I tried this place out on a Tuesday and went back by Saturday -- it was that good! The martini list is amazing (and they make a great lemon drop martini). Every thing I have had there is great. The staff are so nice. They even validate parking! I can't wait to return for brunch.
(5)
Liz L.
Ugh. I want to write a great review for this place, but... ugh. We went to Exchange Street Bistro for a celebration birthday dinner last night and had a great time - until we got our entrees. But, I'll start with all the good. The decor is great. Very chic and intimate. There are tables in the front and back of the restaurant - back of the restaurant has booths that create the feeling of having a private dining experience. The front of the restaurant, even though the tables are somewhat close together, still has that intimate private feel. The waitstaff was fabulous. From the hostess to the waitress to the owner (or manager, I didn't ask), everyone is attentive and friendly. A+ customer service. The selection of wine is pretty decent, especially considering the restaurant is known for their martinis. We got a bottle of Shiraz that was delicious. And the martinis? Mmmm! We saved our martinis for after dinner - I had an Espresso Martini that was to die for. My dining partner got an Iced Pumpkin Latte Martini that was unbelievable. We savored every sip. Delicious. Ok. Now onto the food - my reason for the low review. We ordered a whole bunch of food and none of it was particularly great. Considering the prices, I was expecting much better food. To start, we got a caesar salad and the coconut shrimp. The caesar was just ok and the coconut shrimp was pretty good - nothing fancy, even though it was presented as a fancy dish. For entrees we ordered the special - a hanger steak with scallops, twice baked potato, and asparagus, and the filet mignon with scalloped potatoes and asparagus. The filet had some sort of demi-glaze, but I've forgotten what it was. And this is where the disappointment starts. I have never sent back a dish or even considered doing so, but when I saw my steak I was super bummed out. If it wasn't a Monday night and I had more time for dinner, I would have sent it back. I was expecting a filet and the cut of meat I got may have been a filet... but it was definitely a terrible cut of meat. I asked for medium and my meat was gray inside. Definitely overdone. The scalloped potatoes were ok. The asparagus was the best part of my meal. As for the special? The twice baked potato was delicious, but the scallops were way overcooked. The hanger steak was cooked poorly, medium rare in some places, well done in others. Ugh. I would suggest going to Exchange Street for drinks and atmosphere, but avoid the food. Overpriced, overcooked, and a total disappointment. What a bummer - I realllllly wanted to love this place!
(2)
Joi T.
I have since fallen in love with this place and come here often alone or with a buddy. They do change their tapas menu often so if you fall in love with something it may be gone in a few months. They also changed their tapas time frame which I LOVE!!!!! It's now from 4 pm till close still at bar & lounge. They do not have any drink specials though but it's fine because the food choices make up for it. I did have dinner with some friends not too long ago. I ordered beef wellington from the prix fixe menu. I have never had it before so I had no idea what to expect and have no comparison. It was good very tasty and the pastry was nice and flakey. It is something I will order again.
(4)
Leah P.
Had dinner there recently, Food was SO good! I had the black pepper fettuccine (I think that's what it was called), it was so delicious! Appetizer and soup were great too. Our server Michelle was great as well as the hostsess/busser. The place also has a great ambiance, casual and cool. Will definitely be back the next time We're in Malden.
(5)
EricaLynn J.
Suffering from what seems to be an identity crisis, the Exchange Street Bistro is a 'see and be seen' establishment nestled smack in the midst of one of the busiest areas of Malden, right down the street from the Malden Center T stop and next to a bunch of closed businesses and a bargain hair salon. Signs for valet parking seem quite out of place, though certainly adds to the mystery surrounding the beautifully designed storefront. Once inside, customers simply walk down the long, narrow path and their dining adventures will soon begin. It's hard not to notice the amount of activity surrounding the bar that's in the middle of the entire place. And there you have the Best of Malden - and yes, I do mean the cougars too - all placed around that bar drinking their days away with the charming (but expensive!) drink and specialty martini menu. And while much of the place seems to partake in its own battle of the bands (jazz music blasting from one end, televisions blaring with sports games at another end), your ears will be most attuned to the people at the bar, as with anywhere: as they get drunker, they get louder. With all the hustle and bustle and bizarre eye candy, I almost forgot that I was there to eat - though in a way, I wish I had. The "tapas" appetizer tasted fantastic and came out rather quickly (which may, of course, have been the first indication that something was not quite right) and for $20, it's a steal for two people looking to share all sorts of goodies from teriyaki chicken to mussles to spring rolls. And the regular dinner menu and specials all were pretty mouthwatering at first glance. Lobster mac and cheese, seared scallops with vegetables, and baked penne with sausage with a pomodoro sauce all stood out to me as potentials, and I went with the penne and sausage. My first question to any server when it comes to an entree that can go either way is if the sauce or the meat are spicy. I can't stomach spicy food - what is just reasonably spicy to some will pretty much put me out for the count. So seeing the words 'sausage' and 'pomodoro sauce', I had to ask. I was told that it was absolutely not spicy and I did not give it another thought. My penne and sausage looked absolutely delectable and I was thrilled that I chose that over the lobster mac and cheese, though I certainly tasted quite a bit of it across the table. A few bites in, though, I realized that the sauce was a little bit spicy. I got about a third of the way through and I felt like I had eaten five times as much. My stomach began alerting me to the fact that things were definitely not OK. And to make things worse, fruit flies were rummaging around the table and trying to make friends with my food. I am sure you can probably see where this is going. Poor me, I know. You're playing the tiniest violin for me and I do appreciate it. But my experience with Exchange Street Bistro certainly was more than just the unfortunate incident with the spicy or the undercooked stuff. My general blahs towards this place is based primarily around the fact that it's a really weird restaurant and I got the impression that they're a little too eager to make the place chic and frou-frou that they forget the basics: good, honest service, clean surroundings, and fresh tasty food will get you far.
(2)
Nancy Z.
For the love of PEPPERONCINI MARTINIS! Man. I like wine, and I sure as hell like my beer- but hot damn. Their martinis make me want to pop in a whole season of Sex and the City! All of a sudden, I feel an urge to go into chick-overdrive mode when I hold a martini glass. Is that weird? Do most girls feel like that? Anyways... if you enjoy Dirty Martinis, this will absolutely make your night. Actually, all their drinks will, they have an enormously great selection. It is also one of the best places to meet up with friends. The decor and music is very trendy and the bar and crowd are always lively at night. Malden has come a long way since I grew up here! One of the best dishes I've had there was the livers that's sauteed with onions and other scrumptious and savory ingredients. It's served on sweet, dense pieces of brown bread. I think there's even some cinnamon in it (clever, you). The flavors work together so well. Note that there is also happy hour here, I think from 4-6ish that includes $1 oysters. The service has been great every time. During Friday and Saturday nights, it gets pretty crowded, so there may be a wait if you come in late. You could always be safe and make a reservation as well. Two sets of two words: Pepperoncini Martini Do it.
(4)
Ribblet N.
Tastes pretty darn good tonight. May be all the beers? Had the steak bits and sweet potato fries and a Cesar salad. Spicy chicken wings for appetizer and mussels, front window seating, was great.
(5)
Jennifer R.
The problem: The front of the house is doing their kitchen a huge disservice. We go for dinner. The food is terrific. All of it. Why two stars? Let's start with a strong chemical odor that hits us as we come through the door and never lets up. Follow that with Nurse Ratched approaching our table. We recoil. We order a bottle of wine. She brings the wrong vintage. We point out the error. The vintage offered is unavailable. (The wine list has never been updated.) We order a different wine. Meanwhile, we get an edgy visit from Schlubby the Manager. He's dressed like he's just come from the gym. "It's all the same juice", he argues. This is going down in a place decked out to look swanky and advertised to be fab. (The interior is cool...in a cookie-cutter sort of way. Pussy willow branches, the usual mod "teak" dividers, lots of booths, a back-lit bar.) All the while, GREAT food lands on our table, though we cringe every time Ms. Brassy Breeches delivers it. Otherwise? The martinis are good. Oh, and you can giggle over the misspellings in the menu as you inhale chemicals and are assaulted by the staff. If I worked in that kitchen, I'd be furious.
(2)
Robert B.
Amazing bread pudding and awesome service!!!!
(5)
Thomas S.
Tapas was great, we sampled everything. My favorite was the cheese and spinach that were fried (I though they were meatballs at first) with a nice sauce on top. Calamari was delicate and not chewy at all. Martini was good but not excellent probably because it wasn't allowed to chill long enough for my liking, but the olives saved the day, a meal in themselves. We only had drinks and the tapas but I'd like to try this place for dinner, what a diamond in the rough!
(4)
Lou P.
Upscale atmosphere Great martini selection Good for quiet dates While I used to love the dive bar crowd in college and for a short time thereafter, I ooccasionally find myself tending toward a more refined (read: quiet) experience now. The evening lounge at Exchange Street is right up my alley in that regard. The atmosphere is muted and quiet. It's as if you're in the private back area of a larger, busier club and the music is wafting through the doorway. I've been here twice now, once for a private party, and once for drinks. I'm not sure the food at the party, delicious as it was, is indicative of the overall quality, so I will refrain from comment on that. I would recommend the place for a quiet evening, however, especially if you're in the mood for a martini. We arrived around 10:30 on a Saturday night, and got a seat right at the bar. It wasn't crowded by any means, and the bartender was right over to take our order. The drinks are a bit expensive at around $10.50 for a martini. The ladyfriend had a Lemon Drop, which I sampled. It wasn't too sweet, and not overly sour either. I had a Nucumber (Hendricks and muddled cucumber.) It's a strange taste, but I would recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the Gimlet looking to switch it up. The evening crows is a bit older, so you're best served going there with a date or friends rather than looking for company.
(3)
Michael T.
We went on opening night after the remodel and enjoyed the new layout. The food is always very tasty and portions are good considering it's a bistro. Drinks are amazing. A great time with friends. Hands down the best restaurant in Malden.
(5)
Julia C.
The interior decoration suffers from identity crisis (read: gilded Italian plaster molding + edgy, modern furniture + middle-ages-esque tapestries), but this can only add to your dinner conversation. I came here for a coworker's going-away lunch get-together. The lunch menu is your typical Americana fare, things like burgers, club sandwiches, green salads, etc. The lone chicken pad thai that somehow found its way onto the menu always makes me laugh. Our waitress was a friendly yet excessively bubbly gal who was very willing to please, but came by way too many times (every 10 minutes or so for the hour that we were there, checking for water, making sure that everyone's dish was okay and that we didn't need anything else) for my comfort level. The food portions are HUGE. Almost everyone took a doggie bag home. I've had bites of the club sandwich and ordered the lobster mac and cheese, which were both tasty, but nothing special. I didn't feel comfortable asking for bites of the aforementioned random pad thai, but if anyone has tried it, please let me know how it is! I do not remember any entree item being over $15, mostly in the $10-13 range.
(3)
Kelly C.
For Malden, this is top notch. We stopped in for brunch, and although VERY noisey (2 different bridal showers going on) it was great! The food was really good - I had the Monte Cristo and it and the fries along with it were some of the best I've had. Hubby had the eggs benedict, that came with greens and fruit salad. We also had the fried calamari (we try it everywhere we go) and it wasn't crispy enough for me, but the pepper sauce they put on it was a unique taste that I enjoyed. The portions were large, our waitress was very attentive, and the atmosphere was upscale. We liked it a lot and will definitely be back!
(5)
Joe S.
Jesus Christmas, the Wellington neighborhood is boring! Strip malls and half-assed chain restaurants will give you some bang for your buck, but when all is said and done, the experience feels like you've stood in line at the supermarket. Blase, sir! Blah Say. A brother wants to be in walking distance of good neighborhood eats and the Wellington neighborhood is not that. So my girlfriend and I decided to venture out to Malden Center for some local culture and cuisine. It's not quite walking distance, but the T can trick a man into thinking the ride was part of his stroll. We invited 2 friends, investigated Yelp for places to go, decided on Exchange Street Bistro and off we went. Our friends drove and found ample parking in front of the restaurant at 6pm on a Saturday. We almost passed the front door as it looked like part of the exterior wall. "Better to keep away the riff-raff" I thought. Inside, the restaurant was classier than I had imagined, definitely leaning more to the Bistro side of the name than Exchange Street. High ceilings, deep burgundy walls and some friendly hostesses asking if we had reservations greeted us. We were immediately seated in a booth that made us feel totally separate from the rest of the small crowd and our waitress came by momentarily to make us feel at home. She was sweet, knowledgeable and, most importantly, human. There was nary an R to be heard in any word spoken. Toto, I think we are in Malden. Thank God. We started with drinks. The drinks at Exchange Street Bistro are huge. These bowls that the staff referred to as Martini glasses might hold a quart of liquor. Needless to say, we were big fans right away. My companions chose martinis from the vast drinks menu and I had the Bourbon Manhattan. The Manhattan was standard. I wish I asked for less Vermouth, but then again, I should just start asking for a bowl of chilled Makers Mark with some fruit in it. The apps were good, but not great. To be honest, I hate Broccoli Rabe, so the Broccoli Rabe Spring Rolls hardly tempted me. Interstingly enough, when it is called rapini in the pork chop main dish, I eat it like its being taken away from me. Go figure. The Korean Barbeque Spare Ribs with their sesame glaze tasted like run of the mill Chinese food to me, but I am not a huge fan of Asian cuisine. I think this paragraph describes more the cost I paid to eat where I wanted to than the actual meal. Exchange Street does not offer psychological help on the menu, but I am sure the friendly wait staff would listen. The main courses were much better. I had the Frenched Center Cut Pork Chop with roasted Delicata squash, vinegar peppers and sauteed rapini. The pork chop was succulent, tender and juicy in a rather large portion. The few peppers were delicious, but only made me wish there were more on the plate. The squash and rapini were excellent sides, with the rapini offering a hint of garlic and the tender Delicata offering a nice flavor and change of consistency. Mwah! Delish! My compatriots had no complaints about their meals really. The Ahi Tuna was adequately portioned and disappeared in a matter of moments. The Veal Saltimbocca featured 2 big pieces of veal with cheese over them. It looked good and was boxed up for a highly anticipated breakfast meal. The Eggplant Napoleon was "too cheesy", but very good otherwise. I will go to Exchange Street Bistro again as the $200 price tag was okay for the amount of food we received. Thanks Exchange Street Bistro for making my awful neighborhood a little more acceptable.
The martinis were good, but service and food was not impressive. Also, there are numerous misspelled words on the menu. Overall, the food and service was poor and slow. Not worth the amount of money they charge. I'm surprised because the restaurant was featured on Phantom Gourmet and I've heard so many great things, but it was a big disappointment that ended up costing us a lot of money.
(2)
Karla M.
AWESOME food and ambiance!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The leech martini ROCKS! The only downside is depending which night you go, which bartender you get! I've had GREAT service, and no so great service. The only improvement I'd recommend is training/choosing the appropriate bartenders for an upper class restaurant. A+++++
(4)
Omeed D.
Well, this place has slipped dramatically. When I moved to Malden 18 months ago, this was one of the restaurants I was most excited about. A couple of early visits were encouraging. The martini list is extensive - which is the only reason I give it two stars instead of one. In the last six months, every visit has been a disappointment. The menu has tended towards the mediocre and every meal I've had has been worse than the previous one. The end came for me today. My fiancee and I were coming back from running errands and decided to check out their happy hour. They advertise an extensive list of cut rate drinks and eats. I wish that were the case. As the bartender explained the deals, it became apparent that the happy hour was limited to just a couple of selections. There were two (mediocre sounding) martinis available. When I asked about cocktails, the bartender told me the martinis counted as cocktails - and then offered to whip up some sort of grape-flavored nightmare as well. The happy hour wines were limited to a chardonnay and their cheapest red wine (and it's not like their wine list is pricey; 337 is 12.99 a bottle at Kappys). We just left. The food selection seemed reasonably priced - but, as I mentioned, I've been disappointed in everything I've eaten there for quite some time. As much as I like to support local businesses, I'm done with this place. If you're looking for good food in the area, I'd recommend my new favorite: Bistro 5 in Medford. Going to write my review for that... right now!
(2)
Lizzie S.
I was so surprised to find food this good and atmosphere this wonderful in Malden! We ordered appetizers and entrees, and every bite was incredible. Also, the night we were there had live entertainment of a singer/guitarist. The wait staff was friendly, the food came out fast, and everything was delicious. Conveniently located near the Malden enter T stop, this place is definitely worth a try.
(5)
Meredith K.
