Riley Street Station, a cherished landmark in East Aurora, is set to reignite its legacy as a vibrant dining and social hub. This historic establishment, deeply rooted in the community’s memory, is embarking on an exciting new chapter under the ownership of local entrepreneur, Amabile. Residents and visitors alike can anticipate a revitalized Riley Street Station that honors its rich past while introducing contemporary flavors and experiences.
This eagerly awaited reopening promises to deliver a full-service restaurant and bar experience, building upon the foundation that made Riley Street Station a beloved destination for so many years. The name itself, a familiar comfort to generations of East Aurorans, will remain unchanged, a deliberate choice by Amabile to acknowledge and celebrate the restaurant’s enduring significance. “Everyone knows Riley Street Station,” Amabile stated, recognizing the deep connection the community has with the venue. “It’s filled with great memories with many more to come.” This sentiment underscores his commitment to preserving the essence of Riley Street Station while ushering it into a bright future.
Amabile’s connection to the local area runs deep. Growing up in Elma and hailing from a family with entrepreneurial spirit, he witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion required to build a successful local business. His father’s ventures, South Buffalo Chiropractic and Mr. A’s Village Corner Pub, served as an inspiring example, instilling in him a drive to contribute to the community fabric. As he approaches his graduation with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in May 2024 and prepares to join Universal Chiropractic, Amabile is enthusiastically embracing the challenge of owning and operating Riley Street Station. This dual commitment reflects his ambition and dedication to both his professional and entrepreneurial aspirations.
The vision for the reimagined Riley Street Station is ambitious and appealing. Amabile plans to offer a diverse menu catering to a wide range of tastes. Patrons can look forward to a tempting array of appetizers, comforting soups, fresh salads, and satisfying entrees. Pizza, wings, burgers, and seafood selections will also feature prominently, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. To add extra value and variety, daily lunch and dinner specials will be a regular offering. The bar area will be equally enticing, with happy hour promotions and Buffalo Bills Game Day Specials creating a lively and engaging atmosphere, particularly during football season.
Nostalgia will be tastefully interwoven with innovation in the new menu. Amabile is bringing back cherished classic dishes that long-time patrons will remember fondly. Fan favorites such as the “Train Wreck Nachos,” the hearty “Depot Burger,” the flavorful “Twin Peaks Sirloin,” and the delicate “Shrimp Pesto Linguine” are all set to make a welcome return. Alongside these returning classics, the menu will introduce exciting new signature dishes designed to tantalize taste buds and broaden the culinary appeal. New additions like a refreshing “Mediterranean Platter,” savory “Stuffed Seafood Banana Peppers,” the uniquely flavored “Apple Bacon Bourbon Burger,” and the robust “Cioppino” showcase a commitment to culinary creativity and providing a modern dining experience.
While the existing structure of Riley Street Station remains in excellent condition, Amabile is enhancing the ambiance and entertainment offerings. He has invested in new televisions and a state-of-the-art sound system, promising an upgraded audio-visual experience for guests. The addition of two new dart boards provides a fun and interactive element for patrons looking for entertainment beyond dining and drinks. Looking ahead to the warmer months, plans are in place to install two inviting fire pits and expand the front patio. These outdoor enhancements will create an even more welcoming and enjoyable environment for guests to relax and socialize, further solidifying Riley Street Station as a premier destination in East Aurora.
The reopening of Riley Street Station is more than just the revival of a restaurant; it’s a reaffirmation of community spirit and a celebration of local heritage. With Amabile at the helm, Riley Street Station is poised to once again become a cornerstone of East Aurora’s social scene, offering a blend of familiar comforts and exciting new experiences for everyone to enjoy.
