New York City: Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour

Imagine combining a scenic tour of New York City’s most iconic landmarks with a gourmet meal served right on a beautifully designed glass-roofed double-decker bus. That’s exactly what the Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour offers — a chance to see the city from a fresh perspective while indulging in thoughtfully crafted seasonal cuisine. It’s an experience that stands out among typical sightseeing and dining options, capturing both the city’s energy and its elegance.

We love the blend of visual and culinary delights — being able to enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of plush, climate-controlled seats, all while savoring dishes prepared by a master chef. Plus, the curated music and professional service elevate the entire experience, making it feel more like a special event than just a tour.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that alcoholic beverages are not served onboard, so if you’re looking to pair your meal with wine or cocktails, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Still, for those who appreciate excellent food, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury, this tour fits the bill for an unforgettable evening in NYC.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy good food combined with sightseeing, couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone seeking a memorable way to see the city from a new vantage point.

Key Points

• Gourmet Dining on a Double-Decker Bus: Enjoy a 4- or 6-course seasonal menu with restaurant-style service.
• Stunning 360° Views: The glass roof and panoramic terrace provide Instagram-worthy sights of NYC’s landmarks.
• Relaxing Comfort: Climate-controlled, comfortable seating ensures a pleasant experience in any weather.
• Flexible Tour Options: Usually available in the evening, with the ability to customize menus 48 hours in advance.
• Guided App: An interactive app enhances the tour with additional information about the sights.
• No Alcohol Served: Be aware that only non-alcoholic drinks are included; alcohol can be purchased separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Bustronome Tour

Once you meet at the designated spot on W 58th Street in front of Nordstrom, you’ll step aboard the luxury glass-roofed double-decker bus. It’s not just a bus — think of it as a moving restaurant with a view. The seats are arranged to maximize the panoramic experience, with climate controls ensuring comfort whatever the season. As the bus begins its glide through NYC, you’ll notice the curated background music setting a relaxed and elegant tone.

The route covers the most famous sites in Manhattan, such as Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. While the route can be adjusted to coincide with key events or seasonal highlights, the core focus remains on showcasing the city’s breathtaking skyline and architectural marvels.

The highlight, of course, is the gourmet meal. Chef Ashley Kim’s menu is designed to reflect the seasons, offering a carefully selected sampling of dishes. For lunch, you get a 4-course menu, while dinner features a 6-course tasting menu. The presentation is as refined as a restaurant, and the dishes are crafted to complement the scenic backdrop outside the windows.

During the meal, you’ll enjoy the restaurant-style service from a professional team, bringing the food to your table with precision. The curated background music adds to the atmosphere, making the entire experience feel relaxed yet refined. Many reviews mention the stunning views as a highlight — from this perspective, the city’s skyline seems to shimmer and change with every passing minute.

The app guide adds another layer of engagement, providing background on the landmarks you pass, which is especially helpful if you want to learn more about NYC while you eat and relax. The entire tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity — leisurely enough to enjoy without feeling rushed.

The Food: A Gourmet Journey

The menu, curated by Chef Ashley Kim, is a real treat. Since menus change seasonally, you might find dishes highlighting fresh, local ingredients. The sampling format means you’ll experience a variety of flavors and textures, from appetizers to dessert.

While specific dishes aren’t listed, the emphasis is on carefully selected products and seasonal dishes, which are designed to make each course memorable. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as “tolle Essen” (great food) and noting that the atmosphere was awesome.

It’s important to note that only non-alcoholic beverages are served onboard, so if you want wine or cocktails, you will need to purchase them separately. This could be a drawback for some, but it’s also an opportunity to focus fully on the food and views.

The Route and Landmarks

The journey typically covers the most well-known sights of New York City, providing a sweeping overview of its skyline, bridges, and iconic buildings. These include:

• Central Park and its lush greenery
• The Empire State Building’s impressive spire
• The Brooklyn Bridge’s graceful arches
• The Statue of Liberty from a distance
• The bustling Financial District
• The vibrant cityscape of Midtown and Lower Manhattan

Because the route can be adjusted to include current events or seasonal illuminations, the experience remains fresh and relevant. For instance, during holiday seasons, you might see festive lights, while special events could alter the route to highlight certain areas.

The Practical Details

Tickets are priced at $167 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider the all-inclusive nature — a scenic tour, a gourmet meal, and the comfort of a climate-controlled bus — it offers solid value, especially for a special occasion or a memorable night out.

The group size is limited to 8 people per table, fostering an intimate dining experience. The tour usually runs in the evening, giving you a beautiful view of the city lights, and you can reserve up to 48 hours in advance, with the flexibility to pay later. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours before, making it less risky to try.

The meeting point is straightforward — W 58th Street in front of Nordstrom — a central location that’s easy to reach from many parts of Manhattan. Remember, pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are welcome, and smoking or drinking alcohol onboard is prohibited.

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Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the stunning views and quality of food as the two main highlights. One traveler from Germany called it “tolle Essen und tolle Tour,” emphasizing the delicious meal and scenic ride. Another from the US described it as “amazing,” and a third appreciated the “awesome atmosphere.” The positive comments about professional guides and curated music reinforce how thoughtfully designed the experience is.

Some travelers note that the seats and climate control make the ride comfortable even in colder or warmer weather, allowing full focus on the sights and flavors. The limited alcohol options are a small downside some mention, but most agree it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment.

The Sum Up: Is the Bustronome Tour Worth It?

For those seeking a luxurious way to see New York without sacrificing great food, this tour offers a compelling combo. It’s particularly suited for food lovers, couples celebrating something special, or anyone wanting an elegant, relaxed evening with panoramic views. The small group size and professional service ensure a more personal touch than typical bus tours.

While the price may be on the higher side, the quality of the cuisine, unique setting, and breathtaking vistas justify the cost for many travelers. It’s a worthwhile splurge if you want to turn sightseeing into a memorable occasion.

However, if you prefer a more active or flexible sightseeing schedule, or if you’re looking for a full bar experience, this tour may not be ideal. Still, for those who prioritize gastronomy and ambiance over quantity, it’s a delightful way to experience NYC’s charm from the comfort of a glass roof and a gourmet kitchen.

FAQ

Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, the Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour is usually available in the evening, providing great views of the city lights and a relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy your meal and take in the sights without feeling rushed.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, only non-alcoholic drinks are served onboard. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately if desired.

Can I customize the menu?
Menus are seasonally based and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. They are carefully curated, so customization is limited but tailored to the season.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is W 58 St/Broadway, in front of Nordstrom, a central and accessible location in Manhattan.

Is the experience suitable for groups?
Yes, tables are available for up to 8 people, making it perfect for small groups, couples, or private events.

In the end, if you’re looking for a luxurious, scenic, and flavorful way to enjoy NYC, the Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour offers a distinctive experience that combines the best of both worlds. It’s a true treat for the senses, providing a memorable night out amid the city’s iconic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: