The Rail Brand Transitions to Rail Craft Kitchen & Bar

New menu items at Rail Craft Kitchen & Bar. Credit: Courtesy photo

Mike Mariola, who launched The Rail back in 2011, says that the success of his craft burger bar concept had led him and his company to a bit of a turning point.

“The gourmet burger concept that once made us distinctive had become mainstream, with virtually every casual dining establishment adding their own version to their menu,” he explains. “Our success had ironically created a challenge—we needed to evolve beyond being just another burger destination to reclaim what makes us special in an ever-shifting dining landscape.”

Mariola, President and founder of Mike Mariola Restaurants, says that the evolution began in earnest in the wake of Covid. The process, which is underway at three of the four Rail properties, will reposition the Rail brand to Rail Craft Kitchen & Bar. Diners in Strongsville, Dublin and Grandview will begin seeing new branding and updated interior design, signage and furnishings.

Already, those locations have rolled out menus with new offerings that go well beyond the beloved burgers.

“We’re moving from a focused burger menu to a broader menu with lots of awesome entrees,” adds Mariola, citing items such as Sweet & Spicy Shrimp Tacos, Hand-Breaded Southern Fried Chicken Strips and a Certified Angus Beef Strip Steak.

Mariola says that while the company toyed with the idea of moving closer to the fast-casual model that seems to be dominating the hospitality landscape, they decided to double-down on full-service.

“We’re leaning into the full-service model,” he says. “We think guests are looking for a restaurant where they can have a frictionless, easy, casual dining experience and we think we can do that well.”

“Frictionless” means Toast-based ordering and payment systems at the table that speed the process along.

Sadly, the transformation process will not include the original 13-year-old Fairlawn location, which will close following service on Friday, May 23, says Mariola.

“While this original location helped build our foundation and served us well for many years, its small footprint cannot accommodate our new Rail Craft Kitchen & Bar concept,” said Mariola. “We’re deeply grateful to our loyal Fairlawn guests and team members who have supported us. All affected staff have been offered transfer opportunities within our company wherever possible.”

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