Train-themed eatery makes a meal fun

For GO

Train enthusiasts young and old are sure to enjoy a whistle-stop tour of 2Toots Train Whistle Grill, a train-themed restaurant with two locations in the western suburbs.

2Toots Train, in Downers Grove and Glen Ellyn, aims to be the kind of place both kids and adults can enjoy, said owner Dale Eisenberg.

"When people describe us, it's as an adult restaurant that kids love," Eisenberg said.

All patrons at 2Toots have their food delivered by one of the restaurants trains, which sets them apart from other train restaurants in the area that don't have all their tables serviced by the food-delivery trains, he said. In addition to the trains, 2Toots is full of train-themed décor.

"People walk around the place like it's a museum," Eisenberg said.

He said 2Toots isn't a diner; it's more similar to the old Woolworth's lunch counters.

"We made it so it's like the old luncheonettes from years ago," Eisenberg said.

The restaurants have a limited menu, but Eisenberg said what 2Toots lacks in selection it makes up for in quality. The menu features lunch-counter favorites such as burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches like a BLT, grilled cheese, egg salad and tuna salad. Eisenberg said one of the best items on the menu is the bacon double cheeseburger, which is made with thick-cut bacon.

2Toots also has a selection of kids' meals that feature a burger or sandwich, fruit or french fries and a drink for less than $4.

Desserts are also popular at 2Toots, which has hand-dipped sundaes, milkshakes and malts. Home-baked brownies, Rice Krispy Treats and cupcakes are favorites because they come topped with a train whistle.

The train whistles are a hit with kids, and Eisenberg said the only way to get them is on the desserts.