Eurostar is the high-speed passenger service linking London St. Pancras International with city centre stations in mainland Europe, via the Channel Tunnel. Eurostar business

A study of 2,000 travellers has revealed that food is the ultimate driver for city break holidays with many choosing upscale and local establishments to try local cuisine.

One Poll survey – statistics:

• Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) have a ‘wish list’ of restaurants they’d like to visit one day, and 28 per cent dream of visiting a Michelin starred eatery.
• When travelling, 36 percent feel trying local, independent restaurants provides the most ‘authentic’ experience of a region’s food.
• With 33 percent checking out if the restaurant is filled with locals when deciding where to dine while away.

The research was commissioned by Eurostar to mark its ten-year anniversary partnership with celebrity chef Raymond Blanc,

• The study also found 41 percent even claimed they’d even be willing to travel hundreds of miles to track down the ‘perfect’ meal.
• While 42 percent believe they’re more adventurous with their food choices when they’re away from home and surrounded by culinary temptation.
• Further to this, prior to going away, 42 percent ‘fantasise’ about the food they’ll get to eat when they’re finally away, according to the OnePoll data.
• More than half (55 percent) further underlined their fascination with food by revealing their idea of fun is learning about international cuisine – like how it’s prepared and where it comes from.
• As such, 46 per cent have enjoyed food tours when away on breaks – and 46 percent have also received cooking lessons during getaways. eurostar business

Three in ten like to share their love of the cuisine with others by posting images of mouth-watering meals they’ve ordered during their travels on the likes of Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

And to highlight the influence of social media further when it comes to eating abroad, 31 percent revealed Facebook is their main source of inspiration when choosing restaurants to visit. With 28 percent getting pointers from Instagram and 23 percent turning to Twitter.

Culinary journey in style eurostar business

A spokesperson for Eurostar, said: “Like many of those polled, we’re passionate about food and have demonstrated that through our partnership with one of the world’s greatest chefs.”

Raymond Blanc OBE, Business Premier Culinary Director for Eurostar says: “I am very proud of my partnership with Eurostar and all that we have achieved in the last ten years. To be awarded a three-star SRA rating once again is a testament to our shared commitment to quality and service, with sustainability at the heart of all of the recipes we bring to the table. Together, we want to ensure that passengers can enjoy local, fresh quality dishes and start their culinary journey in style.”

Limited edition menu selected by Raymond Blanc released 10th November, to celebrate 10-year anniversary partnering with Eurostar

Andrew Robinson, Head of Onboard Services for Eurostar says: “It is an absolute privilege to have had ten years of Raymond Blanc’s expertise and influence over the development of our on-board menus, which are a much-loved part of the Eurostar Business Premier experience. After a challenging period during the pandemic, we are incredibly proud to have secured a three-star rating from the SRA today. As the greener way to go between the UK and the continent we are passionate about sustainable travel and we will continue to challenge ourselves to reflect this commitment though our on-board service delivery.”

Juliane Caillouette-Noble, Managing Director of the Sustainable Restaurant Association, says: “Eurostar have, ever since they started working with the SRA ten years ago, demonstrated a total commitment to constantly improving every aspect of their catering operation. Achieving a Three Star rating for the third time is evidence of that and their dedication to serve their customers food that not only tastes good but does good too.”