Ok, since I started this thread on a totally different note, I feel compelled to add my 2c worth.

As I see it, we are all entitled to our opinions, formed by our life experiences.

I have dined at many world class restaurants in many nations. Stupid I may be, but I've never heard of the Michelin guide, nor, I would guess, have most Americans. Most choose restaurants based on personal food preferences and the recommendations of others I would imagine. I have eaten at world class restaurants that I would not return to for various reasons, cost not being one of them.

While the food on Amtrak is of limited variety, and the ability to prepare in a variety of ways is limited due to space constraints, I have never found it to be totally intolerable. Quite the opposite. Would I take an Amtrak trip just for the food? No, but would I eat food court/fast food in lieu of eating in the dining car? No. Just as I do not travel to Europe just to fly over the ocean on a particular carrier, I don't travel Amtrak just for food. Similar to staying in a hotel that offers me an executive level breakfast with my room, Amtrak provides 3 meals a day with my room. It may not always be what I want, but it is adequate to fill my needs.

I believe that those who ride Amtrak are doing so for the train experience and the pleasures of rail travel. The majority of the riders would likely be very angry if food were not provided at all on board.....Harvey House type stops just don't exist anymore.

I believe that over the last 5 - 7 years the food has been more variable. Having lived most of my life in beef country, I can honestly say we've had some of the best steaks ever on the SWC. They were very thick. Last time they were thin. Oh well, we adjusted. Yes, the food varies, but unless you have the same chef preparing everything it will.

As to the cost for coach riders, liken it to a theme park. There isn't anywhere else to go for food, so you pay the price. A cold hot dog and warm soda for $10 isn't exactly a bargain. Even the airline 'snack' boxes are being sold for much more than value and the few of those I've had were very difficult to consume.

Bottom line, enjoy Amtrak for what it offers. A wonderfully relaxing ride where you can see the scenery - good, bad and ugly. If you feel the need to eat, try the dining car, if you don't like it, don't eat it again - go hungry , go get a white castle burger in the cafe car, or grab a bunch of chips and soda from the next vending machine you find. You have the choice.