COLUMBIA, MO. -- A unique way to experience fine dining has rolled into Boone County.

The Columbia Star Dinner Train will soon offer a 3 hour journey between Columbia and Centralia.

For now, the train is sitting still at the COLT Train Station just north of Columbia.  This spring, the Columbia Star Dinner Train will travel the tracks of Boone County.  An onboard chef will offer 5-course meals on fine china by candlelight.  Shelbina United Methodist Church Pastor Thad Carter, 60, has been riding the rails since he was a 2 year old.  The Columbia Star has special memories for Carter because he rode in the same cars as a child.  The old coaches were part of a Louisiana train called The Coast Daylight.

Carter said, “Eating in a dining car is the highlight of riding a train.  You get to meet with other people that enjoy their meal.  The food is usually good.  I’m sure it will be on this.”

The Columbia Star has 4 restored dinner cars from the 1930’s and 40’s.  It can seat up to 224 passengers.  A $70 ticket will buy you a new way of enjoying an old way of life.

City of Columbia Spokeswoman Toni Messina said, “Columbia has a lot of stuff going on.  This adds to our diverse suite of attractions in the city.  It’s something new and different.  People just don’t get to travel on trains that much anymore.”

Central states rail owns the Columbia Star Dinner Train.  Owner Mark Vaughn said his new attraction will be up and running by the middle of May.

The Columbia Star Dinner Train was supposed to be up and running last August.

Debate over access for people with disabilities delayed the train’s operation.

A fully accessible car could be available within the next 2 years.