The Frenchmen - Unique Cajun & French Flavors in a Historic Staunton Train Station

My friend and I loved our lunch at the Frenchmen! While it is counter service at the moment, the woman helping us was very friendly and helpful and recommended a great glass of wine. Our food came out fast and fresh, and my nicoise salad with tuna (and a delicious homemade lemon vinaigrette!) was excellent. The train station setting was so charming and would make a beautiful and unique backdrop for weddings and other special events. I look forward to returning for dinner service some time!

The menu is generously Cajun. I had the alligator and sausage gumbo, and it was incredible. I followed that up with catfish and collards. The portions were so generous that I had food to take with me. The restaurant is located in a restored train terminal building. Just extraordinary. We actually had a train roll past not more than 20 feet away. Jacob was the best server a guest could ever desire.

The train station setting was beautiful. Very festive. The crepes were good but they forgot the pesto and then brought it to us. The cinnamon roll was delicious and right out of the oven. They do not have lattes or other expresso drinks, which would enhance the menu. They offer coffee and tea for hot drinks. Overall a very nice dining experience. Definitely will come back to try their dinner offerings.

Wonderful dining experience in an old train station. The food (fried shrimp po-boy and sausage and duck gumbo, with chocolate cake for dessert) was delicious and the service first rate. The menu is not large, but what they do they do very well.

We stopped for lunch after a trip on the VA Scenic Railroad. As I'm a local, I remember the former Pullman Restaurant that occupied this location 20 years ago. The space has been completely transformed! You can dine in a casual setting right on the RR tracks at long spacious tables or in the elegant front room with couches and comfy chairs, lofty ceilings, and custom chandeliers. The service process is casual. You order from a board when you enter, where you're greeted with a welcoming smile. Then relax, peruse Dean Abramson's beautiful train photos, or watch the trains while your meal is prepared and brought to you. (There is actually a secret play space for small children.) The food is fabulous. I've had the Remoulade (irresistible), the very cheesy, oniony Onion Soup, the Quiche (flaky crust and lots of cheese), and the Shrimp and Grits. I've never tasted anything like this dish — delicate, tender shrimp perfectly seasoned in the most hearty grits (from our local millner) I've ever had. This restaurant is only a couple of months old. I have no doubt that the unique ambiance and flavorsome food, prepared in Liz's distinctive style, will make it a local landmark. I, for one, will be back. And back. And back...

The Frenchmen catered an event for us last weekend and exceeded expectations. The presentation of the food was fantastic, the taste scrumptious, and staff professional and helpful. I highly recommend having Liz and her team cater your work or family event!

Great atmosphere and setting in the train station. They forgot the pesto in the chicken pesto crepes but some was brought out lol. Food was ok. Plan to go for dinner as that seems better.

Had a hard time rating this one. It was just okay. My chicken salad was good but nothing special. If you’re looking for a simple lunch this place is fine. No prices on the board at the counter where you order. Crepes cannot be made gluten free. Very light meal, and was hungry few hours later. Service was a little slow. Hopefully they’ll improve and have more options.