A Different Kind of L Train

A Different Kind of L Train

Enjoy shareable plates on El Tren

Aside from maybe scarfing down a slice, the subway's never been the easiest (or most hygenic) place to eat a meal. Until now. Dine like they do on European dining cars with El Tren, a new restaurant on rails from the brains behind Boqueria. Running on the A line between Washington Heights and Jay Street in Brooklyn, this refurbished "Redbird" car resembles a standard ride from the platform, but inside, it's something else entirely. A long marble bar running the length of the car — complete with old-school hanging straps above — serves up patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and other shareable tapas plates from Boqueria's Soho and Flatiron restaurants. All while shuttling you between them. Thanks to Bloomberg, there's no liquor license (yet). However, servers adopt a don't ask, don't tell policy, so fill the flask before your commute. You also won't be turned off by the odor of the passenger next to you. The cleverly designed car also filters out subway smells, letting you enjoy your tarta dos ratos with a refreshingly diverse crowd you won't find at Boqueria's non-locomotive locations. Surprsingly, this is one underground experience that has yet to be swamped by hipsters. El TrenRunning Thursday through Saturday* from 6p-12a on the A line between Inwood-207 St./Broadway in Manhattan and Jay St./Metro Tech in Brooklyn boquerianyc.com