With the upcoming launch of Amtrak’s Mardi Gras line, it seemed only fitting to visit Juicy Caboosy, a unique Gulf Coast spot housed inside a converted train car. Perched atop a wide, green lawn dotted with Adirondack chairs, the raised dining space features a sunny deck with picnic tables and umbrellas—ideal for lingering on cooler days. On my midday August visit, the lawn was empty under the blazing sun, but it was easy to imagine kids playing while parents sipped juice and relaxed.
Inside, we settled into the enclosed, air-conditioned pavilion. Surrounded by windows, the space manages to feel both bright and breezy, with cozy, boho-inspired décor that invites you to slow down and savor. The menu is focused on fresh, produce-forward dishes and changes with the seasons—a delicious excuse to return often.
We began with two juices. The Green Goddess was apple-forward, with just enough greenery to feel virtuous, yet without the gritty texture some vegetable-heavy blends can have. Perfectly smooth, it was crisp and refreshing. The Orange Immunity, on the other hand, didn’t just wake me up—it practically broke into a parade. Bold and bracing with plenty of ginger, its spiciness built toward the end, leaving a warm, invigorating finish.
For lunch, the Gyro Bowl was nothing short of abundant—stacked and packed with toppings. The grilled chicken was charred to perfection, striking a nice balance between tender and firm. I appreciated that the Greek dressing was subtle, letting the vibrant roasted red peppers, fresh greens, and other components shine. It was hearty without being heavy, and satisfying down to the last bite.
The Rookie was less a sandwich and more a towering feat of architecture—straight out of a Dagwood cartoon strip. Piled high with tender slices of turkey, smoky bacon cooked slow and low until perfectly rendered, creamy avocado, fresh juicy tomato, and crisp green lettuce, it was all held together by a generous spread of pesto aioli that was rich in basil and light on garlic. On the side, a garden salad provided a bright, refreshing counterpoint, especially with its house-made pepper jelly vinaigrette. The thick, sweet, and vibrant dressing packed a punch, making every bite pop with flavor.
We also love pizza, so we decided to give into temptation and try the Bruschetta Flatbread. The balsamic drizzle went a long way in enhancing the flavor of the cherry tomatoes, bringing out their natural sweetness. A light sprinkle of chopped basil added an herbaceous note, while slivers of red onion kept the dish from leaning too sweet. A whipped feta spread provided a peppery kick that elevated every bite.
For something sweet, the Banana Blast smoothie was creamy and nutty, with occasional bursts of Nutella that made it playful without being overly chocolatey. It’s the kind of treat you could justify as breakfast or dessert.
What makes Juicy Caboosy special isn’t just the food—it’s the combination of unique setting, thoughtful flavor balance, and a menu that celebrates the best of what’s in season. I left already daydreaming about a return visit in the fall, when the menu might lean into apples, pumpkin, ginger, cranberry, and orange. Until then, I’ll happily ride this train of fresh, flavorful fare again and again.
