Postcard advertisement of the Victoria Station c. 1970s
Actual Photograph Of Victoria Station c. 1974
An August 8, 1974 Marin IJ article announced that the new Victoria Station was coming to Larkspur. Five railroad cars and a caboose were converted into the first Marin Victoria Station Restaurant modeled after London’s famous railway station. Located at 17 East Sir Francis Drake Blvd, it took over the U-DRIVE GO-KARTS business on the east side of the Greenbrae Bridge. Partners Dick Bradley, Peter Lee and Robert Freeman were in charge of this new venture, deciding to get away from the traditional steak and lobster dinners. Prime Rib became their “Piece de resistance” and was offered in three sizes: $5.95, $6.96 and $8.95 which also included a trip to the salad bar.
The 218 seat restaurant opened in January 1975 featuring prime rib, shrimp and cocktails. 500 dinners were served on opening night. At this time, there were already 30 Victoria Stations throughout the United States. According to his “Dining Out and Inns” column (February 14, 1975), Harry Craft remarked how crowded the restaurant was despite being “off the beaten path”. He pointed out that although this venue couldn't be seen from the freeway, it was quite successful.
In June 1977, a new two-story building near the Larkspur Ferry Terminal served as the national headquarters for the chain. And a little trivia…Singer Johnny Cash produced a promotional album of train songs for the chain, entitled “Destination Victoria Station”, which was sold in the restaurants.
Any memories of Victoria Station?