Choo Choo Grill

This is a cute little restaurant right on the train tracks. The inside is very small, but there were open seats at the bar. I was in town for a conference and ordered a carryout for lunch. The owners made me feel very welcome and reminded me of going to a grandparents' house where they are just so happy you stopped by. I ordered the bacon cheddar melt and a chocolate peanut butter malt. Both were good, and I would go there again if I was in the area.

I got the American Fries and was able to add vegetables and onions. They're very accommodating here! Great service. Pricing is also great. The atmosphere is really charming! Very small place, but they make the best of the space they have for seating!

Seriously good food comes out of the Choo Choo Bar & Grill! Been in service since 1946 and it makes one of the tastiest burgers you've ever had! Easy to see from the roadside with its bright red exterior! Plenty of parking spots available! A small diner feel on the inside makes for quite a dining experience. Speaking of dining, the food is hot, fresh and well prepared with generous portions at a good price! Try Choo Choo today!

We absolutely LOVED the food and atmosphere of this little restaurant. Good people, delicious food, and the best atmosphere inside. Everything cooked right by you and hot and nice cold root beer and floats were just the perfect meal.

It was my first time here today. It was great. The food was hot and delicious. The portions are generously sized. It’s a cozy and compact atmosphere.

The CUTEST and most welcoming breakfast place. It was pretty busy when I was there, but we didn't have to wait super long for a table and we got our food in a timely manner. I even got a sweatshirt because the whole place was so heartwarming. If you love brunch and haven't been yet, put it at the top of your list!

First time and it didn’t disappoint! Went for breakfast and we enjoyed the atmosphere, listening to the discussions between the owner and the regulars, and definitely the food! Definitely one of the best breakfasts in town. Such a teeny little place with lots of character. Can’t wait to try lunch there next!

The very best restaurant in Grand Rapids all things considered. The most welcoming place in Grand Rapids I know.  The Legend Cheeseburger is huge.  Their chili is famous for a good reason. - The Legend - $15: HUGE one pound burger (two half pound patties).  Ordered mine medium and it was perfectly cooked and the quality of the meat is slightly above average.  The juices ran down nicely and yet it was thoroughly cooked.  The cheese was not melted in the picture, but it was still quite hot and melted nicely by the time I took my first bite. And the first bite was a juggling act.  Two HUGE burgers with a lot of toppings (well balanced and I wouldn’t change it) were falling out the back almost immediately.  It’s so big, you do have to manage it carefully or eat it with a fork.  I did manage to eat it by hand to the end, but the last quarter of it was no longer hand held, but just picking up pieces. I’ve had this burger before and I’ll probably have it again.  It isn’t my very favoritest burger, but it is really high up there. - Homemade Chili - $5: VERY savory.  There are a couple more beans than normal per cup, but there is also more meat and the chunks of meat can be a little larger.  There is more substance to it than water for sure and they have a name for chili for a reason.  The blend of spices was subtle, but definitely there to make it just right.  It had a little tiny kick according to my daughter, but she is sensitive.  I did not find it very spicy at all, but I can handle habanero spicy.  Probably my only complaint about this place is the price of the chili for how much you get is a bit expensive.  But it is good. - Chocolate Peanut Butter Malt - $6: I heard their shakes are amazing and they are.  It was a touch lighter than many others I’ve had, but not overly.  The malt and peanut butter flavor were a little light as well, but this brought out the quality flavor of the ice cream base.  It didn’t try to cover the low quality with artificial flavors, but blend it just right. Daughter - Bacon Cheeseburger: Ordered just plain and she reports it was great, especially the bacon. - Fries: I had some of her fries.  They are wide and thick cut, similar to Red Robin, but with a bit more seasoning.  They were not salted much, so you will likely want to add more. - Vanilla Malt: Liked it. It was like the others, less flavor, but it brings out the richness and quality of the ice cream. - Service: Grandma and Grandpa like service.  SUPER welcoming and still seeking to know you without an agenda.  They have the grill up front and still keep up the conversation while the burgers are sizzling. They look to take your order as quickly as possible and get you your order very quickly.  Very old school and I love it! I found that the staff knew most of the people who were coming and going, immediately noticing I was not a regular (though I want to be now). - Atmosphere: Tiny, but amazing!  There are only two tables with booths.  Other than that, they have ten diner stools which are showing age and creek, but are very comfortable and nostalgic.  There is train station memorabilia everywhere.  A lot of the pictures probably date back a hundred years.  It also has its goofy perks and smiles everywhere. - Conclusion: I am almost in tears at how warm this place made my visit with my daughter.  I don’t normally get emotional with my reviews, but this one struck a chord.  They didn’t do much over the top, but they made us feel super welcome.  After visiting more than 120 restaurants in a year and a half (yes, I just counted them) and looking carefully over every one of them, I consider this one the best, all things considered.  THE BEST! The food was amazing and everything I heard about them is STILL true.  It was last year when I visited and it still is. Visited at 11am-12pm on a Saturday.

