Enjoying the Christmas season. This eclectic Cafe that goes by the name of Whistle Stop Cafe is one of those hidden diamonds in plant City. The atmosphere is astounding and from the moment we walked through the door we realized this was a God wink moment. We were greeted at the door not only by the people working there but the classical music being played on a beautiful piano by Julius. You seat yourself at this restaurant and it is clearly marked the decor is nostalgic and we were lured by the music to a table in the back. The woman Marti greeted us at our table , after a young man that worked there dropped off our drinks which I had coffee and water and my wife had only water. They did have other soda products. The room was full of the smell of food cooking in the kitchen and was decorated for Christmas. Marti took our food order and we sat there enjoying the sights and sounds. Definitely one of those great experiences not just a meal. The food was fresh and delicious I had the I believe Sarah pastrami sandwich. My wife had roast beef and Swiss cheese both on seeded rye bread that they make there at the cafe fresh daily. I had half a sandwich and beef vegetable soup which was full of fresh vegetables. While we were enjoying our meal, Julius, the pianist asked if we had any particular songs we'd like to hear. We requested Christmas songs of any type. He changed the book in front of him and masterfully played every Christmas song that was in his Christmas book. It was a regular concert for us. We had asked Marti if the trains actually worked and she turned on the trains for us, which was very pleasing to view. And we're not trained fanatics. Since we were sitting behind the piano the tables had enough room there between them to be able to dance to the music which we did. There was a loud horn sound as the Amtrak train passed by the cafe. As we sat there listening to the music after a meal we had noted that everyone that came in weer greeted at the door and sometime during their visit we're hugging by Marti the waitress, possibly the owner. When you first walk in on the right there's a children's play area so children are welcome. Then on your right behind the counter is the dessert area. This is the first time in a while that we had dessert after a meal which was a warmed brownie on the bottom and vanilla and chocolate ice cream on top ,not soft serve. Whipped cream and chocolate syrup on top. It was quite large and we were not able to finish it all due to being full. They do have a room attached to it that is decorated in automobile decor so I imagine you can bring a small group of people there. This was a total awesome experience that just happened to serve good fresh food and service. I highly recommend if you're in the area to visit this cafe, there is street parking and a parking lot of some type behind it. Definitely handicap accessible. The funny part is we went to plant City to go to a Christmas store nearby and I suggested it we should get something to eat first. When I searched I found the place nearby we went there parked in front of it and then my wife said hey let's try that place out over there. So we walked across the street into the Whistle Stop Cafe. And I am so glad we did and now we'll have those fantastic memories to look back on. Yes we will go back there when we're in the area for sure. read more

See all

Great friendly service. I love their house made bread. I loved the crust. The soup was okay. A bit bland but easy to eat. I loved the chicken salad. Lots of space to sit. This was a nice spot to eat during a court break. read more

Whistle Stop - Chicken salad half sandwich and potato & bacon soup - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

The house made bread is scrumptious. My sandwich was amazing. The clam chowder was too peppery for me. My mom's potato soup was good though still peppery, but not extremely. The owner is extremely nice. I haven't been back here for years, but she still treats you like an old friend. The place look the same it did years ago. read more

See all

Such an enjoyable experience. The inside was decorated very retro. There was a piano player and a soda fountain counter. It was a very relaxing atmosphere. The owner and server were both very attentive and pleasant. I had the Reuben Express sandwich, fresh-brewed (?) sweet tea and a chocolate malt. My wife had the smoked turkey sandwich single. They both came with a little bag of chips and a pickle spear. My Reuben was really good. The meat was flavorful and the dressing tasted good. Maybe a little too much dressing. The malt was great and he filled my to-go cup and then brought the rest out to me in the tin cup. I really loved the relaxed atmosphere on a Friday in downtown Plant City. Made for a great day. We'll come again. read more

Whistle Stop Magic The Whistle Stop Gourmet Coffee & Eatery! There's nothing like it anywhere We were blessed with the most amazing food, service, great conversation, and live piano music Such fun swapping piano stories with Julian -- he's been playing since before TV sets! Truly a remarkable man. Huge thanks to Marti and her wonderful family for such a beautiful and unforgettable lunch experience! #whistlestopgourmetcoffee #Blessed #GoodFoodGoodFriends #PianoVibes #SmallTownCharm #GratefulHeart #PlantCityEats read more

See all

Friendly staff, prompt service. Relaxing environment, live pianist food delicious. Ordered the conductor deluxe. Made on freshly baked bread served with chips and drink. Self seating. Home baked desserts to die for. read more

