Real deal hidden gem! Actual railroad train on railroad tracks. Excellent food. The owner was so cool gave us a lil tour! This isn't far from the Ringling Museum so we decided to go check this out and was extremely satisfied. Very well done on the inside. Feels like in an old movie. I will mention again the food and drinks were great. They are open and or closed certain days of the week so make sure to pay attention to that. Went to go another time and didn't check. Will be back soon Bob thank you read more

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It definitely is in need of a good cleaning and repairs. I have gone 3 times to take visitors cause of the novelty of the circus train. The food was marginal, the hamburger was ok, tasted soggy/mushy, service was good. I didn't like the looks of the kitchen, saw it as I passed by to see the pictures on the back of the other train car. It really could be a fun place, needs care first read more

Great Concept, UNBEARABLE Noise, and Lacking Sandwiches Bob's Train Sandwich Shop is a cute, promising idea, but the execution of the dining experience is an absolute nightmare. The entire time we were there, the owner, Bob, was holding court directly next to our table. We had to endure non-stop, ear-splittingly loud, and frankly, BS delusional bragging stories he was telling other customers. The noise level was so aggressive and overbearing that we could not have a conversation. We actually had to put earplugs in just to finish our meal; a truly ridiculous situation for a sandwich shop. To top it off, the food was just as disappointing as the atmosphere. The sandwiches severely lacked substance and felt hastily thrown together. I had to open up our orders and essentially reassemble it myself to make it worth eating. It's a shame that such a cute, well-themed place is ruined by an overbearing host and subpar preparation. Until the owner respects his customers' dining experience and focuses on quality control, avoid this place. Save your money, and definitely save your hearing. read more

If you're looking to see the old train cars and the circus memorabilia, then it's a good experience; lots of good stuff to see. However, if you're looking for a great meal experience, I would suggest looking elsewhere. Though I understand they've gotta keep the lights on, the food quality was certainly not worth the price, in my opinion. Fries are an up-charge from homemade chips, so a cheeseburger and bacon burger each with fries was $35. A thing to note would be that burgers come with pickles. While other tables were told as much after we got our food, we never received this warning. As a pickle despiser, this was an unwelcome addition to my meal. The people working there were very friendly. Even though there was only one server, she was attentive and efficient. The man on the grill was also very nice, as he came out to speak with some guests when we got there. read more

Bob's Train - The dining car - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

The trains are actually from Ringling Circus and we're converted into a restaurant, I liked the concept but I wouldn't come back or recommend them. You wouldn't know it was a restaurant from the outside as it's kind of in a big, vacant lot and they look run down on the outside. The inside has historic photos on the wall for you to walk around. The food is nothing to write home about. The oh veggie sandwich was a brief and blueberry jam sandwich which sounded interesting but just wasn't my cup of tea I didn't even finish it. The homemsde chips were good tho read more

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We enjoyed a really unique and delicious Sunday Brunch at Bob's Train. Highly recommend when you want a different and memorable experience. On historic Ringling family train cars, Bob tells his old navy stories while cooking up delicious diner food for guests. We had a nice time wandering through all the other train cars for circus history, too!! End of May (upon arrival) it was scorching hot outside, so queue was confusing.. but once they opened we know for next time it's just not super formal. Such a fun experience. read more

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It's a great experience if you like trains I took a friend who is a train fanatic and he loved it and Bob is awesome. A great veteran and a good cook. Lots of history there and the young lady helping him is related to the Wallinda family Going on Sunday for the omelettes, they're awesome very reasonably priced also just a little hard to find if you're not familiar with the area it's behind a mini warehouse complex read more

I've been visiting Sarasota for 30 plus years and just found this gem. Amazing experience in such a unique and unusual setting tucked away behind several buildings the restaurant is set in 4 antique train cars filled with all sorts of historic photos and memorabilia . Bob is the chef but quite happy to stop and chat with you. The food is great. Mostly sandwiches We all had the moose burger and were very pleased. Service was very good and friendly. I wish that I would have found this place sooner when my boys were young. I know my grandsons will love it. I plan to make this a must do again on next years vacation read more

You go there for the pictures and stories and bob can really tell them, always a great time, and nova the server is awesome!

