals are included in your fare, alcoholic beverages are extra and can be ordered at the Royal Bar Lounge. They offer:

Fine wines (Indian & imported)
Classic cocktails and whiskeys
Mocktails and juices

Sipping wine on a moving luxury train while watching a Rajasthani sunset? That’s a memory you’ll carry forever.

FAQs

What kind of food is served on Palace on Wheels?
A mix of Indian regional cuisines (especially Rajasthani), Mughlai dishes, and international options. Meals are served in fine-dining restaurant cars.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, always. You can also request vegan, Jain, or gluten-free meals with prior notice.

Is alcohol included in the ticket?
No, alcoholic beverages are available at an additional cost from the onboard bar.

Is the food safe for international travelers?
Absolutely. All food is prepared hygienically by trained chefs, using fresh, filtered water and top-quality ingredients.

Ending Note: Dining Like a Maharaja, Mile by Mile

The food served on Palace on Wheels luxury train is much more than just sustenance—it’s part of the journey. Every dish tells a story. Every flavor whispers a bit of India’s heritage.

Whether you’re sipping soup under a chandelier or sharing a thali with new friends, you’ll come away not just well-fed, but well-loved.

If you’re dreaming of luxury travel with a taste of tradition, Palace on Wheels delivers in every bite.