I'm so sad the old chef left. When we first started to come here - it was SO delicious and the menu seemed to change frequently (which I like). The mussels with julienned veggies and garlic toast was to die for, but alas - it is no more. We have gone back maybe 3 times since the (original or at least last chef) left and all 3 times it's just been ok - pretty boring forgetttable meals. The menu has been the exact same (except specials) all 3 times over a 10 month period and nothing really stands out that much. The mac and cheese - meh I can make it better at home. The steak - I've had better at so many places. the braised short ribs - I've had SO much better elsewhere. It just felt like the quality of food went downhill and so did the flavor (it was bland). I do have to say the drinks are fun and tasty (lots of specialty martinis) and a decent wine list. Also the servers have always been friendly, but occasionally on the slow side to bring dishes/refills.
(2)
Ernald N.
I stepped in here for the first time ever for a takeout order so I didn't have the In-House experience. The decor of this place is nice, very stylish and appears to have a great bar. My review is based primarily on the food quality really, I ordered the "Exchange" Steak Frittes dish and while the steak was tasty the meal itself was lacking. For $20 I got 4-5 small pieces of steak which didn't fill me up at all. The sweet potato fries were soaked & soggy instead of crisp since they were topped with watery baby arugula. The arugula was fresh and good but again because of the quantity of food provided I couldn't give a review over 3 stars for my experience. I'll likely come back for drinks but I'm on the fence for having another meal here especially since my appetite is about average.
(3)
Mark A.
I receive coupons for this place every once in a while, and have to admit that's usually the only thing that gets me to think of going to this place. I have been here a handful of times though. The food's always been good, though I'd prefer a little more variation in their menu. The drinks are good, and they have a fairly well stocked bar. I've had a couple of "less-than-great" service experiences here, which is probably the reason I don't go here more often. I think they're targeting the "after work drink/dinner" crowd, which is fine, but it does give the place a different vibe than your average "classy" restaurant.
(3)
David P.
Excellent food, excellent prices, excellent service! We've had friends from out of town come and this is the first place we thought of to take them! This is truly a gem!
(5)
Annette M.
I honestly want to give this restaurant more stars because the food is different and delicious, the drinks are fantastic, and the decor is trendy and fun. Where this place falls is that it is REALLY loud. The volume of the music is always too high, and it is music you would dance to not eat to. You end up having to yell to have a conversation. As the place fills up it only gets worse. Also, I am one of those people who HATE certain food items (mushroom, onions, blue cheese, olives, rare steaks, etc. - clearly foods that impact the flavor of a dish), so I usually ask for my meals to be without these items. I also have to say that I am never rude or demanding with my meal requests. I am never unreasonable, but the waitstaff always seem to be put out when you ask for something simple like no blue cheese in a salad. I have no problem paying the same price for 1 less ingredient. I once asked for a steak to be made medium well, (the way I like it) and the waiter argued with me and insisted that the chef recommended it medium rare. My steak did not come out the way I wanted it but I was so embarrassed by the ordering discussion that I refused to send it back. I LOVE eating out, and I want to enjoy my night out.
(2)
tavia m.
I like the Exchange Street Bistro and have had a pleasant experience every time I have come here. The reason they don't get four stars is because sometimes the service isn't at four star level and their food is hit or miss. I like the atmosphere of the ESB, and it's very large and good for groups. The wait staff is accommodating and helpful, but tends to disappear for long periods of time. The martini list is extensive and I have tried several of them from the list, most recently the Creamsicle, which is great. The Malden Martini is a bit too sweet for me. I also sampled the Pear Side Car recently, which is tasty. Overall, the quality of the food at the ESB is good, but overpriced. The menu at the Exchange Street Bistro changes seasonally. There are some staples that are always on the menu, like their lobster mac & cheese, which is pretty tasty but somewhat pricey. Also I have had the pork chop, which was very good and the braised short rib, which was ok. A lot of their food is fine, but unmemorable. Recently, I tried the spring rolls, which had an unpleasant aftertaste. Yuck. Dessert-wise, the ice cream sandwiches are a MUST. You only need one order for a group of four. The portion size is huge. Whenever someone suggests the ESB, I always say yes and I always have a fine time. I would recommend this location if you're looking for American fare.
(3)
jerry b.
1st time at exchange st & will be back again. service was very good & as the evening wore on it got better as different workers cleared or asked about refills. Our server was very attentive as well waiting til we were nearly done to ask about the next plate .Bruchetta without mozzarella? Goat cheese instead was really a great choice. tappas plate was excellent. I had the pork chop, juicy, perfectly cooked, I asked for a twice baked potato instead of the veggies, no problem. My wife & a friend split the fettacini & both thought it to be great. The onion soup was perfect. Nice wine list. We wil be back. Oh, they have validated parking across the street.
(4)
Emily P.
Had a wonderful dinner at Exchange Street. It was pretty busy for a Wednesday night, and we loved our waitress Linda. We started with the pepper encrusted calamari -- to die for. Husband and I like to think of ourselves as calamari experts, and this was top notch. I was contemplating the cucumber martini but was hesitant about it being made with gin. Linda suggested I try the cucumber martini but with grey goose. I hadn't even mentioned that I was thinking of trying it -- it was like she read my mind! Also had a flirtini which was yum. I had the lobster mac & cheese which was delish. There were large hunks of buttery lobster which made me tres happy. Husband had the steak frittes with mashed instead of sweet potato fries and he loved it. The reason it's getting 4 instead of 5 is because the heavenly rolls we were promised didn't show up until we got our entrees and we had to ask for them. Overall it's a good spot with a city vibe (and free parking!) without having to venture over the Charles.
(4)
Mike D.
I have been to the Exchange Bistro a couple times; both times the service was quite bad and food was also terrible. The restaurant is located in wonderful downtown Malden and tries to pretend to be like Boston. It is a bit pricey for the location and area. I would say take the 10 minute drive into downtown Boston and get a much better meal and experience for the same price.
(2)
John B.
Best martinis around! The lobster Mac and cheese is awesome. They have daily tapas that is pretty good...... And! The girl I am with right now wants to " try all of these" martinis on their list... (hopefully I am around to see that)
(5)
Ladyjane S.
I came here for brunch this past Sunday and the service was extremely slow. I had to chase down our waitress more than a couple times just to get our check, food wrapped, etc. Also, the food took an extremely long time to come out. The slow pace wouldn't have bothered me but I didn't really want to spend my entire afternoon there, so it got kind of annoying towards the end. We got the waffle, a sausage corn dog, tomato basil soup and the lobster mac and cheese. Waffle was terrible. It was thick and pasty and just...not good. The sausage corn dog had runny batter on the inside but the outside was pretty good and very greasy. The soup was fantastic. They cut up a few pieces of yummy grilled cheese and put it right on top. I really wish they just served a whole grilled cheese with it beacuse I totally would order that next time I come! The lobster mac was good but not great when I ate it at the restaurant but for some reason it was AMAZING the next day when I heated it up in the microwave. Not sure why that is but I ate it for 2 separate meals afterwards so I can't complain. They sure do give you a lot. I don't think I'd come here again for brunch. I think the prices are too high and it just doesn't seem like a brunch place. However, I will come back and try them for dinner. I think the quality is there, just not for breakfast foods.
(3)
Tara S.
I'm impressed. I have lived in Malden for a while and have heard about this place from a few people. I always heard good things. Now, I can reccommend it to my people! I very much enjoyed the food and drinks. The calamari is so crispy and the marinara is simple and a perfect compliment. I can't wait to go back.
(4)
JEM C.
I didn't have high expectations and thats about where this place landed at the end of the experience. We went there for brunch on a Sunday at 11am and had no wait--nice plus. Its in Malden so the interior and ambiance were nice for the area. The menu sounded good but the flavors are were I felt most let down. I had the french toast (and as an avid bruncher) I can tell you these are amongst my least face ever. If Im doing the calories, I want them to be scrumptious...these just weren't :( The prices were ok, but really I probably wont go back because I love brunch and have MANY better places around for it.
(3)
A Z.
Went here for "Sunday Brunch". My friend and I shared these two plates: Homemade Belgian Waffles -Topped with caramelized bananas, orange cream & side of bacon. ($8) Stuffed French Toast - Peaches, Blueberry Compote and Mascarpone Cheese. ($10) The belgian "waffles" = just ONE waffle, but it's plenty. The terrible part was, however, that what appears to make this dish is the "carmelized bananas". That's why we chose it. They didn't tell us until they brought it to our table that "oops, we're all out of bananas". So I guess it's just a Belgian Waffle now, isn't it? Would have been nice to know BEFORE so we could have picked something else. And I mean, the place was not busy by any means, where did the bananas go? The stuffed french toast was really good, and the peaches were definitely fresh and not canned. All of it plus the mascarpone was a little too sweet for me though, so I wasn't able to eat too much of it. The womens bathroom was being fixed while we were there, but one of the friendly hosts offered to "keep watch" for me in the Men's bathroom. No complaints there. The bathroom was very clean. Overall, the place looks nice, they use quality ingredients, and the prices are decent (for breakfast at least). There's not a huge selection for Sunday Brunch, in fact, half of the menu is lunch food, but what they have is good enough. Still a little annoyed about the last-minute banana mystery, but otherwise I can't complain.
(4)
Ploy K.
I have been to Exchange Street for brunch twice now, and will likely go again. It is a nice little place of the beaten path in Malden, with city food at neighborhood prices. Both times I have spent under $20 and been fairly pleased with my food. The first time I went, I had eggs benedict, which I loved. The second time, I had the BLT omelet, which had Boursin cheese, Lobster, and Truffle oil. Sadly, this dish was NOT worth $14. The cheese was overpowering, the lobster was a bit chewy, and the egg was dry dry dry. I didn't even know there was truffle oil in there. If the ingredients had been mixed together better and the eggs not been overcooked, it might have been delicious. It was, however, disappointing. Despite one bad dish, I do like Exchange Street. The atmosphere is very chic without being pretentious and the staff is very friendly. I arrived 15 minutes before they opened, and while some restaurants might make you wait outside in the freezing cold, those at Exchange Street allowed me to sit quietly at the bar and read. While there wasn't a line at the door, by 11:45am or so, the place had filled up nicely and had a good, friendly vibe. I will go back to the Bistro and try some of their sweeter brunch options. I would also love to try their lunch or dinner.
(3)
Sasha B.
I loved Exchange Street Bistro! The martinis are amazing, they have (easily drinkable) chunks of fruit floating in them! We had the strawberry gimlet, which was fab, and the pear sidecar. I was truly impressed with both, some of the best I've had. Disclaimer, I am an extra pulp in my juice kind of person, so I may be biased. I ordered the lobster mac, creamy, big chunks of claw meat, grain mustard, I loved it!! The service was incredibly nice, my water glass was constantly refilled.
(4)
Bill Y.
I'm incredibly torn as to what to rate the Exchange Street Bistro. It's a nice-looking place with excellent decor and very good food that severely lacked in service during our recent visit. My girlfriend and I had never been there, so we decided to give it a shot Friday night. After being seated in a large booth, we waited for 10 minutes before anyone acknowledged us; it was someone bringing us rolls but not greeting us. After 15 minutes, a manager apologized and a waitress was over to take our order. But we seriously considered leaving at this point. The manager, however, did comp our drinks, which was something they didn't have to do but was very nice. I ordered the $25 prix fixe dinner, consisting of caesar salad, a t-bone steak (ordered medium rare) and the lemon sorbet, while my girlfriend had the scallops. We split an appetizer of the calamari. While we had to wait about 15 minutes for appetizers after this -- not sure how frying calamari or putting together a simple caesar salad takes this long -- but it wasn't an overly long wait. The big problem happened when my "medium rare" steak showed up. It was cooked between medium well and well-done, and frankly, it was nearly impossible to cut. Although I can't remember ever sending a steak back, I asked the waitress to return it, letting her know it was not medium rare. She questioned me and suggested this was a medium rare steak before I told her it was unacceptable and asked her to return it. For someone in the service industry to question a customer is completely unacceptable -- her job is to make a patron's night, not argue with the guest over the cook times of meat. When the medium-rare steak did come out, however, it was delicious. The calamari from earlier was as well. My girlfriend only received 4 scallops, however; for a $22 entree, I'd expect more. This seemed like a portion size that was exceedingly small. But they were very tasty. But our waitress' extreme lack of hospitality made the meal a downer. It continued on to when my girlfriend, after reviewing the dessert menu, asked for the lemon sorbet, which comes with the prix fixe meal, but isn't listed on the dessert menu. The waitress, rather than agreeing, hemmed and hawed, saying she didn't really think that was possible. I let my girlfriend take my sorbet, and ordered the lava cake -- which was really the best part of the entire evening -- but the fact that a $2 scoop of sorbet would cause such an issue with the server is ridiculous. And while bringing the bill, wouldn't you know it? Our waitress tacked that *free* round of drinks right back onto our bill, even though the manager let us know -- with her there -- that it should be comped. Really disappointing when you deliver bad service and don't follow through on promises. The charges were removed on bringing it to the restaurant's attention. Bottom line is that the food at Exchange Street Bistro is excellent and while the scallops entree is rather small, other portions are good. The prix fixe meal is a good bargain. But we'll never return because of our waitress' horrible attitude and her lack of attention. One person who fouled up a meal from beginning to end really ruined our experience, and while the manager did give out a free round and was extremely apologetic, it wasn't enough to salvage the awful night we had here.
(2)
Michelle D.
I got married here a few weeks ago and it was FABULOUS!!!! The whole experience was great; from the original booking of the room, to any questions along the way, to finalizing the menu. The food and servers were tremendous. Thank you Felicia and Joanna! The guests could not stop talking about how wonderful everything was. I cannot thank the staff enough for making our wedding outstanding!
(5)
Chrissy H.
We couldn't wait, we had to taste the real food. So another date night spent in Malden. I had a Goddess Martini to start... no offense to the bar tender but "ICK", way too sweet for this sour girls taste buds. I had to switch to a glass of Pinot Grigio to go with my pan seared scallops over Lobster Ravioli with a lobster cream sauce. Very tasty indeed! And the hubby had a veil cutlet special over risotto and three shrimps. I didn't get to taste the shrimp, cause he's greedy, but the veil and risotto were delicious. I liked the small portion sizes too because I didn't leave the restaurant, for once, feeling like a whale. The music was a bit more mellow too, which was nice for dinner time. Just quiet, holiday music in the background. The wait staff was great. Very friendly and efficient. I think we've found a new place for date night.
(5)
Sarah A.
Very impressed with the lunch menu! The food was excellent. We started with a selection of tapas that included caprese salad, meatballs, broccoli rabe and shrimp: all very tasty. For an entree I had the daily special of haddock on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with spinach and surrounded with a generous portion of lobster sauce. The sauce was delicious! I even had to clean the last bits off my plate with a dinner roll it was so good. The potatoes were done very nicely, very rich and smooth. The fish was cooked perfectly. To finish up the meal I had a cappucino which was certainly among the best I've enjoyed lately at a restaurant. My only complaint with the meal was that our server was not very attentive to our water glasses. I was left without water for a good portion of the meal. Also, our first round of water was WARM, not just not cold with no ice, WARM. The place is very clean, new and fresh and definitely has a more downtown Boston feel to it. The bar was huge and looked like it would be a great place to come in the evening. The bathrooms are very clean and modern. I will definitely be back! Can't wait to try the bar!
(4)
Lindsey C.
I went to the Exchange Street Bistro on Valentine's Day with my fiance (we're considering it for our rehearsal dinner), and it did not disappoint. They offer a very extensive martini list and a romantic, cool, and slightly trendy atmosphere. The food was delicious (I had the lobster mac and cheese - sooo good). I would definitely recommend this restaurant for dinner with friends or a date night.
(5)
Whiskey C.
Elderflower. Check. Hot Pepper. Check. Bee's Knees. Check. Not to mention, the specials. Sea bass. Aaaah. Again please.
(5)
Jon M.
Need to come here more often, always enjoy this place. Had family party of 17 a few weeks ago and not one complaint! Was able to order off menu despite size of group. Martinis are by far the best around. Try the Hendricks Gin cucumber one, WOW! Bar was recently done over so have to go back, for drinks/apps.
(4)
Mike Z.
We came here for drinks on a Friday night - the experience was enjoyable, but the food and beer selection was lacking. We ordered the pricey, bland, and small-portioned Lobster Pizza - it was probably the worst pizza I've had in a while. The ambiance is very nice and modern, but that's all it's got.
(3)
Inna H.
Very nice place. Has a great bar and good martinis. Very pricey though. For the amount of money you are going to spend here on two drinks you can have three in Boston. Way overpriced for Malden.
(3)
Aboud Y.