I like the fact that the restaurant is so unique and give different vibes and experience. The restaurant inside trains and there are some galleries at the back where there are lot of pictures of circus etc. We went there for Sunday brunch and the restaurant was packed. We got omelette. When it's almost ready, Bob will call you to choose what kind of toppings you want for your omelette. And he likes to engage with the customers, which is nice. I'd definitely bring friends and family when they are coming for visit to this place! Make sure to check on their opening hours as they are open every day. read more

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Never knew this place was there. Went for lunch today. Had the Moose burger. Flavor was great. Service was great as well. Fresh made omelets to order. read more

Train car smelled musty. Understaffed. Waited 1 hour and 10 minutes to get food. Hash brown potatoes were the worst I have ever seen or tasted. Gray pile of grease! This is my 3rd and last time visiting the train. Love the concept but it looks shabby. read more

Atmosphere is unique. Food was pretty good and prices were good. I had a mushroom Swiss bacon burger which was very good. The burger is served with fresh chips, the crispy ones were very good but many were soggy. My mom had the bacon cheeseburger which she said was very good but all of her chips were soggy. We will definitely be back but ask for the chips to be crispy. The food around us smelled and looked good, kielbasa and Chicago dog. Definitely will go back. read more

Bob's Train - Half eaten Bacon Mushroom Swiss Burger with chips. - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Nice experience. Food is good. Bob has great stories, though he does talk a bit fast when telling them.

What a great and unique place. Bob is an amazing man with many stories to tell. Dining car was clean and full of interesting displays. Service and food was great. Museum was very interesting. Whenever I am in Sarasota I will certainly stop in again. Make sure to ask Bob about his backyard engine! read more

Bob's Train - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Dude would not shut up while we were eating- Jabber Jaw Self important weirdo (owner Boob) would not give our ears a break.... Air Conditioner was broken - we sweat our butts off... Never again!!!!!! read more

Very unique restaurant. In restored train dining cars. Bob the owner was there and has lots of stories to tell about his circus days. Food and service was good but the ambiance of a restored dining car is the reason to go. read more

It was a rainy day on the beach, so we went out looking for adventure. This was somewhat of a happy accident because we were looking for a lunch spot before heading to a local brewery. The history of these train cars is so fun to learn. The owner is happy to take a moment and talk to you even though he was the only cook!! It was busy, but with only one server and a small amount of tables, it is easy to feel busy in here. The MOOSE burger was great and so were the other burgers we had. Homemade chips and fries too!! If you like the circus and a bit of history this was a fun spot for our family of four. Be prepared because it is in the back of a parking lot that houses four random train cars. We weren't greeted and seated like a typical restaurant, but that was no big deal. Once we found out to seat ourselves, and we found there was only one server, we were "along for the ride" on the train so to speak!! If you're expecting a fancy dinner car and - maître d', you won't find it here. Visit this place with an open mind and take a trip back in time with the circus in a town that loves the big top read more

Bob's Train - Entrance to the train car - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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First of all it was very confusing to find this train. They need a sign once you turn off of Fruitville. It says it on the website it is hidden. Then there were tons of overgrown grass everywhere around the train. If there wasn't an open flag it looked abandoned. Then we got the menu and tried to order an omelet. The waitress said no omelets or egg dishes except Sundays. She rudely said we should have looked at their website. We had originally ordered coffee. Since she was so rude, we got up to leave. She then rudely said, I already started your coffee. So disappointed, mainly by this young ladies rudeness and unprofessionalism. We were looking forward to our meal and new experience but very disappointed. read more

