Meet the Team Behind Maspeth’s Newest Diner
By: Molly Sword
Teddy and Danielle were born and raised in Middle Village, grew up in and around the hospitality industry, got hitched, and then decided to bring their culture, creativity and experience together to create a Greek and Italian inspired diner in Maspeth named The Railway Cafe.
At the site of the old JR’s Coffee Shop at 58-16 59th Street in Maspeth is now the new Railway Diner.
The concept of a diner is quintessentially American, representing years of serving great american cuisine at affordable prices. Teddy and Danielle have taken that same spirit and added their own twist; with menu items such as the Greekster Wrap, Juicy Lucy Burger, Italian Panini, Fried Pickles, and more ; while still holding on to some diner menu classics such as the Greek gyro, philly cheesesteak sandwich, pastrami sandwich, buttermilk pancakes and of course a great selection of burgers.
Railway diner is a reflection of Maspeth, Queens itself, a beautifully diverse community that holds onto American values while embracing elements of personal heritage and culture.
The diner’s interior design pays homage to the early train industry. The design of original American diners came from the conversion of train lunch cars into fully fledged diners. This area in Maspeth is also where an old railway used to run and so the name is a way of remembering and commemorating the past. Railway diner is a testimony to American history keeping the tradition of a railway diner alive while incorporating modern flavours and ideas; such as the Colossal Waffle, which includes two waffles filled with ice cream, sprinkles and hot fudge.
Teddy and Danielle are not only local business partners but also partners in marriage, meaning that they spend a lot of time together both inside and outside of work, including finding the time to look after their two young boys. While for some, this may seem intense, when asked what it’s like to work together in a family owned business, they only had positive things to say.
In an interview with the Ledger, both Teddy and Danielle expressed how their ideas and support help one another to work through any operational problems and create amazing new menu items.
“It’s awesome,” said Teddy. “She brings a completely different outlook, and it really makes our team stronger,” said Teddy, who has decades of experience running food operations. Both have a history working in hospitality, and as they take on a new journey as business owners, they look forward to continuing to make Railway a great place to enjoy both classic and innovative menu items.
“An experience at a local diner is more than just the great food provided but friendly and personable customer service,” said Danielle. “Being a family led business means being part of a family every time you walk through the door,” Danielle added.
Whether you are being welcomed by Danielle or her father Mike Marciano (a well known queens local who may or may not be related to Rocky Marciano), Railway always makes you feel like family.
Railway Cafe is ultimately a well thought out combination of American tradition with contemporary and cultural twists. This family led business not only gives you great food and drink but also a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular during your first visit.
The Railway Cafe is located at 58-16 59th Street in Maspeth, Queens and their phone number is (718) 866-0030. Follow their Instagram at @railwaycafenyc.
