Light Rail Cafe — Restaurant in Jersey City

Light Rail Cafe Review Writer: Chef Rene Hewitt Chef Rene Hewitt a few seconds ago 2 min read

Located at 237 Randolph Ave, Jersey City, NJ sits this wonderful restaurant which includes a nice size bar. It's not big but it has 4 floors of pure fulfillment with people really enjoying themselves.

Let's start with the restaurant's look. One wall showcases photos of family and friends. The bar is extensive and was lively with customers enjoying themselves. There was an abundance of laughter, dishes being served, and fantastic music playing, creating a festive vibe that made you want to dance to the beat.

I accompanied a friend, Crystal the Pound Cake Lady, who mentioned that there is space on the side of the restaurant as well as in the back. I explored the back area and was pleasantly surprised by how cozy the outdoor space is. However, she informed me that there's more to the place. In fact, there are three floors above. The second floor is available for rent for special occasions and features nice warm decor and a fireplace, making it quite comfortable and spacious. I didn't have the opportunity to see the third floor, but I was told that they offer entertainment on the roof. When the weather changes, I'll go back for the thrill of the rooftop.

Regarding the food. We began with fried catfish as the appetizer, which I must admit was quite good. It was crispy but could have used a bit more spice and the pieces were quite small, which surprised me. After the appetizer, I had smothered turkey wings, which were really good but needed much more sauce, along with collard greens that were excellent, and mac and cheese topped it off. Crystal also had the same appetizer, smothered turkey, collard greens, but had candied yams. She said they were very good and recently went back for their chicken sandwich.

Regarding The Light Rail Cafe as a whole, I love visiting places where you can see people truly enjoying the food, their company, and the surroundings. The atmosphere was lively and bustling, which can be contagious. The bartenders and waitstaff were very friendly. I didn't have to wait long to be served, and the food was hot. The chef clearly knows how to prepare perfectly cooked comfort food. I would rate The Light Rail Cafe a 10 out of 10. If you're looking for a good time and great food, don't hesitate to visit them. Mention that Chef Rene...

This used to be my go-to restaurant and bar because of the good food, drinks and vicinity to my home. I especially liked the ambience and warm cordial service. But since the past year or two, it's become disappointing. Food and drink prices have nearly doubled. They've taken away some of my favorites from the menu. Staff keeps changing and service is impersonal and late. They will serve your appetizers and main course together, every time! So you'll be eating appetizers while your other food gets cold. Also, they will add gratuity irrespective of party size.

Worst part is that it's just too goddamn LOUD. Don't get me wrong - this place is almost always full, which speaks for it's popularity. Food is still good. But it's so immensely loud - patrons screaming on top of their lungs, and booming music, that you can't think, let alone enjoy your meal. I avoid this place now, which is a pity, considering it's just a 3 minute walk from my place. I still go there sometimes because of the good food alone.

UPDATE: Service and management have deteriorated further lately. On numerous occasions, if an item is out of stock (either drink or food), they'll gladly replace or accommodate, but they'll add it to the bill anyway. READ YOUR BILL CAREFULLY...

Called to place my order for pick-up … Hanger steak with grilled chicken, broccoli & yellow rice. I asked the woman in the phone to repeat my order back to me. She said it back to me incorrectly (kept saying yellow rice & red beans) I repeated it again and she got it wrong again. After the third time, she finally got it right. I added a Cesar wrap. I asked if it came with croutons & chicken and all the things a typical Cesar salad comes with. She replied , yes. & I added sweet potato fries. I picked up my order & went home. When I began to eat my wrap, I took a bite.. No chicken/croutons/shredded Parmesan cheese… just lettuce and Cesar dressing!!! I specifically asked if it came with all the dressings of a Cesar salad!! I called and to my disappointment the staff member was not helpful at all. Said no manager was available and she’d let the manager know later when she comes in. She didn’t ask for any info until I asked how they’d get in touch with me if she didn’t ask for my info… she scoffed and asked for my number. She didn’t know when the manager would be in. That was at 3pm. It is 10:26pm & I have yet to hear from them! I’m extremely disappointed &...