One of the benefits to Linda’s job was overnight travel all over Texas. She knows the best places to eat, stay and visit. In Brownwood, her favorite place is The Runaway Train Cafe. Off the beaten track, this diner is not someplace an outsider would just stumble upon by themselves. A local she was working with told her about the place and how to get to it. Ever since, it has been a favorite.

Made from a vintage railroad dining car, the seating is the original booths. Booths will seat 4 large and 6 small adults. Decorations are railroad and travel themed. Restroom doors appear to be the original doors used on the train. The counter has stools for individual patrons. Whether this is a diner or cafe is a matter of perspective.

The menu has all the important diner fare – hotdogs, hamburgers, soup, sandwiches, shakes, coffee, fries and tater tots. When asked, “Would it be sacrilegious to substitute turkey for corned beef on the Reuben sandwich,” The waiter replied “No.” I got the Reuben with turkey and a chocolate shake. The shake was handmade the correct way but had too much chocolate for my taste. However, the turkey Reuben was great.

Linda had a blue cheese burger and tater tots which she raved about.

The service is very good. The wait staff is friendly, helpful and attentive. This restaurant doing a booming takeout business. Prices are reasonable and the food is good.

We plan to be back to The Runaway Train Cafe on Tuesday for lunch before we visit the Lehnis Railroad Museum and the Santa Fe Railroad Depot and Harvey House in the afternoon.

Hope to see you on the road ahead!

• Attractions