Ever wished dinner could feel like a mini adventure instead of the same old table and chairs?
What if I told you there’s a spot in Georgia where you can eat inside a real vintage train car?
This isn’t a themed restaurant with a few decorations on the wall.
It’s the real deal.
You climb aboard, slide into your seat, and suddenly your night out feels way more interesting than your usual dinner plans.
Add in hearty Asian comfort food, imported beers, and desserts that taste as if they came straight from a family recipe book, and you’ve got a meal that’s anything but boring.
If you’re into quirky dining spots, comfort food that actually fills you up, and places with a story to tell, you’re going to want to keep reading.
Where Is It?
Orient Express is located at 2921 Paces Ferry Rd SE in Atlanta’s Vinings area.
It’s roughly a 20-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, and with a small parking lot on site, getting there by car is simple.
About
A Real Train Car
The first thing you need to know is that yes, you’re actually eating inside a real old train car.
Orient Express is built around a vintage railcar sitting right on the railroad tracks, and it instantly makes dinner feel like an adventure.
From the outside, it’s hard to miss, and it looks like it rolled straight out of another era.
Step inside and you’re greeted with chandeliers, narrow walkways, intimate tables, and that classic train car layout that makes everything feel snug.
It’s not huge, which adds to the charm, and it is divided into three different spaces, each with its own vibe and cuisine.
What It’s Known For
Orient Express is a local go-to for Asian comfort food, with classic Chinese dishes that never disappoint.
This place is also known for its hibachi plates piled high with rice, veggies, and different meats or seafood.
You can choose between the Chef’s special (steak, chicken, and shrimp) or the Seafood Special (shrimp, scallop, and lobster).
If you’re into dinner with a little entertainment, the hibachi experience is a standout, with chefs cooking everything right in front of you.
The sushi menu is also a go-to, with a mix of classic rolls and specialty options that make it easy to try something new.
There are plenty of familiar favorites too, from lo mein and fried rice to crunchy egg rolls.
And to wash it all down, you can pair your meal with a mix of imported beers and local favorites, from Stella and Guinness to Sapporo and Tsing Tao.
If cocktails are more your thing, they’ve got signature martinis like the Georgia Peach, Cucumber Lime, Pomegranate, and Lemon Drop.
What the Experience Feels Like
Eating here feels like you stumbled onto a hidden gem that locals have quietly loved for years.
It’s cozy, a little quirky, and totally different from a standard restaurant setup.
The service tends to be relaxed and friendly, so you can take your time and really settle in.
So if you’re looking for something unique in Atlanta that goes beyond the usual burger or taco spot, this is your ticket to a meal that’s both hearty and memorable.
Know Before You Go
Hours and When to Visit
Orient Express is open daily, with lunch service offered Monday through Saturday and extended dine-in hours into the evening.
Lunch Hours (Monday–Saturday)
- Chinese: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sushi: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Hibachi: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM
Dine-In Hours
- Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
If you want a quieter experience inside the train car, aim for a weeknight.
Friday and Saturday evenings can fill up quickly, especially with locals who know exactly what they’re coming for.
Arriving right when they open usually means you’ll have more choice of seating and a little extra breathing room.
Pricing and Portions
This is a sit-down dinner spot, and prices reflect that.
Most main dishes are generally between $15 and $35, depending on what you order.
Portions are generous, so come hungry and consider splitting an appetizer or taking leftovers home, which makes the value feel even better.
What to Do Nearby
Since Orient Express sits in Vinings, you’ve got plenty to explore within just a few minutes of dinner.
You can stroll through Vinings Jubilee, just a 2-minute drive away, for boutique shopping, coffee, and a quick walk around the neighborhood.
If you’re in the mood for something livelier, The Battery Atlanta is about 10 minutes away and packed with restaurants, bars, and places to hang out.
There’s also the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre if you want to catch a show and turn your dinner into a full night out.
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