This is a wonderful place to take my friends as well as a good place for a little lunch date with my hubby! This family owned business is very special and located in historic Plant City and the food always delicious! At Whistle Stop, I've always been treated like one of the family with hugs, great conversation, and great service! read more

Whistle Stop Cafe in Plant City is a delightful diner that delivers outstanding value for anyone craving classic American comfort food. This cozy spot serves up hearty sandwiches, soups, and desserts with a side of warm hospitality, making every meal feel like a steal. With its delicious menu, attentive service, and the option to pop in for a quick bite during the day, Whistle Stop earns a solid five stars for providing a satisfying, budget-friendly experience that feels like a warm hug from a small-town kitchen. The menu is packed with comfort food classics that hit all the right notes. The Whistle Stop Special salad is a standout, loaded with sauteed onions, mushrooms, black olives, melted cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing, delivering a hearty portion that fills you up. The chicken salad sandwich, served on fresh-baked bread, is creamy and flavorful, paired with a pickle spear and chips for a perfect lunch. The clam chowder, served in a warm bread bowl, is rich and comforting, while desserts like the pina colada cake offer a sweet, indulgent finish. Daily specials, often combining soup and a half sandwich, provide generous portions that maximize value, with every dish tasting homemade and fresh. The value shines through in the flexibility to swing by during the day for a quick meal. Open Tuesday through Friday from 11 AM to 3:30 PM and Saturday until 4 PM, it's ideal for a lunch break, with single items like a sandwich or soup sized just right for a quick, satisfying bite. Compared to other Plant City spots where a lunch can feel overpriced, Whistle Stop's portions and quality make every visit feel like you're getting more than expected. The homemade bread, baked fresh daily, elevates every sandwich, and the generous servings often leave you with leftovers. The service is a big part of the charm. The staff are warm and attentive, keeping tables cleared and drinks refilled, even during busy hours. The team, often led by the owner, brings a personal touch, chatting with guests and making everyone feel like family. The cafe is clean and inviting, with a nostalgic train-themed vibe--model trains circling above and vintage decor--that adds character without feeling forced. Whether dining in or grabbing takeout, the experience is seamless, with orders packed carefully and ready on time. Whistle Stop Cafe is a budget-conscious diner's dream. The affordable menu, fresh ingredients, and heartfelt service make every visit a win. Whether I'm grabbing a quick sandwich for lunch or enjoying a full meal with dessert, I leave satisfied and content. For its exceptional value, mouthwatering comfort food, and warm hospitality, Whistle Stop gets five stars. It's a must-visit for anyone in Plant City seeking a delicious, value-packed meal. read more

After visiting Lum's Farmer's market we drove into the historic district of Plant City to have lunch at the Whistle stop Cafe. It is definitely a "family old fashioned diner" feel. We were greeted and treated like family. There is definitely a lot to look at while you are waiting for your food. Our food was delivered quickly and even a small error was corrected. They accommodated our grandchild with a highchair and even brought some toys out. I had the whistle stop salad with chicken and really enjoyed it. My hubby had the cheeseburger and said it was cooked exactly how he asked it to be. The pricing was not extreme and we even had someone who played the piano and another customer who serenaded us all! My grandson loved watching the train run along the track above us. read more

Small town nostalgic railway stop. Time slows down-so dont expect to just grab and go. Sit. Relax. Be patient. Soups and sandwiches. Handmade bread. Reasonable kid menu items. Sign posted inside: "we don't pretend to be fine dining. If you have a reservation, you're in the wrong place." Going between Orlando and Tampa/St. Pete: a great place to grab a quick lunch. They are only open for lunch Tuesday-Sat(subject to change when they go on vacation). read more

Whistle Stop - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

What a find! Great food! great service! Don't visit Plant City without stopping here!

We stopped by after a wedding venue tour. The girls and I seated ourselves at the high top table in the window corner. It was busy with people from the car show but we had drinks rather quickly. We ordered stuffed tomato ($12.50), Chicken Caesar Sandwich ($11.99), Bread bowl with Potato bacon soup ($5.50) and soup with half sandwich ($10.99) and a side of bread because it is made in house and delicious ($0.75) We enjoyed the piano music and the train running around the track. Marti came around and greeted each of us with a welcoming hug and huge smile. Our food came out quickly and it was amazing, the fresh bread, cream soup and a great tomato with Martis chicken salad. We always enjoy our meals here, yes they may be busy but it is a family business and we so support them!!! read more

See all

Good food and good people. Everything is home made with a local spin on servers. Owners are actively involved with everything to make sure all is right. Love it. read more

The food is a delight; the menu is varied and full of flavor. It's a family business, and the people are kind and friendly. I ate the Brightline Chicken Pasta, which was exquisite. read more

Whistle Stop - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

This is a unique place. The food is great. The homemade breads and soups are excellent. Such a cute vintage setting. We will return!

