The Train Station Restaurant

2295 Harbor Rd, Newport News, VA 23607, USA

Address:	2295 Harbor Rd, Newport News, VA 23607, USA
Phone:	+1 757-247-7512
Site:	thetrainstation757.com
Rating:	3.9
Working:	Closed 7–11PM Closed Closed 6–11PM Closed 12–4PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 11

Vince Bullock

The Train Station Restaurant is one of the best kept secrets on the Peninsula. This quaint and historical train depot has been renovated into a cozy riverfront eatery and bar. A lot of the charm is the building itself, covered in photos and articles about the community and history of Newport News. It’s close proximity to the shipyard and city offices make it a great place to escape to for a long conversation, or just to take a break from the action. As a restaurant, the Train Station pays homage to the old waterfront traditions. You will find selections such as crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, trout (baked and fried), catfish and salmon, along with the usual must-have selections of chicken, steak, and pasta dishes. There is a large outdoor deck (partially covered) for gazing out at the ships, watching river traffic, or just contemplating the passage of time. The Train Station is very much a “locals hangout” You soon will become known by name and your favorite menu choices will be committed to the hostess or bartenders memory. I enjoy stopping in to have the fried trout lunch, or the occasional “generous portion” ribeye steak. Oh, and I also have to give a nod to the shrimp and chicken baskets (hot and tasty) . The prices match the meal, reasonable and not over the top. The fare at the train station must be rated as good, not gourmet. The motto at the Train Station Restaurant is “Good Food, Good Times, Good People.”. I would have to agree. The place really shines on Friday Nights, when it transforms into a local jazz venue, but come early, because it fills up quickly and finding a place to park can be a challenge. And Now Tuesday and Sundays Have Live Jazz out on the Deck behind the Building. (The Caboose) Many of the local jazz artists call this place home, and like to come by to relax, perform, or just see who’s got the chops. Its all about the music, so expect a more mature crowd and a lot of well worn favorite musical classics. Sorry, no dance floor, but expect some memorable performances. The only knock on the Train Station Restaurant comes in terms of service. They are only open certain days of the week so with the limited schedule, you may find that your train has already left the station before you arrive. Also, on busy nights, the wait times can be frustrating. To be fair, everything is cooked fresh, but service can be a little sketchy. (The trains don’t always run on time at this place). Good jazz and a good meal can go a long way towards forgiveness, but remember to pack an extra dose of patience. One final railroad metaphor. Get onboard at the Train Station. You will enjoy the ride.

Edward Robinson

The food was ok. In other words, it wasnt disgusting, it was flavorful. However, the waiter took his sweet time and had a bogus excuse for everything. The best thing this venue has going is the live music and the nostalgia associated with it being a train station in an earlier life. Our cornbread wasnt fresh and the waiter didnt even bring us utensils or water until we asked him for it. It was laughable honestly. Its not a bad venue, but Im not excited to take my business back. They have some growing to do. Im tired of sacrificing quality of service in order to support black business. When will we rise to the occasion? Dont be mad at this post, just do better.

Ben Wocken

Recommend After-Church buffet on Sunday. Excellent fried chicken and trout without a doubt! Sit by windows looking at anchored ships. Server Dedrick is a class act. History: This restaurant is a former C & O Train Station. During WWI & WWII, soldiers heading to Europe for combat got off the troop train in Newport News, then onto a ferry to Norfolk for training/recreation. An arriving young soldier whose never seen large bodies of water before was asked if hes ready to take the ferry. He says "No way, Im not properly trained to go to France yet." Someone reassures him its just a local ferry. The wary young soldier says, "Im not falling for that trick!"

Edward Atkins

The food was delicious. The crab cakes were 100% crabmeat with maybe a .001% filling. It was picture perfect Golden brown. The oysters were done to perfection. The trout tasted like it was just caught today. The mac & cheese and the chicken gumbo soup needed a little work. The service was a bit slow but if you came for food and entertainment just enjoy the entertainment until the food arrive. The jazz band was top notch. I would have paid $100 just for the picturesque view of the James and the food but instead my ticket for two was only $65 for the food, ambience and a couple of hours of live jazz. I just cant believe it.

Cynthia Clay

After 2 hours of waiting after my order was placed, my group decided we would leave! We asked several staff personal for the check to cover our appetizers and 3 drinks. Oh for our appetizer, we ordered the warm crab dip which was served with Ritz cracker! We also ordered the calamari, the worst Ive ever had. After waiting another 30 minutes to recieve the bill, it was another 15 minutes for someone to take the check! Sadly, out experience was more like a train wreck! Oh and another thing, there is absolutely no walking room!!!

A Private User

I WORKED HERE FOR A FEW MONTHS, THE FOOD WAS TERRIFFIC, BUT THE WATER IS UNSANITARY. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE PIPES AND THE RESTROOMS REAKED. THE OWNER IS QUITE MEAN AND TALKS TO HER EMPLOYEES AS IF THEY ARE INFERIOR. OVERALL, THE FOOD IS WONDERFUL. THE SHRIMPS AND RIBS ARE TO DIE FOR AND THE BARTENDERS ARENT SHY ON THE DRINKS, UNLESS SHES NEAR.

Lawrence Tanksley

We had a good time . The service was somewhat slow . we waited 1 hr 20 min for our food . The fish was Ok .The Crab cakes were excellent. The Music by RAJAZZ was excellent we wish that due to the size of the venue they could bring the volume down . It was very loud and we could not hear the vocalist at times

michael strong

This an evening experience to enjoy, the atmosphere is rustic and laid back, giving the single, couple, or group a venue that is perfectly suited for those who enjoy live music, food and drink for a friday start to the weekend. The Pennisula well kept secret, for live music, good food and mature environment.

Rose Brodie

Terrible the waiter took our order we waited over an hour the waiter D said he forgot to put our order in he said he was sorry. The manager refuse to even come to our table. Beyond disappointed this is. Otherwise my first bad experience with bad service here. Unbelievable

Keith Wilson

First time patron on a Friday night. Food and atmosphere was great, the live jazz was great. Nice crowd. Waitress, Kay, was helpful and fun. Dirty bong water is my drink there, slo gin fizz is not. Crab cake, trout, broccoli, and cornbread! I will be returning.

Kristin Benson

Great jazz music on a Thursday night. Service was not the greatest but they were busy and we enjoyed drinks and good seafood. Definitely need this kind of spot in Newport News! Support your local businesses and local musicians! :)