It may feel like a lifetime ago, but it really hasn’t been that long since the city of Buffalo saw trains from all over the state of New York running through it. Once the largest hub for Pennsylvania Railroad, Buffalo’s rich railroad history extends way out beyond just the city limits. One way to experience it is at this unique gem in Erie County that was once a train depot, but has since been transformed into a delicious small-town restaurant.
Just a quick, 20-minute drive from downtown Buffalo will lead you to the tasty Riley Street Station in East Aurora.
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Riley Street Station was once part of the Pennsylvania Railroad and operated as a commuter train station between 1867 and 1973.
Arthur Kogutowski/Google
After sitting abandoned for several years and even operating as an ice cream parlor and toy store, Riley Street Station has been breathing life back into this unique piece of history since 1987.
Riley Street Station/Facebook
Today, Riley Street Station is a favorite stop for those who are hungry (or thirsty) to make when in East Aurora. To accommodate guests, the historic station was expanded almost 10 years ago to create more dining room space.
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If you manage to somehow forget that you’re inside of an old station, you’ll be quickly reminded by the train-themed decor covering the entire restaurant.
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In the back half of the restaurant, you’ll find large, beautiful windows that allow you to see outside towards the train tracks.
Arthur Kogutowski/Google
Riley Street Station is more than just a historic stop, though - there’s a reason that people keep coming back to this place!
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The menu has evolved over the years, but it has always featured traditional American eats that everyone can enjoy.
James Licata/Google
From classics like Beef on Weck and Depot Burgers to tasty options like Train Wreck Nachos and Stuffed Banana Peppers, you’ll find your mouth watering over just about every single item on the menu.
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We should also mention that Riley Street Station features one of the largest outdoor dining patios in all of Western New York!
Pat Taylor/Google
What once saw 300 passengers a day now sees hungry Western New Yorkers by the masses. We can’t get enough of Riley Street Station!
Khris Klaich/Google From the Buffalo Bills gear hanging by the bar to the station’s fascinating history that involves the Queen City, every Buffalonian will love this spot.
Riley Street Station is located at 27 Riley Street, East Aurora, NY 14052 and is open seven days a week. For more about the history of the Pennsylvania Railroad and Riley Street Station, visit its website here.
Arthur Kogutowski/Google
Riley Street Station/Facebook
Jim Hilker/Google
sardawg/TripAdvisor
James Licata/Google
Pat Taylor/Google
Khris Klaich/Google
From the Buffalo Bills gear hanging by the bar to the station’s fascinating history that involves the Queen City, every Buffalonian will love this spot.
Riley Street Station is located at 27 Riley Street, East Aurora, NY 14052 and is open seven days a week. For more about the history of the Pennsylvania Railroad and Riley Street Station, visit its website here.
Loving the idea of spending the day enjoy train-themed attractions? Then check out This Scenic 2-Hour Scenic Train Ride Showcases Everything We Love About Springtime Around Buffalo!
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