Nice spot. Lively bar. Too bad the food isn't that great. I tried the burger, steak, duck leg, korean spare ribs, and lobster mac and everything was ok. Not bad...but not that great either. Service was good but a bit pushy (esp. with dessert). Anyhow...true litmus test: I doubt I'll be back. 2.5 stars...I'll round up to 3.
(3)
Erin R.
What can I say? The food was absolutely AMAZING! I had the haddock and it was to die for! My fiance had the scallops...also amazing. Our server Linda was super sweet, and had great suggestions! It is a bit loud, other than that, it's fabulous. I can't wait to go back!
(5)
Lisa J.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a large group. Our server was really nice, with a great personality. Nice ambiance inside, and strong - and delicious - cosmos. The raw oysters were delish, and my dinner was really good too. However, the best part of the meal (besides the company) was the amazing presentation (and taste) of the ice cream cookie sandwich. Not your typical ice cream sandwich - it was two chocolate chip cookies, stuffed with ice cream, cut into biscotti-shaped pieces, and stacked like a Jenga game. Never seen such a great way to serve this dessert! Very cool. Very jealous of the people who got it. : )
(5)
Lin M.
WooHoo! The original chef is back with favorite items on menu. Can you say Scallops and Lobster Ravioli. Delicious. This is my all time favorite eatery. I have never had a bad meal or cocktail. I have been to two parties here and the staff and food were exemplary. Is it pricey? Yes but quality comes at a cost. The martinis are excellent. The sauces used are delectable. I sometimes wish I lived in Malden so I could go more often.
(5)
Linh V.
I give the food a 4 star but the service ehh 2 stars, landing Exchange Street Bistro at a 3 star. The food is pretty good, especially for a restaurant strangely dropped in the middle of Malden. I got the tuna steak which I tricked my friend who hates seafood into trying. She quickly yelped. "this is the BESSSSST meat i've ever eaten!" Little does she know it wasn't exactly farm raised.
(3)
Katie A.
We went for our first time for brunch on Sunday, and it was great! Breakfast burrito, Monte Cristo sandwich, and eggs over easy with sausage and home fries all were huge portions of deliciousness. The interior is swanky and I definitely want to try out dinner there. The four stars can easily be bumped up to 5 after one more visit...
(4)
Eric B.
Great drinks menu! Dinner menu is limited and a bit pricey. I had the New York Sirloin. It was probably the fattiest sirloin I have ever eaten. I could have gotten a better quality steak at Texas Roadhouse!
(3)
Bill C.
Okay, so here's the deal: four of us went to the place last night and three ordered the prix fixe offering and I ordered a la carte. One of us liked the meal and three didn't. I won. I ordered a meal size portion of the seared Tuna appetizer over soba noodles and fried calamari and I was really happy. The tuna was prepared perfectly and the slices were thick and generous. The sauce wasn't particularly creative but still very tasty. The calamari was not spicy as advertised, but once again really good. As for the prix fixe trio, two ordered the coconut curry squash soup, one of found it inedible, the other just didn't care for it. The third ordered a meager salad with feta and grapes, that looked very unappealing. All three order the cioppino pasta, none finished it, not because of size, but boredom. The Chef Boy Ar Dee inspired pasta was flavorless and very orange looking. The seafood was not particularly interesting and not well prepared (rubbery scallops and small shrimp). Dessert was another disappointment, they had a choice of ice cream (the flavors were red pepper and basil - seriously) and vendor supplied cheesecake that was burnt on top. Our server was a royal pain more interested in schmoozing and interrupting than serving. It was half-way through the dish before he remembered the parmesan cheese that was requested as the dish was served. He was simply annoying and very slow, yet very, very talkative. It's a great looking restaurant, but we won't return.
(2)
Brian S.
Exchange Street Bistro is GREAT. It is once of our favorite restaurants in the area. The ambiance is perfect: trendy, but not pretentious. And the fact that there is FREE validated parking in a garage is just another plus. They lose a star because the menu could use a few more items and because sometimes the service can be a bit off. With that said, I've never had *bad* service, and it's usually great, as is the food!
(4)
Alice G.
The food was terrible; the fish was not fresh and so covered in breadcrumbs there was barely any fish left. Especially considering the high prices, it was awful. The service was really bad; as soon as the waitress realized we had a Restaurant.com thing, she basically started ignoring us. The only reason it gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the drinks are really tasty and creative. I would go here for drinks but NEVER for food.
(2)
Christopher R.
This place is very big, even bigger than it looks from the outside. I only had a Cobb salad, but it was very good. I would love to come back and try the rest of the menu items, as they sound very promising. The salad was huge and stocked with plenty of items. The chicken was grilled to perfection and plentiful. They certainly don't skimp while making these.
(4)
Greg A.
I love this place. Wonderful environment, awesome food. It's a little bit pricey. And watch out for the mysterious "limited menu" time between about 2PM-5PM. I've gotten burned by that a few times. Though there are still always great things on the menu.
(5)
Ellen S.
So disappointing to finally go somewhere we've had on our running "we should check that place out" list and have such a poor experience. What made it even worse was that after watching people around us who were seated AFTER us get their apps and dinner, we were told that ours would be another 10-15 minutes due to a large function there that evening. We mentioned that this was our first time there and the waiter (who really seemed like he could have cared less - as he brought meals to the other tables that had been seated after us) told us that we really should come in during the week when it is less busy...as if somehow the extended wait for food that was "ok" was somehow our fault. I don't care how many different martini's you have on your drinks menu buddy, I won't be back to try any of the others out.
(2)
Lad D.
I've passed by the Exchange Street Bistro enough times and from the outside it always appeared to have a nice energy about it. So finally last night I decided to take the plunge and bring my mother for an early dinner. Like many of the reviews have said, Malden doesn't have many "trendy" dining establishments, so the fact that it is here is nice. I thought the decor was nice and not over done. From where I was sitting, I didn't realize that there were flatscreens all around and since it was early the patrons at the bar weren't all that rowdy. I was a little bit confused who my server was at first. Someone came to fill our water glasses and then someone else brought us bread. Neither introduced themselves or let us know who our server would be. I think they need to coordinate that better. We ordered the mussels as an appetizer and they were great. I was surprised by how large a portion it was. The entrees, however, were a disappointment. My mother had the steak frittes. The steak came out all chopped up, marinated in a lime/ vinegar sauce and set on top of the fries. The fries as a result were soggy. There's something about ordering a steak and cutting it yourself. I had the short rib and the meat was somewhat dry and lacking in flavor. The sauce that came with it did little to enhance the short rib. It seemed that presentation was more important. Our server was really nice and checked back every so often to see how we were doing, so I guess we were lucky compared to the experiences of some other diners. All in all, I wasn't terribly impressed by the overall experience, but I would give it another try (knowing what not to order). I think it's worth checking out and seeing for yourself. The menu doesn't seem too coordinated and is a bit pricey in my opinion.
(3)
Bethany S.
I've always wanted to try the Exchange Street Bistro since it opened 5 years ago, and last weekend I finally made it over there. The decor of the restaurant is hip and modern. I like the fact that it's ot really a "family-style" restaurant in the sense that there are no toddlers walking around between tables of screamig somewhere in a booth nearby. It's a wonderful place to have a relaxing adult conversation. The food is not bad. It's sort of an up-scale twist on classic dishes. (For example, the "pizza" contains lobster, avacado, and brie cheese.) It was actually a lot less expensive than what I would expect in a place like this. Also, this establishment is known for their martini bar. They have a selection of about 15 differant martinis all at $9 each. A bargain compared to other places I've been to. I wanted to give this place a rating of 4 stars, but I deducted a star due to the service... our waitress disappeared for long periods of time and we couldn't figure out where she was or when/if she was coming back. It got to the point that my friend and I were looking so desperate that other waitresses came by to check on us... not good. Maybe at the bar they are more attentive...
(3)
Robin S.
Been here twice & have enjoyed both times. Went for a girls night out and ordered a bunch of apps & drinks. Our server Mindy was really friendly & kept checking in on us throughout the night. Will definitely come back!
(4)
Anna W.
Fine dining in Malden? Quite an oxymoron!! But honestly, this is one of my new favorite places, and I am so glad it's in Malden! It's closer to my house, there is plenty of parking available, and I don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Boston to have a wonderful meal. They have FREE valet, as well as easily-accessible street parking, and an adjacent garage that is free with validation. Seriously, you can't go wrong! I've been here several times already, and each time, it has far exceeded my expectations. The first time I went here, I had the BEST server experience ever. Our server, Anastaysia, was awesome! She was friendly, warm, and incredibly helpful with explaining items on the menu to us. We started off with their tapas appetizer, which changes daily. My friend had some kind of fish on lobster risotto, and I had the steak. They were both incredibly delicious. The lobster risotto had HUGE chunks of lobster in there! Most of the time, restaurants try to gyp you, especially on lobster, but Exchange Street Bistro didn't. In addition to their regular menu, they also have a fixed-price three-course menu that changes regularly as well. It is only $25, which is about the same price as some of their regular-priced entrees! Their portions are incredibly generous, the ambiance inside is dark and inviting, the service is impeccable, and don't even get me started on how extensive and yummy their martini menu is. The drinks are unique, creative, and won't cost you an arm and a leg. I will certainly be back many more times. I love ESB :-)
(5)
Wayne D.
I sort of didn't want to give this place 5 stars but I sort of don't have any reason not to! A friend and I went there for lunch/brunch yesterday and we both loved it!!!! The restaurant is sort of an out-of place gem in Malden Center, much like it's around-the-corner neighbor, All Seasons Table (which I love). As I sat inside the windows I felt like I could look out but nobody else could look in. Of course this is not the case but it's just so nice in this place while the neighborhood doesn't have much at all to brag about. The decor is nice with lots of earthy colors and sort of looks a little asian to me, but not by much. A private dining room out back features a huge mural and a fireplace which is nice. The food was where it was at! I tried the chef's Lobster and Asparagus Omelette and it was amazing. It came with a nice green mesculine salad with the most bang-up dressing I've ever tried. For dessert (of course there is dessert at my table...HA) a honey-mascarpone tiramisu. It was just so rich and amazing and served in a martini glass. Had I known it would be that good I would have asked for two and held the omelette. The cons is that there didn't seem to be much on the menu for brunch, it was mostly all lunch ideas but I'm sure Sunday boasts a better selection.
(5)
Inman S.
First time I went here was using a restaurant.com gift certificate. I very surprised by how amazing this place was. The ambiance, staff, and food were all wonderful. I went back a second time to find the same to be true. Its definately one of my new favorite places to go grab dinner at a reasonable (and well worth it) price.
(5)
Nicole L.
I love love love this place and with their new renovation it is so fantastic! The servers are great and the drinks are yummy. LOVE the Tuna Tartare!!! The small plates are big plates and SO good!
(4)
Michelle P.
Ugh. What a bummer! Went this past Friday for drinks with a couple friends. I have been here before once for dinner and drinks and another time for brunch. Both were decent. Last Friday, however, was not. I decided to try out a new martini. It was disappointing at best. When the waitress came back around an hour later, she commented that I had barely drank anything but never asked if I did not like it or offer to bring something else. To be fair, I would not have expected her to comp my drink as I freely chose it. However, it would have been nice to offer. We then decided to order a pitcher of sangria. I have had it in the past and was pleased and really, how can you screw it up? Well, they did. The carafe the sangria came in, our glasses, and the sangria itself all smelled and tasted like NAIR! Yes, as in the stuff you use to remove hair from your legs. It was truly disgusting. When we paid with three full glasses of sangria, the waitress failed to ask if anything was wrong. This brings me to my next point. We only saw the waitress when she took our initial order, dropped off our drinks, and then gave us the check without offering us another round. We opted to order the sangria despite her bringing the check. She then dropped another check off with the sangria. When we finally approached her asking for change, she provided that and then immediately took the check but still failed to ask why we were leaving three full glasses of sangria. I was very, very disappointed. I will not be back again.
(1)
Tina D.
We are always a little apprehensive to walk into upscale restaurants with two kids but it was my birthday so we did it anyway. Upon entering there were two hostesses and when asked how many in our party as if our arrival was welcomed. The other stepped to her computer and asked if we had a reservation as if we couldn't be seated if we didn't. It was a Tuesday and there were 3 tables taken with a handful of people at the bar. By the time we left all the dining room tables were full but there was no one waiting for a table and all the lounge tables were still empty. Once we were seated, the experience was nothing but positive. Our server informed us of the children's menu since they do not have a printed one. We were offered tasters of wine that we asked about. The food was excellent and not over priced. The caeser dressing is made on site and you can tell by how fresh it tastes. I believe they also make their own croutons. I had the lobster mac and cheese and it had huge clumps of lobster in it. My spouse had the prix fixe menu of seafood stuffed shrimp with spinach and baked potato. It was good but mine was better. The dining room is small and intimate and yet somehow each table feels quite private. I'll go back but I might make that reservation just to be safe!
(4)
Mike C.
Lobster Mac-n-Cheese. I'll say it again. Lobster Mac-n-Cheese! So good. As a matter of fact, most everything is so good. What I really loved about this place is it's "let's meet at the Bistro and relax" atmosphere. Having dinner there with friends, a bottle of wine and some lobster mac-n-cheese is just awesome. I've always had great wait staff and I feel at home there.
(4)
Matthew A.
I just came in from a business lunch at Exchange st and let me tell you it was very nice, this brand new contemporary large bistro had easy parking, bright colors, and comfy booths. I had the lemon pasta with grilled in season vegetables. We started with the Asian spring rolls. Warm bread, ice tea, and great service. The bar looked very inviting too bad I couldn't have a 2 martini lunch but I might stop by after work for a libation. This kind of place is long overdue in Malden. I will certainly be back.
(5)
Jeffrey F.
Good after work spot, with good food and wine options. Always an interesting crowd in there.
(3)
Lucy M.
We have been to Exchange st many times for dinner, a couple times for lunch and brunch as well. I enjoy it every time. I have had spectacular food there and food that was just ok. The antipasto plate is probably the best I have ever had, and the cocktails and bar deals at happy hour are great. We had a spectacular brunch recently and it was probably the best meal there so far. I had the steak and portobello benedict and my bo had the Monte Cristo. We each only ate half of our meals, leftovers yay! My bene was only $14 and came with a nice piece of filet. I always feel like I get a good deal for what I am paying there. Its not what you would call cheap, but a good value. We go there atleast once a month as we live in Malden and its so wonderful to have a great restaurant so close.
(4)
MJ T.
Stopped in here for lunch. Somewhat limited menu for lunch choices, but good choices over all. Only three beers on tap, one of which was Bud Light (which barely qualifies as a beer). Really tasty broccoli rabe and mozz spring rolls with a zingy sweet mustard dip. Tomato basil bisque was exceedingly smooth and decadent. I ordered the beets and greens salad w/ lemon dill dressing as my meal and was really pleased. My boyfriend ordered the burger and was a bit disappointed. The burger was WAY to large for the bun (a dinner roll sized ciabatta bread) and tasted like plain old ground beef, no seasonings from what he could tell. His plate was redeemed a bit by the super crisp wedge fries, coleslaw, and homemade tasting mayonnaise.
(3)
Kathy Y.
Went here for a Bachelorette Party Dinner. It was okay. Service was a bit slower then anticipated, if we weren't rushing i suppose it wouldn't have been too bad. The Filet - was decent. Good Portion Caramel Apple Martini is to die for! This place is a good place for large parties.
(3)
Charlie B.
At lunch our waiter could barely disguise his lack of interest. The coffee was weak and flat, so it's probably good that no refills were offered. A simple question about whether the soup (tomato basil) is vegetarian yielded only a shrug and a look saying, oh, you're one of THOSE types. The pizza was tasty, but the service experience and lousy coffee left a bad taste In our mouths, so to speak. People seem to like the bar scene here, so maybe lunch just isn't their strong suit.
(2)
Gina M.
I avoided this place for MONTHS, fearing another, "good...FOR MALDEN" experience. But finally I popped in with friends for just dessert a few weeks ago and have to say we were pleased with everything we ordered. We had a bread pudding and a berry shortcake and both were tremendous (size and flavour). I also really enjoyed my espresso martini--sweet but not cloying. We all did agree however, that a place in Malden has no business charging 10 dollars for drinks. It just doesn't. Not when the best scene and best drinks in Cambridge are available at the B-Side for 7-8 dollars a drink. I will go back for dinner and am hoping beyond hope that the rest of the fare is as good as the desserts we had.
(3)
Josie C.
