Chic Spotlight: R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train

Take a ride on R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train

Cincy Chic: When did R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train get started?
Gil Logan, Executive Chef at R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train: R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train held its inaugural run on August 14, 2013, which coincided with the 25th anniversary celebration of the original My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown, Ky.

Cincy Chic: What is the inspiration behind the dinner train?
Logan: Like its predecessor in Bardstown, R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train continues the tradition of reinvigorating classical train dining for a modern audience. We take some of the freshest foods in Kentucky and put a classical continental twist on them and then serve them with a smile to our guests. With a combination of fine food and captivating scenery, we hope that our Dinner Train provides guests with a pleasurable and memorable voyage.

Cincy Chic: Where does the train stop along one of its journeys?
Logan: Starting behind Rupp Arena, the track extends past McConnell Springs and glides through some of the most beautiful horse farms in Kentucky such as Ashview and Calumet, passes behind Keeneland Race Course, drifts through the village of Pisgah, and finally settles in the town of Versailles before the train makes its return to Lexington. The lunch excursion lasts 2 hours and the dinner excursion is 2 ½ hours.

Cincy Chic: What do participants enjoy while riding the train?
Logan: Along the 15-mile trek from Lexington to Versailles, passengers will enjoy seasonal entrees as well as a scenic tour of locally and historically significant locations not seen by passengers in over 70 years. Along with pleasant conversation among their fellow riders, guests can also expect excellent service from our staff.

Cincy Chic: What are the price points for riding R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train?
Logan: During our lunch excursions, individual tickets are $69.95 for adults and $44.95 for children (ages 5-12). For dinner excursions, individual tickets are $84.95 for adults and $54.95 for children. Tickets for special excursions run $109.95 for adults and $69.95 for children.
In addition to serving individual passengers, the Lexington Dinner Train also caters to a variety of groups and events including anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, business dinners and more. Exclusive rates are available for such special events and for parties of 10 or more members.

Riders of all ages will get a one-of-a-kind experience on the dinner train.

Cincy Chic: Why do you think so many people form Cincinnati venture down to Lexington to enjoy the dinner train?
Logan: The Dinner Train is a one-of-a-kind experience that appeals to a wide array of people: from families looking for a novel dining experience, to train enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in a historical voyage, to friends and colleagues hoping to spend quality time together in an elegant and serene atmosphere. Furthermore, our special events add an exciting twist to the experience for those looking for an unforgettable night of entertainment. In short, people come from near and far to experience a classical world reimagined for modern tastes.

Cincy Chic: Is there anything new on the horizon for R.J. Corman’s Lexington Dinner Train?
Logan: In the near future, we will be adding another car to the train, which will increase the number of seats from 40 to 100. The addition of more seating will allow us to not only serve more customers, but also offer more special events, such as the popular Murder Mystery show currently available on our Bardstown line. We are also looking forward to hosting the North Pole Express excursions for the holiday season, which appeals to families with children eager to relay their Christmas wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Clause.

Cincy Chic: Where can readers go to learn more or purchase a ticket?
Logan: Please visit our website to learn more about the train’s history, group rates and lunch and dinner menus. Visitors can purchase tickets online or call 1-866-801-3463 for reservations or more information.