About us

History

Long before it became a neighborhood pub filled with laughter, music, and the smell of fresh food coming from the kitchen, Riley Street Station began as something else entirely — a railroad depot at the heart of town life.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, this building served as a stop along the legendary Pennsylvania Railroad, once the largest rail system in the United States. The depot connected East Aurora to Buffalo and beyond, carrying workers, families, soldiers, and travelers through its doors every day. It was where goodbyes were said, homecomings were celebrated, and local goods were shipped across the region.

Even then, this address was more than a structure — it was a gathering place.

As passenger rail travel declined, the station’s original purpose faded, but the building remained a familiar landmark. Its character, history, and sense of community made it too special to disappear. Fortunately, a new chapter was just around the corner.

From Depot to Dining Room

In May 1987, local restaurateur David Neff transformed the former train station into Riley Street Station. With hospitality roots stretching back to 1968 — including ownership and involvement in several well-known Western New York establishments — Neff saw the potential to turn the old depot into something lively again.

The restaurant evolved with the times. Over the years, it wore many hats: Cajun-inspired eatery, Mexican kitchen, traditional American restaurant, and even a neighborhood bar. Each phase reflected the changing tastes of the community, but one thing never changed — Riley Street Station remained a place where people gathered after work, met friends, celebrated milestones, and felt at home.

Following David’s passing, the restaurant was thoughtfully carried forward by Consuelo “Babe” Neff. Under her guidance, Riley’s found its footing as a true local institution — a one-of-a-kind gastropub known for personality, comfort food, and a welcoming atmosphere you simply couldn’t replicate anywhere else.

A New Generation, Same Spirit

In October 2023, Riley Street Station began its next chapter under new ownership with Anthony Amabile II.

A lifelong East Aurora/Elma native, Anthony reopened the restaurant while completing his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at D'Youville University. But Riley’s wasn’t new to him — he had previously worked here for years as a server, bartender, and manager under Babe Neff. The building had already shaped his story long before he became its owner.

With more than 20 years in the restaurant industry, Anthony pairs hospitality with healthcare. Today he also is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Universal Chiropractic, helping members of the community improve their health and quality of life. Following in the footsteps of his father, Dr. Anthony Amabile Sr., he continues a family tradition of combining service, entrepreneurship, and care for others.

For Anthony, reopening Riley Street Station wasn’t just a business decision — it was personal. It was about preserving a piece of local history while breathing new life into it for the next generation.

Today

Today, Riley Street Station stands as a blend of old and new.

The walls still echo with the history of the railroad days, but now the sounds are clinking glasses, live music, cheering fans, and friends sharing meals. The mission remains simple: outstanding food, genuine service, and an atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.

From train passengers more than a century ago to families and friends gathering today, this building has always brought people together.

And that’s exactly what it will continue to do.

We’re proud of where we came from.
Excited about where we’re going.
And grateful you’re part of the story.

All aboard.