What a unique, easy-going place! My husband stumbled upon a sign & thought to look it up, otherwise it's hard to tell that it's an operating restaurant. My family came for lunch, and while it wasn't anything particularly special food-wise, I did really enjoy my brie sandwich. Everything was affordable compared to the rest of downtown Sarasota. The stroll along the train cars and the short tour we got for the hand-made train in the back was nice. All in all, definitely worth at least 1 visit! read more

Ok, this review is very special to me, as I just fell in love with the family that owns and operates "Bob's Train". I happened upon this Sarasota gem when searching for a Father's Day brunch venue last year. Long story short, I needed a venue to host my January Bunco League Dinner & Dice for 12 ladies. I reached out to Mr. Bob and he was totally "onboard". He had no idea what Bunco was, but he was so welcoming and then offered amazing menu suggestions. I must add, he is seriously a true chef with a very impressive flair when it comes to really delicious food. Our evening event turn out far above and beyond my expectations. The food was top notch, organic, fresh, and prepared by a true food magician. Their wine selection was perfect for our ladies night out. And to top it off, they had a two course dessert offering that made the entire experience fabulous for our gaggle of ladies. I can't leave out the bonus feature.......Mr. Bob has two additional Rail Cars that were the real hidden treasure in our experience. His Museum of Circus memorabilia & looks-see weird quirky treasures were a joy to see. So many unique, cool things and the stories that accompany the tour made our train experience more enjoyable. One of his Museum cars even has a piano ready for a set of musical fingers The start to finish experience really is the whole package. The historical Train is indeed a hidden gem, located at the end of School Avenue just off Fruitville Road. Chef Bob's Dinner Menu Baby Spinach Salad with Blackberries, a thick slice of fresh beef steak tomato drizzled with a yummy balsamic dressing, topped with feta cheese. Pan seared panco Chicken breast, topped with two slices of Brie and a light Raspberry Compote sauce. 3 mini Purple, Yellow & white new potato slices brushed with butter, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh chives Sweet Baby Carrots & fresh green English Peas Then, a two course dessert (wow) The 1st dessert course was their famous Rail Rum Runner, a parfait served in antique ice cream shop glasses. Their signature dessert was presented in a grand fashion personally by Chef Bob. The yummy Rail Rum Runner had whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and hidden in the very bottom was the most amazing homemade warm rum carrot cake. The 2nd Dessert offering consisted of two slices of cold tart apples & two pieces of ghirardelli chocolates served with delicious coffee. The night was an unexpected gift, we all left feeling well fed, and well entertained. The measure of an experience that includes genuine kindness and love is a rarity these days. Huge yes to anyone looking for great food and great service. read more

Bob's Train - The Dining Room. - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

If you like unique dining, a little (circus) history and an inexpensive lunch - stop at Bob's Train. What a gem Bob is - he is the sole cook and as we toured the train cars, he popped his head out to say hello and point to a photo of himself from the 1960s in a laboratory. He said he's an 80 year old renaissance man, having over 35 degrees and certifications, and many many jobs - one a chemist always a chemist he said. He's currently working to help solve the red tide algae. The food was delicious- warm soft not greasy homemade chips as the sides. Loved my Grilled Brie and Berry melt sandwich. Seat yourself upon entering - the server did a great job keeping up. Love the passion to restore these train cars, wish I'd taken more pictures. Great for kids read more

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The omelettes were wonderful and Bob was even better! His stories and the train cars transport you to a time you never knew and it's breathtaking to travel through his life. Our server was great and the overall ambiance made my sister's trip visiting me here all the more better. When you visit, be sure not to forget to play a couple keys on the piano in the back, and take notes as you walk through the train cars - Bob will test you when you get back read more

Bob's Train - Outside of Bob's train - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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Normally I don't do a review after the first visit. I like to go a couple of times first. But this place is definitely different a very cool place. It is a place you have to want to find and you will not be disappointed. Let's start with the staff super friendly and helpful. Bob himself came out and told story's it was really fun. They have a limited menu and coke products. The food is great and the house made chips are amazing. This is a place we will visit again soon. read more

