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Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad RFP: Culinary Concession Opportunity

Partner With a National Historic Landmark To Define the Future of Historic Rail Dining

Proposals due January 9, 2026 at 5 PM MT

Join Our Journey & Vision

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (C&TSRR) is a living, breathing National Historic Landmark. Traveling through 64 miles of untouched wilderness between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, we provide an authentic steam train journey back in time for thousands of guests every year.

Our culinary experience is an essential part of the storytelling and emotional resonance of this journey. We are looking for a partner who is highly capable in craft and inspired in spirit — a partner who can grow with us as we reinvent experiences in a way that honors our past while elevating our present.

This is your invitation to build something special together, enriching the guest experience and strengthening the heritage of the American West.

Scope of Concession Services

a large kitchen with stainless steel appliances

The partner we select will manage all food and beverage touchpoints across the railroad’s operations, including:

  • Onboard Dining: High-quality service for first-class, parlor, and coach passengers traveling through remote mountain terrain.
  • Osier Dining Hall: Managing a full-service, off-grid dining facility located at 9,637 feet, accessible only by rail.
  • Depot Concessions: Providing a welcoming culinary experience at our historic stations in Antonito, CO and Chama, NM.
  • Camp-Style Catering: Developing unique “chuck wagon” style dining events for large groups and special excursions.

Critical Deadlines

To be considered for this partnership, all proposers must adhere to the following schedule:

RFP Issue Date: December 1, 2025

Questions Due: December 20, 2025 (5:00 PM MST)

Proposals Due: January 9, 2026 (5:00 PM MST)

Evaluation Period: January 10 – January 24, 2026

Contract Award Notification: February 3, 2026

Proposal Submission Instructions

Please follow these technical requirements carefully. Failure to adhere to submission formats may result in the disqualification of your proposal.

Submission Method: All proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format. We cannot accept paper copies or physical media.

Designated Recipient: Submissions must be emailed directly to: Eric Mason, CEO [email protected]

Mandatory Subject Line: The email subject line must adhere strictly to the following format:

RFP No. 2026-FB-01 Submission – [Your Company Name]

Deadline & Acceptance: Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 PM MST on January 9, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted or considered under any circumstances.

Official RFP Documents

Click the buttons below to download the complete solicitation package. These documents contain the full Scope of Services, Minimum Qualifications, and Evaluation Criteria.

Official Notice Issued by Cumbres Toltec Operating, LLC on behalf of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission. CTO, LLC reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive any technicality or informality, and to accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.

Old water tower, vintage train, and yellow building under clear blue sky.Osier cafeteria with colorful bowls of dessert lined up, busy with people seated in the background.