So convenient if you live in Malden. Like All Seasons Table, this place is located right within Malden Center and can come off sketchy due to location, however do not be fooled, it is wonderful! The specialize in their elaborate list of martinis (so good!) but also have a full bar and decently priced, large beers. The food is amazing and very high-end (comparable to the swanky restaurants in Boston), however my siblings say the portions are small (I prefer quality over quantity, though). Just take a look at all the food photos posted here, mmm. *Also a fun fact: Enrique, the head chef/owner, is one of the kindest and funniest guys in town - me and my boyfriend stumbled upon him one late night while we were at the bar in All Seasons Table actually (right around the corner, the owner of that restaurant and Enrique are said long time friends), and he literally bought us about 5 plates of food and a bounty of refills of some spectacular white wine! It was, needless to say, one of the best nights ever.
(4)
Elle S.
My friend and I went here for Malden's Restaurant Week. Neither of us is that familiar with the area, but the restaurant is about a five minute walk from Malden Center on the Orange line. Our reservation was for 6:30 on a Friday, but there were hardly any diners. Most of the activity seemed to be around the bar. We were seated in a tall booth that could have easily sat 6 comfortably, or as comfortably as one can sit against a completely flat backed seat. I ordered the toasted ravioli, baked stuffed lobster, and lemon sorbet. The toasted ravioli and sorbet were just okay; it is hard to mess those up. The lobster was almost all breading and there was no detecabke seafood in the stuffing as the menu indicated. The lobster claws and zucchini logs were ice cold. My friend ordered the coconut shrimp, Thai bouillabaisse, and chocolate mousse cake. She liked the shrimp and cake, but said the mussels were overcooked and rubbery. One thing we both noticed was how quickly our courses came. Given that and how cold our food was, I think the food was precooked, refrigerated, and reheated. There were two things that I did like about this restaurant however: the bright, clean restrooms and our server, Felisha. She was incredibly nice and attentive without being overbearing. I will not be returning and do not recommend this restaurant.
(1)
Lia M.
Since I have not eaten a meal here, I am going with three stars for now. I had dessert, the chocolate terrine, and it was only alright, not horrible, but probably two stars & I wouldn't waste the calories again. It's a chocolate brownie/fudge piece served with vanilla gelate. The chocolate was very dense, but not a lot of flavor. We sat at the bar. The bartenders were helpful and attentive, but not real friendly. My martini was good and strong (Kahlua, Bailey's, Frangelico, & vodka). The atmosphere was nice, especially in Malden. As others mentioned, it's classy & upscale. It's very big inside. We were there around 10 on a Saturday night and it wasn't busy and we left by 11:30 and it still wasn't busy. They close at 1; food service stops at 11, last call is 12:15. I plan on going back and eating dinner. ***** Update, 3/17/2008 I have eaten dinner here now. I did not like my meal (shrimp scampi). The pasta was undercooked and it had very strong taste that I did not care for. However, my boyfriend's lobster mac and cheese was excellent. I say go here for the drinks though, which I loved. And I did enjoy the warm apple crisp, which was very cinnamon-y, but I liked it.
(3)
RoseAnne D.
I too wanted to love this place, as I have recently moved back to Malden and wanted a nice place to hang. I'll go for drinks, but the food.....yuck! 2 entrees, and app, all bad. French Onion soup with a tomato base? I think not. And they used the same rolls for the top as the bread and butter, way too chewy for the soup. My salad tasted...mmm, I don't know, old lettuce? Not sure. Beef Wellington, could have used just a bit of salt on the fillet, but it was tender and cooked well, but the chef ruined it with the sauce. I think he used the tomato onion soup we didn't finish. A nice brown mushroom sauce would have been better. Short Rib Risotto, was okay, but would have liked bigger pieces of meat. Only had shredded pieces. Spinach side was way bitter, and I'm a spinach lover. Service was excellent and attentive, but Chef.....take a lesson!
(2)
Chere G.
Wow! Seriously, I sometimes have to cringe when I tell people I live in Malden. For me it was a choice of close enough to the city with a sic ass commute for work 30 minutes north. I have the best of both worlds. But honestly, there was never a reason to chilll in Malden on a Friday night because I thougt it didn't have anything to offer. Exchange ST Bistro brings some bling to Malden for sure. If you live in the area you need to peep this place. It's pricey, no doubt. But they can definitely back the price. Ambiance is fantastic - if you didn't know you were parking on a side street in an ehh part of Malden you wouldn't know your were in Malden. Kind of like a time warp. Woooosh...holy crap check this place out, dimly lit, loungey, nice music, attentive staff. Okay, Okay me likey. The waitstaff is so sweet....ahem....and I must admit we did have a hottie for a waiter. I'm just sayin. Dinner - I had the Grill and chill: A freaking 5 star BBQ Ribbs, chicken, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoe salad and a slab of watermelon. Mmmm Mmmmm. Never had a nice BBQ'd chicken that peeled apart and melted in my mouth. Now this is finger lickin gooooooood. Dessert was Creme Brulee - BOO effin Yah! Well poured drinks and standard price. It was such a nice loungey feel to it. I'm very impressed especially since I've been so against chilling in Malden. I also liked te manager takes the time in midst of your dinner and check things out. Very peronable and a nice touch. Probably the first time I'll ever say it's worth driving through the city rather than making it a night in it.
(5)
Valerie F.
The most AMAZING creamy tomato and basil soup! The best part....the soup comes with mini grilled cheese croutons...GENIUS! Don't know how I never thought of this myself! Will definitely go back just for this soup! The espresso martini was delish as well. Other appetizers were good too, the white pizza, caesar salad, spring rolls, and quesadilla. Bar service was slow, they only had 1 bartender on and it was rather busy so we waited a long time for drinks, about 20 minutes or so. Our waitress was very apologetic though and super nice. Decor was cool, very modern. Only gave three stars because it was a bit pricey and for the slowness of the drinks.
(3)
Craig C.
I went New Years Eve the night of one of the blizzards with no reservation. It was packed and they still took us with a short wait at the awesome bar. Great bar menu w/ funky drinks. Nice quick bartenders. Eclectic and diverse crowd. Special menu 3 courses for 40 bucks FOR TWO!!!!! Food was delicious and can't wait to go back. Upscale city type place with country type prices. Go with friends for dinner and drinks ALSO for Valentines Day they are doing the same deal as New Years. Best food deal around. Go Go Go . Highly reccomended by Senior Me.
(5)
Bernadette S.
I completely agree with the crowd, here. My expectations started low, because it is Malden. But our two gay boyfriends/Malden homeowners, swore by it, so off we went, my expectations now soaring. I agree - the location is odd, but I can get over that. The atmosphere was humming, the lighting nice. I think our server was an idiot, a nice idiot, but still he had a lot to learn. He convinced us to try a Riesling with dinner, and I kept my mouth shut, but it was a sweet Riesling. It was tasty but it was dessert. I ordered the special seafood stew, which was mostly potatoes and a few pieces of calamari. Flavorless. I added salt and pepper. Then I ordered the chicken petto, stuffed with proscuitto and goat cheese, served with garlic mashed, spinach and sundried cream sauce. Not only was the chicken completely dry, but the only flavor on the plate was from the proscuitto and goat cheese, and of course there wasn't enough of it. Until I just looked up the menu online this second, I had forgotten that the cream sauce was sundried tomato, because it was flavorless! Of course, my gay boyfriends loved their dinners and my girlfriend swore her pork was better than what she had at Harvest last week, so what do I know?
(2)
Amber H.
THRILLED! This is by far my favorite restaurant, in Malden - maybe even Boston. Its a great restaurant with a beautiful trendy vibe, and gorgeous decor. The martini list alone is worth going for. In fact I went several times just for the martini list, until one night i decided to order dinner and it completely blew my mind! The Big Chopp and the Salmon where unbelievable (my mouth is watering just thinking about it) i have also had the duck, as well as one of the Tapa's chefs specials. Service has always been impeccable. I frequent this bar and I must say, I have NEVER been disappointed. What a fantastic operation, its worth every penny!
(5)
Tara V.
I really like this place. All I can say is TRY THE VANILLA BEAN BREAD PUDDING!!! That dessert is orgasmic! The food is pretty darned good too. I took off one star because the drinks suck. Or should I say the bartender(s) suck! I have never been able to get a decent drink at this place.
(4)
Whitney K.
Awesome martini list, comfortable bar area and reasonable prices that reflect the Malden location but make you feel like you're in Boston. The food is good...they are adventerous with a modern flair to the menu, but aren't always successful.
(4)
Ania Z.
Great food, great prices, great atmosphere and it was really busy when we were there on a Thursday night. We checked to make sure they were serving food till 11 and got there at 10:20 I understand its close to closing time and I knew what I wanted but when I got to the host stand the waitress did not seem like she wanted to seat us until I believe a manager walked over and I asked if they still were serving, then she rushed us to order which was pushy. But the food was awesome I loved the Lobster Pizza and Haddock Dish!
(4)
Hilary C.
Went here because I'd seen some good reviews but boy was I disappointed. Where to begin: This was a weekday, on the tail end of the lunch rush and we were the only ones in the restaurant besides a couple at the bar who were as baffled as we were. For supposedly being known for their burgers, the patty I got looked like a frozen one I could have gotten from Market Basket. It was WAY overdone, tasteless and dry. And it cost me $12. I'd have complained to the waitress except I couldn't find her. In fact, after she brought us our meals we didn't see her for the rest of the meal. We eventually got fed up with waiting and had to actually walk back to the kitchen to find someone to pay. We could have looted the bar and probably taken out half the furniture before anybody would have even noticed. It was almost to the point where we wondered why we should pay at all. Total time spent: 2 hours. For a burger. Part of me wants to know what the hype is all about. (Did they have an exceptionally bad day?) The other part thinks that this restaurant doesn't deserve any more of my time or money.
(1)
Denise T.
I have eaten there about 3 times before and will definately go back. The Bistro has done renovations with a new menu. Our waitress(Linda) was very pleasant and had great knowledge about the restaurant itself and all the dishes. Rich the manager is also unbelievable. He is very pleasant and cares about all the patrons who enter by greeting them with a smile. I had the Natural Roasted Chicken, which was delicious and the presentation of this dish was remarkable. My guest had the Lobster Mac and Cheese and according to him, was extremely creamy and delicious. This Bistro is worth the trip. The food is delicious and they make the best Martinis in the world. I can't wait to go back again.
(5)
Ken M.
Exchange Street Bistro saves the day again. My sister-in-law made a reservation at another establishment for my mother-in-law's 60th birthday and for whatever reason, the reservation was dropped. Exchange Street was available to accommodate us last minute. Fabulous service from Trish. The food was delicious and the drinks took a starring role as usual. Delicious and friendly. Thanks again Exchange Street!
(5)
C R.
Has the ambience of something chic-enough for Boston's swankier restaurants - in easy-to-get-to Malden. 10 min north of Boston. Plenty of parking, GREAT menu, not too pricey (not cheap though), staff are attentive and know their stuff. I've been here 4 or 5 times now and have always left happy. DEFINITELY a place worth traveling to....whether you're local or live on the north or south shore.
(4)
Carol J.
We held a bridal shower at the Bistro for my daughter earlier this month. I have to say that the ESB exceeded my expectations. We were set up in the front of the restaurant and had access to the bar and plenty of room to move around. The food was delicious. We had the brunch from the functions menu and there was something for everyone. All our guests enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. The staff was very helpful and made our special day even more special. I would definitely recommend the Exchange Street Bistro for anyone having a small function.
(5)
larry m.
I have been here 5 or 6 times and have had a great meal every time. The decor is funky but not over the top and they're constantly playing some sort of electronica/jazzy music. Enough about the atmosphere because it's all about the food here. The menu is small - medium with a lot of Italian influenced dishes. 4 out of 5 of those times I had the pork chop. It's stuffed with fontina, caplicola, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini and served over roasted potatoes. I was sold on the title "Stuffed 19 OZ Pork Chop." My wife's grandmother ate there and was blown away by the risotto....as was I. This is coming from a woman born in Italy. She speaks italian...cooks Italian....and doesn't like food at Italian restaurants. She has been back once or twice since we introduced her to the place. I have had several of the appetizers and all of them were amazing. One standout was the Sicilian Chips. They are nachos but covered in fontina, salami and talian peppers. The absolute best appetizer there was the risotto croquet's. They are not on the menu right now.....but the waitstaff promised me they'd be back. These are basically mini rice balls (or arancini) served with several different dipping sauces. The prices are OK....a little pricey for Malden but definitely the best restaurant in the city. Since moving to the area this has become my "go to" restaurant.
(4)
jennifer m.
Ugh. My boyfriend and I went here after hearing good things about the food and atmosphere. The atmosphere was good... it's got nice decor, and it was relatively quiet, which is what we were looking for. We were promptly seated, and the waitress came over almost immediately to take our drink order. However, when asked about the beer selection, she wouldn't/didn't tell us what they had available in a bottle. She would rattle off a few (bud, bud light, gross, etc.), and then say "and others.." and my boyfriend would say "what others?", and then she'd get through a couple more and say, "and others". Finally, he asked her if they had Sam Adams, and ordered that. She left, but returned shortly afterwards, and put someone else's empty Budweiser bottle on our table while admitting she forgot to tell us the specials. She told us, and then left. When she came back with our drinks and to take our order, I asked her what "Banana Ketchup" is, and her response was to look at me dumbly and say, "It's self-explanatory." And I said, "Uhh... if it was, I wouldnt be asking." It turns out it's bananas pureed in ketchup, which is certainly LITERAL, but the thought of that is just too gross for me to believe, hence that whole disbelief over the "self-explanatory" bit. So instead of The Big Chop, I ordered the Filet Mignon, medium. My boyfriend's burger was fine, but nothing fantastic. My filet came out WELL DONE, and then some. It's really a shame to ruin a piece of meat like that. The rest of the food was fairly bland and uninspired, and certainly not worth my entree's $26 price tag. We won't be returning. If we want to spend that kind of money, we'll drive into the city.
(1)
The New Mrs. U.
I recently went to exchange street for brunch. I was looking for a local place to take my out of town family for brunch. I was a bit hesitant due to the mixed reviews, but I am happy I went. I was pleasantly surprised. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. They serve corn bread with the brunch , which for me is a big plus! The menu was not a book and had items that were simple and not trying to be too fancy. I did read one reviewer who complained about the booth seats print. Yes, it is a bit busy but it was not that bad! Clearly if you have good food, good company, a mimosa, and free corn bread, anything can be overlooked. Definitely a good neighborhood restaurant for the area. I will definitely go back.
(4)
Josh S.
My partner and I met some friends here for brunch this morning, and we all had a good time. The service was excellent while not being overwhelming, i.e. we got coffee/water refills when needed, but didn't have people interrupting us all the time or hovering. Three of the 4 of us had a form of eggs benedict, and we all loved our plates. The fourth person had an omelet, and she was also impressed. The coffee was also much better than most places where I have brunch. We would all recommend this place for brunch.
(4)
Riem K.
Decor was great, although the restaurant seemed a little out of place. Your view at the dining area is the local dry cleaner and the parking lot of Super Fitness. Food was unexciting and nothing to rave about. The oyster Rockefeller- it's just a green soppy mess and they could of at least shuck the oysters all the way out of the shell. We had to scrape the sauce off and then use our knife to try to pry the oyster meat off. The sirloin and the filet- Meat was tough and a little chewy, however the filet was drowned in a sauce that I wish it wasn't. Price, I thought was a little steep for what you were getting. I could of paid the same amount at the Great Bay and got a better view with a better meal. Alcohol- martini list was very good. I would return for drinks and not dinner. Overall, I would come back just for drinks at the bar and not for dinner. That was disappointing after all the hype I kept on hearing about this place.
(2)
Andrew M.
Its like a South End Bistro got lost, and landed in Malden. OK, so lets be honest--this ain't your typical Malden restaurant. If you're looking for cheap, low-class dining, the Exchange Street is the wrong place (try the Dockside). The food & drinks at Exchange Street are delicious. In fact, the food is as good as you would expect in Boston, and the prices are slightly better. The worst thing about this place is that its too nice for the neighborhood. I see lots of people complaining about price in other reviews. I'll admit that Exchange Street is more expensive than other dining options in Malden--but thats because its better than other places in Malden. And its still cheaper and easier than going into Boston for a nice dinner out.
(5)
Kate S.
