Visit These 7 Train-Themed Cocktail Bars

Train travel has long been romanticized in popular culture, evoking a sense of adventure, nostalgia, and luxury. It’s no wonder that bars around the world are paying homage to this mode of transportation by incorporating train-themed elements into their design and concept. Whether it’s the allure of the golden age of rail travel or the desire to recreate the cozy intimacy of a train car, these bars offer a unique and immersive experience for patrons.

One such establishment is Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails in Toronto, located inside the Fairmont Royal York. This elegant bar is centered around a clock tower, reminiscent of a railway station, and features plush settees, gold-trimmed chandeliers, and innovative drinks like the Full Moon Martini. The bar opened in 2019 to coincide with the hotel’s 90th anniversary, offering guests a taste of the past in a modern setting.

In Phoenix, Arizona, Platform 18 at Century Grand takes the train-themed bar experience to the next level. Hidden within a strip mall, this high-end concept bar features a faux train station where guests board a replica 1927 Pullman train car with a luxurious Art Deco interior. The bar creates an immersive experience with rumbling sensations and digital screen „windows“ that showcase different destinations. The cocktail menu pays homage to the Prohibition era, with drinks like the Two Gun Girl, named after a speakeasy hostess.

Nashville’s Pullman Standard, housed in a 1906 industrial building across from the historic Union Station, offers a nod to the legendary Pullman sleeper cars. The clubby décor and classic cocktails evoke a speakeasy vibe, transporting guests back in time to the heyday of train travel. The bar opened in 2023, showcasing the city’s rich history and connection to the railroad industry.

In New York City, Sappe is a hidden gem that transports guests to the Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok. Located at the back of a Thai restaurant, this train-themed bar features vintage-style lighting fixtures and a horseshoe-shaped bar. The drink menu, developed by manager/co-owner Supatta Banklouyhas, offers elaborate cocktails with Thai flavors and ingredients, like the frozen Somsri margarita.

Silk Road in Portland, Oregon, draws inspiration from the ancient trade routes of the same name, known for their exotic spices and ingredients. The bar’s design features gently sloped wooden walls and brass-accented globe sconces, creating a luxe bar car ambiance. The cocktail menu includes umami-packed drinks like a martini made with shiitake-infused vermouth, reflecting the flavors of the Silk Road.

Looking ahead, Dallas will soon be home to Boxcar, a train-themed bar set to open in September 2024. With an arched ceiling, curtained windows, and a swaying chandelier, this 1,000-square-foot space aims to transport guests to a different time and place. The rotating menu and themed nights will offer a variety of experiences, from a New Year’s Eve in Paris to a wintertime Orient Express theme.

In conclusion, the trend of train-themed bars continues to captivate patrons with its blend of nostalgia, history, and creativity. Whether it’s a luxurious cocktail lounge or a hidden speakeasy, these bars offer a unique escape for those seeking a taste of the golden age of rail travel. So next time you’re looking for a memorable night out, consider hopping aboard one of these train-inspired bars for a truly unforgettable experience.