Having explored Malden quite extensively over the years, from visiting friends to enjoying its diverse culinary scene, I thought I knew the city inside and out. However, there was a small pocket near the downtown T station that had somehow escaped my attention. This led to a brief moment of disorientation recently when I was trying to locate the Pearl Street Station Restaurant. Adding to the minor confusion was the fact that, despite its name, the restaurant isn’t actually situated on Pearl Street anymore, having relocated to Summer Street some time ago. Nevertheless, I successfully found it and ended up having a delightful lunch there.
Housed within a historic train station dating back to the 1800s, Pearl Street Station Restaurant exudes a unique charm. The interior boasts cozy booths, warm wood finishes throughout, and a striking high ceiling in the bar area, accentuated by a rustic wagon wheel chandelier, a feature increasingly rare in modern establishments. Beyond the main bar and dining room, there’s an additional section that appears to be dedicated to karaoke. On the day of my visit, it was arranged almost like a miniature theater, with rows of chairs forming a semi-circle around a stage area.
Choosing from the menu at The Pearl Street Station Restaurant proved to be a delightful challenge. I had heard recommendations for several dishes, including their renowned steak tips, turkey tips, seafood selections, and pizza. After a few minutes of consideration, we opted for the turkey tips and a pepperoni pizza. The turkey tips were impressively tender, marinated in a flavorful, moderately zesty sauce. The pepperoni pizza struck a balance between Italian-style thin crust and a classic bar pie. It featured a delicious house-made sauce and a slightly puffy yet satisfying crust. Drink options were somewhat limited, with a noticeable absence of craft beer choices. We settled on Michelob, which, while not my preferred beer, was perfectly acceptable in the moment. Our server was a friendly and welcoming woman, who seemed like a long-time fixture of the restaurant. The prices were remarkably affordable, with our total bill coming in well under $30, including drinks.
Despite it being my first visit, I immediately felt comfortable and at ease at Pearl Street Station Restaurant. It possesses an unpretentious and instantly familiar atmosphere, especially for those who, like myself, are drawn to local neighborhood eateries. My only regret was not trying their steak tips, which seem to be their signature dish. However, I am already planning a return trip to Pearl Street (and now, confidently to its correct location). Next time, I will undoubtedly sample the steak tips.
For those planning a visit, the address for Pearl Street Station Restaurant is: 53 Summer Street, Malden, MA 02148. They can be reached by phone at (781) 322-6410.
Related Blog Entries: Malden restaurants
Posted by MH, Boston’s Hidden Restaurants, on August 11, 2011.RSS | Post A Comment
4 COMMENTS: Chris said: Come back to Malden this weekend for Saint Rocco’s Feast (street fair). It actually does take place on Pearl Street! And the food is delicious. http://saintroccosfeast.org/events.html
Posted on 8/12/11 JS said: Did you not see all the knick-knacks & lamps, etc coated with dust? That was enough for me not to return! Posted on 8/15/11 MH said: We returned to Pearl Street a couple of weeks ago for lunch, once again trying the turkey tips (very good once again) and the steak tips (excellent, with a terrific marinade). Service was fine and the prices were very reasonable. I’m still not sure this place is a true hidden gem, but I do find myself liking the place more and more. Posted on 2/17/12 MH said: Another trip back to Pearl Street earlier this month, this time having a salad, buffalo chicken fingers, and a steak and cheese calzone. The calzone was very fine, as it was stuffed with their excellent steak tips rather than shaved steak. The buffalo chicken fingers were basic but good, as was the salad. Posted on 6/25/13
