Launches India’s First Loco Restaurant at Prayagraj’s Chheoki Station

PRAYAGRAJ, June 19, 2026 — India’s first loco restaurant opens its doors at Prayagraj’s Chheoki Railway Station, converting a retired electric locomotive into a dining venue that combines food with rail heritage.

The restaurant, developed near the station’s main gate by the North Central Railway, seats forty-six guests inside a fully air-conditioned, refurbished locomotive and offers additional outdoor seating. The dining format includes North Indian meals, local favourites, fast meals and global dishes designed to attract passengers and visitors alike, railway officials said. 0}

Why the Loco Restaurant Matters

Railway leaders say the loco restaurant adds a new dimension to station amenities, giving travellers a themed dining experience directly at the station. The project also aims to generate non-fare revenue and create jobs, part of Indian Railways’ wider strategy to repurpose old assets for commercial use. 

“Sitting inside a locomotive while dining brings a fresh experience,” said Amit Kumar Singh, public relations officer for the Prayagraj Division. “This initiative blends heritage with hospitality and may set a model for other stations.” 

Execution and Design Details

The Prayagraj division is working with a Jhansi-based company to complete renovation work, including contemporary interiors that retain the vehicle’s railway identity. Completion is expected within three months as teams finish seating, utilities and décor. 

Officials say diners will be able to place orders online and through station channels, encouraging both walk-ins and advance reservations. The restaurant’s location at the main entrance aims to welcome passengers arriving and departing from the station. 

Background and Future Plans

This pilot project follows earlier efforts by the Prayagraj Division to adapt railway coaches into dining spaces at other stations. While one such coach restaurant at Prayagraj Junction later closed due to low patronage, the Subedarganj coach eatery continues. Officials said the locomotive format could be tested at additional stations nationwide if this venture performs well. 

Railway leaders noted that the restaurant aligns with safety and hygiene norms and integrates modern dining standards within a distinctive railway setting. Travelers and visitors are invited to experience the new destination when the restaurant opens for service. 

More information about Indian cuisine and its regional diversity can be explored through Indian cuisine history and traditions.

Businesses monitoring hospitality expansion trends can also explore restaurant industry growth trends for 2026 to understand how regional food concepts are shaping dining markets.