Really good place to eat for Breakfast. I ordered the Cinnamon Raisin French Toast. The owner that was cooking was doing a great job. The other owner, was very nice and funny. Service is awesome! Love this place

Walked in several minutes before 11 o'clock sat down, ordered coffee and water and at 10:57 was told that they are no longer serving breakfast and when I informed them that was OK we would go someplace else. Every employee in there got rude and nasty. only because we didn't want lunch and went there strictly for breakfast. It's sad people have to act like that.

The choo-choo grill is an endangered species. A throwback to a simpler time where Food wasn't trying to be cutting edge but instead just focused on being delicious. The choo-choo grill is your classic American diner. Serving up both breakfast and lunch the food is not fancy, but it is made with love And is made well. The interior is small two booths and counter seating only. What is probably most remarkable, though is that you're only a stranger there once. Every time we dine in, I am amazed at the number of regulars and repeat customers. What's even more impressive that they are remembered by the staff in return. There's terrific community connection going on within this small brick building. Rick, Kathy and Mary do a fantastic job making you feel welcome while simultaneously keeping your coffee mug filled and your order out to you fast. My personal go to is always the cakes and more there is something about a fluffy pancake hot off the flat top that is just magical and don't you dare leave without trying one of their malts ! The chocolate peanut butter is to die for! Currently the building is for sale, so who knows how much time we'll have left before the last train pulls out of the station, so get in and enjoy it while you can.

Old school diner with very friendly service. This place is usually busy with small counter and a few small tables. The burger plate was very traditional, one of the few places where they ask how you want it cooked. I ordered this 1/2 pound burger as medium but it came medium-well. Still tasted good though.

If you're a history buff, wait no longer and get over to the Choo-Choo. Caught in a time warp, this tiny spot will evoke memories of a more tranquil time - the food is great, and most customers remember the first time they went to the Choo ! The management is vey friendly and most appreciative of your business. The "hamburg" here is the signature dish, but other items on the menu do not disappoint ! The place is up for sale, so do yourself a favor - get over to the grill and bring tour camera !!

I love this place. Simple, classic, totally Old School. Diner food that is really good: burgers, patty melts, tuna melts, chili, onion rings... Best are the milkshakes and malteds. In fact that's how I heard of Choo Choo Grill: my dad wanted a malted specifically, not a milkshake, and a friend told us her husband comes here for the malteds and says they're the best in town. They are great! The owners are very friendly and so are the other staff. There are only a few booths and a line of stools at the counter, so if you come at a busy time you may have to wait for a seat. We would arrive after lunch but before closing time and get to sit right down, but it's a small place and I would think there can be a line. Breakfast is still in my future, and hope to try that the next time I visit. Except then I might miss out on the chocolate malteds.

Delicious burgers, and quaint, rustic ambiance. All staff were very, very friendly. I will definitely be back!

Small parking lot for a small place. Food was really good and the staff are friendly. Not a huge menu, but it is delicious.

We came here from a doctor appointment early in the morning. We both ordered the omelette and we took it to go. The place was inviting and the atmosphere is small and quaint. The food was delicious when we got home and ate it. We enjoyed the food and the place was not corporate owned so the food was made to order. I would recommend

This is a super Yelp find thank you yelpers for nailing another one. First morning in Grand Rapids I had breakfast here a true find. Family owned and operated since 1920 and still family run and owned. It is a tiny place with the best food and everyone knew everyone. Soon I will definitely be a local they know also so so good find this little place grab a stool and enjoy a great place. Oh yea the coffee is incredible also

The Choo Choo was bought in 1946, turned into a restaurant in 1957, and this year, the Choo will have been run by the same family for 63 years! A legendary Creston staple & hidden gem in Grand Rapids! ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ The menu is simple & classic, and that's exactly what makes it outstanding. Traditional made burgers, fries, and old fashioned shakes make this grill the only one of its kind in Grand Rapids. As you can guess by its name, the Choo is filled with fascinating railroad and train memorabilia. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ The Choo has some of the best service in GR, possibly the best burger in GR, and DEFINITELY the best shakes in GR, made with real milk and ice cream! ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ The Big Red Caboose burger & Chocolate Peanut Butter malt are the fan favorites around here. ⁣⁣ A MUST STOP diner in Grand Rapids. If you've never been here, you need to add it to your list STAT.

