Rise and dine, breakfast aficionados! It’s time to flip the script on your morning routine and savor some egg-citing delights. From sunny-side smiles to crispy bacon high-fives, a great breakfast is the ultimate way to start your day sunny-side up. Grab your fork and knife and dive into our breakfast journey that’s egg-stravagant, muffin short of amazing, and jam-packed with delicious memories that will leave you egg-static for more!
So tell us, who are you, where did you come from, and what do you do?
The owners of Train Depot, Patricia and Ruben Escovedo, are born and raised Fresno locals. They were high school sweethearts who met in 1978 while Ruben attended McLane High School and Pat was at Clovis High. They have since lived their lives to the fullest, finding independence through their entrepreneurial ventures. In the early days of their careers, Ruben dedicated his time to excelling as an electrician, while Pat thrived in the beauty service industry.
Together, this power couple has continued to build and make strides in business, fully embracing their passions. They began developing their business expertise when they owned Electric Beach tanning salon. This endeavor developed their abilities to oversee a business and ensure its success. Later, in 2009, while working with the previous owners of The Train Depot, Pat welcomed the opportunity to take ownership of the restaurant when it was put up for sale.
Ruben and Pat have since sustained the restaurant’s success and have continued providing the excellent quality and service that the community has come to expect from the iconic Fresno eatery.
Still, no matter how much they enjoy being successful business owners, their number one pride and joy is their son, Josh, who is now a successful partner at a national law firm. Their devotion to business, family, and excellence is a model for all who want to emulate a lifestyle in which they dedicate their lives to success and make their dreams a reality. Nevertheless, through all of their achievements, they are still some of the most down-to-earth and caring people you will ever meet. Should you have the pleasure of running into them at The Train Depot, rest assured that they will be willing to share a word of wisdom and advice with anyone who seeks insight into the lifestyle of a successful entrepreneurial couple.
Tell us about the business
The Train Depot is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Fresno, California. It is a family-owned business that has been serving the community for over 30 years. It is known as a Fresno classic and loved by customers for the train-themed diner atmosphere and delicious breakfast and lunch offerings.
The company’s mission is to provide quality food, exceptional customer service, and a warm and inviting dining experience for patrons. The Train Depot is a mom-and-pop establishment that values personal connections with customers, treating them like family. The menu features a variety of classic American dishes made from scratch, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
From fluffy pancakes to hearty omelets and tasty burgers, there is something for everyone to love. The Train Depot is committed to contributing to the community through charitable work and being an equal-opportunity employer. Ultimately, the company aims to create a memorable dining experience for all who visit. Originally, In 1984, The Train Depot started out with the name, Iron Horse and opened on the corner of First and McKinley in Fresno, California. Over time, the Iron Horse opened additional locations at Blackstone and Shaw, Shaw and Brawley, and Cedar and Kings Canyon. However, when the restaurant consolidated to a single location in 1999, it was rebranded as The Train Depot. The original restaurant on First and McKinley was in operation until it was destroyed by a fire in 2010. Despite this setback, the team worked tirelessly to reopen the restaurant just three months later at First and Ashlan.
The mission was to create a unique dining experience that combines delicious food with a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of classic train stations. Patricia and Ruben Escovedo were passionate about Fresno’s historical connection to the Southern Pacific Railroad and wanted to continue to serve their community through a family-owned restaurant. They designed the restaurant to resemble a train depot, with decor featuring train memorabilia, vintage signage, and even a model train running around the dining area. This train-themed ambiance adds a special touch to the dining experience and has made them a favorite among locals and visitors. Over the years, The Train Depot has become known for mouthwatering breakfast and lunch offerings. From fluffy pancakes and hearty omelets to delicious sandwiches and burgers, they designed the menu to satisfy various tastes.
The Train Depot takes pride in using high-quality ingredients, ensuring that their dishes are not only tasty but also fresh and flavorful. Their top priorities are providing exceptional customer service and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The friendly and dedicated staff goes above and beyond to make customers feel like family. The team has built strong relationships with patrons over the years, and the patrons’ loyalty is a testament to the quality of the restaurant’s offerings. The Train Depot has become an integral part of the Fresno community, and they look forward to serving the community for years to come.
Tell us about something that you do that makes you stand out
The Train Depot stands out in several ways, making it a Fresno fan favorite. One of the key factors that sets them apart is their commitment to value. The Train Depot understands the importance of offering generous portions of food at reasonable prices without compromising quality. Despite the challenges posed by rising food costs, The Train Depot continues to deliver exceptional value to customers. They also excel in their consistency.
As a locally owned mom-and-pop restaurant, The Train Depot understands the significance of consistently providing high-quality food and service. Their customers rely on the restaurant to deliver the same signature flavors and exceptional service with each visit.