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Anyone that dislikes Bob's Train is no friend of mine. Ambiance and decor 10/10. The coffee and burger were solid. Friendly staff. Will return. read more

Bob's Train - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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This was a dining experience that I placed on my bucket list. The nostalgia and circus history was really great. The pictures that lined the walls had actors and actresses and other people. It was amazing to me. The restoration was to the trains is amazing. It's truly a beautiful step back in time and weather you make one or several trips to this remarkable dining experience. You will never forget the amazing experience of dining at Bobs Train. read more

Pleasantly surprised how delicious the hamburgers and homemade potato chips. The waitress was very nice. Even though it looks a little sketchy on the outside don't let it scare you away. read more

Found this cute little gem walking ‍ around the downtown area. An old train Used by Greatest Show on Earth , Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus . The train now serves as a memory to that era and dishes out very basic foods such as salads and sandwiches Ok google more , if you wish to learn more about the history. Side note ( the waitress is part of the the Flying Wallenda family !!) how cool is that ! Moving on to the food .. if you are a finicky eater the salads are great . I had a tuna salad, very fresh with balsamic vinaigrette and oil (can't go wrong with that). If dietary restrictions are not in your vocabulary,you will enjoy a variety of sandwiches , sausages etc Hubby likes his meat so had a hot dog and chips.. "deliciously tasty" his words ... presentation was cool .. atmosphere was little dark but it's a box cart so to be expected, the owner is quite the story teller with fantastic recounts of his life. I hope to remember as much when I am in my 70's. I am gifted with allergies and an acute sense of smell so Noticed tiny bit of old AC scent or maybe carpeting but that did not stop me from going, it's worth it, the price is very inexpensive plus you get to support a standing icon in Sarasota ! So please go ! read more

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Worth the hunt for this location, and don't let the outside dissuade you from grabbing lunch here. What is missing in outdoor ambience is made up for many times over inside. How many days can you say that your waitress is a member of the Wallenda family (yes, THAT Wallenda high wire family, and she still flies in the summer circus )!!! The menu is short, but made with love and really tasty. Hubby had the mushroom/bacon burger and I had the grilled Brie and raspberry sandwich (heavenly) served with a side of their homemade chips, which were crispy and delicious! Bob is the ringmaster of this restaurant, in charge of the Ringling circus car restoration efforts, chief story teller AND cook! He has a million stories that he loves to tell, having married into the circus family. Check the website for lunch hours and make the trip--the memorabilia alone is worth the trip, and the inexpensive, delicious lunch a bonus! read more

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Great place to eat and also get an education. Our waitress Nova was awesome and very informative. Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey experience for sure! We will be back and the Brie Sandwich, angus burger, tilapia sandwich and the hot dog were AMAZING! Highly recommend! read more

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It's been years since I've been here but it was a bad experience I'll never forget. Train was dusty and dirty. Food was expensive and average. If you want a stranger to talk to you about himself the entire time you eat and for the food to be just mediocre Bob's Train is for you. We went with the kids and even they were not impressed. We've never been back. Probably my least favorite place I've ever eaten in Sarasota. read more

So much to say. The first appearance, pulling into the back of a parking lot with abandoned buildings and overgrown landscape, you find the train car in not much better shape. We parked and my husband asked if we would come out of it alive. We walked in and the inside atmosphere was much better but still dated. But we had committed and were doing it. We were quickly greeted by both the one wait staff and the owner/cook. The few train cars were filled with old circus pictures which was fun to look at and pass time after we ordered. Basically, the area and train were dingy and looked abandoned, the food was good, and the service was great. Worth the experience especially if you're into circus history, but I don't think we would make a second trip out. My tip to the owner would be to scrub down the train and make it clean again (the bathroom, while grateful they had one, was very dirty.), and clean up the outside a little more - a few nice potted plants and cleaned up parking lot would go a long way. read more

Bob's Train - The back train car, maybe for overflow? - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

