This Historic Texas Train Depot Is Now A Beautiful Restaurant Right On The Tracks
Railroads hold so much history about not only the towns they ran through, but also the people from all over the world who traveled on them. Train enthusiasts will love this charming restaurant located in a century-old depot. This once-bustling train station is now an iconic family eatery where diners can enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by memories of the building’s incredibly rich past life.
The San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railway was incorporated way back in 1884. Sadly, the original depot burned down in 1913 and was replaced two years later by this building, now known as Rails Cafe.
Step inside and you'll be instantly transported back to a bygone era. Dark wooden chairs, grandiose chandeliers, velvet curtains, and French doors exude an elegant, old-world vibe that fits perfectly with the restaurant's history.
A giant, red-brick fireplace commands the outdoor patio, lush greenery creating a canopy overhead. Take advantage of the slow-burning flames on cool nights and imagine conversations had by rail riders stopping in for a meal many years ago.
Akin to that of a five-star restaurant but with much more affordable prices, the food is amazing in all aspects. Everything from fully-loaded salads like this Shrimp Southwestern Caesar to juicy steaks satisfies a broad spectrum of cravings and palates.
Cuisine from all over the globe is reflected on the menu. Quesadillas, pasta, Norwegian salmon, and North American bison burgers illustrate how railroads bring different cultures together.
Dessert is an absolute must. An array of fancy cakes and pies appear to have come from a gourmet bakery yet taste like the love only found in small-town cafes. Pair your slice with a glass of Texas wine for a culinary experience you won't soon forget.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
