Genuinely one of the most soul-fulfilling burgers I've ever eaten, and the entire railroad vibes will heal your inner child. The staff are great and I can't wait to take everyone I know back here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Burger, Double Cheeseburger
I
Friendly staff, great service, good food, and a fun atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ramses Villalba
Never got to actually eat. Went in with my fiance and 4 year old and there were no seats. Also I get being kid friendly, but parents, please stop letting your kids use whistles in places like this.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 2
judy essman
Classic diner style with great diner food! We loved the trains and stories by the owner. All the littles had s ball!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sarah Locklear-Ayebale
I know this restaurant is a place of nostalgia for so many, but for me, it was my first time coming here. The trains and look of the place was very nice (that's the very best part hands down). The person I went with tried numerous times to call to put in our order before we got there, but we got no answer. We both thought it was because it was so busy (as the recording suggested). We arrived, and there was not one customer besides us. There were 2 ladies that worked there that were sitting at a table, one that was talking loudly on the phone in Spanish. When we ordered, one went to the back to fix our food. The person that took our order seemed very confused. We asked her very simple and direct questions, but the answers given were not even remotely an answer to what we asked. We left after our food was done. We walked outside to our car, and one of the ladies that had been sitting at the table was outside talking to someone in a car and just staring at us as we walked to our vehicle. I figured if the food was good, that's all that really mattered, though. I ate my food when I got home, and honestly, I was less than impressed (and that's me trying to be nice). And, I'm not sure why mayo couldn't be put onto the burger either. In addition, the Choo Choo burger and fry combo (with no drink I might add) was supposed to be $11.95, but instead I was charged $1-2 more. I didn't even realize this until after I got home and looked at my receipt. I guess as others stated in their reviews, they can change their prices at any time... and that's exactly what they do! But in all, all I can really say that is positive is that this restaurant has nice train decor. I personally will not be going back. Disappointed is an understatement! :(
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 2
Amy Boyd
If you get overstimulated, do NOT come here. Train sounds, kids cackling, and loud voice abound! That being said, we have been twice with my toddler for lunch and have had fun each time. Bring quarters to use the horse and bus rides while you wait for a seat. The staff have always been super nice and attentive, and the burgers and chicken sandwich are pleasantly delicious. I’m appalled they sell $7 servings of Kraft Mac and cheese, but shame on us for ordering it every time ? I’ve never had room for dessert, but most tables order a dessert at the end. Choo choo is a wonderful asset to the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Sandwich, Cheeseburger with Fries
Chrissy Zagorski
I have loved taking my kids here for years until today. I brought my boys for their birthdays as I do every year and the man who runs it, was so rude he made my son cry. We were waiting in line just after they opened with only a couple people in front of us. He asked us to move up but there was a floor vent that we would have been stepping on so we stayed right behind it. He then told us to move up again so my son moved up and part of his foot was then on the vent. The man walked back over and said do you like the air? Then very loudly , in a stern voice said, “GET OFF MY VENT”. My son’s eyes filled with tears and I said that wasn’t nice to speak to a child like that he was simply there because you kept moving him up and you could have said that nicely. His response was “what did I say? And oh I had a smile on my face” which he absolutely did not. This was the second time this man was rude but I overlooked it as before covid the people there were some of the best people and made it such a great experience. I don’t want to loop anyone else into this poor experience but if this is the owner, he should be ashamed of not only embarrassing a kid, but ruining his bday tradition.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
S M
This place is not what it used to be. They made us put our baby’s car seat on the edge of the table between in the small booth which was a major safety hazard. The poor waitress said that it was her bosss rules. Ok fine. But then we ordered our food which didn’t even come with any ketchup, mustard or mayonnaise. If you’re going to pay that much, I shouldn’t be forced to build my own sandwich. The most annoying thing was that the menu has a set price but when it came to our bill, the prices were much higher. Fine print on menu said they can change prices whenever they want. I will not be returning.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 5
Hamdi Hato
I recently visited a fun and quirky spot in Des Plaines called **Choo Choo**, and it was a fantastic experience. The place has a great vibe with attentive staff who really know how to make you feel welcome. I tried their specialty cheeseburger, and it was nothing short of perfection—juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right.
But the highlight was definitely their hot dog. It had all the classic Chicago-style toppings, and the snap of the sausage was spot on. Despite the playful atmosphere, the restaurant was clean, and the service was quick and disciplined.
Overall, Chow Chow is a must-visit if you’re in Disciplines. Great food, great service, and a whole lot of fun!"
My food was messed up. At least the Train serving food was fun and the staff were understanding. Seats were almost crowded.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 3
D S
the new owner is so rude to customers.i could not believe how mean he was to me and the other members of my party.
the food is much worse now, and they dont even use the little trains to deliver it all of the time.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 1
Alex
My mom used to take me here as a kid and now we are taking mine. They kids love the atmosphere and the train delivering their food. Food selection for kids and adults are a good variety. The cheeseburgers and the veggie burgers are very tasty. The shakes are a must have, my son loves the cupcake with the train whistle. Just know they do not take reservations and you can't bring strollers inside due to space constraints. Worth the wait to see the kids face light up.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Train Cupcakes, Grilled Cheese, Cheeseburger with Fries
William Alicea
Burgers are just okay. I think the food is overpriced for what you get, but if you want to sit down and have an electric train deliver your food to you then this is your place.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Kids Burger and Fries, Cheeseburger with Fries
Marilee Higgins
The place is small so be prepared to wait if you go during busy times. We (6 of us) arrived about 1:00 and we waited about 15 minutes. The owner was very solicitous and gave our children quarters to use in the mechanical toys. He brought me a chair as he probably noticed I’m dealing with a funky hip. Our special needs grandson was amazed by the train and had a wonderful time. We all did. I’m only sorry we never came here before. Keep up the good work!
