I've heard through the grapevine that they are now offering upgraded meals on the Three Rivers, i.e. table and linen service with upgraded meals at lunchtime eastbound and dinnertime westbound. I know there is no dining car on this route, but maybe they set up a few tables in the lounge and serve tray meals? I am taking a trip on the "Rivers" in October and was wondering if anyone had taken it recently and noticed any changes. Also, I know a few months ago they were, without any prior notice to passengers, taking off the sleeper on this route due to Viewliner shortage. Anyone know if this is still going on??
Posted by coachclass (Member # 2382) on :
Yes, as of the last few months the Three Rivers has converted 1/2 of its lounge car to a mini dining car, complete with better meals, linen table cloths, fresh flowers and another service attendant. The meals are primarily for sleeping car passengers, for whom they are included in their fare, but if there are extras available, coach passengers may buy the upgraded meals as well. When I was on the 3R last month it sure smelled and looked good as I waited in line for my lowly sandwich to take back to my coach seat. I also think that the 3R has some of the most friendly and helpful on board service crews both east and west of the Pittsburgh crew base. As for the Viewliner sleeper being available, there is always one regularly scheduled on this train, and the very few times that it has been out of the consist is when one is bad-ordered and no back ups are available at the time of departure from Chicago or NYC.
Posted by Gilbert B Norman (Member # 1541) on :
I totally concur with Mr. Coachclass's comments. Based on a May 20 trip PHL-CHI, the 3R has a "can do" on-board svc crew.
It seemed to be an attitude of: "they don't give our little train much in the way of amenities, but we're going to show you a ride that will make you glad you chose us'.
It sure proved to be a relief away from some of the NY based "rogues" that find their way on to the Lake Shore, such as an attendant who piled luggage in the shower room hopefully so no one would use it, or the dining car crew who decided a little background music to dine by would be a nice touch. Only problem, maybe someone out there likes to dine to RAP, but I know I don't.
Posted by jp1822 (Member # 2596) on :
What type of cafe/dinette car is on the Three Rivers - is it a Horizon car? What meals do the offer to sleeping car passengers in this section of the cafe/dinette car - lunch and dinner westbound and breakfast and lunch eastbound? You get "upgaded meals" for each sitting? This is a nice idea and certainly enhances the service. A full diner would be better, but with the shortage of diners (I guess) at least they are trying to find other alternatives! If the Three Rivers is ever re-equiped (full service diner, Amfleet II coaches, some sort of lounge/observation car), better trip times, and better scheduling, they should re-launch it as the Broadway Limited! One can dream right!
Not a fan of the Horizon coaches - even the renovated ones. Reminds me of my daily commute to work. The Horizon Dinette cars are nice though.
Posted by JoeR (Member # 2633) on :
Boy.... looks like the Rivers is becoming the best kept secret on the Amtrak system, a cozy little gem with great scenery, good crews, and now better meals! I can't wait for my ride in October!