The disappearing American diner lives on here. I was there early and had breakfast. Sat about 4 foot from the woman running the grill. It was excellent! Hopefully can get back and try a burger as they come highly recommended.

The genuine kindness and good old time service will blow you away. Add to that downright delicious burgers and malts and you will keep coming back. It's tight seating inside but totally worth it as the inside is so very unique and fun, and the relationships you build will be worth the coziness.

The worlds best hamburgers and fries. The place is located in an old train depot. It's very tiny inside but the food is awesome.

Very small building, limited seating but was able to eat here on a weekday during lunch time. Ordered a patty melt with fries along with a bowl of chili. The chili bowl was served immediately and the food was ready within 10-15 minutes of waiting. Chili tasted great, although the crackers served alongside it seemed to taste a bit on the stale side. The patty melt was delicious with a pretty thick meat patty compared to the usual patty melts I've seen. Side of fries was very generous and can easily be for two people. Overall great experience, a bit on the pricier side for such a small place, but would come again if friends wanted to (Although be careful of that as seating is limited).

Words just cannot describe this local fav with its homemade (in front of you) traditional small diner foods that are generous portions & ALWAYS delicious!! Huge handmade burgers, massive omelettes, hand dipped milk shakes, literally the most delicious food that isn't fancy or complicated....just plain good and delicious food! The staff is also VERY wonderful - always so welcoming, funny, personable and kind. It's a family fav & a place we dearly love to eat.

The food was really yummy and atmosphere friendly. My husband got enough pickles to satisfy him(a true feat in itself). Such fun!

Great food and great service always felt welcome! And it's right in the neighborhood too. That's the best part.

Lived in Grand rapids all of my life but just made it here for the 1st time this weekend. Choo Choo's is a cozy space with eclectic train decor. I came here for lunch and enjoyed my cheeseburger, nothing special but tasty. Also got a bowl of chili, i do recommend this as it was delicious. I also ordered the chocolate peanut butter malt and that was my favorite thing I've tried so far, i highly recommend it.

I was really surprised. I had heard this was the place to get the best hamburger around? First of all it's a pre-made hamburger patty. It was a good size burger. We had their Red Caboose special where the fries come with it. I upgraded to onon rings for a small up charge. It was cooked exactly as we asked. My daughter did not like the fries and I would not order the onion rings again. They were a dark brown color probably cooked in a Grease that hadn't been changed in awhile or maybe cooked in peanut oil. Hands down, not even close to being anything to brag about. Add in 2 drinks at $2.89 ea and you got yourself a bill for $35 for two people. Red Robin has got you beat all day long. Be prepared to eat in a matchbox sized restaurant. 2 booths and a small counter with stools so close to the counter that I had to sit sideways to eat. It's a mom and pop operation. They ate very friendly and make you feel at home. I would of expected hand made patties based on the reviews I read. Nothing special here. Nothing to bring us back and nothing to brag about. I don't know what all the hype is about? If you want a great burger, go over to Googs in Holland. They used to be the best before they moved. Don't know about now? Overall, we thought your burgers were just average. We won't be back.

Been driving past this place for over 20 years. Finally went when I was taken there for boss's day. This place is tiny and if you hit it at the wrong time, you probably won't get a seat. If you like trains, the atmosphere is cool. I thought it was a little on the pricey side, but the food was good. The staff though, were amazing. They made you feel right at home. They would have a conversation with you and kid around with you. Gave me that small town diner feel in a bigger city. Now let's get to the food. I got the olive burger and onion rings. Burger was good but the rings were a little over done. However, they were still tasty. I like the batter they use. Made up for the over frying. We also got the bacon cheddar melt and steak fries. Also very good and the fries looked perfect. I didn't get to try those. We also had the jumbo taco salad. Not sure if chili is supposed to be on it, but it worked. Very tasty and a very good portion. I thought the place was cool and the food was good enough to go back for more. I will return at some point and it won't take me 20 years to do so this time.

