The Waiting Room

Just a little over two years ago, Rahway (New Jersey) officially became my new home. At the time, I knew very little about Rahway except for the fact that it appeared to be small, yet over populated. At the beginning, I would get homesick so easily. Every experience in New Jersey was new and unfamiliar. At the time, Rahway was just another town in the “Dirty Jerz”.

Fast forward to the present day, and while i still don’t know a whole lot about the town of Rahway, i know enough. I know that Rahway really has become a home to me. I know that I love walking through Rahway park in the summer. I know that I love when the sound of the train outside of my window (except for the first train of the day-5AM, horns a-blarin’). I know that I love the cute old traffic guard who waves me on at the traffic light during my morning commute. And i know that i absolutely love my one and only favorite neighborhood hang out-The Waiting Room.

Located a block from the Rahway train station, with non-stop trains to New York City, The Waiting Room is nestled on one of my favorite streets in Rahway. A street lined with trees and lights that guide you to this cozy local restaurant/bar. The atmosphere at The Waiting Room is home-y and laid back, while the familiar staff are always friendly and accommodating. The food is great, the prices are reasonable and the beer is abundant (and cheap). Looking for something fun to do during the week to escape the mundane routine? The Waiting Room has trivia night every Tuesday! While it’s certainly not easy the host is engaging, the crowd is young and the hope of someday winning leaves you wanting more.

My absolute favorite thing about this place is the fact they are open 364 days a year. Snow days at The Waiting Room has become a relatively new tradition. There is nothing better than venturing out into the snow and walking 5 minutes from my apartment to enjoy a steaming bowl of delicious french onion soup (it is SERIOUSLY the best). Whether it snows one inch or twelve, this place is always open. And yesterday's blistery day was just like any other snow day for me. As per usual, I met my boyfriend Ken at our favorite table by the window. We both had burgers. I gave their veggie burger a shot and was not disappointed! Ohhhh, how i love their fries and the pickles that aren't really quite pickles yet. We sat and watched the snow fall surrounded by other courageous Rahway neighbors.

I felt compelled to write about this place, not just to give it (The Waiting Room) the credit it deserves, but because it has really meant a lot to me these past few years. Right now, Rahway is my waiting room. I don’t know where life will take me-but i know i will never forget this place. The happy, the sad, the laughs, the friends, the family, the late nights, the early dinners and the snow days. I’m thankful for this fantastic place to wait.

#Rahway #TheWaitingRoom #VeggieBurger