Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Train-Themed Family Dining Since 1954
Since 1954, Fritz's Railroad Restaurant has delighted families with its unique combination of classic American dining and innovative train-themed entertainment. Founded by Fritz and Virginia Kropf, our restaurant pioneered a patented overhead train food delivery system that continues to captivate guests of all ages. As a third-generation family-owned business, we maintain the original commitment to quality that made our Kansas City establishment a local institution.Our signature 100% choice ground beef burgers, cooked to order using methods dating back to the 1920s, remain the centerpiece of our menu. With three locations across the Kansas City metropolitan area, we continue to create lasting memories through our distinctive dining experience that blends culinary tradition with mechanical ingenuity.
Services
Train-Themed Dining
Classic Burgers
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Takeout Available
Gift Cards
Details
- Year established: 1954
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1954 with three generations of experience
- Patented overhead train food delivery system for all locations
- 100% choice ground beef burgers cooked to order daily
- Historic restaurant with multiple locations across the metro area
- Proven track record of creating memorable family experiences
What people say
Train delivery
Classic burgers
Family-friendly
Memorable experience
Enjoyable meals
Services
Train-Themed Dining
Our patented overhead train system delivers meals directly to tables, creating an engaging experience for guests of all ages. This mechanical marvel combines entertainment with efficiency while maintaining modern safety standards. The train delivery system transforms mealtime into a memorable event that complements our quality cuisine.
Classic Burgers
We serve 100% choice ground beef burgers cooked to order using methods perfected since the 1920s. Each burger features grilled onions seared into the meat and toasted buns. Our commitment to traditional preparation techniques ensures consistent quality across all three restaurant locations.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Designed to create lasting memories, our restaurants offer entertainment for children while maintaining quality dining for adults. The train delivery system captivates young guests while parents enjoy made-to-order meals. This combination makes us a preferred destination for family celebrations and casual dining.
Takeout Available
We offer convenient telephone ordering for pickup at multiple locations. Customers can enjoy our signature burgers and classic menu items at home while maintaining the same quality standards. This service extends our reach beyond dine-in capacity while preserving our core offerings.
Gift Cards
Our gift cards provide the perfect solution for special occasions and holidays. Recipients gain access to both our unique dining experience and quality cuisine. Available in multiple denominations, these cards make memorable gifts that combine entertainment with exceptional food.
People
Fritz Kropf
Founder
A Navy veteran who opened the first location in 1954, Fritz developed the patented train delivery system in the 1970s. His mechanical ingenuity and culinary traditions established the restaurant's unique identity before passing away in 2004.
Virginia Kropf
Co-Founder
Business partner and wife of Fritz, Virginia helped establish the first locations in the 1950s. She remained actively involved until her passing in 2018, maintaining the family's commitment to quality and customer service.
Fred Kropf
Current Owner
Third-generation operator who took over in 1987, Fred expanded the business to three locations while preserving original recipes and train delivery systems. He continues the family tradition of hands-on restaurant management with his wife Mary.
Mary Kropf
Co-Owner
Partner to Fred since the 1980s, Mary helped establish the Crown Center and Shawnee locations. She maintains operational continuity while ensuring adherence to the original quality standards established by Fritz and Virginia.
Questions
How does the train food delivery system work?
Our patented overhead train transports meals on tracks throughout the restaurant, lowering food directly to tables using mechanical arms. This system, developed in the 1970s, combines entertainment with efficient service.
What makes your burgers special?
We use 100% choice ground beef with grilled onions seared into the meat, toasted buns, and cook each burger to order using methods dating back to the 1920s.
Are all locations train-themed?
Yes, all three locations feature our signature train delivery system, though each has unique track layouts and decorative elements while maintaining consistent food quality.
Can I order food without the train experience?
We offer takeout service at all locations where you can enjoy our burgers and classic menu items without the train delivery component through telephone ordering.
Do you have gift options available?
Yes, we offer gift cards in various denominations that work at all locations, providing access to both our unique dining experience and quality food offerings.
