For those in the know, the distinctive “ЯR” bumper sticker is more than just a random decal. It’s a badge of honor, a subtle nod to a beloved institution: Railroad Street Bar & Grill in Linfield, Pennsylvania. Tucked away just off Route 422 in Montgomery County, this unassuming eatery has cultivated a dedicated, almost cult-like following throughout the Delaware Valley and beyond. While it might blend into the background for the uninitiated, those in the know understand that “ЯR” signifies something special, a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Bumper Sticker
Railroad Street Bar & Grill proudly wears the “dive bar” label, but shed any preconceived notions of dinginess or danger. This is a dive bar with character, a place radiating genuine warmth and a welcoming atmosphere. Its brick-and-mortar charm is perfectly complemented by its location, nestled beside the Reading Railroad line in a low-key industrial area of Linfield. It’s the kind of unexpected treasure you discover on the other side of the tracks, a place that feels both familiar and surprisingly unique.
The Unexpected Journey of Railroad Street
“Eleven years ago, if you’d told me I’d be running a restaurant, I would have laughed,” says Mike McCloskey, the owner and driving force behind Railroad Street Bar & Grill. “My initial plan with my former partner was to buy the property and rent it out. But once I saw the space, I realized it had incredible potential.” This realization marked a significant shift for McCloskey, who at the time was a local real estate investor. At 44, he embraced this new venture, envisioning a menu built on classic comfort food favorites and a top-notch drink selection. Grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken wings, crispy French fries, juicy burgers, hearty steak sandwiches, and an impressive array of beers on tap became the cornerstones of his vision.
A Dive Bar Atmosphere That Welcomes Everyone
From the outside, Railroad Street Bar & Grill might appear to be a typical, no-frills blue-collar bar, reflecting its location near the railway tracks in a working-class neighborhood. However, stepping inside reveals a quirky and convivial atmosphere that transcends demographics. It’s a place where generations mingle – grandparents and grandkids, local workers, solo diners, couples, Gen Xers, and even those with a touch of ’60s hippie spirit. Everyone feels comfortable here, whether you’re nursing a light beer or savoring a carefully chosen craft beer or fine whiskey. The underlying vibe is one of complete acceptance and unpretentious enjoyment.
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Tap Handles
The space itself is designed for easygoing socializing, accommodating 60 diners in the dining room, 37 at the bar, and another 60 on the outdoor patio during pleasant weather. The decor is a playful mix of wood-paneled walls, pillars, and ceiling beams adorned with beer labels, vintage license plates, neon signs, skateboards suspended from the ceiling, and humorous placards. One such sign above the bar’s plastic bag dispenser playfully declares, “Nobody’s ugly at 2 a.m.” Adding to the relaxed ambiance, the soundtrack is usually tuned to an Alternative music station via the ever-present Music Channel.
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Pinball Machines
Venture beyond the bar area and you’ll discover a back room dedicated to vintage pinball machines. This buzzing, brightly lit space offers a nostalgic escape and a chance to test your skills on classic Bally tables.
Farm-to-Table Flavors in a Dive Bar Setting
Don’t expect mass-produced, pre-packaged food at Railroad Street. Owner Mike McCloskey is deeply committed to supporting local farms, taking a “seed to sauce” approach to his menu. He cultivates his own gardens nearby to grow a variety of vegetables. The ripe tomatoes and peppers in their sauces, and many of the organic potatoes used for their famous hand-cut French fries, are often sourced directly from his own crops. Onions form the flavorful base of the restaurant’s savory sandwich jams, adding another layer of homemade goodness.
For their burgers and chip steak, Railroad Street partners with Why Not Farm in Glenmoore, ensuring high-quality, grass-fed beef. The fresh-cut potatoes are transformed into culinary creations. Their Beerchamel Fries are a must-try, smothered in a creamy beer and cheese-infused béchamel sauce. For a more decadent option, the Lobster Fries are loaded with lobster bisque, shredded Maine lobster, Monterey Jack cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and a dusting of Parmesan.