Awesome burgers and neat atmosphere. Get here early because seating is limited. You don't want to miss this unique breakfast and burger joint!

Love this place. Small but nice. Everyone like family I love the grilled cheese. Burgers are good. The root beer in the iced mug is awesome. Old school malts too. Train motif

Uh, how could I have lived in GR for over 13 years and not ever been here??? Again, as with all reviews, I will rate based on the particular establishment type. This is a small, local, greasy spoon type of place that specializes in hamburgers. Is the food here better than that at San Chez or Judson's Steakhouse? Well, no, but the rating is higher because it accomplishes what it set out to do. Basic, no-frills burgers, big thick-cut steak fries and big milkshakes. Apples to apples, folks. A tiny building. You can eat in, but it cannot accommodate many patrons. More than enough parking for the building size. The people inside are friendly and welcoming - this is so important in such a place that if it is absent, it totally diminishes the experience. Here, the folks are great. The food is very reasonably priced for the portions you get, which are quite large. The hamburgers are extremely good and cooked properly to order. As I have an affectation for huge burgers, I love a place that does them correctly. Haute cuisine it is not, but I left with a full belly, a jingle in my pocket and a smile on my face.

Not only are their burgers the best anywhere around, and breakfast dishes exceptional (especially the "Gumshoe"), but the hospitality and friendly atmosphere are just what you've been looking for. My favorite place to eat in the whole state. Len R

The best burger in town! The staff is so friendly. Feels like you're visiting someone's home. This is a treasure!

Excellent burgers at a classic burger and shake shop that is a Grand Rapids icon. It can get a bit busy right at the lunch hour but they work hard to get you served. Take a seat at the counter to enjoy good food and conversation.

Best burger in GR? Probably. Best shake in GR? Likely. Best onion rings in GR? Certainly. Best service and staff? With out a doubt. Just try it once and you'll be hooked. If my arteries could take it I'd eat here every day.

Maybe I'm a bit of a heretic but I don't go insane over this place like others. The food is great! Don't get me wrong, the service is also fast and friendly, but the size of the place and the crowds sorta ruined a perfect experience for me. The food is wonderful, cooked to order and fresh but I was awkwardly perched on a non-adjustable stool sandwiched between two other folks and was just really uncomfortable. (If you're skinny -- well this is a 5 star place. :D)

Awesome classic american fare. I went with the legend, accompanied with onion rings and a strawberry malted. Everything was great, but next time I'll go with a smaller burger. The one pound beast is not for the faint of heart.

If you don't get this place, you should no longer be allowed to sit at the big people table. This is classic. This is old school. This is small town, friendly neighborhood, simple, real, honest ... just damn good food. The people (on both sides of the counter) are great. The food is perfect. OK, ok. A lot of praise for without much balance. So here's the reality check. There is no classically trained chef here. No gourmet recipes or haute ingredients. If you are expecting this place to blow your mind, go somewhere that specializes in that sort of thing. If you want a good burger with lettuce and tomato, belly-up to the counter and enjoy. (and no, I don't know if the tomatoes are locally sourced, nor do I care.)

This is absolutely one of my favorite burger places!! They have much more than just burgers on the menu. It may be VERY small, but this place packs a punch! Their burgers are always made fresh, they are huge, full of flavor, and juicy...not greasy! When I worked down the street, I would call in my lunch order and pick it up within 15 minutes. I always got the Olive Burger and Steak Fries. Hands down the best Olive Burger I have ever had. It's hard to even find Olive Burgers on menus any more. Anyway, my second visit to pick up my order and the owner remembered me and knew me by name. Such a family oriented place, and a staple mark in the community. I no longer work downtown, but I would take the drive over there on any given day just to eat here. Love it!!!!

A great place if u want some comfort food! Pricing is good! The building is always nice to be in especially to show the kiddos if they live trains

Lets start out by saying this is a hole in the wall with very limited hours. That being said they have the BEST burgers. The burger comes with very good steak fries. The milkshakes are killer too, real ice cream. They also serve breakfast, but I've never tried it. Highly highly recommend.

Great burger. Very much a locals joint. It's the Cheers! of the lunch time crowd. They know each other, take care of new people, and serve a really good burger. The prices are inexpensive, and the parking is limited... but it's worth the effort! You will be rewarded! 4 STARS

I've been going here for the better part of 35 years!! And for good reason!!! Hands down best burger I've ever had!!! The staff is always great , good conversation an occasional joke!! Like having a meal with your best friends!!! Don't miss out!!!