They say they make the bread fresh well that's a good thing, but it wasn't anything special and I believe it was either pastrami or corn beef, but it was old and crispy and barely any meat in the sandwich. Very cute place with potential. Haven't been back since this incident couple years ago may give it a try again. See if it's improved on the food. There was a piano player at the time who was great!! read more

Second stop and had to do it as a an early lunch so we could work it in while in the area. I checked my last post and had almost the same thing again. Great menu. Had the Rueben again but this time had the clam chowder and a delicious chocolate malt. Great service and awesome food. Small town nostalgia is the decor, the theme and the way of life here. They call the locals by name and this place is a locals favorite. Highly recommended. Live music while we ate today. read more

Whistle Stop - Inside shot after we got done with an awesome meal. Second time in the area so second stop. - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

We did lunch on National Chocolate Cake Day (Jan 27). We got to eat outside and enjoy the perfect weather. I had the Plant City salad dish and my wife had her usual veggie sandwich. Both were very good. But what was great was the chocolate/ peanut butter cake for dessert. It was only $3.95 and one of the best cakes I have had in a long time. If you go, get that cake if it is available. read more

Whistle Stop - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

My wife and I stopped in here for lunch one Tuesday afternoon. The charm, friendly service and good food will have us coming back for more. Whistle Stop was busy for lunch this weekday. We grabbed a table pretty quick and our server came around to get us drinks. We just got water. Whistle Stop is simple and fits perfectly in downtown Plant City. The red and white checkered table cloths, counter seating and even a model train track running around the roof just brings you back. Back to a time before me but one I appreciate and have come to love. Our server was attentive and kind. The friendliest server I've likely ever encountered. He got us waters and then was back promptly to get our food order. I think he was handling the entire place table-wise. I got the turkey Rueben and my wife got the Cuban. I stuck with the standard Lays potato chips and a pickle for the side. My wife opted for their potato salad and kept the pickle. The food was out quick. The bread is baked fresh in-house each day. My Reuben was on Rye and it was really good. The fresh turkey was covered in sauerkraut and thousand island dressing. It was warm and melty. Zingy and tasty. I enjoyed it and made quick work of the sandwich. My wife said her Cuban was excellent as well. The pressed sandwich was hot with top-quality meat on it. Not overly stuffed but a perfect amount for a lunch. She said the potato salad was really good too. It had decent chunks of potato. It had a more mustard-based sauced. That's my favorite and the one bite I got will have me choosing that next time too. I loved our little lunch here. This place keeps it simple. Their menu has quite a bit to offer and there are plenty of things I saw that I want to go back to try so, we will be back. read more

Whistle Stop - Turkey Reuben - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

Great little lunch place in historic downtown Plant City. I called ahead and ordered a reuben. They said the food would be ready in 15 minutes, but I said it would take 30 minutes for me to get there, so they told me that the food would be made and ready in 30 minutes. I got there, and the food wasn't quite done. I only waited about 5 minutes, and it was nice to know that the food was piping hot and not going to be soggy. The sandwich was good. The meat was thinly sliced and tender. There was a decent amount of sauerkraut, although I wish it was a little more sour. The bread was advertised as homemade, and it was good. I do wish the bread was a little more toasted or grilled, but at least it wasn't soggy. The thousand island was just a little too sweet. However, the service at this place was so friendly and polite. And the cafe is just too cute. It looks like the cafe of an old fashioned train station. And there was a piano with live music being played. Amazing ambience! read more

We went to the whistle stop on September 11 at 1 o'clock in the afternoon. When we walked in, nobody greeted us or said hello. We saw that it was self seating so we sat down and waited and waited and no one ever came over to us. The restaurant was about 3/4 full and most people didn't have any food. The waitress was very talkative with a couple tables which seemed like she had known them for a while. After sitting for a long time we decided to leave and as we walked out we looked at one tables food, and it seemed very basic (bread sandwich. The atmosphere was strange not sure of the vibe with the Piano. I'm not sure they know what they want to be. read more

