CHICAGO — Metra may be brewing something new for commuters — or perhaps something old with a modern twist. The suburban rail service is considering reviving café cars on select train routes, a nod to the once-popular bar cars that offered refreshments to riders before being phased out.
Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski confirmed that the idea is under active review following positive feedback from riders, many of whom have expressed interest in a more relaxed, service-driven commuting experience. But not everyone is on board just yet.
Coffee Over Cocktails? Early Trials Already Underway
While traditional bar cars were known for serving alcohol, Metra’s current vision for the revived service leans toward a café-style experience — featuring coffee, snacks, and possibly light fare. Alcohol service remains undecided.
The idea got its first test run during last month’s “Commuter Coffee Rave”, an event that Metra hailed as a “major success” in a Facebook post. Officials say they’re now looking to expand these trial runs to more stations as part of a broader experiment in enhancing the daily commute.
Commuters Split: Perks vs. Practicality
Reaction among Chicago-area riders has been decidedly mixed. While some passengers welcome the return of comfort and convenience, others are skeptical of its fit within crowded trains.
“It’d be nice to grab a coffee or snack without waiting in line at the station,” said Yekta Jamshida, a daily commuter interviewed by CBS News Chicago.
But for others, the idea feels premature.
“Trains are already pretty darn full,” noted commuter Will Johns, who questioned whether café cars would take up valuable passenger space during rush hour.
Revenue Boost or Budget Risk?
The proposal comes at a time when Metra is searching for creative ways to boost ridership and revenue, especially as it faces mounting financial pressures. Despite failed efforts by the Regional Transportation Authority to secure more funding from the Illinois legislature, Metra continues to test the waters with on-board service innovations.
Whether the café cars become a permanent feature depends on a mix of board approval, commuter feedback, and cost-benefit analysis. The goal, officials say, is to determine if this nostalgic-yet-modern concept can contribute meaningfully to the agency’s long-term strategy.
“I remember the old bar cars — they were part of the charm,” said rider Sheri Fassl, who is eager to see Metra lean into comfort without compromising practicality.
What do you think about café cars on Chicago’s Metra trains? Would you use them — or prefer the space for more seating? Let us know on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
