BWW Reviews: THE RAIL HOUSE 1449 in Rahway New Jersey for an Exquisite Dining Experience

One visit to The Rail House 1449 in Rahway, New Jersey will never be enough. And true to the name, this sophisticated downtown restaurant just a few steps from the train station in the heart of the town's bustling Arts District. The setting is a completely renovated and updated 19th Century home that provides a stylish atmosphere for a superb dining experience.

Small details are significant in the restaurant business and the staff of The Rail House knows this very well. Here, you will discover a wonderful beverage program, extraordinary gourmet delights, excellent service and an entire ambiance that has been designed for their guest's enjoyment. It's no wonder they have earned a great reputation in the Central Jersey area.

Executive Chef, Manny Salas has created a menu of eclectic American cuisine that will suit everyone's tastes. Start every meal with their warm, perfectly fluffed cheese bread. Savor one of the salad selections like the Rail House Apple Salad with sliced green apples, lettuce, gorgonzola cheese and dried cranberries. The selection of appetizers includes Mussels Verde with a potently smoky blend of cilantro and jalapeno in the broth. Or try one of their winning small plates, Lobster and Chorizo Corn Tamales in a pernot infused lobster cream sauce.

The entrees deserve your extended attention and combine inspired tastes with generous portions like their Seared Diver Scallops with mushroom and pea risotto and saffron sauce. The Marinated Skirt Steak is served with smashed potatoes and baby carrots. Pasta lovers will enjoy the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Ravioli finished with Grand Marnier cream sauce. Rounding out the menu are "Classic Flatbreads" and "Accompaniments" that include Spinach Risotto, Sautéed Mushrooms or Sautéed Vegetables.

The cocktail menu at the Rail House brings together classic drinks, inventive mixes, and signature selections. Here, the house martini is not to be missed, smooth and indisputably classic garnished with blue cheese stuffed olives. You are welcome, though, to go off the menu entirely. The last time I was in, I was served a cocktail that drew together Basil Hayden bourbon, ginger liqueur, and actual basil for a mature herbal taste. Fine wines by the glass or bottle and a nice selection of beer can also be perfectly paired with your meal.

Of course, don't forget dessert. There are selections like Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake, and Warm Apple Tart. The Rail House also offers a "pull-apart " Chocolate Babka served with ice cream and chocolate ganache sauce, a sumptuous way to end a meal. And if you care to linger a little longer, there are after-dinner drinks that include traditional Irish Coffee or their Café Joy with coconut rum.

The Rail House 1449 also has the Rail House Yard and Club Car Annex, a casual bistro and bar located right next door for extraordinary food and live entertainment. Before or after the theater, on date night or with family and friends, this restaurant is a Rahway gem and a destination for culinary excellence.

The Rail House 1449 is located at 1449 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 06065 in the heart of the city's vibrant Arts District. They serve dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations are highly recommended. They also offer a private dining room for gatherings and celebrations. In the warm weather months, patio dining is available. The Rail House Bar is open seven days a week and late night. For more information, call (732) 388-1699 or visit their web site at www.therailhouse.com.

Photo: Courtesy of The Rail House 1449

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