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Tomato Jam Fries
Chicken wings come in a range of heat levels, from mild to intensely hot (“You Gotta Be Kidding Hot”). Flavorful sauces like blood orange habanero, jamberry BBQ, and garlic butter enhance the wing experience. The half-pound, hormone-free beef burgers can be customized with a variety of toppings or enjoyed as patty melts. The Jefferson burger features Jefferson’s Whiskey bacon jam and provolone cheese on grilled Texas toast. For those who like a kick, the St. Lucifer burger delivers an “oral bonfire” of flavors, seasoned with spices from local St. Lucifer Spice Company, and topped with bacon, red onion, sharp cheddar, and served on a Parmesan-crusted Kaiser roll. The Get Railed burger is a mountain of flavor, piled high with pulled pork, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a house-made IPA barbecue sauce.
However, it’s the grilled cheese sandwiches and other hearty sandwiches that truly draw crowds to Railroad Street Bar & Grill. The kitchen team gets creative with their combinations: The Worst Crab Cake Ever Grilled Cheese (with Dijon tartar sauce and smoked Gouda), The Lobster & Cheddar Grilled Cheese, The Spice Orchard Beef Brisket Grilled Cheese, and The French Dip Grilled Cheese are just a few examples of their innovative offerings.
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Claude Gerouxben Sandwich
And then there’s the legendary Claude “Girouxben,” a sandwich named in honor of Philadelphia Flyers captain Claude Giroux. This epic creation features seasoned steak meat, bacon, mild and sharp cheddars, smoked Gouda, provolone, and coleslaw, all stacked between two slices of wheat bread and finished with Gulden’s mustard and a sweet balsamic aioli. It’s a true hat trick of sandwich satisfaction.
Beyond Beer: A Whiskey Lover’s Paradise
Railroad Street Bar and Grill Bourbon Selection
“This isn’t just a shot and a beer kind of place. In fact, I usually don’t even allow shots at the bar,” Mike McCloskey emphasizes with pride. “The whiskies here are meant to be savored and appreciated.” Mirroring his commitment to local food sources, McCloskey also supports smaller distillers. His house label is Jefferson’s, a sought-after Kentucky micro-batch bourbon. The bar boasts an impressive collection of over 500 hand-picked whiskies, ranging from everyday pours to rare and complex spirits. “Whether you’re new to whiskey or a seasoned connoisseur, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love on our list.”
Beer drinkers will also find plenty to enjoy with 43 beers on tap, along with a well-curated bottle selection. Local favorites from breweries like Neshaminy Creek, Victory, and McKenzie’s are readily available, alongside more unique offerings, particularly from western Pennsylvania breweries like Pizza Boy and Fat Head’s Brewery.
Adding to the welcoming atmosphere are the bartenders at Railroad Street. They are down-to-earth, approachable individuals who embody the spirit of the bar. Whether you need a friendly ear, a good joke, or simply a quiet space to unwind with your drink, Railroad Street provides a comfortable and unpretentious escape.
Your Next Favorite Dive Bar?
For someone who admits to not being a social media guru and who entered the restaurant industry without prior experience, Mike McCloskey has clearly created something special at Railroad Street Bar & Grill. His focus on treating employees well and offering quality food and drinks in a relaxed environment has fostered a loyal customer base, evidenced by the ubiquitous “ЯR” bumper stickers. If you’re looking for a dive bar that transcends expectations, offering exceptional food, a fantastic drink selection, and a genuinely welcoming vibe, Railroad Street Bar & Grill in Linfield is a must-visit.
Railroad Street Bar & Grill is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 AM to midnight; Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 2 AM; and Sunday from 12 PM to 12 AM. They are closed on Mondays. Stay connected and see what’s new by following them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Visit Railroad Street Bar & Grill at 36 Railroad St., Linfield, PA; or call them at (610) 496-7043.
- Photos: Ken Alan
