The Dinky Bar & Kitchen

Mariya Breyter

5 months ago

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.

Michelle Bigata

4 months ago

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 😊

K

year ago

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!

Karey Maurice

month ago

"Casual Cool" is a great description for this tiny Depot (It use to be a real train station) Restaurant. Located on Princeton University's Campus just below the famous McCarter Theatre which is now The Arts District with the addition of the Lewis Arts Center Complex all connected via Blair Walk to the relocated rail station. A beautiful 'Land Sculpture' (A serpent looking path) created by Mya Lin greets you as you step off the Dinky Train heading west to Campus and guides you through the landscape to the Restaurants which are both Harvest Group affiliated. The Dinky Bar building has a long history and it's worth knowing when you bring guest to town for dinning who will first notice the well preserved atmosphere of the original Train Station itself then the food served small bites or shared plates is the way they do things for Theatre goes or ticket holder events in the nearby area within walking distance. Bring a Date!

Victoria

2 months ago

Dinky bar & kitchen is amazing and never disappoints. I totally recommend to go there for any occasion, it’s perfect for birthday celebrations and catching up with friends. It’s amazing atmosphere helps you enjoy your time. The noise level isn’t too loud and it’s easy level to speak. Food was top notch, margarita pizza, don’t get me started I fell in love with it. I couldn’t catch my waitresses name but she was sweet, quick, and friendly. I came here to celebrate a freinds birthday and it was so much fun, and nice vibe to have a spectacular time. Definitely will visit many times in the future, this was enjoyable and family-friendly. Thanks so much Stephen

Dani

4 months ago

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.

Melissa Burns

month ago

We got the pretzel, shrimp tempura roll, & cauliflower. Had a tasting of quite a few of the cocktails. Nothing disappointed. Leanne the bartender is SO sweet and made us some really tasty drinks!!

Donna R

2 months ago

If you’re looking for a place located right on the campus of Princeton University then you should try Dinky’s Bar and Kitchen. They have a wide range of wonderful Signature Cocktails using seasonal ingredients,,Mock Cocktails, Curated Wine list by the Glass or Bottle and Craft Beers on Tap and in Bottles. Dinky’s Bar is located in the historic 1918 train station, featuring train station-themed, signature cocktails and locomotive themes to pay homage to the building’s heritage. Dinky’s has a Happy Hour: it’s from 3 PM to 5 PM (Sunday - Thursday) and "Happier Hours" from 10 PM to close… Dinky’s offers a Seasonal Menu of Small Plates, Burgers, Flatbreads, Limited Sushi, Pizza, Soup, and more. Everything is locally sourced. they offer a limited Brunch. The vibe is fun and fits right in with the area.. It’s located right on Princeton University and is walking distance to The Art Museum. This quaint restaurant has an outdoor patio with seating, and some tables and high tops inside with a full bar. and their menu is simple and delicious. Dinky’s doesn’t take reservations. They only accept walk-ins. We had a fun server named Conner. He made great suggestions, especially for cocktails and food choices. We both started with their Pear Paloma-tequila, pear, cardamom, lime, grapefruit soda. It was refreshing and good. It was the perfect drink to try. We were looking to get a quick bite just to tie us over. This place came recommended by a close friend. We ordered a few appetizers. Spicy Tuna Roll- tuna, spicy mayo, masago, scallion, sambal, eel sauce, sesame seeds add avocado + $1, add pickled mango + $1 I chose the mango for a twist. It was fresh and delicious. We also ordered a California Roll- kani, cucumber, avocado, nori, sushi rice, sesame seeds. You can add pickled mango + $1 or avocado for + $1. We added the mango for a twist. It was very good. Next time I come I want to try their Buttermilk Fried Chicken Bao Buns-sriracha slaw, house made pickled cucumber, micro cila

Brett Van Deren

5 months ago

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!

Jess Wong

3 months ago

My friend and I went to see the comedienne Atsuko Okatsuka at McCarter Thursday, so we stopped by The Dinky for a meal before the show. The place was packed at 5pm because other Atsuko fans planned ahead and scheduled reservations. Lucky for us, the weather was beautiful and we got the first available seating outdoors. Staff was friendly, accommodating, and attentive. My friend and I were feeling peckish, and curious about the menu so we split everything. The surprise hit for us was the French Onion Soup Dumplings. The Sweet & Sour Cauliflower was amazing too! "You wouldn't believe its cauliflower."