Genuinely one of the most soul-fulfilling burgers I've ever eaten, and the entire railroad vibes will heal your inner child. The staff are great and I can't wait to take everyone I know back here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Burger, Double Cheeseburger
Friendly staff, great service, good food, and a fun atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Never got to actually eat. Went in with my fiance and 4 year old and there were no seats. Also I get being kid friendly, but parents, please stop letting your kids use whistles in places like this.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 2
Classic diner style with great diner food! We loved the trains and stories by the owner. All the littles had s ball!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I know this restaurant is a place of nostalgia for so many, but for me, it was my first time coming here. The trains and look of the place was very nice (that's the very best part hands down). The person I went with tried numerous times to call to put in our order before we got there, but we got no answer. We both thought it was because it was so busy (as the recording suggested). We arrived, and there was not one customer besides us. There were 2 ladies that worked there that were sitting at a table, one that was talking loudly on the phone in Spanish. When we ordered, one went to the back to fix our food. The person that took our order seemed very confused. We asked her very simple and direct questions, but the answers given were not even remotely an answer to what we asked. We left after our food was done. We walked outside to our car, and one of the ladies that had been sitting at the table was outside talking to someone in a car and just staring at us as we walked to our vehicle. I figured if the food was good, that's all that really mattered, though. I ate my food when I got home, and honestly, I was less than impressed (and that's me trying to be nice). And, I'm not sure why mayo couldn't be put onto the burger either. In addition, the Choo Choo burger and fry combo (with no drink I might add) was supposed to be $11.95, but instead I was charged $1-2 more. I didn't even realize this until after I got home and looked at my receipt. I guess as others stated in their reviews, they can change their prices at any time... and that's exactly what they do! But in all, all I can really say that is positive is that this restaurant has nice train decor. I personally will not be going back. Disappointed is an understatement! :(
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 2
If you get overstimulated, do NOT come here. Train sounds, kids cackling, and loud voice abound! That being said, we have been twice with my toddler for lunch and have had fun each time. Bring quarters to use the horse and bus rides while you wait for a seat. The staff have always been super nice and attentive, and the burgers and chicken sandwich are pleasantly delicious. I’m appalled they sell $7 servings of Kraft Mac and cheese, but shame on us for ordering it every time ? I’ve never had room for dessert, but most tables order a dessert at the end. Choo choo is a wonderful asset to the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Sandwich, Cheeseburger with Fries
I have loved taking my kids here for years until today. I brought my boys for their birthdays as I do every year and the man who runs it, was so rude he made my son cry. We were waiting in line just after they opened with only a couple people in front of us. He asked us to move up but there was a floor vent that we would have been stepping on so we stayed right behind it. He then told us to move up again so my son moved up and part of his foot was then on the vent. The man walked back over and said do you like the air? Then very loudly , in a stern voice said, “GET OFF MY VENT”. My son’s eyes filled with tears and I said that wasn’t nice to speak to a child like that he was simply there because you kept moving him up and you could have said that nicely. His response was “what did I say? And oh I had a smile on my face” which he absolutely did not. This was the second time this man was rude but I overlooked it as before covid the people there were some of the best people and made it such a great experience. I don’t want to loop anyone else into this poor experience but if this is the owner, he should be ashamed of not only embarrassing a kid, but ruining his bday tradition.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
This place is not what it used to be. They made us put our baby’s car seat on the edge of the table between in the small booth which was a major safety hazard. The poor waitress said that it was her bosss rules. Ok fine. But then we ordered our food which didn’t even come with any ketchup, mustard or mayonnaise. If you’re going to pay that much, I shouldn’t be forced to build my own sandwich. The most annoying thing was that the menu has a set price but when it came to our bill, the prices were much higher. Fine print on menu said they can change prices whenever they want. I will not be returning.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 5
I recently visited a fun and quirky spot in Des Plaines called **Choo Choo**, and it was a fantastic experience. The place has a great vibe with attentive staff who really know how to make you feel welcome. I tried their specialty cheeseburger, and it was nothing short of perfection—juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right.
But the highlight was definitely their hot dog. It had all the classic Chicago-style toppings, and the snap of the sausage was spot on. Despite the playful atmosphere, the restaurant was clean, and the service was quick and disciplined.
Overall, Chow Chow is a must-visit if you’re in Disciplines. Great food, great service, and a whole lot of fun!"
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Burger
Childhood, still around 35 years later
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
My food was messed up. At least the Train serving food was fun and the staff were understanding. Seats were almost crowded.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 3
the new owner is so rude to customers.i could not believe how mean he was to me and the other members of my party.
the food is much worse now, and they dont even use the little trains to deliver it all of the time.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 1
My mom used to take me here as a kid and now we are taking mine. They kids love the atmosphere and the train delivering their food. Food selection for kids and adults are a good variety. The cheeseburgers and the veggie burgers are very tasty. The shakes are a must have, my son loves the cupcake with the train whistle. Just know they do not take reservations and you can't bring strollers inside due to space constraints. Worth the wait to see the kids face light up.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Train Cupcakes, Grilled Cheese, Cheeseburger with Fries
Burgers are just okay. I think the food is overpriced for what you get, but if you want to sit down and have an electric train deliver your food to you then this is your place.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Kids Burger and Fries, Cheeseburger with Fries
The place is small so be prepared to wait if you go during busy times. We (6 of us) arrived about 1:00 and we waited about 15 minutes. The owner was very solicitous and gave our children quarters to use in the mechanical toys. He brought me a chair as he probably noticed I’m dealing with a funky hip. Our special needs grandson was amazed by the train and had a wonderful time. We all did. I’m only sorry we never came here before. Keep up the good work!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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