I have only been here twice, and the first time was back in July for their 1 year anniversary party, which was amazing. They provided tons and tons of free food, beer and wine for 5 hours! They served right up to the end of the party and we were trashed. The people there were all great and it was really a good time. That was the only time I have had their food, I know people that enjoy eating there. However, if you want to read a scathing review by the globe have a look boston.com/ae/food/resta… I have never read a worse restaurant review, well actually it's pretty funny. Anyhow, the Exchange Street Bistro is primarily known as a martini bar and everyone raves about this one bartender that's there on wednesday and thursday nights. I ordered a manhattan, but I wanted whiskey not bourbon and asked for just well. He didn't want to give me well whiskey so he suggested Jack. Puzzled, I restated whiskey not bourbon and foolishly asked for well whiskey again. He served me the manhattan in a martini glass, not a rocks, and it tasted horrible. I learned that he used Dewars, which on the label says blended scotch whiskey but I consider it a bourbon because it's spicy and north american. I don't know maybe I am wrong about the Dewars but I am not wrong that this was a super gross drink. I ended up giving it back to him because I just couldn't drink it. The only reason I gave Exchange Street 3 stars is because of the fabulous and generous anniversary party they threw. Otherwise, I think I have to side with the Globe.
(3)
Ashley P.
This place has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. It is like an amazing Boston restaurant without the Boston prices. The location is good and you can usually find street parking, but if not they offer free validated parking across the street. The food was out of this world! I also love the the menu changes with the seasons (read = fresh ingredients!) which is something you don't normally get outside of a big city. My friend and I started with martinis and two apps, the white pizza and the fig bruschetta which were both outstanding. We then all had the fillet mignon, which was so perfectly tender and delicious. And, on top of everything, the steak came with amazing mushroom risotto...mmmm!! We also had a bottle of wine and the amazing homemade ice cream sandwiches. It is an amazing place and I will be back very often!
(5)
Tom D.
Still one of my favorite restaurants several years later. I celebrated my upcoming birthday here last night. We were a large party of what we thought was 16, but turned into 18 at the last minute. The folks at Exchange St were more than accomdating and in no time had set up an area for us in the lounge. We had one server, Trish, for our party and she was fantastic. Never frazzled by the number of people, efficient, just wonderful all around. She really made the evening great. The food as always was outstanding. I had the braised lamb shank for the first time and it's a new favorite. The lamb was tender and moist, and the accompanying minted risotto was the perfect side dish. I'm usually not crazy about mint with meat, but I have to rethink my position on that after this. All around a wonderful evening and I can't wait to go back soon!
(5)
Jason B.
I've never gone to a restaraunt and had any of its employees come up to me, fall on their knees and say "please write a bad review of our establishment." But my experience at the Exchange Street Bistro comes the closest yet. Food: One word: Yuck. The burger was dry, NOT cooked the way it was ordered, and very suspicious-tasting. I've been a poor college and post-college student, and I know what borderline hamburger meat tastes like when it's cooked. This was it. In a way I'm thankful that they didn't cook it medium rare as I asked; I might be writing this review from the emergency room on my blackberry. The fries were cold but crispy enough. Remember before when I talked about the staff begging for a bad review? Here it is - the omelet: we were informed by the waitstaff that no, they did not have egg beaters, and no, the chef would not seperate eggs to make an egg white omelet. The reason? They had a large party in the back and were too busy. Too busy. Translation: We're taking care of the big group and your measly little two-top doesn't merit anything special, so go perform anatomically unlikely operations on yourself. Hash browns? cold, soggy, and suspiciously redolent of having been cooked in a pan that was used for something else before hand. The rolls were good, though, I'll give them that. Service: One word - yuck. Maybe we got him on a bad day, maybe he was worried about rolling the keg over to his frat party, but our waiter was terrible. Made us feel like we were inconveniencing both him and the kitchen staff whenever we asked for anything - more coffee, screw you. No we don't have equal, skim, or lowfat milk. Mimosa? That's weird but I'll see if they'll make one for you. This guy really made me say it: "I don't think Buddy Holly is much of a waiter." The busgirl tried to remove food we were actually eating - we had to reach back onto her tray to take a ramikin of ketchup away that she REALLY wanted to remove - "I'm not done with that yet" didn't seem to do it. Decor: This is nice. They really went out of their way to make the place look like it belongs in Cambridge or the South End. Backlit translucent colored glass, marble tabletops, hardwood floors, signed original artwork on the walls, very classy. Too bad the place sucks as bad as it does. Crowd: Odd Malden people. Families. Old people. Us. Random people who like to stare at you while you're eating. The usual. A negative experience that made me feel bad for being a restaurant patron. Maybe we caught them on a bad day, and we should give them another try...but little about this experience was positive.
(2)
Charles G.
excellent food. have eaten there a few times. great sauces. great ambience, if you r in the malden area this restaurant is well worth trying. and oh yes, good prices to boot.
(4)
Mark W.
We've been here a few times. It's becoming more of a bar hang out for locals then what it's trying to be which is a fine dinning establishment. Our meals have always been ok so hasn't the service. Reasonably priced.
(3)
Danielle F.
We decided to have a date night close to home and wound up at Exchange Street Bistro at the end of the evening for dessert and cocktails. The relaxed and upscale atmosphere was a total, and pleasant, surprise for the area. The staff was very friendly and attentive and helped us to secure a seat at the bar which, for a good part of our visit, was rather rowdy. Our bartender, Kat, was pleasant, helpful and provided speedy service as well as super strong martinis. The drinks were excellent, but the dessert was a little lacking. We shared the bread pudding with cinnamon ice cream, and while it was tasty, it wasn't great. So, overall, excellent service, strong and delicious martinis, chill atmosphere and dessert that hits the spot but isn't a showstopper.
(3)
Amy B.
I've been for dinner probably 6 or 8 times, and this summer co-hosted my friend's bridal shower there. The food is always tasty, although I don't have a favorite dish. I've tried a lot of different things and have been satisfied each time. The service is usually nice and friendly - just one time was the exception, when the waitress seemed so stiff and like she was reciting a script that we joked she'd be at home in the Hall of Presidents at Disney World. I liked hosting an event there as well. The maid of honor mostly dealt with them during the planning, and she had no problems. On the day of, we were able to get in early to set everything up, and they were very accommodating about the room setup. We didn't use the function room in the back - we were in the front portion of the restaurant, and they moved all the tables/booths around for a great setup. Food on the function menu was basic but good - we went with a buffet including salad and assorted sandwiches. The price was really great - I think it ended up being around $15/person, maybe even less. Definitely try the martinis - I felt like a lush drinking a watermelon martini before noon at the shower, but I couldn't resist. In fact, I had two!
(4)
Ju L.
Went there on Sunday for brunch and had the French Toast Brioche and Monte Cristo. Both were surprisingly quite good. The French Toast Brioche was supposed to come with caramelized bananas and berries -- it did come with them, though there was only 1 strawberry. Decor is tasteful and somewhat trendy. Service was good, and overall food prices were quite modest. I'd definitely come again. Best still, they provide free validated parking at the nearby parking garage.
(4)
Lauren W.
I was very confused by this restaurant. It seems misplaced. The food was delicious. The service was good. The prices are high. The ambiance reminded me of a Mediterranean restaurant I went to in Greece but a cheap version of it. If I'm craving expensive food while in Malden I'll definitely come back here.
(3)
Andrea F.
First of all, I'd like to say I have been here numerous times, and the wait for food has always been long, but usually worth it....but not this time. My Saturday night was a meal from hell. We walk in 8 minutes late for our reservation's hostess tells us they can only hold our table for 10 minutes...so you would think everything would be ok...but I guess her clock is fast. So she didn't hold our table and said they don't have a table available even if we came on time.. So, she made us wait for 30 minutes. We luckily found a cocktail table in the bar, ordered drinks..but they never came. So we get seated..order food and the wait begins. 45 minutes to get "OK" apps...and then another 30 minutes until dinner arrived. We were a party of 3, and only 2 meals came out.. after another 5 minutes, my friends scollop's come out stone cold raw. We send them back, the manager says she'll take care of it. So at this point we were ok, mistakes happen. But it gets worse......So instead of making a fresh plate, they reheat her original scallops that she cut into. They come back dry as the desert. So the OWNER comes over and is very abrubt/abrasive. He was interrogating my friend and telling her the story of "sushi grade scallops" We are all in the medical field and we all know YOU CAN NOT EAT RAW SCALLOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He then proceeded to stare at my friends Ta-Ta's while trying to make her feel like an idiot for sending back her raw scallop's. Being the out spoken friend that I am, I found myself trying to help her talk to this jack ass and he has the nerve to put his hand up to my face and said "this is between her and I" And to top it all off, they didn't even take them off the bill. The owner did nothing to rectify the situation. He made things worse. The waitress brought us over a round on "Her" Bottom line, if you treat your paying customers like crap...we will not be back no matter what you try to give us. In a tough economy, people are selective when they go out, and I hope this review will make you choose otherwise.
(1)
Stacey B.
I love, love, love this place... Great Martini's, Food and atmosphere. The Bartenders Christine and Rob are the best!!!
(5)
Mike H.
I swear it's wicked good! Amid the dumpy streets, rubbish and abandoned shopping carts of malden is this fabulous gem of a restaurant that serves amazing steak, chops, lobster ravioli and a brunch that makes it worth getting out of bed on sunday. They've got a wonderful, friendly staff who are cool and pleasant without being smarmy and obnoxious. And the bartender knows how to make a good mixed drink, even if they call everything a martini instead of a cocktail. So it's almost perfect, oh well.
(5)
Zane G.
This is a great hidden secret of Malden. The food and the drinks are simply wonderful. The bartenders, Rob and Alicia in particular are great people and know what they are doing. Their calamari is fabulous, FABULOUS! My favorite place to be on Thursday nights, full of regulars, the best kind bar.
(5)
Yuko I.
Food was mediocre, the place was too loud. I hardly could enjoy my conversation.
(2)
Paulette B.
I moved to Malden recently and was afraid that I was moving into a town of average ehh restaurants. As I moved in to the neighborhood a new restaurant was opening, Exchange Street Bistro. It's located in the center of Malden so parking was very easy. The food was awesome. My friend compared the Lobster Ravioli to making love where your partner spends an hour on you doing what you like most. I want to know where she finds these lovers. I know some of the guys she dated. I don't know if she was saying the Ravioli were better than any sex she has ever had. Anyway the Ravioli were very good. We also shared had the Eggplant Napoleon. Another home run. Very yummy. If I would have had this by myself I would have had enough to take some home for lunch today. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of the food. I have paid more for food that wasn't as good. The wait staff and everyone was so friendly and nice. They also have some very good martini's. Loved the olive in the pear martini. This is one place I can bring friends to without having to say well it's good for Malden...it's just good for any where.
(5)
N C.
I've been to this place a couple of times after my review and I think it needs a little updating. I would give the place between 2.5-3 stars. I order meat each time I've been there and there's a waitress that gives me grief each time I order steak medium-well, claiming the kitchen doesn't cook meat medium-well. I basically have to insist that that's how I wanted it cooked, period. Second, the food is insanely salty. Wow. I've ordered the steak frittes a couple of times and between the sauce on the steak and the dressing on the arugula, wow, I needed like 6 glasses of water. They need to lighten up on the salt.
(3)
Ken L.
3.5 stars - but closer to 4 than 3. positives: Food is pretty good. Service is as well. Went there for dinner with another couple. My buddy and I got the steak - I thought it was pretty good. My wife got some shrimp dish and she said it was "o.k.". My buddy's wife got the eggplant dish and liked it. The ice cream sandwich desert is a bit misleading. It's cookie sandwiches. None of us liked it (it was huge and enough for 4, too bad it kinda sucks). Everything else was good. Martinis were all a hit - they're the bigger martinis no the joke tiny things that some places try and sell you. I had a dirty martini which was really good and another pepper and olive with blue cheese martini. I didn't love that one. Wife got a cosmo kind of martini and loved it. Buddy and wife were having the pineapple infused ones - she loved, he said it was a girl martini (then why'd you get two, bro??). Lol check it out - prices are pretty good, food is pretty good, drinks are solid, overall a fun atmosphere...
(4)
Joe D.
First time, food was good... every time after, it was bland and not worth it.
(3)
Ricky B.
Went there recently on a Wednesday evening and had a wonderful dining experience. Friendly, attentive staff and the food was great! I had a 10 oz. Prime Rib that came with a side of Lobster/Shrimp Ricotta pie...I have never had it and never even thought about the combo but damn! It was DEEE-licious! Higly recommend ESB!!!
(4)
Lisa E.
Ok where do I start? I usually love this place! They have the tequilla I drink and their food is out of this world, such a hidden gem for malden, but last night I felt almost broken up with. As a bartender employed in a pretty well known resteraunt I realize it may be easy to be a little overly critical, but I usually take that into account because I understand the inner workings of the industry and know how some nights can be. Last night was a complete bust...with everything. First off I ordered my go to drink, milagro anejo straight up..now any other seasoned server that I know that gets an order for a straight up drink knows the drink should either be in a martini glass or snifter...maybe even scotch glass..I received it in a shot glass. Tequilla doesn't mean shot all of the time. Some people enjoy tequilla as they do wine, ports, scotch, or some other cordial. I hate to be difficult because I know how it feels but only when its unjustified..this was COMPLETELY justified..sooo I asked very politely if I could change it to a snifter. In between the time I asked him that and the time I got it again it was chilled..which I specifically told him I didn't want. I know that sometimes servers don't have the alcohol knowledge of their bartender counterparts so I understood when he replied,"but that's what u asked for" after I had my first sip and politely said mmmm Yah this doesn't taste like what I asked for, slightly cold and verrrrrry diluted, usually the result of a shaken drink. At this point, I feel like I have to prove myself, opting to go to a sister bartender to explain my desires. Oh he said chilled she replied...but almost like she was annoyed that I had challenged her..I'm sorry honey but I work in a tequilla bar where I know the notes, ages and even barrels each tequilla is born in..I'm not challenging you to be a jerk...I just want what I want...which is USUALLY why I come there, even recommend it to MY customers.. even though the bartenders' drinks haven't been that consistent...maybe high turnover..not sure. Drinks aside, when I get people talking at my bar about the food we don't offer I push them towards Exchange. Hoping whatever new guy they have back there can really pull it together for them..or maybe it was just an off night. Coconut rum shrimp and gorgonzola and steak (hangar) with warm bacon vinigrette complete hit, on target as usual...but short rib risotto big F. Way tooooo salty..almost not palettable..risotto was soupy. So for now putting my recommendations on pause and hoping they pull it together for a big win because I usually really love this place. Manager comped prior chilled drinks, but I was going in there with mad money to spend and really didn't want that. Just wanted some nice tequilla and great dinner. Apparently they're out of that bottle now anyway..here's to hoping the bartender wasn't shaking it like that to save what she had. :P feel jipped and dumped..hoping things are better next time..
(3)
D P.
I have been going to Exchange Street Bistro since they opened up in Malden. Positive: Great Ambience. Stylish, clean, modern. Drinks are great. Why 2 stars? Well, this place has a newer chef and the food is just not the same. For years, I would have given 5 stars because the food was so good. Having gone a lot of times, I have tried all varieties of food and I used to agree with their advertisement --'back bay experience with neighborhood prices'. Last two time I went back, I realized how the quality of food has detoriated ,so I am going to stay away from it for a while.
(2)
samantha m.
I had seen ads for this place a lot and was excited I found a restaurant.com deal. My boyfriend and I went there later on a Tuesday, thought the menu looked great. The dining experience went downhill from then on. Service was lax at best, no menu knowledge, forgot to bring items we asked for multiple times. To top it off on one of the meals ordered we had asked for no mushrooms, to be told after waiting 30 min the Steak Wellington had mushrooms cooked into it. We decided to just pick them out as we were tired of waiting only to realize as the waitress took her time figuring out the entree screw up the entrees had been sitting in the window and the sides were cold and very disappointing for how small the steak was and how much it was. After sending them back we finished the rest and when they finally came back they were a more raw form of their disappointing selves. The manager was nice but didn't really offer anything other than a complimentary dessert which we decided to take (better than nothing though after 15 minutes of waiting we just wanted to leave) only to find out when we got home that it was pathetic in size and about as good as the sides (the teaspoon of ice cream that accompanied the minisule apple crisp fit in a plastic ramikin.... Hoping this was an isolated experience, but sadly we won't be back.
(1)
s b.
nice meeting spot, for drinks, just apps, or a full meal. it's nice to have such a place that's local and with pretty easy parking. i've enjoyed the food a lot, especially the broccoli rabe and asiago eggroll things. some items can be [unexpectedly/inexplicably] pricey -- i nearly fell off my seat when we got our bill and found out our app sampler cost $21.
(4)
Jason D.
This is a really cool place that's definitely not what you expect to find in Malden. It's a very hip, well-decorated restaurant with a slightly higher end menu (lots of wines, a big martini menu, higher end food) that's more in line with what you'd expect to find in Boston. We went for brunch and each thing we tried was excellent (Cobb Salad, Stuffed French Toast, and Western Omelette) and the presentation was as impressive as the decor. It was quiet (and not very busy) when we went. Service was good. I'd definitely go back and would recommend it to anyone living in the northern suburbs who is looking for a "downtown" type place in our neighborhood.