What a great place to have lunch. It's nice and clean and has a wonderful menu. Different yummy sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts, etc. it's also very clean and comfortable has table and chairs plus booths. There was a gentleman playing the piano in the back which was a wonderful added bonus the service was excellent. They really waited on us, hand, and foot, and with a smile on their face. I can't wait to go there again. read more

See all

If you are looking for fresh, homemade (with love) this place is a family affair where the sister bakes their breads, daily fresh soups, makes her own pork for the Cuban sandwich, & roast beef. I had the 1/2 Chicken salad on honey wheat + cup of soup, hubby had the most magnificent roast beef on rye. Wowzer, both large & so moist it required two hands. Then an elder gent walks in from the side room & starts playing the piano! He drives here from Brandon & the story of his filling a loss in the family is moving. Love the decor, & charm - so authentic & easy (what Cracker Barrel can only hope to redeem). Did I mention the mile high cakes in the glass display case!? We should've gotten a slice of Lemon Blueberry to-go, although the Coconut & the Orange Cream looked yummy too. Don't miss the train running around the ceiling & Plant City high school diplomas/pics. Love the sign: "We don't pretend to be fine dining...If you have a reservation, you're in the wrong place" Happy to see it had a lively lunch trade on a Thursday - bet it's packed on Saturdays! read more

From the interesting outdoor facade to the cafe inside the Whistle Stop Cafe feels like a step back into a simpler kinder time. Filled with memorabilia to admire. A piano player would filled the air with pleasant tunes....not overbearing. The place was hopping! We seated ourselves. We were served promptly. Their menu is vast and the prices are very reasonable. A variety of choices of bread, soup, sandwiches. Mine was delicious! Don't miss this one! read more

Whistle Stop - Half chicken sandwich with chicken and rice soup. - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

See all

Another nice place. Is a family owned The sandwich was great Home made bread This place absolutely delicious read more

Love love whistle stop ! Love Marti's chicken sandwich! My favorite service is excellent. I feel like family there. I have been going there over 20 years. Watch their kids grow up as my kids grew up.! like being in another place and time soups sandwiches salads, soda fountain everything you have there fantastic! can't say enough about this place! The last place I had lunch with my mother before she passed away at my favorite place of all time ! Piano player fantastic have a conversation with him so witty and so nice I remember the beautiful lady that used to play the piano. She was such a delight I sure miss her too ! Marti's husband and beautiful daughter many beautiful memories! If your in plant city you have got to stop in for some fantastic food! A plant city institution not be disappointed at all! read more

This place feels like coming home! From the fresh baked breads and cookies, to the friendly smile from Marti. I have been coming here for years and this place never lets me down. I have so many wonderful memories through the years.. sitting at a table watching the train go by when my kids were small to blowing bubbles in my straw to mix an old fashioned Cherry Smash! Try one of their delicious sandwiches, hot soups, and of course save room for a cookie, or two! read more

Whistle Stop - Dining room - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

Such a cute little lunch spot. Staff was extremely friendly and quick! The location was perfect after an afternoon of shopping. It's an easy walking distance. The food was great and we'll definitely be back! read more

Whistle Stop - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

See all

Great sandwich shop. Very busy in downtown Plant City. Locals abound for a great lunch. We had a Cuban and 2 of their specialty sandwiches. Corned beef and pastrami on rye was great. Cuban was super flavorful and crispy. Homemade bread was very good. All the servers were pleasant. Give this place a try! read more

The potato bacon soup is fantastic, among the best I have ever had. Friendly service, cozy, charming store. read more

Loved this place. I had the Cuban sandwich, and it was the best Cuban I've had in my life. People were super friendly, and service was great. read more

The Whistle Stop is a quaint little breakfast and lunch spot. It is a family owned business and the entire staff are friendly and cheerful. They always make you feel welcome when you're there. It is located in historic downtown Plant City, Fl. In 1896 it was known as a drugstore. This is a cute little town with several restaurants and gift shops. When in the area my hubby & I stop here for lunch. We always enjoy our meal. The bread is always so fresh, it's delicious!! I have to say that I've never been anywhere where they take your order and serve your sandwich at lightning speed! I'm always amazed at how fast they make the sandwiches. Sandwiches are usually served with a sliced pickle and a bag of chips. The sandwiches are generous and they are priced very reasonably! I hope if you're in the area you give them a try for lunch. read more

