Set out on a gourmet adventure aboard The Q Train with the exclusive ‘Table For 2 – Lunch’ package. Departing from Drysdale, this three-hour journey showcases the flavors of the Bellarine Peninsula through a multi-course degustation menu complemented by expertly paired local wines, beers, and ciders. Enjoy an intimate atmosphere as you savor fresh, regional produce while enjoying scenic views and attentive table service in historic dining cars. With a focus on warm hospitality, it’s the perfect escape for couples seeking a unique gastronomic experience. Discover what culinary delights await you on this unforgettable train journey.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Melbourne.

Key Points

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Key Points

  • This three-hour gastronomic adventure aboard the Q Train offers a degustation lunch journey through the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula.
  • The experience showcases local produce, wines, beers, and ciders with a multi-course menu and scenic views during the 15-minute trip from Drysdale to Swan Bay.
  • Guests can choose between the Dining Car and Bar and Dining Car, each providing a unique atmosphere and attentive table service.
  • The delicious degustation menu features regional produce, including fresh seafood, seasonal fruits, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted breads, complemented by expertly paired local beverages.
  • The Q Train is wheelchair accessible, with a maximum capacity of 120 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all guests.

Overview of the Experience

Travelers can embark on a unique three-hour gastronomic adventure aboard the Q Train, a heritage railway offering a degustation lunch journey through the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula.

This moving restaurant showcases the region’s finest local produce, wines, beers, and ciders through a multi-course menu.

Along the 15-minute trip from Drysdale to Swan Bay, guests can savor the scenic views and relish the attentive table service in the historic dining cars.

Whether opting for the Dining Car or the Bar and Dining Car, travelers can expect a comfortable, air-conditioned experience complemented by knowledgeable staff who provide expert food and beverage pairing recommendations.

Unique Three-Hour Journey

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Unique Three-Hour Journey

A unique three-hour gastronomic journey awaits aboard the Q Train, where the rhythm of the rails sets the tone for an immersive dining experience.

Departing from Drysdale, just 15 minutes from Geelong, guests embark on a scenic trip through the Bellarine Peninsula.

The historic dining cars provide an intimate and refined atmosphere, with attentive table service delivering a delectable degustation menu showcasing the region’s finest produce.

Whether choosing the Dining Car or the Bar and Dining Car, travelers can savor expertly paired local wines, beers, and ciders while taking in the picturesque views.

With air-conditioned comfort and restroom facilities on board, this moving restaurant offers a truly memorable culinary adventure.

Attentive Table Service

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Attentive Table Service

Aboard the Q Train, guests experience attentive table service as they dine in the historic dining cars, with staff catering to their every need.

The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable servers who provide recommendations on food and wine pairings.

Courses are delivered with impeccable timing, ensuring a seamless dining journey.

Warm hospitality and personalized attention from the crew further elevate the experience.

Pristine table settings and glassware create an elegant ambiance.

Discreet yet responsive service allows guests to fully enjoy the experience.

This attentive approach ensures that every moment aboard the Q Train is memorable, as guests savor the delectable degustation menu and breathtaking scenery unfolding outside the window.

Dining Car or Bar

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Dining Car or Bar

Guests aboard the Q Train can choose between the Dining Car or the Bar and Dining Car, each offering a unique dining experience.

The Dining Car provides a more formal setting, with attentive table service and a focus on the multi-course degustation menu.

Alternatively, the Bar and Dining Car offers a more casual atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic views while sipping on local wines, beers, and ciders.

Regardless of the chosen dining option, travelers can expect a high-quality gastronomic journey showcasing the best of the Bellarine Peninsula’s produce.

The knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide guests through the menu and provide recommendations for perfect food and beverage pairings.

Delicious Degustation Menu

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Delicious Degustation Menu

The Q Train’s delicious degustation menu showcases an array of regional produce, expertly crafted into a multi-course culinary experience.

Featuring locally-sourced ingredients, the menu highlights the Bellarine Peninsula’s bountiful offerings through a series of thoughtfully-prepared dishes. Passengers can anticipate:

  • Fresh seafood from the local waters

  • Seasonal fruits and vegetables grown in the region

  • Artisanal cheeses from nearby creameries

  • Handcrafted breads and pastries baked on-site

  • Locally-produced wines, beers, and ciders to complement each course

The knowledgeable staff provide recommendations on the perfect food and drink pairings, ensuring a harmonious and memorable gastronomic journey aboard the heritage train.

Recommended Food and Wine Pairings

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Recommended Food and Wine Pairings

As guests savor the degustation menu, the knowledgeable staff on the Q Train provide recommendations on the ideal food and wine pairings to enhance each course. They expertly guide passengers through a harmonious pairing of the regional produce showcased in the dishes with the locally-sourced wines, beers, and ciders available on board.

Course Recommended Pairing
Entrée Geelong Pinot Grigio
Main Bellarine Shiraz
Cheese Drysdale Cider
Dessert Blackberry Mead
Coffee/Tea Bellarine Coffee Liqueur

The attentive service and thoughtful pairings elevate the overall dining experience, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the flavors of the Bellarine Peninsula.

Meeting Point and Start Time

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Meeting Point and Start Time

On the day of the experience, passengers will convene at The Q Train’s station located at 2/10 Station St, Drysdale VIC 3222, Australia, with the journey set to depart promptly at 11:30 am. This ensures everyone is on board and ready to embark on the gastronomic adventure.

The meeting point is:

  • Easily accessible, just a 15-minute drive from Geelong

  • Equipped with restroom facilities for passenger convenience

  • Served by public transportation options for those not driving

  • Offering ample parking for those arriving by personal vehicle

  • Staffed by friendly and knowledgeable representatives to assist guests

The Q Train experience starts right from this charming station, so passengers are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early to settle in before the train sets off on its delectable journey.

Additional Accessibility and Capacity

The Q Train - Table For 2 - Lunch (Departing Drysdale) - Additional Accessibility and Capacity

For the convenience of all passengers, The Q Train is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals on board.

With a maximum capacity of 120 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized gastronomic journey along the Bellarine Peninsula.

The train’s close proximity to public transportation also makes it easily accessible for those relying on buses or trams.

Whether you’re seeking a unique dining adventure or simply want to take in the scenic views, The Q Train’s accessible and intimate setting ensures a memorable experience for all.

With its focus on regional cuisine and beverages, the experience showcases the best of the Bellarine region in a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

Yes, the experience accommodates various dietary restrictions. Guests can notify the staff of any dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other preferences, and the culinary team will prepare a tailored menu to suit those requirements.

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

No, guests can’t bring their own alcoholic beverages on The Q Train. The experience includes a curated selection of regional wines, beers, and ciders that are served as part of the degustation menu. Outside drinks are not permitted.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There’s no strict dress code for the experience, though smart casual attire is recommended. Guests can dress comfortably to enjoy the scenic train journey and gourmet dining experience, ensuring they’re suitably attired for the occasion.

Can I Purchase Additional Items on Board?

Passengers can purchase additional items on board, such as extra beverages or souvenirs. The staff provide recommendations and are happy to accommodate any requests to enhance the overall dining experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Travelers?

There are no age restrictions for travelers on The Q Train. Children of all ages are welcome to experience the gastronomical lunch journey. Families can enjoy the scenic views and multi-course degustation menu together.

Recap

The Q Train’s ‘Table for 2 – Lunch‘ package delivers a remarkable gastronomic adventure along the Bellarine Peninsula.

Guests can savor a multi-course degustation menu, complemented by local wines, beers, and ciders, while enjoying scenic views and attentive service in historic dining cars.

It’s a perfect escape for couples seeking a unique and intimate culinary experience.