(5)
Wayne M.
First off it's a beautiful place and I've always had very friendly and wonderful waitpersons there. Even when there's a problem they clear it up. At one point I had to wait about 15 minutes just to order a drink. The waitress came up, apologized profusely and gave me my first drink free of charge cause of the wait! The tables are good-sized, the atmosphere is OK and the food is OK. Nothing great but OK. On the other hand--the tables in the back are scary. Badly lit and quite dark. They have about three TVs on blaring loudly at times. The martini bar can get LOUD! One night there was so much screaming and laughing I could barely think. Also the food is over priced. Yes it's good but not THAT good! It's best for groups too. I go out to eat alone. They've always immediately cleared a whole table for me but I feel kind of funny. So it IS good but over priced and a little too loud.
(2)
BonBon H.
Awesome place! The happy hour specials are great from 4-7! There are dollar oysters and appetizers. Although the portions are small, they taste fantastic and go wonderfully with any of their five dollar martinis, four dollar wine, or three dollar beers! The oysters were fresh and juicy and the appetizers were quite flavorfull! The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing, especially after a long day at work. I would go back everyday just for the martinis and oysters! The people are so friendly as well. My boyfriend went there for the first time and ordered a regular specialty martini mistaking it for five dollars and when the check came and he told the bartender, he just changed the price of the drink to five bucks! The customer service is pretty great. The only thing I found a little disappointing was the portions of the appetizers because it was one crab cake for a dollar or one eggroll for a dollar. But the taste was good.
(4)
Kristen L.
I have only been here once and I was really surprised at the atmosphere once I had walked in. within the area of Malden it is not exactly your upscale side of town, but once you go beyond the other side of the cool little wooden door that blends into the restaurant, you feel as tho your in another world away from Malden. somewhere really quaint and comfortable . the lighting is very low and intimate you can really enjoy the company of others here.drinks are good and the food portions are very nice and tasty as well. so if you feel like you wanna get away but do not want to go too far, come here and for me I was in another place once i sat down at the Exchange Street Bistro.
(5)
Michael C.
We just ate at Exchange Street Bistro for the first time. Our impression is that it's okay, but there's no compelling reason to return. Appetizers: The hog wings (pork shanks) were actually quite good--quite possibly the highlight of the meal. The "jumbo" shrimp cocktail was anything but. For the $12 price tag, we'd recommend skipping it. Entrees: The baked haddock could have been very good, but the temperature of the dish was a little too cool. The steak frites was decent, but one piece of meat was terribly undercooked and the frites were a little bit soggy. (I think serving the beef on top of the fries was a bad call.) Overall, adequate. But there are too many better places to spend money on a second meal here.
(2)
Najely S.
I've been here a few times for dinner and brunch, loved it! The food and decor are great. It certainly doesn't feel like you are in Malden once you step inside. It's beautiful and comfortable and always hopping with people.
(4)
Sarah A.
Since moving up north of Boston, this has been a frequent haunt for us (myself and my husband). It was recommended by my sister's boyfriend, and has never once disappointed us. Their Elderflower martini is out of this world, they rotate the menu, their state is friendly, service is good, and best of all---they are a short walk from the Malden Center T stop on the orange line. That means an extra martini since driving is not a concern (though there is validated parking available, and some street parking if you're lucky). A true neighborhood gem.
(4)
Cee D.
Really 3.5 stars. This restaurant has an interesting layout and decor. I liked that the bar did not have a TV right in front of it. Might be nice for a drink with friends. We had dinner. Seated immediately and water poured as we sat down, which was nice. Tried the calamari and the onion soup. Onion soup was nice. Calamari was cooked well and tasty, but overdressed with the tartar style sauce. Entrees were pan seared scallops over lobster ravioli and the rack of lamb. Wife said scallops were cooked perfectly but a little salty, and she likes salt. The rack of lamb was overseasoned on the rosemary, and a little fatty, but were also cooked perfectly. So, it seems that everything is cooked well but overseasoned. A less heavy handed chef might pull another star. The only real complaint was the goat cheese whipped potatoes that came with the lamb. I would never pair these two foods. Overall good service. We were too full for dessert. Worth a try if you are in the downtown Malden area.
(3)
David C.
First time here and was impressed all around at the friendliness of the staff, the quality of the drinks and the quality of the food. For a place that focuses on Martinis they have a great beer and wine selection. The awesome bartenders crank out Martinis like its nobody's business, if you sit a t the bar its entertaining. I had the burger which was cooked to perfection and very tasty. The fries were awesome as well. Good place for a swanky feel in the Malden area.
(4)
Danielle C.
I've been a huge fan and fairly regular patron of ESB, but I just hosted my first event there yesterday and was extremely impressed! From start to finish, the process was easy and painless, which makes a big difference. Initially working with John and Mark by phone, all my questions were answered, any calls returned promptly and I never felt I was being mislead or like any upselling was being forced on me. The day of the event, Johanna and Emily were our servers and they were wonderful-- always available and never in the way, which was ideal for a large bridal shower. And when the check came, there were no surprises-- how rare is that for a 60+ person event?! Also want to give a shout out to the best bartender, Pia! Would recommend strongly that you consider ESB for any event as their food and drinks are delicious, the prices are fair, and their staff is superior to most. Thanks for everything, guys!
(5)
Carlos F.
Expensive and food is decent. Drinks are good but definitely over priced for Malden. I tried the lobster sandwich and ended up throwing most of it out. Parking is easy and great location.
Best dinner ever. So we came in for oyster. That was fantastic. Our server (Amanda)was amazing. So we moved on to the 3 course pre fixed menu. We had the risotto and beef stew (soup of the day). Our server (Amanda) recommended that we do that. So we can try both. Was a great idea. Then dinner came and we were full but it was so good we love that too. The sirloin and the seafood scampi. Pictures below. Great price too.
(5)
Brittney T.
Exchange street is my go to restaurant. The food is excellent, I haven't found anything on the menu I don't like. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. I've been to a couple of family events catered here(birthday parties a and graduation parties) and had a great time and good food. They're drinks are amazing, I favor their sangria (both the red and the white). I'm also a huge fan of their bistro wings. I definitely recommend exchange street bistro.
(5)
Davy K.
An unexpected gem in Malden! Great food at a great price. Fun ambiance. They also do private events at the location at a reasonable and competitive rate. I've been here for brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and a couple baby showers. They don't disappoint!
(4)
K Z.
I love love love this bistro! I have dined here several times over about the last year with friends, family, with kids in tow and on date night. The drinks are tasty and the food is ALWAYS on point! I can't wait to see what new dishes the fall brings. The food is plated artfully but more importantly tastes even better with fun flavor combinations. Don't get me wrong, it's not overly pretentious or stuffy and still offers comfort foods. The servers are usually attentive enough to our table too.
(5)
Cole M.
You can't go wrong when visiting Exchange St. Their drink menu will satisfy any thirst. The tapas and apps are all so tasty you may not need to actually order a meal! Their entrees are spot on as well. A bit pricey for the Malden area but worth it to get quality drinks and food in a great comfortable, clean, spacious place.
(4)
Andreina O.
Phenomenal food and staff is always curteous and polite. I have lived in malden for many years this is truly a gem! I always recommend this place it is awesome!
(5)
Amola S.
Cool ambience. Good for couples. Went as a double date ( 2 couples) plus a two year old. They had a high chair and a kid's menu. My lobster mac and cheese was tasty with big chunks of lobster. The calamari app was well done. Good wine list to pair with dishes.
(4)
Jae J.
Popped in here for Sunday brunch yesterday, and I'm definitely a fan! We had reservations 'cause we didn't want to wait a while (as that's definitely the norm for other brunch places we've been to). However, that wasn't needed at all since it wasn't too crowded. Food-wise, loved it. I got the lobster omelette, and was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster actually in it. I expected shredded lobster sprinkled in here and there, but there were actually huge chunks of lobster with the claw and everything. My boyfriend got the crab cake benedict, and while that was good as well, the portion size was much smaller than my omelette. He wolfed down his food in a matter of minutes and ate half of my omelette as well because he was still pretty hungry. Loved the atmosphere of the place with soft jazz in the background, and the waitress (Michelle) was the sweetest and really helpful. I overheard a table near us expressing concerns of a gluten allergy for someone in their party, and their waitress was more than happy to accommodate them/ask the chef about food specifics. Bonus points for awesome service. Overall, definitely will be back soon!
(4)
Ahnauncia S.
Got the lobster mac and cheese and it was amazing!i sat at the bar and got the tapas size which was plenty. I will definitely return!
(5)
Steve X.
This is a Bistro where you will Exchange some good fun if you go. It is located on Exchange st. (hence the name) and has some very good food. But let's talk about the bar, what a nice setting and extremely nice and grandiose. If you are a classy person and prefer to treat someone to something nice, this is where you should go for dinner or late night.
(4)
Amanda C.
the deco is good is good not to many places to park. and the food is good my mom had a burger she liked it. I gave the sandwhich with tomato soup with steak and chese I call it wasn't bad I liked it. my dad got mussels and fish he liked his meal. so all and all we are fans.
(4)
kristen s.
My girlfriends and I went to exchange street tonight and one of us couldn't get a babysitter. She brought her adorable son and unfortunately no matter what we did he wouldn't eat his mac n cheese. A waitress noticed our attempts and came over and saved the day! The service from her was incredible and above and beyond. He told my friend's son Superman made the Mac and cheese just for him! (He is 3.) she brought him "super man cheese and his own super plate and fork. Her name was Trisha and we LOVE her! He ate so much dinner and we couldn't have done it with out her! She was amazing, we will absolutely come back to a place that has people like her. Thanks so much Trisha! a desperate mom and her friends!
(5)
Ev D.
Excellent drinks and staff. Trish is amazing - ask for her when you go! Very attentive, fun and excellent service. They have a good food menu but somewhat limited--look for specials daily. Burger is fantastic and I'm not a burger person. Drinks done very well with lot of specials. Bar very nice although can get busy at night. Definitely a great place to enjoy a nice meal and even meet up at the bar.
(5)
L M.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Everything was great! Nice decor, food was cooked perfectly (white pizza, grilled salmon, stuffed portabellas) and our waitstaff, Howard, was such a nice guy! Will definitely be back!
(5)
Susan T.
I've been here multiple times for dinner, night out, wedding shower and even had a baby shower here. Each time I come I am wowed by how friendly and attentive the staff from the bartenders to the waitstaff are! The Martinis are amazing, the lychee is my favorite! The food is delicious, I've tried the bar menu, brunch and dinner. The margerita pizza and any of their flatbreads are really good, along with calamari. JoAnna is really nice! It's very trendy place and convenient With parking on street or lot so it beats heading into city. A must try!!
(5)
Derek W.
Checked into this place on a Tuesday night for something light and easy. The bar here is real nice, and decor is as well. Parking is awful pretty much anywhere in Malden square and this place is no exception. In a town that has way too much asian food to offer, I'm happy the exchange street bistro is a choice. On this night they had Tapas all over the menu and they were on average about $5. They were hearty and delicious....
(4)
Sarah D.
ESB is the highlight of Malden. The martinis are perfectly on point (my personal fav if banana nut bread), the appetizers are larger than life (I'd eat their baked bree any day of the week for any meal), and their entrees are so flavorful that every bite feels like a full coarse meal (haddock, hands down is the best). Oh wait! How silly of me! How could I forget the desserts! Banana bread pudding and chocolate marquise (aka chocolate meatloaf) are seriously the hands down the greatest I've ever tasted. Service is usually perfect. The prices are worth the quality and dedication to each menu item. The atmosphere is edgy and classy. I'd come here every day if I could!!
(5)
Jenna W.
I stopped in here for dinner last week with my family, and it was a pretty darned tasty experience. My mom and I split the hummus platter ($8) as an appetizer, and it was delish. The hummus portion was super generous, and I felt half-full by the time I was done. My mom ordered some sort of gin and cucumber drink, which I thought was disgusting, but she loved it, so rock on mom. As a main course, I split the margherita pizza ($12) with my dad. It was thin crust, and the sauce was fairly sweet. Very yummy. I'm typically solidly in the "blue cheese hater" camp, but I'll make an exception for the blue cheese mashed potatoes I stole off my sisters plate. The flavor was pretty mild, and they were ah-ma-zing. On to dessert....order the ice cream waffle sandwich ($7). Seriously. Do it. I don't even remember what the other people in my family ordered, because I was blinded by the towering mass of waffles, vanilla ice cream, sea salt caramel and chocolate. It was so, so good, and there's more than enough to share. Our waitress was also very fun and helpful!
(4)
Nicole R.
Stopped in for dinner with my bestie... (yeah i'm old, but i'm still going to use the term bestie...) We got Patricia as our server and she was super funny, had lots of suggestions, and definitely made for a fun dining experience. We loved her. The food was pretty good. I got the white pizza which was good but would have been better if there was a little more cheese on it. The martinis... they were great. I went for a cucumber martini and the cookie martini. They both exceeded my expectations. I think if i were to come back i'd probably just do apps and drinks and go for dinner elsewhere. There weren't a ton of options and most were either steak or seafood. I'm a salad/boneless chicken kind of girl. Also... i'd prefer no garnish on my drink if the only other option is a decaying piece of fruit/veg... which i did experience when ordering...
(4)
Paolino P.
I took 1 star for the amount of choices on the menu as far as steak goes.. Your a bistro your name sets off alarms in my head that say mmmmmm meat! Problem is choices are slim. I will say the 2 times I dined at Exchange St. The food was great. The bar is big and lively. Bar Tenders are great. And the ambiance is nice. I would just like to see more options on the menu.
(3)
Vincent R.
5 stars. We've started asking for our favorite waitstaff (Pia). They're always friendly and very accommodating. Apparently, they recently got a new chef and I love the food. The husband is partial to the drinks so it's a double win for us. The only downside? It can get a bit noisy, especially if you're near the bar.
(5)
Kaajal M.
My friends and I went to dinner here on Wednesday night and despite the lack of patrons, the service was slow. Our waitress wasn't attentive and would disappear for long periods of time. We were sat at 6:30 and ordered at 7! She also really pushed the specials and drinks and said we couldn't order tapas without also ordering entrees. The whole experience really turned me off. Our food and drinks were delicious though and I will definitely visit again and sit at the bar (bartenders were awesome).
(3)
Vicki S.
First time here - this place is a keeper! Beautiful bar - outstanding drink and wine list. Now let's talk small plates- do not miss the homemade meatballs - the real deal. Homemade chips and Mac n cheese are perfect, it's a bit of a drive for me to get here- well worth the drive. GO
(4)
Court S.
We came here for an event last weekend and decided to sit at the bar for an hour because we was early as usual. We ordered butter cookie and s'more martini's and lobster mac n cheese. Everything was absolutely delicious and service at the bar was outstanding. The food items on the menu looked very tasty and the martini menu is extensive with fruity and dessert like combinations. My goal is to try at least 75% of the martini's here. They all sound so delicious. Cheers!
(5)
Craig M.
Came here for a graduation party. Took an hour and a half to get just bread. Food was mediocre. Nothing to brag about. Never go here! Only reason I didn't give a one star was because I had a really good martini from one of their 20 martini list. Very disappointing.
(2)
Jeff N.
I recently visited here for the first time on a Wednesday evening. Wild here, I had to espresso martinis and three sliders. The drinks were divine, why the food was pretty good. The service was excellent. The bar is very bag and there is also plenty of room in the restaurant itself. Also, the restrooms were clean. The martinis were $12 each which is a little bit high but I guess they think they are actually in downtown Boston. Nonetheless, I will definitely be back in the future for more socializing and drinks here.
(4)
Dawn H.
Wonderful experience! Looked a little sketchy walking up to it, but open the doors and you will be excited at what you see. Cozy seating. Great cocktails. Best fried oysters we ever had :-). Will definitely find our way back there.
(4)
Janelle G.
Went to exchange street bistro for a large event. The food was good but not great. Good location for a function but may not return to this restaurant on my own.
(3)
Cecile M.
Very good! The Bacon and Hashbrown Quesadilla was awesome. He Lemon Drop Martini was delicious!
(4)
Edward B.
We have been eating here for years, the food is always top notch!!!! The ambiance is so relaxing, drinks are great and the service is the best !!!! If you have an opportunity to request a waitress, ask for Trisha, she is the best of the best!!!!!
(5)
Misty S.