See all

This is a very charming cafe situated next to the railroad in downtown Plant City. Walking in, we could hear someone playing piano and the restaurant is decorated with car parts in one room and train decorations in the other. There is a good amount of seating with booths, tables, seats at the counter and a few tables outside under the covered porch. The menu is pretty expansive featuring soups and salads, deli sandwiches and burgers. They offer a signature Cuban sandwich. All of the sand which breads are baked daily. Today we ordered the Stuffed Tomato Salad with Tuna and a Bacon Cheeseburger. The Stuffed Tomato Salad was pretty large and very fresh. The Bacon Cheeseburger had a decently thick patty with crispy crispy bacon and it was very tasty. It was served with a lunch size sack of Lays potato chips. This cafe is a nice environment to sit and enjoy a casual lunch. Service is not the quickest but it is friendly. We will be back and we encourage you to visit when you are nearby. read more

Whistle Stop - Bacon Cheeseburger with potato chips - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

See all

Nice old fashioned family owned cafe. Reminds me of being back in a small town restaurant on main street circa 1960's. There is a self playing piano and memorabilia from that era all around the restaurant. It serves lunch 11am until 3 pm Tues-Sat. Food was very good, with healthy portions at reasonable prices. Sandwiches, salads, burgers, old fashioned soda fountain drinks, shakes and ice cream. The menu is large and has something for every appetite. The cafe is old , but clean and well kept. Parking is on the street and can be difficult on a Saturday. The cafe is situated in the historic area of Plant City. Many shops & small restaurants, lining a narrow old street. The train runs by, right next to the place, hence it's name. Note; they only accept cash and check. read more

See all

This is a delightful sander shop in the heart of downtown PC. It's nostalgic and quaint. The owner will give you a big hug and sit at your table to check on how you are as you select. Food is all authentically homemade. Wonderful experience read more

LOVE THIS SPOT!!! Moved to the are in '08. Found this place with my daughter a little bit after that. It's 2021 now and it brings back some nice memories...They still have great service and great food!!! Will always recommend them!!! read more

Whistle Stop - Obligatory pit stop whenever in downtown... - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

See all

What a fortunate find for us! My wife and I decided to stop for something to eat in Plant City today (April 15, 2022) and a local merchant recommended The Whistle Stop Cafe. We found a public parking lot around the corner (near a railroad museum) and walked over to The Whistle Stop. My wife and I each enjoyed a bowl of soup (Tomato Florentine & Potato with Bacon) and we split a Rueben Express Sandwich. I enjoyed the the fresh brewed sweet tea as well. The sandwich was under $9 and the soups were under $5 each. The meal was spectacular. The ambience was warm and the railroad theme of the cafe was delightful. We very much enjoyed the live music by what we assume was a customer (probably a regular) playing the piano the whole time we were there. When No nowe finished our meal, the owner, Marti, stopped by and talked with us for a few minutes. It was such a delight. I told Marti we would be returning and I meant it. read more

See all

I was at the flower market and someone recommended this restaurant, and it was a good choice. Aside from the long wait- I had to ask someone to take our order after 25 minutes- it was quite good, and I spoke to the owner who said their newly hired waitress no showed for her first shift. I had a root beer float (yum) and pastrami sandwich and we loved the old-time feel. They also have a model train which is neat. I would return here. read more

This is a wonderful place to have lunch. My wife and I eat lunch at Whistle Stop every week. We enjoy Mari, Jerry, and Jeremy very much! The food is always wonderful, I highly recommend their #13 salad and a Cherry Smash. Also, they make fresh bread every day and you just can't beat it. This is such a terrific small business. They just planted some beautiful flowers in front of their restaurant. It is also a historic place of interest in Plant City as our first hospital was located above their business and they were also home to one of Plant City's original pharmacies. As I am also a pharmacist I enjoy their history. This is a must visit stop when visiting our wonderful Historic Downtown Plant City. read more

Whistle Stop - American Near Me - Plant City, Florida

Stopped in today with my two daughters for lunch. Food was great- but the real gem here is the staff. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. Checked on us often. When we were leaving, Marti noticed the bead jewelry my youngest (she's 9) was wearing and commented on it. She even pointed it out to another employee. My daughter is quite shy, but I let Marti know she made it, and Marti made her feel so special and talented. It is hard for my youngest to open up to people she doesn't know, but she was so happy and wanted to show her jewelry off. It made her feel so amazing- she is already asking to go back. You don't find friendliness and service like that much any more. We will definitely be back. read more