The Train Depot takes pride in its attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness, especially in high-traffic areas. Customers often commend them for being a “well-oiled machine,” thanks to the teamwork and flawless coordination of the staff. Of course, a standout factor is the top-notch, mouthwatering food. From the homemade bacon gravy to the freshly baked biscuits and decadent sweet options, they designed the menu to tantalize and satisfy.
The Train Depot has earned a reputation for serving delicious, comforting, and addicting dishes that keep customers returning for more. The positive reviews and accolades across various platforms such as Facebook, Google, and Yelp are a testament to The Train Depot’s commitment to pleasing its customers. Moreover, The Train Depot has been recognized and honored with multiple accolades year after year. The Train Depot is a proud recipient of honorable mentions by the City of Fresno, recognizing their woman-led establishment and acknowledging Pat as a respected businesswoman.
What is it that most people DON’T know about your business?
First, nearly all of The Train Depot’s food is homemade from their own cherished recipes. From the famous bacon gravy and macaroni and potato salads to the flavorful chili and fresh-baked biscuits, The Train Depot takes pride in preparing these dishes from scratch daily. The skilled chefs know how to cook omelets, steaks, and burgers to perfection, and they can whip up an egg “any ole way” you like! It’s the attention to detail and the use of carefully chosen ingredients that make these dishes so incredibly tasty and satisfying.
Second, The Train Depot uses only the freshest and best ingredients available. They have established loyal and lasting relationships with trusted providers to ensure their kitchen remains stocked with the highest-quality ingredients. This commitment to sourcing fresh ingredients allows The Train Depot to consistently deliver high-quality dishes.
Finally, The Train Depot has some hidden gems on the menu that many people may not know of. The lunch specials, in particular, are delectable and change seasonally. Some of the most popular lunch specials include homemade meatloaf, pot roast, beef stroganoff, and a classic corned beef and cabbage special that they go all out on for St. Patrick’s Day.
Furthermore, the chefs have the creative freedom to craft new, mouthwatering daily specials each week. These specials are delightful surprises for customers to discover and enjoy.
Anything coming up?
The Train Depot is thrilled to share some exciting plans that are in the works! One of their dreams has been to create a beautiful outdoor dining space that will not only enhance the overall dining experience but also accommodate their beloved furry friends. Yes, you heard it right! They envision a pet-friendly outdoor area where customers can enjoy a meal while their four-legged companions relax by their side.
This upcoming addition will allow them to cater to the needs of pet-loving community members, creating a welcoming environment for both humans and their furry companions. They understand that pets are an essential part of many families, and they want to provide a space where everyone can enjoy a fantastic dining experience together. Imagine savoring mouthwatering dishes, engaging in lively conversations, and creating lasting memories, all while surrounded by the charm of an outdoor setting. The fresh air, warm sunlight, and delightful ambiance will undoubtedly elevate the dining experience at The Train Depot.
They are working diligently on the plans and logistics to bring this pet-friendly outdoor dining space to life. While there is no exact timeline to share, it is a top priority. The Train Depot wants to create an exceptional dining experience that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart. For now, keep an ear open for updates, and get ready to dine in style with your furry friends and make unforgettable memories at The Train Depot.
Anything else you would like our readers to know?
First and foremost, Patricia and Ruben Escovedo want to express their sincere gratitude to their customers. They care deeply about all of you and strive to provide an exceptional dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. They invite those who haven’t had the chance to visit them yet to come and discover why The Train Depot has become a beloved Fresno classic. They’re confident you’ll love their delicious food, warm atmosphere, and friendly service.
If you’re looking for employment opportunities, they always seek dedicated individuals to join their team. Whether you have experience in the restaurant industry or are eager to learn, they welcome you to drop off your resume at their location. They believe in fostering a supportive work environment and providing opportunities for growth and development. Regarding their operating hours, they are open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day of the year, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, when they take a well-deserved break to spend time with their loved ones. Additionally, they close at 12 p.m. on Easter and Thanksgiving. They value the importance of family and want to
ensure their staff can enjoy the holiday festivities.
At The Train Depot, they strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. As part of their commitment to inclusivity, they have gender-neutral bathrooms available to ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected during their visit.
Last, but certainly not least, they want to emphasize that they are a casual, family-friendly establishment. They understand the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, including the little ones. Their staff ensures families feel welcome, and that all guests, regardless of age, have a memorable dining experience. They hope this additional information gives our readers a more comprehensive understanding of what makes The Train Depot special. They look forward to serving you, welcoming new team members, and continuing to create a positive and enjoyable dining experience for all who walk through their doors.
JUST FOR FRESYES READERS:
Mention FresYes and get a free cinnamon roll with a purchase of $25 or more!
FIND THE TRAIN DEPOT:
Address: 3045 E Ashlan Ave, Fresno, CA 93726
Phone: (559) 442-1401
Website: https://traindepot.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_traindepot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fbtraindepot
BONUS CLIP:
- The FresYes Quiz! - December 1, 2023
- What’s Hot & Happening December 1-3 - December 1, 2023
- The FresYes Christmas Poll - November 29, 2023
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