Very fast service. Place is small and everyone knows each other. Very comfy place down to earth. Great american fries. Friendly staff.

After years of hearing how amazing the burgers are here, and driving past the cute little building nearly every day, we finally found a chance to stop in and give the place a try. First I have to start by saying I love the building. It's well worn in a quaint, comfortable way. It truly reminds you of a bygone diner era, and doesn't at all feel like its a new place trying to recapture and cash in on that vibe -- its the real deal. After years of hearing about the burgers, we opted for burgers. I got the Depot Burger. I can't remember if the server asked how I would like it done, but I got a burger that was somewhere around medium-well. Honestly, it was bland and flavorless. It reminded me of the burgers my mom made while I was growing up -- a thick hunk of ground beef, overcooked and somewhat dry. It just wasn't good, and I say that as someone who really, really wanted to like this place. Fat Boy up the road on Plainfield or even Russ' makes a far superior diner-style burger. The food was hot and served quickly, and the onion rings were on point, but given that Choo Choo is known for it's burgers, we expected better. I asked my dining companion what she thought of the burger, and she echoed my thoughts nearly verbatim, even mentioning that Fat Boy's burger is far better, and the Choo Choo burgers were bland and forgettable.

Had a delicious, juicy 1/2 pound cheeseburger and thick-cut steak fries, which could have had a crispier exterior but were still quite good. My buddy got some onion rings which were quite crispy and tasty. There is not much seating...I believe there are 3 booths and then counter seating. We arrived at around 1pm and had no problem snagging a table but I could imagine there being a wait at busy times. The food arrived quickly and was very fresh. The place was a little cold as we were there in January and the bathroom was freezing. The knick knacks in the window by our table were a little grungy and could use a cleaning. Lots of duct tape holding the booth seats together. All in all it was a very charming little diner with quality food.

The best greasy spoon in GR. A long staple of the city, get there early for lunch to get a spot. Burgers are good and the Melts.

I wasn't expecting much except a decent diner burger. I had heard good things though. I was BLOWN AWAY. It was the perfect cheeseburger. It wasn't fancy, but it was what you'd want if you just want a traditional cheeseburger. Plus, everyone was super nice and it is so quaint and charming. Loved everything about my visit. Def hit the spot! I found my new favorite burger place. Thanks, Choo Choo Grill!

Old school burger joint! Very very good place to bring a friend and enjoy the environment. It is little place but the conversations, pictures around you pack a good punch like the handmade shakes. A bit small but worth a visit after peak hours in the morning and lunch. Pick the right time and day, and you will be glad you did. A gem in GR

Best Burger and malts in GR! A family favorite. Carry out tasted great. Can't wait for dine to return. This will be one of our first stops.

Warm small-town friendly service. Very small indoors but comfortable for a group of four or less. Excellent home cooked style burgers.

First time here today. I had the cheddar bacon melt with fries & a root beer float. Considering I ate half before I took a picture I'd say it was pretty DELICIOUS! Seriously it was really tasty. The inside is my favorite mix of old decor & retro furniture. They've been around since 1946! Prices are super affordable, the staff is friendly, down to earth & I love the high top seating & watching my food being prepared. Awesome experience, awesome food, I will definitely be back.

The place needs a update of upholstery but best no thrill 1 lb Legend Burger and peanut butter malt Shake I had in a long time

This place is NOT what it used to be! Obviously premade frozen burger patties, on buns from meijer, with 1 of the rudest waitresses I've had in years! Needless to say, I won't be back!

Always a great place to stop in. Great Berger's and just some nice people that work there

This place is expensive. My bill came to 11.95$ and that is without the tip. There are no combo basket. You have to order everything al'e cart. However the service is really good, hence the two stars, and they make u feel very comfortable. Like many have said before me the place is small and they close at 4pm. As for the food, the burgers is not as specials as many of the reviewers would have you to believe. Trust me, I am a burger man and know a good burger when I eat one. Mcdonalds new Angus burger is better than the burger served here. The fries are staek fries and cost around 3 dollars. If I had to pick the best item I ate, actually I drunk it, it would be the malt and even that was inconsistent at best. It was not blended very well and that cost 4 dollars, This is a place that I will not be visiting again. I feel that yelp reveiwers let me down.