We SO enjoyed our lunch! For whatever reason we all went for burgers and Bob's homemade chips - YUM! For those who prefer masks etc, indeed staff wear them & we did too except while eating. It's fun place to have a meal, with a feeling of privacy and intimacy. read more

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Decided to break our traditional going to a chain style restaurant for lunch after a recent doctors appointment. We do I jumped on Yelp! to see what I could find. Came across this cute little jewel. When you turn into the parking area you start to think "uh-oh" this might be a bad idea, but the reviews were good so what the heck, right? The train car was pleasant enough and comfortable. There are curtains over the windows so you can't see out. This was ok and we understood. For one, it keeps the temperature down and two, remember that parking lot? Not much to look at anyway. It was right at the noon hour and only had a few other guests. We sat down and we're soon greeted with a smile and a menu. The menu is much, but sufficient and we soon ordered. My husband and I both ordered a burger that came with homemade chips. Both were tasty and exactly as ordered. The drinks are unsweetened tea, water and sodas in a can with a Solo cup with ice provided. We didn't mind. After you order your food, you are invited to cruise around on the three cars that are loaded with circus memorabilia. We wondered back to the second car and found Bob (owner, cook, and whatever else needs to be done). He was preparing the food for his guests. Bob is very chatty and pleasant to talk with and knowledgeable about lots of things. We were soon told our food was ready and we returned to our table. We both enjoyed our lunch and plan to go again. We possibly will bring the grandchildren with us, too. Thanks, Bob for an enjoyable experience. read more

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Such a fun experience! Bob made it special and told us all about the circus, trains and his experiences. The omelette bar was the most extensive we have seen. I had hearts of palm, corn salsa, pine nuts, and Swiss and spinach - delicious! We would highly recommend this unique dining experience. read more

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I agree with a previous review-just don't! The dining car is musty and stale, food is subpar and the owner, Bob, will not stop talking. The place looks like it is abandoned when you finally find the parking lot. So many wonderful restaurants to choose from in Sarasota so skip this "hidden gem" read more

100% museum with a short order cook who happens to be the jack of all trades himself, Bob the owner. His stories will entertain you and he is the reason to go. The food unfortunately is mostly burgers and sandwiches that might be just perfect for lunch, but not necessarily for dinner. The space for cooking is limited; hence, the menu and wine/beer selection is too. You truly come here for Bob and his amazing stories, the pictures on the train carts and more of Bob's stories. This is a perfect spot for a slow lunch, not for kids. Suited for healthy able adults, for to get up and down those train steps require abilities. The carts are beautifully restored and the history will make you appreciate this circus area of Sarasota even more. read more

Great food, good people and full of stories and history. Always worth the time to take a break enjoy great food with interesting people enriched with historical blurbs of the past and sometimes a old clown or retired performer will be there. Never gets old to hear bob's nickel tour of the train. One of Sarasota's hidden off the road but technically still on the rail must see. read more

Bob's Train - Moose burger!!!!! And homemade chips amazing - New American Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

A hidden treasure. A must do for anyone with a love of the circus. Lots of wonderful stories told here. It's not so much about the food, rather it's about the experience - the history of the train and the circus. Add this to your Sarasota bucket list. read more

Part circus museum, part restaurant in 3 connected vintage train cars. A bit hard to find. Shares a parking lot with Punch Fitness. Not formal at all, mostly burgers and sandwiches, some entrees. Server Nova was very nice, part of Wallenda family. Bob is the owner, very gregarious. Meets everyone who visits, does the cooking, and recites all sorts of history about Circus, big band era, Doolittle raid in WW2, USS Yorktown CV-10. He was part of the history. He also is a masterful builder, welder, and has refurbished the cars, a work in progress. These are not rolling stock cars, the track may still be under the wheels, but not up to rail movement. Hundreds of pictures, memorabilia, some great stuff to see. If you can't find it, persist. You may drive behind a storage facility, into a fenced off area that looks to be part salvage yard, with an industrial looking gym called punch fitness next door. Worth the trip to see. read more

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