Went to Exchange Street Bistro for the first time this weekend, for their Sunday Brunch. It's a little hidden gem tucked away in Malden. I'm not sure how I hadn't been before now! Menu: Limited but solid brunch menu which includes some apps, salads, egg-y dishes, pancake-y dishes, and burgers. The portions are generous and the food is fresh and good. I got the Field greens salad and the hummus. The hummus was homemade and full of garlic. It came with pickles, pickled onions, and crispy homemade pita chips. A+. The salad was small but tasty. My only complaint is that it was advertised as having butternut squash on it. I think there may have been about 4 butternut squash shavings on it, but they didn't taste cooked and I don't frankly even know if it was butternut squash on there. Hubby & Friends all got burgers. They were huge and looked juicy and fresh (and came with a big pickle on top). Atmosphere: Cute place that seems good for a date night. Nice sized bar, and has a function room in the back. Service: Friendly and attentive Drinks: Good wine list and cocktail menu. Specialty brunch cocktails. Small draft list but with a few nice craft beers (Anchor steam, sierra nevada, and clown shoes tramp stamp when we were there). Their website does not do them justice. Honestly, it looks like an old folks early bird special type of place from their website, and the beer list on their website turned me off immediately. Don't judge it by their website!
(4)
Brian S.
So the place was nice for Malden .. Great martinis .. Asked for a medium rare burger and got a well done..highly doubt it was Kobe beef for $12 bucks ... Management corrected the problem ASAP ...recommend the daily tapas .. Nice atmosphere ..little pricey but it is a bistro and had nice live music
(3)
Sarah B.
I have to write this because I just don't think it deserves to be number 2 on Malden's restaurant list! I've been here several times and just find it marginal. I make better food at home and have twice gotten rotten garnish in a mediocre drink. So many better places to eat in Malden.
(2)
Kristine D.
First time coming here and I live about a mile down the road for the last 6 months. Came in with a few girlfriends around 9 on a Friday. No wait, but there were still people at the bar and eating. Great martini list. I had the Bellini martini. Definitely recommend it if you're into fruity/fizzy drinks. Also had the lobster mac... So MF good. Had to have a whole lobster in it. I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Humberto B.
Great athmosphere for a night out (bit loud at times). Staff was really generous and the food was good but could improve. We ordered and Haddock and the Salmon and they both looked good back were a bit "meh" in the seasoning department. Definitely going back to try a different dish.
(4)
Tony P.
Im a regular here ...very consistent & the drinks very good & are reasonable ... plus the food is with out question, full of flavor... try to go to Boston & see how much you pay for the same quality.
(5)
Alyssa W.
Finally got a chance to try this place out. Came in for lunch and I liked that the place wasnt packed. We were able to relax, talk and catch up not feeling like we were being rushed out, like some places during lunch. We ordered the brocolli rabe and provolone spring rolls with mustard sauce. OH MY GAWD. Best idea ever, soo delicious! Friend got a clams and fettucine with white sauce. really tasty. I got the burger with sweet potato fries. portions here are big. so be hungry or not surprised to take food home! staff is friendly and very nice. I took a look around and I like how up front it has a bar/lounge feel. In back, it's a little more private and looks like it'd be nice to have dinner there! Definately will be back, but for dinner :)
(4)
Lillie A.
If you want a really good desert come here. The bread pudding is ridiculously amazing !!!!! The food is awesome as well and the staff are really nice.
(4)
Diane W.
I really don't want to give this place a bad review because I've been going there for dinner or drinks for so long however dinning there yesterday was just awful. A part of me wants to call in Bar Rescue to help save this place. The service was disgusting. It's very rude to point fingers at people and the waitress wouldn't not stop it. She slammed the food on the table and constantly gave me an attitude for asking for a refill of water. The food itself wasn't that good and I almost felt like we were forced to order more food than what we wanted. When my father asked for the check it took about 15 minutes for it to be brought to the table and another 20 minutes for it to be picked it. It would be one thing if the place was packed and jamming but it was empty. After being a long time customer, I don't think I'll be back there anytime soon. The bar atmosphere is really and the drink list is pretty awesome. However that server, the one with the epic nails, ruined it.
(2)
Timmy D.
I have not been here in a couple of years and love what they did to the place. We came in on a sunday Night basically for a couple of martinis and apps and just to sit at the bar. First things fist though Larry at the bar was definitly the deal breaker on why I will return. He made it a great experience from beginning to end. I did not give it 4 stars because of the...... how can I say this nicely.... I cant ! The trashy waitress who banged her cup off the bar yelling orders at Larry, Yes I said banging her cup off the bar, and just yelling across the restaurant what she needed. really professional. Overall the staff was friendly we did get a smile. I did see a guy walking around who I assumed to be the manager who didnt stop to say anything to anyone . another reason for the 4 stars. Mr Manager we come in to your establishment that we love, It isnt to hard to say hello and ask how everything is going... Just saying.. Another reason for the 4 stars. Martinis were awesome and not in a small martini glass, Nice big deep martini glasses, Huge selection of different martinis. For apps we got oysters, perfect. the lobster mac and cheese was probably the best I have ever had. So Larry we will be looking forward to sitting at the bar again thank you for making it a great experience you should pass along your work ethics to those around you.
(4)
Robert Q.
The decor and atmosphere is upscale and is probably the high point of the restaurant. To take a business client for lunch, dinner or drinks would be a great idea. I went to exchange street bistro for a family function. Scallops wrapped in bacon is hard to mess up and also hard to make shine. It was as expected. The crab cakes were flavorful with good seasonings but a bit inconsistent with the preparation, as one had a nice crust and was cooked longer there for held together for longer, while another was loose and not crusted and was evidentially not cooked as long. I prefer more crunch but the aioli the used was nice and overall I would buy it as a solid crab cake is hard to find. I had Caesar salad which was solid and pretty standard, ziti in red sauce was ok and maybe slightly over cooked since it was falling apart but it was buffet style so that is some what understandable. The chicken piccata was the biggest disappointment as it was just dry. The capers actually saved it and gave it the salt it needs because it lacked any other real seasoning. Overall it's not bad but it could be pricey and for the money you expect better execution on the food. If however you're looking to have drinks and entertain the atmosphere is very nice and modern.
(3)
Trice B.
I was there as a courteous to one of the employees who was gracious enough to invite me, but I can't really speak for the food as I had specially made items. What I can say about the food, is that it was fresh but I could've used a tab bit more seasoning and umph! The drinks were definitely on point, strong, but you can taste all the ingredients in the cocktail. Ambiance was cool, calm and collective... Zen.
(3)
Andrea H.
I really liked the decor and atmosphere of this place, but they changed it in the last year and I'm not sure I like it as much. To think, this place used to be an old toy store and then sat vacant for years. I'm glad to see some sophistication come to Malden and actually survive. I have been there several times and think it is a bit pricey for what you get. The best thing about this place is the cocktails. They are well mixed and there is a great variety to pick from on their lengthy martini menu. I've had the Very Berry, Undone Pina Colada, Stoli Doli, and Strawberry Shortcake. They were ALL good. Yikes, drink much? For dinner, I've eaten the margherita pizza (just ok) roasted half chicken and angus burger (pretty good). I have also gone and just got some tapas and appetizers. This was a waste of $$, by the time you order a few of these it costs more than a meal and you only got 2 bites on a plate. If you are having a night with the girls or a first date, come to Exchange Street Bistro and sit at the bar, have a signature cocktails, and chat. Otherwise, save your dinner plans for another place.
(3)
Andrea A.
My boyfriend and I end up here probably every other week on a Friday when we just want to relax. We always find a good crowd of people here; it is never a pretentious crowd and it is never a sketchy crowd. Truly a hidden gem. Cocktails are perfectly priced (a competitor in a more affluent town nearby is about $3 more per drink) and the food is always delicious. We have never once been dissatisfied with our drinks, food, or service. The bartenders are all super nice and just attentive enough. They're not up your butt watching you but they're also not completely ignoring you.
I visited the restaurant for brunch today. Our waitress Michelle was wonderful! She was very helpful offering suggestions on the cocktail menu and appetizers. The food was delicious! The crab cake appetizer is to die for. The lobster omelette with homefries is a must-have. I will definitely visit again!
(4)
Alisia P.
I love it here! My girlfriends and I come here for drinks and appetizers. The list of drink options are always fun to choose from too! I love the chicken quesadillas & spinach and artichoke dip!
(4)
Lydia D.
I am not sure where to start but I visit Malden once a month to see my employees here and I am sad that I've never been to this place! From the time we walked In with a nice greeting and sat down to waited on hand and foot AND then the food!! Oh my!! Meatballs!! Lobster Mac!! The crabcake!! The wine was sooooo fresh!! So I said all that to say my lunches and dinners going forward will be here when I am in Malden !!!
(5)
Jennifer L.
We went here today for our Sales "Top Booker Luncheon." From the moment we walked in, I knew it was going to be a great experience! Howard welcomed us at the door and even took our umbrellas, promising he wouldn't let us forget them later! Howard wound up being our server and he was hilarious and on point the whole meal. This place had great specials and a nice lunch menu. I got the steak tips MR which were cooked perfectly. Came with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Couldn't have asked for a better lunch! (Or leftovers for dinner!) The tips had an awesome sauce on them with just the right kick. You know a place is good when they make sure you water is full at all times which I personally appreciate a lot! Wish we had room for dessert and/or a martini but will definitely have to go back! The place was very clean and stylish and parking out front was a breeze. Thanks Howard and kitchen staff for a great afternoon! See you again real soon!
(5)
La H.
I could've sworn I did a review for this before, but alas, here's my review with my update. Last year I went here with friends and I had a Lychee Martini, some amazing food I can't remember, and a chocolate tower of some sorts which was so rich. The service was fast and friendly. My only beef with this place is that I booked it through Open Table and they never confirmed that I went there. It took me three months to get a hold of them maybe three or four times, just get this done. They finally did, but it was super inconvenient. I went here last night with Jess and they had really upped their game. I had some sort of mock-cucumber martini, which was way to strong, but Jess' passionfruit mojito was great. We shared bruschetta and the polenta and honestly I nearly died - when I said we shared, it means I at most of the polenta because it was that orgasmic. For dinner, I had the butternut squash ravioli which was rich and creamy and I can't wait to eat my leftovers. Jess had the lamb dish which she loved - so big she also has leftovers. For dessert we shared (evenly) the vanilla bread pudding which was OMG so amazing. I love this place, I really really do. I think If I ate here all time I would be 500 pounds. Go here, try the lobster mac and cheese, do a review, then die a happy death.
(4)
Kevin D.
One of my absolute favorite places to go. Food is always delicious and expertly served while the drink menu is a paradise to get lost in. Best part is that you can come with your friends and enjoy a conversation because even though the bar is always busy and hopping, it stays classy and refined. And did I mention the lobster macc and cheese??? Do yourself a favor and come enjoy one of the very best.
(5)
Tim F.
Went here for the first time wing the hubby - had heard good things, and happy to say it was well worth it! Hummus appetizer was tasty and a large serving. Oysters were great. I had the smoked salmon with toasted orzo while CJ had the lamb chops - empty plates for both of us! Carrot cake for dessert was lovely, with a citrusy frosting and a molasses sauce - impressive. Definitely a great time, and won't be our last!
(5)
Craig F.
This restaurant used to be good but it's been awhile since I've been back and it will be awhile before I go back. Service was slow, food was not good at all. Steak was over charred on the outside They undercooked my wife's steak.
Great atmosphere! The martinis are awesome. The bartenders really take the time to have a martini come out perfect. I understand the saying " you pay for what you get" This place is very expensive, but the portions are unreal! I got the pork chops that were $26-$30 dollars. Tasted great and had left overs for a whole week! My server Emily was amazing! She was so nice and made my experience wonderful. Cant wait to go back and get the best dirty martini ive ever had!
(4)
Ellen H.
Call me a sucker, but I love when I get to update a review to add more stars. Exchange Street Bistro, you've had some work done and it looks goooood. Decided to give ESB another shot, so my boyfriend and I came here on a Friday night for dinner and drinks. Made a reservation via Opentable, no issues when we arrived. I specifically asked for a seat in the front (bar) room as to avoid the hypnotic vibe of the booths in the dining room. We were seated in a little booth by the bar and we realized the place had a totally new look! The bar was moved and is now a horseshoe shape, much bigger than before, and a great spot for having a few drinks with friends or a date. The dining room is updated, also -- more open and much more well-decorated than before. Decor is great and all, but food and bev is the moneymaker, and both of those were MUCH improved, also! I got the wedge salad - great - the chicken quesadilla - very good - and the apple cider martini -- faaaabulous! I couldn't even eat the quesadilla because the salad was so filling and delish. The quesadilla was exactly as it should be - chicken and cheese and not a whole lot else, unlike many others that are filleddddd to the brim with grilled veggies (not my thang - if I want a veg quesadilla, I'll ask for one!). Overall, a WAYY better experience than before! Can't wait to come back with friends!
(4)
Susan Z.
Yum! Came here with the office for lunch. Everyone liked what they ordered and the servers were friendly. I got the lobster grilled cheese with salad, good amount of lobster and the brioche was delicious. Tried some sweet potato fries, and they were good, too. The pizzas are big individual pizzas - both people who ordered them ate only half, so if you get that there will be enough leftovers for a second meal.
(4)
Garet G.
Great food , great staff , and a very nice looking place if you're thinking about taking your date out !!!
(4)
Amy R.
The Exchange Street Bistro is a great and much needed addition to the Malden scene. I really like the atmosphere up-front and at the bar (but not so much in the back since it's been redone with uncomfortable seating). The mixed drink menu is fantastic, offering drinks such as Old Fashions and Moscow Mules. The menu is decent, offering a range of tapas and appetizers as well as pub-like and higher end dinner options. While this place is relatively busy, there's rarely a wait making it a great place to go on a Friday or Saturday night.
(4)
Karen C.
My mom and I hosted a surprise 65th birthday party for my dad here in August 2014 and we were very happy with how everything turned out. The person who handles the function business, Rich, was easy to work with, very helpful and accommodating to our requests. The servers at our event (Johanna and Emily) were fantastic as well. They were always ready to be of assistance but were not hovering over the party. We had a group of around 50 people in their back room and it was a perfect set up for our party. They let us bring in balloons and some other decorations but you really don't need much in this space as it is already a very attractive room. Having the party at a restaurant and not a standard banquet facility also made it much easier to trick my dad into thinking he was just going out to dinner and that helped keep the surprise! We opted for a buffet and after a lot of research found that Exchange Street was one of the few places that offered a 3rd entree option on a buffet menu without an extra charge per person. This was great for us as we were able to get a beef, fish and a pasta/chicken option. The food was plentiful and very tasty and they packed up the leftovers for us at the end of the night. We were also able to offer beer and wine on consumption at a very reasonable rate. Many of our guests commented on how much they loved the venue and more than one indicated they may host a party of their own here in the future which is always the clearest sign of a great venue!
(4)
Tina B.
My husband and I live in Malden and the Exchange Street was our go to place a few years back. The food was delicious. But we stopped going because we were looking at the same menu each time we went (although they do have specials). I'm happy to say that having gone back again, the food is still delicious, the service always good. The menu has changed. They just need to keep that fresh. The lobster/shrimp risotto was amazing. The chef is good with flavors. The quality of food here parallels anything you'll find in Boston.
(4)
YY L.
Great food for Sunday Brunch. Hope they also have a ourdoor dinning place.
(4)
Mary Beth B.
I live in Boston, a friend who commutes to Oak grove wanted to meet for dinner "somewhere on the orange line". I googled Orange Line and restaurants and found Exchange Street Bistro just a block from the T. What a spectacular gem!! I have never been to Malden but I will be returning to the bistro. Cozy bar, great high top tables, inventive well thought out menu and SPECTACULAR cocktails!! Generous portions and truly something for every type of palate. While there are great places I go to in west roxbury and roslindale I think Exchange Street could find a niche!
(4)
J J.
Was here for a reception event. Fish was overdone, chicken was dry and bland, and the pasta screamed high school cafeteria. The best part was the cheese and crackers but that's kind of tough to mess up. Waitress forgot our drinks and couldn't get anyone else's right either. I get that there's a lot of people, but maybe that means you should have more than 2 waitresses for over 50 people. Jesus. Also, very dark inside.
(1)
Mrs. M.
Exchange Street is one of me & my husbands favorite date night restaurants. The food deserves a 5 star rating, the location is what makes it 4 star. Inside the restaurant is beautiful, trendy, comfortable, relaxing. The waitresses are energetic, friendly, and not overbearing. They have a good selection of beers on tap and live music some nights. But lets get back to the food! One of the best burgers I've ever eaten, and GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. For the love of God just get them and thank me later. Last time we went I got the teriyaki glazed salmon and I didn't want it to end. My husband got the fried chicken and I could see his eyes gloss over and thought he was about to weep. If you want to enjoy great food in a local environment, definitely give this place a shot.
