New York City: Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour

If you’re looking to combine sightseeing with a fine dining experience, the Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour might just catch your eye. This is a rare chance to enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal while cruising through Manhattan on a luxurious, glass-roofed double-decker bus. It’s a pretty special twist on the usual city tour — and it tends to receive quite positive feedback.

What we really love about this experience is how it offers stunning views of NYC’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of a climate-controlled, stylish setting. Plus, the seasonal menu created by Chef Ashley Kim promises fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes that elevate the whole experience. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that only non-alcoholic drinks are included, so if you’re hoping for wine or cocktails, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

This tour feels ideal for foodies, couples, or anyone wanting an elegant, memorable way to explore the city without the typical hustle of walking or crowded boat cruises. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed but upscale experience that combines sightseeing, cuisine, and a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Gourmet Dining on the Move: Enjoy a 4- or 6-course seasonal menu prepared by a skilled chef.
• Unique Setting: Dine inside a glass-roofed double-decker bus with panoramic views.
• Iconic Landmarks: Cruise past NYC’s most famous sights, with routes that can adapt to key events.
• Comfort & Convenience: Climate-controlled seating, restaurant-style service, and an app guide enhance the experience.
• Limited Drink Options: Only non-alcoholic beverages are included, so plan to buy alcohol if desired.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Works

The Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour is a two-hour journey that combines sightseeing with fine dining. The bus itself is a sight — a sleek, double-decker with a glass roof that offers a panoramic view of the city. You’ll find the seating comfortable and climate-controlled, which means you’re cozy whether it’s a chilly winter or a warm summer evening.

You can opt for either a 4-course lunch or a 6-course dinner, depending on your appetite and time of day. The menus are seasonal, thoughtfully curated, and designed to enhance the overall experience. The chef, Ashley Kim, carefully selects ingredients for both quality and flavor, aiming to make each dish memorable. You’ll be served a variety of dishes as you glide past some of NYC’s most famous sights, such as Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Route & Landmarks

While the exact route can be adjusted based on calendar events and other factors, the tour primarily showcases the city’s top landmarks. The scenic aspect is a highlight — you’ll see the city from a different perspective, with the glass roof allowing for perfect photo opportunities.

One reviewer noted, “The atmosphere was awesome,” which reflects how the setting itself contributes to the overall enjoyment. Another said, “Get your camera ready because every view is Instagram-worthy,” emphasizing how the scenery is just as much part of the meal as the food.

Food Quality & Menu

We love the idea of having a gourmet multi-course menu while sightseeing. The menu is seasonal, which means you can expect fresh, locally inspired dishes that change with the time of year. For lunch, you get a sampling of four plates, while dinner features six — enough to satisfy most appetites without feeling overly heavy.

From reviews, guests have praised the carefully selected ingredients and the overall presentation. While the menu specifics aren’t detailed, the emphasis on quality and seasonal dishes suggests a dining experience well above typical tour fare.

Service & Atmosphere

The restaurant-style service onboard makes this feel more like dining at a fine restaurant than a typical city tour. Curated background music adds to the ambiance, creating a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. The small group size (up to 8 people per table) enhances the intimate feel, making it easier to enjoy conversation and the scenic surroundings.

As one traveler described, “The atmosphere was awesome,” highlighting how the combination of food, views, and music makes for a memorable evening.

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Price & Value

At $167 per person, this tour isn’t cheap — but it reflects a premium experience. For the combination of luxury dining, scenic city views, and a guided app, many consider it good value, especially for a special occasion or a unique night out. The inclusion of a multi-course gourmet meal paired with panoramic sightseeing elevates the typical NYC tour to something more indulgent.

Booking & Practicalities

Reservations are necessary, with seats limited. You’ll want to book at least 48 hours in advance, especially for the dinner, to secure your spot. The experience can be canceled up to 24 hours before without penalty, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

The meeting point is conveniently located in front of Nordstrom on W 58 St/Broadway, a central spot accessible from most parts of Manhattan. Only non-alcoholic drinks are served onboard, but you can purchase alcohol separately if you wish.

How This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of scenic beauty and culinary finesse. Unlike a typical bus tour, the glass roof keeps the city views front and center, and the gourmet menu adds a layer of sophistication. The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, with guests saying it’s a “great way to see NYC without the crowds”.

Several travelers have mentioned how the atmosphere is just “awesome,” and that the curated music and intimate setting make it ideal for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

Downsides to Keep in Mind

While the experience scores strongly, there are a few considerations. The main one is cost — at $167, it’s a splurge, but for many, the uniqueness of the experience justifies it. Another point is the limited drink options — only non-alcoholic beverages are included, so if you’re hoping for wine or cocktails, expect to pay extra. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or looking for a family-friendly experience, this might not be the best fit, given the upscale nature and focus on adult dining.

This experience is best suited for food lovers, romantic couples, and those wanting to celebrate a special occasion with a memorable night. It’s a fantastic choice for adults seeking a relaxed yet luxurious way to see NYC from a new perspective. If you’re a small group looking for an elegant outing that combines sightseeing with fine dining, this will likely tick all your boxes.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or traveling with very young children since the focus is on an upscale dining experience. But for those who want to enjoy NYC’s sights with a gourmet twist, it’s hard to beat.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour offers a seasonal menu, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to contact the provider in advance to clarify if vegetarian dishes can be accommodated.

Are alcoholic beverages available onboard?
No, only non-alcoholic drinks are included. You can purchase alcohol separately if you wish.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, typically scheduled in the evening, making it a perfect post-dinner or early evening activity.

Can I book the experience at a last-minute date?
Seats are limited, so it’s advisable to reserve well in advance. You can book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

What’s the meeting point?
In front of Nordstrom on W 58 St/Broadway — a central location easy to access.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the experience is adult-oriented due to the upscale dining and ambiance.

Can this experience be booked for special events?
Yes, it can be hired out for events like weddings, birthdays, or corporate gatherings with or without dining services.

What language support is available?
Guides are available in English, Spanish, and French.

What about weather considerations?
The bus is climate-controlled, so weather isn’t a problem, but the scenic views are best enjoyed in good weather.

Final Thoughts

The Bustronome Gourmet Dinner Tour offers a genuinely distinctive way to explore NYC — combining delicious seasonal cuisine, breathtaking views, and a luxurious setting. It’s an experience that elevates the typical city tour into something more memorable, especially if you’re celebrating something special or simply want a new perspective on the city’s most famous sights.

While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the quality of the food, the ambiance, and the views make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a more refined way to enjoy New York. If you’re after a relaxed, romantic, and visually stunning experience, this tour is well worth considering.

In summary, this tour will appeal most to foodies, romance seekers, and anyone wanting a luxurious night with scenic views and excellent food. It’s a great addition to any NYC itinerary if you’re looking to combine sightseeing with a fine dining experience in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: