🚂 Dinner & A Show: Dining Right Next to the Tracks at Trackside at the Depot

If you've ever wondered what it's like to enjoy a glass of bourbon while a train rumbles by just a few feet away — you're in for a treat. Because at Trackside at the Depot in Paris, Kentucky, that’s exactly what you get: a front-row seat to both delicious food and real-life railroad action. This unique dining experience combines the rich history of the railroad with the vibrant culinary scene of the Bluegrass region, creating a delightful atmosphere that is both lively and inviting.

Model train enthusiasts delight in this detailed miniature railway display, showcasing vintage steam locomotives and passenger cars on intricately designed tracks.

And no, we’re not talking about some distant rumble in the background. These trains pass right next to your table (especially if you’re on the patio), providing an exhilarating backdrop that is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s honestly one of the coolest, quirkiest, and most unexpected dining experiences in the Bluegrass, where the fusion of food and train culture creates a memorable outing for all ages.

🚆 The Train Comes By, Your Fork Pauses — And Everyone Smiles

There’s something a little magical about it. You’re mid-bite — maybe a forkful of their famous Hot Brown or a crispy piece of fried chicken — and then you feel it before you see it. The soft clatter of steel on tracks, the distant whistle, the rhythmic hum getting louder… and then boom, a full-on freight train glides past just a few yards from your table. It’s a moment that captures the essence of small-town life, where the past and present collide in a delightful cacophony of sound and sensation.

It’s not loud in a bad way — it’s just… alive. The vibrations resonate through the ground, and the air fills with a sense of adventure. It feels like the town is still breathing, still connected to its roots, and in that moment, you feel it too. You can see the joy on the faces of fellow diners, children waving at the passing train, and adults reminiscing about their own childhood experiences with trains. Whether you’re a kid who’s obsessed with trains, a big-city escapee looking for small-town soul, or just someone who loves a little novelty with their meal — it’s an experience worth savoring, one that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.

🍽️ So What’s on the Table?

Trackside isn’t just about the view — the food is legit. The menu is full of Kentucky comfort classics that evoke the warmth of home-cooked meals and the rich culinary heritage of the region. Here are some highlights:

That melty, indulgent Hot Brown we mentioned, a dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Kentucky with its layers of turkey, creamy Mornay sauce, and a topping of crispy bacon.
Fried chicken that rivals your grandma’s, featuring a crispy, golden-brown coating that gives way to juicy, tender meat — a true Southern staple.
A cozy brown beans & cornbread “Fast Track” bowl, a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors with a touch of nostalgia.
Bourbon everything (because, Kentucky), from sauces to desserts, ensuring that every bite is infused with the rich, smoky essence of the state’s famed spirit.

And don’t skip dessert. If the bourbon bread pudding is on the menu, it’s a no-brainer. This decadent treat is a perfect way to conclude your meal, with its warm, gooey texture and hints of bourbon that make it utterly irresistible.

A classic cocktail with an orange garnish and two stirrers sits on a rustic wooden table by a frosted window, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

✨ Patio Dining with Personality

Sure, plenty of restaurants have outdoor seating. But how many can say theirs sits next to active train tracks? The patio at Trackside is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience in itself. Lined with twinkling string lights that create a warm, inviting ambiance, cozy fire pits that beckon you to linger, and tables full of happy diners who can’t help but look up and smile every time the train comes by, it’s charming. It’s nostalgic. It makes every meal feel a little more memorable, as the rhythmic sound of trains passing by becomes part of the dining soundtrack.

📍 Worth the Drive

Located in the historic town of Paris, Kentucky, just outside of Lexington, Trackside at the Depot is totally road trip-worthy. Whether you’re exploring bourbon country, hitting up horse farms, or just craving something different, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to come back to — and bring your friends. The combination of delicious food, a unique atmosphere, and the thrill of watching trains roll by makes it a destination that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.

A serene sunrise over a pastoral landscape in Paris, Kentucky, with horses grazing near a quaint barn, surrounded by lush green pastures.

Because honestly, how often do you get to say you had a fantastic meal with a train rolling by just feet away? It’s an experience that captures the heart of Kentucky and offers a delightful blend of culinary excellence and local charm, making every visit a new adventure waiting to unfold.

Trackside at the Depot

📍 134 E 10th St, Paris, KY

🕒 Open Mon–Sat, 11am–11pm

🔗 tracksideatthedepot.com