Snack and food sales have been a mainstay on the Shinkansen, or bullet train, since it began running in 1964, the year Japan hosted the first Tokyo Olympics, a railway spokesperson said, but it was not clear when the cart services began. Tottori, Japan sand dunes on the Sea of Japan.

Yes, bullet trains (such as the Shinkansen in Japan, Eurostar in Europe, and the ICE in Germany) offer food, but the service model varies significantly by country. In Japan, the Tokaido Shinkansen recently retired its traditional cart service in Economy; however, you can still order snacks and drinks via a QR code at your seat in "Green Cars" (first class), or buy high-quality "Ekiben" (station bento boxes) at the platform before boarding. In Europe, the Eurostar and French TGV feature a "Bar Buffet" car where you can buy hot meals, sandwiches, and wine. Germany's ICE trains often feature a full-service "Bordbistro" or "Bordrestaurant" with sit-down dining. In 2026, many high-speed rail operators are moving toward "pre-order" apps, allowing you to have a meal delivered to your seat during the journey. While "fine dining" is rare in Economy, the "Gran Class" in Japan and "Business Premier" on Eurostar still include complimentary multi-course meals and champagne, making the train journey a culinary experience in itself.