A onetime train station offering beer, cocktails & small & large American plates amid rustic decor.
Brett Van Deren
Was able to catch the Princeton Hockey game last night and stopped in for some dinner with friends before the game. Was having such a great time we were late to the game! Great food, drnks and top notch service. Loved the vibe. Had the Brussel sprouts, chicken bao buns, pretzel, fig and pro and a margarita pizza. All of it was great. Fan of the small plates.
Sorry I did not grab the servers name but she was super friendly and attentive even with a packed house. First time there but not our last!
… moreSteve R.
Came across this spot after a campus tour. As described on their website, this bar and kitchen is welcoming and simple. The menu is not extravagant or overly complicated. We ordered the spicy gochujang chicken wings, chicken Bao Buns, 1865 burger, and meat lovers flatbread. Everything was amazing, did not lack flavor and the presentation was great. The only thing is the 1865 burger is not a traditional burger size, more like a larger sized slider style burger. The flatbread had a good portion of meats on it with a smoky taste to it. Don’t pass up the Bao buns.
… moreDani
Dining here was actually really nice and quaint. It felt like a nice place to disconnect from all the stuff going on right now. I went with my wife and we were served by Tyeanna and had a really wonderful night. The menu is mainly composed of really good shareables at a decent price and then these really amazing drinks. Me and the wife were just flipping coins and trying new items and it was fantastic. We went on a Friday night too, we were expecting to be overwhelmed at some point but expectations were well surpassed.
… moreJennifer W
My friends and I come to The Dinky often. We always love the service and the drinks. The food is hit or miss. Sometimes very spicy (and I like spicy, but this is another level!) the atmosphere is great for friends to gather and the service is very attentive. I’m writing this review because I want to really thank the manager, Stephen, for making my last visit exceptionally perfect and fun. He took care of a little issue with such professionalism and kindness. Thank you again, Stephen!
… moreMichelle Bigata
I’ve been here a few times and have enjoyed the food every visit. It is on the pricier side -especially considering the tapas-style portions – but the quality is excellent. The space is fairly small, so I’d definitely recommend making a reservation.
We went for Valentine’s Day before heading to a show at McCarter Theater across the street. Our server, Connor, was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had a great experience. The manager was also very welcoming – she checked in on us, ensured everything was going well, and even helped answer a question we had about McCarter.
Would definitely go back and recommend! Oh and don’t forget to take a fruit – fresh from a local farm – on your way out
… moreMariya Breyter
We absolutely love Dinky. The combination of a true college-town ambiance, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere—set inside the beautifully restored former Princeton rail station—creates something truly special. The historic building adds so much character, and paired with superb service, it has become our go-to spot after performances at McCarter Theater or Princeton Symphony concerts.
This place feels like a hidden gem, tucked away in the heart of the Princeton campus. Perhaps that’s why it still feels undiscovered—and thankfully, why it’s still possible to get a reservation.
On our many visits, some of our absolute favorites have been the sliders, the braised short rib tacos, the cauliflower appetizer, and the fig and prosciutto flatbread. The cocktails here are top notch, and even the non-alcoholic drinks impress — the agave spritzer we tried yesterday was outstanding and refreshing without alcohol.
Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a romantic dinner, or a relaxed evening catching up with friends, Dinky never disappoints. My husband and I had a wonderful time there yesterday and are already looking forward to our next visit.
… moreKristen
We sat at the bar and only got appetizers/small plates, but every bite was incredible. Some of the best bao buns I’ve ever had. They had a lot of great options. The inside had a great historical vibe, and they had lovely outdoor seating too. Easy parking nearby and away from the craziness of Nassau Street. Service was spot on. Every restaurant I’ve been to from this restaurant group has been incredible. Make sure to check out the neat zodiac head statues behind the restaurant!
… moreTim Smith
Yesterday was our first time there, it was a great experience! Went for my birthday and had some awesome food and great conversation with the staff! General Tso cauliflower for the vegetarian was awesome and the fried chicken bao buns were delicious! Drinks were creative and very tasty. Absolutely with be back!
… moreAngelia Gaskin
Had reservations & had to wait a moment but the service was very good and polite.
The drinks were a bit watery so we only got one each because it didn’t seem worth it to get two, we usually try two each.
The food was mid, I genuinely thought the burger was the frozen Tennessee pride slider from my childhood. Still unsure since it was so reminiscent, plus wasn’t asked for doneness. The short rib flatbread was good overall.
The architecture is beautiful and probably best for small groups.
… moreLAS2
Oh what a great cozy energetic find. Superior cocktailing, delicious sharing portions, I will return.
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