New York City: Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour

Imagine cruising through Manhattan’s iconic sights on a luxury double-decker bus with a glass roof, enjoying a gourmet multi-course meal prepared by a master chef. That’s precisely what you get with the Bustronome NYC experience — a 2-hour scenic tour that combines culinary excellence with breathtaking views of the city’s most famous landmarks. This tour is perfect for those looking to combine a luxury dining experience with the convenience of sightseeing, all within a comfortable, climate-controlled setting.

Priced at $167 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see New York, but it offers a unique perspective you won’t find on a regular bus or boat cruise. We love the panoramic views from the glass roof — it’s like dining under the stars (or clouds, depending on the weather). Plus, the seasonally crafted menu ensures that the food feels fresh and relevant to the time of year, elevating your experience beyond typical sightseeing.

A small but important consideration is that only non-alcoholic beverages are served onboard, so if you’re hoping for wine or cocktails, you’ll need to plan to purchase those separately. This tour is best suited for food lovers, couples, or elegant groups who appreciate good scenery and fine dining in one package. It’s particularly appealing for special occasions or romantic nights out.

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Key Points

Unique Dining Setting: Experience NYC from a luxury glass-roofed double-decker bus with 360° views.
Seasonal Menus: Enjoy a 4-course lunch or 6-course dinner, thoughtfully prepared to match the season.
Landmark Tour: Pass by famous NYC sights with restaurant-style service and curated background music.
Flexible Booking: Reserve in advance with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Limited Seating: Intimate experience with tables for up to 8 people.
No Alcohol Served: Only non-alcoholic beverages are included, but drinks can be purchased onboard.

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Experiencing the City from a New Perspective

When we think of seeing New York, most travelers picture bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, or perhaps a boat ride along the harbor. The Bustronome offers a different approach: a luxurious, mobile restaurant that looks at the city from above, with the added bonus of gourmet cuisine. The glass roof is a real highlight — it makes every moment more vivid, giving you unobstructed views of the skyline and landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, all while you dine.

From the reviews, it’s clear that viewing the city from the bus is a big plus. One traveler remarked, “The atmosphere was awesome,” emphasizing the unique ambiance created by the curated music and panoramic vistas. The comfortable, climate-controlled seating guarantees that you’ll be cozy regardless of outdoor conditions, whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a warm summer night.

The menu is another standout feature. Designed by chef Ashley Kim, it offers a carefully selected sampling of seasonal dishes. The 4-course lunch or 6-course dinner means you’re not just eating but savoring thoughtfully crafted, restaurant-quality food. Several reviews noted the quality of the meals, with one traveler calling it “tolle Essen und tolle Tour” (great food and great tour) — highlighting how well the culinary experience complements the sightseeing.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The tour begins at the W 58 St/Broadway in front of Nordstrom, a familiar and easily accessible location. Once onboard, you’re greeted and seated in comfortable, climate-controlled seats. The route focuses on the most famous areas of NYC, but it’s flexible enough to be adjusted for special events — so if there’s a parade or celebration, the guide might include those sights.

As the bus glides through the city, you’ll pass landmarks such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and possibly the Brooklyn Bridge, depending on the route for the day. The curated background music sets the tone, creating an elegant, almost cinematic atmosphere.

Chef Ashley Kim’s seasonal menu is served from a set of carefully curated dishes. For lunch, expect a selection of four dishes, while dinner features a series of six. These aren’t just standard fare; they are restaurant-quality dishes, designed to complement the scenic experience. The menu must be booked at least 48 hours in advance, so planning ahead is essential if you want to indulge fully.

While onboard, you can also explore the scenic views from the panoramic terrace — a highlight for many. The curated music further enhances the experience, making it feel like a special night out rather than a simple city tour.

Authentic Voices from Travelers

Many reviewers have enthusiastically praised this experience. One noted, “Amazing,” while another called the atmosphere “awesome,” emphasizing how the ambiance and views make it a memorable event. The local guide’s knowledge adds value, providing context to the sights passing by, making the sightseeing not just pretty but informative.

The quality of the food received particular praise, with multiple reviews mentioning the carefully selected seasonal dishes and the restaurant-style service onboard. Some travelers even described it as a “great value” for the price, especially considering the unique setting and quality of the meal.

However, a few travelers pointed out that only non-alcoholic beverages are included, which might be a downside for those wanting a cocktail with their meal. Still, the ability to purchase drinks separately helps keep the experience flexible.

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Practical Details and Tips

Reservations are essential—the menu and seating are limited, and it’s best to book at least 48 hours in advance.
The duration is exactly 2 hours, usually in the evening, which makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
The meeting point is straightforward to find at W 58 St/Broadway in front of Nordstrom, a central location.
Languages offered include English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for many travelers.
No smoking or pets (except assistance dogs), and no alcohol onboard, are rules for safety and comfort.

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Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

If you’re seeking a romantic night out with a touch of elegance, this tour fits perfectly. It also appeals to foodies looking to combine culinary delights with sightseeing. The scenic views and curated music create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for celebrating a special occasion.

On the other hand, if you prefer more active or interactive tours, or if alcohol is a must for your outings, you might find this experience somewhat limiting. Still, for those wanting to enjoy NYC’s sights from a comfortable, upscale vantage point, it’s a memorable way to see the city with your senses engaged.

The Sum Up

The Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour offers a luxurious way to explore New York City. It combines panoramic views, restaurant-quality meals, and a refined atmosphere within a unique glass-roofed setting. While it’s priced accordingly, many find it well worth the expense, especially for the quality of the food and the scenic experience.

This tour is perfect for couples, food lovers, or those celebrating a special occasion** who want to enjoy the city from an unusual perspective**. It’s also an excellent option for travelers who appreciate quiet, comfortable environments over the more bustling or touristy options.

If you’re after a combination of elegance, scenic beauty, and culinary excellence, the Bustronome is a memorable choice — a true highlight for those wanting to see New York in style.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu is seasonally crafted, and while specific options aren’t listed, you might find vegetarian options available, especially if you inform the provider in advance.

Can I book a dinner or lunch?
Yes, you can choose between a 4-course lunch or a 6-course dinner, with menus booked at least 48 hours ahead.

Are there any age restrictions?
The details don’t specify age restrictions, but because it’s a fine dining experience, it’s best suited for adults or older children who can enjoy a relaxed meal.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and French.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Only non-alcoholic drinks are included; alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately on the bus.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts 2 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At W 58 St/Broadway, in front of Nordstrom — a convenient, central location.

In short, if you’re looking for an elegant, scenic, and delicious way to experience New York City, the Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour offers a delightful blend of sights and flavors that’s sure to make your visit memorable.