All Aboard! For Dinner, That Is -- Fancy dining is so scarce around here that the best meal isn't even served in a restaurant -- it's on a train. The Café Lafayette (tel. 800/699-3501 or 603/745-3500; www.cafelafayette.com) operates within three restored Pullman rail cars that chug along a scenic tour through the western White Mountains while diners enjoy a multicourse meal served on white tablecloths. The evening ride lasts a little more than 2 hours, and includes homemade dinner rolls or potatoes, vegetables or salad, an entree, and dessert. (Wine and cocktails are available at an extra cost.) Meals are prepared on board, and the main courses run to solidly New American or Continental fare such as chicken cordon bleu or pork tenderloin medallions in a pinot noir sauce.

The train runs from mid-May through late October. In summer, boarding time is at 5:15pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, an hour earlier Sundays (check for off-season schedules and departure times). The station is located on Route 112 in North Woodstock, just on the west side of I-93 (take exit 32 coming from the north, exit 33 coming from the south; the depot is almost under the interstate). Reservations are recommended, though not essential. Tickets for the ride and dinner cost $65 to $75 per adult, $45 to $55 for children ages 6 to 11. The price depends on whether you dine in the Dome Car.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.