(4)
Natalie T.
Breakfast review: Okay menu, pretty simple breakfast things and some lunch options (fish n chips, eggs and toast) I went with friends. We had this waiter who tried to be funny but kept coming over every 10 minutes to tell us a life story if his. I could tell you his life story now of all those things he told us! and ordered the eggs toast and sausage. It was alright but the sausage wasn't too good. A friend got fish and chips which the waiter said 'they're good until they reach your stomach and blow up'. Well then... Dinner review: nice service. Amazing unique meals and desserts, they change up the menu every now and then which I really love. The lobster Mac n cheese is very good but very rich Breakfast: I don't recommend Dinner: go and have fun!
(3)
Guy M.
I was looking online for a place to bring my girlfriend for valentines day and this perticular place came up first in my search results. I gave it a shot. We sat down an instantly loved the atmosphere. The menu wasn't huge but still delicious. Maybe they change it up? Everything was great and prepared well. The martinis were delicious and hard to choose from the long list. If you are looking for a place after work or a date, this is a place to go. The atmosphere is fun but elegant at the same time. I will be returning soon.
(4)
Rachael T.
Love the atmosphere of this place. Nice place to go out for dinner. The martini list is very extensive and both that I tried (cucumber and espresso) were great! The lobster mac and cheese was among the best I've had, and I've tried this dish almost everywhere! Tons of great tasting lobster and yummy cheeses. The food presentation is really great also. The prices are a bit high but the quality of the food and drinks makes it worth the price. Went around 4pm and the bartender was serving as the waitress/bartender. It wasn't crowded but for some reason I say there with empty drinks (water and cocktail) for about 15 minutes while I are my meal. This really annoyed me but I didn't even say anything and the bartender said she didn't charge me for the second drink because she had realized how long it had been, so I guess that somewhat makes up for it. I'm still looking forward to coming back again in the near future to try some more of the menu items and martinis. They even have velvet parking available!
(4)
Cheryl S.
I was there Saturday afternoon having drinks at the bar. The staff was really busy but the service was awesome!!! The manager was very rude, smelled like an ash tray, and I would go back as long as that manager guy wasn't there!!! The staff worked great as a team, were very very attentive, and were just over all amazing!!!
(1)
Nick F.
Nice place for a dinner date. When we were living in Malden we ate here four times and were never disappointed by the food. We've had steak, sea food, flat bread, tapas, and lobster mac n' cheese for app/dinner. Surprisingly the brunch was excellent the one time we tried it (a corn soup special and and omelet). We also liked the large martini selection. We enjoyed many of them, some more than others, and it was fun picking out a new one to try each time.
(5)
Ash A.
I have never had a bad experience here. Had an awesome date night with my husband, drinks and dessert, all were great. Service was awesome. Bathrooms are impeccably clean!
(5)
Frederick N.
This place is certainly a little diamond in the rough. Inside is beautiful, warm, sexy, everything you want in a dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. The food is excellent! What a wonderful experience. Prices are decent for an upscale dining experience delivered with the finesse that this group offers. I hope this place a successful 100 years in business!
(5)
William K.
Good food good service at the table I should give 4 stars than more friend jointed me we move to the bar, female bartender so rude she's not happy at all and we feel so uncomfortable sitting at the bar and it's only 9:45, about 11 people sitting at the bar Monday night 10/21/13 if she's ON I won't coming back any more. Sorry I had to taking back 2 star
(2)
Jimmy B.
As an ex employee, I have to admit that its good food done really well. The decor is great and the staff was attentive and good at their jobs. Downside, over priced drinks and entrees. If you have the cash to throw towards a once in a while night out, you couldn't do any better.
(4)
Nancy Q.
Keeping it short and sweet... Great atmosphere, bartenders, tapas, and most importantly (LOL) AWESOME DRINKS! Definitely a place to check out!
Really enjoyed my dinner here, tonight. Started with a delicious martini. Then six oysters, followed by lamb chops and finished with a few bites of Tim's carrot cake. It was exceptional; flavored with orange and molasses. I am looking forward to coming back here again.
(4)
Nichole V.
Love it. My husband and I meet friends from Medford here often for drinks and food. Michelle is usually are waitress and she's great!
(5)
Megan G.
Really cool dinner atmosphere and delicious drinks and food. My favorite was the fish tacos and bruschetta!
(5)
Aaron K.
Exchange Street Bistro is a true diamond in the rough. Located down the street from a police station and across the street from an ugly parking garage and dry cleaner we found the oasis that is Exchange Street Bistro. I bought a Boston deals coupon after perusing the menu online. The menu online sounded delicious, the question was could they execute? The food was a homerun and where the restaurant earns most of it's acclaim from me. Fish tacos were excellent, some of the best I've had (maybe the best). They featured jack cheese along with the usual toppings, may not be authentic but it was damn tasty. An order (9$) came with 2 humongous tacos. My fiance had the lobster mac and cheese (23$) which was out of this world. It featured so much lobster, whole claws, tail meat, I think they may have put a whole lobster in it! The mac and cheese was really good too with a cheese sauce as well as melted cheese and breadcrumbs. The lobster tasted really good with some of that cheese sauce on it. This was the ultimate New England comfort food dish, I would highly recommend it. I had the pan seared scallops (22$) over lobster ravioli. This was a much lighter dish and did not actually fill me. Luckily my girl had plenty leftovers for me to steal. The scallops (3) were large and excellent quality. Pan seared perfectly. Lobster ravioli (3) were stuffed with a lobster mixture and were really tasty. While a plate that was a bit small, I was happy about the quality and understand that the ingredients are expensive. Would be nice if there were a few more asparagus (also 3!) on there to fill me up. For dessert we had the double chocolate mousse martini, perfect end to a great meal. It featured belgian chocolate and was killer. We would eat all of these dishes again and were really surprised with the quality and taste of food here. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere and a lively bar. It must of been built recently as everything looked new. Staff was friendly and accomodating throughout the meal. They were there to refill waters and clear dishes as needed. Minor gripes. They have great big windows, but they overlook a dry cleaner and ugly looming parking garage. Prices are a bit expensive for the area, but the food warrants it. I look forward to coming back and hoping I can get myself to try some of the other food here.
(5)
Maria R.
Sat at the bar on a Friday night for some drinks and light dinner. Our server/bartender, Christina, was friendly and attentive. This was a welcomed change in scenery from some of the other bars in Malden. Since we didn't really order a full meal, I don't want to rate the food too much, but we had no complaints. I will definitely be back for the dirty pepper martini!
(4)
Kevin L.
My favorite place to come to brunch when I actually have the time to do it. The food is pretty standard for a brunch menu but the prices are decent and they have a multitude of different mimosa's! The dishes are a hit or miss and the servers are not the best. They lack consistency but have a lot of potential, probably could use better management in the front of the house. But over all it is hard to find a better place for brunch.
(3)
Kerri C.
I've been to Exchange Street a few times and to be honest the only thing I can complain about it that it can get a bit pricey. Their martinis are amazing and they usually have a pretty nice selection of beers on draft. I am in love with their tapas menu, and make sure to try the lobster mac & cheese!
(4)
Julio S.
Good food, good service. Had a good date overall; could use one or two more vegetarian options but that's just a preference.
(4)
Sharon D.
Yum! This place is great! Beautiful atmosphere, extensive martini and drink menu, eclectic tapas menu, modern dinner menu... A perfect place for a date night, girls night or honestly, any night out! I keep hearing about their Sunday brunch and we'll have to check it out soon! I also hear they are expanding, which is always a good sign!
(4)
Chris N.
Good place. Good food and really good drinks. When you walk in you feel like you're in the middle of Boston. The negative is the prices are just as expensive as Boston too. I have a tough time paying $13 for a martini in Malden Sq.
(4)
Stephanie A.
The martinis here are phenomenal. I used to come here at least once a week. The last time I was here, unfortunately, the food had gone down a bit. I was disappointed. I am hoping it was a one time thing because the food here has always been delicious!
(3)
Phil O.
I went here on New Year's Eve with my girlfriend. We were both satisfied with our appetizers and entrees. I ordered from the special holiday menu and got the stuffed sole which was nicely laid out on top of grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes, with a fitting light Hollandaise-type sauce. It was very delicious. I ordered two martinis, which both met my expectations (nice balance of taste and punch) for only $9.25 apiece. The service was good but a bit slow which was to be expected on NYE. I'd give this place a 4.5 if it were an option. I'd like to come back.
(4)
Brendan C.
Came here on a relatively busy Monday night and have to say I was not only pleasantly surprised but very impressed. We started with the bruschetta which was original, with more of a thin crispy bread topped with tomatoes and goat cheese and a bit of balsamic, very tasty. I had the seared tuna, excellent again and presented beautifully. My wife had the salmon and reported good things. Overall a great spot, not very cheap but not overly pricey and worth it.
(4)
Larissa A.
As mentioned Exchange Street Bistro is a total hidden gem. I have now been there twice, once for brunch and once for dinner. I DO need to come in and start working my way through the Martini menu. Luckily I work very close by. I have not had the issues that others have had with the service. The staff has always been super nice and accommodating. Quick and responsive. One tip that I noticed is that if you or anyone in your party orders an appetizer, you MAY want to tell them to not wait on the entrees. They don't like to rush you, which is great. But I did see some bar patrons get antsy about this. I look forward to many visits to come
(4)
Jennie S.
The rudest waitstaff I have ever encountered. The food is okay, but it takes 20 minutes to get sugar for your tea. Most of the waiters have attitude and management should do a better job hiring people. Don't waste your time coming here for Sunday brunch.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro several times now and am happy to give it four stars. It's got great atmosphere, friendly staff, a varied but not over-the-top menu, fancy enough for a date night out but casual enough for jeans and a day of comfort. It's on the pricey side for Malden, but that's the point--it's good food. Treat yourself and come here for the lobster mac and cheese. You won't regret it. There are cheaper alternatives like the angus burger which is also excellent. Some things to note: * They have a lot of great specials, including $1 tapas that your server will tell you about and seem to change with each visit. * I don't like sitting in the booths in the back room because the fabric is dizzying and the lighting is very unflattering--especially for a date (picture interrogation room lighting above your head) * Avoid the restuaraunt.com gift certs to this place. Way too many conditions. Just go and enjoy yourself. Sometimes they have groupons for it anyways. *They validate parking at the garage directly across the street. But it's also T-accessible from the Malden Center T-stop (about a 5 minute walk).
(4)
Kate P.
I dined at ESB last night and was NOT impressed. I got decaying lime on my martini and my boyfriend's alcoholic drink. The bread was like a hockey puck. My roasted haddock could use some taste; it was as bland as could be. And my boyfriend's Bolognese was not good; the noodles could barely be chewed due to their size and texture and there was not enough sauce. My waitress was very good but the staff person that that seated us did so in a manner of slapping down the menus on the table and walking away...
(2)
Kathleen H.
I was here for lunch on a Monday. My drink was good- they have an extensive cocktail list - and I thought the food was great. We started with hummus - some of the best I've ever had. Hummus is one of those things that's gotten kind of de riguer and bland at parties and on nosh platters, and normally I pass. But this was very, very good, and served with a mint pesto. The house salad was nothing super special, but fresh and tasty. My Kobe burger was delicious and cooked rare as ordered, and came with perfectly cooked, kosher-salted, totally addictive fries. Is it just me, or are restaurants doing better with fries these days? Quality fries made for gluttonous stuffing. burp. I really shouldn't have finished them all, because we sat there drinking and eating and also ordered dessert. I ordered the house made ice cream sandwiches. So - they overdo this a bit. They are chocolate chip cookies of average size, filled with a ice cream: Some chocolate, some vanilla. They gave me SIX. SIX, seis, 6. Sigh. I ate one, and licked some of the ice cream out of the other ones. Being raised as the menopause baby of Depression Era parents, I had pangs of guilt all the way home for wasting those other chocolate chip cookies. Aside from that, I look forward to coming back again to try the dinner menu.
(4)
Stacie R.
Our table of 6 was thoroughly impressed with our dinner. Friends of ours just moved to Malden, and I can't wait to meet up at this place again! We started off sharing Spicy Chicken wings, Bruschetta, and Hummus. It was an awesome start. We had a diverse crowd of diners, including a vegan and vegetarian. They accommodated the vegan particularly well, making her a special dish of delicious vegetables. I had the Minted Pea Ravioli though I also want to try the Capellini, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, the Clams Vongole and the Haddock! Needless to say, I will return with friends in tow! Other dishes that were had by our party: Atlantic Salmon, Half Chicken, Bone In Sirloin, and Eggplant Roulade. Rave reviews!!!!
(5)
Jacquil T.
The drinks were yummy! Service was great! Food was good.
(4)
Diane H.
i'm judging this place on the bar soley! My friend invited me to check out this place for drinks after dinner, I was always kind of like "ehhh" to this place, a wannabe trying to be all classy in the middle of malden square, seriously? It's probably over priced..and no good. HAPPY HOUR!!!! Tuesday! My friends were at the bar, so I joined, the bartender is very nice! Sparked up a convo with my friend that I ALMOST THOUGHT THEY KNEW EACH OTHER, haaha. $5 martinis!!! well, a couple of them anyways, i got the stoli doli? mmm delicious! my friend has the elder..something, that tasted strong!!!! my other friend had the malibu sunset, it was good. and my other friend was offered water by the bartender when she said she was driving and will not be drinking...nice touch. They have tapas for cheap! I will definitely hit this place up when i'm in town, as i sadly do not live here anymore so i can't come whenever. my friend did come once on a saturday, she said small portions/high prices. Ambience: Very nice! They had a crowd, the front tables were mostly filled, not sure about the back.
(4)
Heidi H.
Worst service I've ever gotten. There is not a good variety of things on the menu I had to eat a side salad because there wasn't anything I could or wanted to eat. Horrible.
(2)
Susan C.
Exchange Street is a hidden gem in Malden. The food and service are very good, it's basically a trendy Boston type restaurant in the burbs. I've tried their brunch and happy hour, and have yet to be disappointed. Do try their stuffed french toast, and do come for the happy hour. The happy hour is a particular good deal as they have $1 tapas style bar bites and $5 beers on draft. I particularly enjoyed their sliders.
(4)
Erin T.
I have eaten at Exchange Street quite a few times since they have been in business. The food has always been good. They pour a very generous glass of wine.. Always left satisfied.
(4)
Roberta B.
Don't come here on Sunday before dinner time if you don't want brunch. Everything on the menu had eggs in it and i just didnt feel like it, so I was forced to eat lobster mac and cheese, the only thing without eggs, other than a burger I think, which I also wasnt in the mood for. HOWEVER, the lobster mac and cheese was heavenly, and after I took that first bite, my experience went from bad to wonderful.
(4)
Mariel M.
My mom and I decided to host my sister's bridal shower here on a recommendation from someone who was hosting her rehearsal dinner here...and I'm so pleased that we did! We met with the general manager, who put us completely at ease and made it so simple to plan the event that we wanted. We knew that we wanted to have a Friday night shower (who wants to go in the middle of the day and waste a weekend?) and that we wanted it to be cocktails and appetizers. He couldn't have been more accommodating for the amount of people we were planning on having and the event that we wanted to have. The night of the event was great. We had our own private room, with a server that was specifically for our party that would get us drinks from the bar. Our menu consisted of a cheese and fruit platter, beef teriyaki, chicken, feta and grape skewers, pulled pork sliders, margarita pizza, bruschetta and chicken wings. The way that they displayed the food was so nice and classy...no cheesy metal burners here! Everything came out fresh and hot and was gobbled up by everyone. My favorite (or what I got to sneakily eat in between greeting guests) was the beef teriyaki and pulled pork sliders. They were SO yummy and felt like upscale bar food. I can't say enough great things about this place! The parking is so convenient too, if you're hosting a larger group (as we were) since they offer free validation at the garage next door. The martinis are great (very strong!) and the staff is so nice. If you're looking for a classy, fun place to host an event, look no further!
(5)
Robert M.
A nice hidden gem in Malden Center! Friday night dinner, around 7 pm and got sat right away (just missed the rush!). Very big and buzzing bar and lounge area with many tv's, separate dining room area if you aren't into sports. Very attentive service all around throughout the night, even after a flat sat section. The menu caters to everyone, price wise and selection, from basic to a bit adventurous. Food came out very timely and was delicious! Fresh ingredients and flavors all around, from fish tacos, mozzarella salad, a pasta dish and a pizza. All winners, plus leftovers for tmrw lunch
(5)
Che R.
Good food, bad service (i.e., Thomas). I had a restaurant.com gift cerificate for this place, so I took three of my coworkers to lunch. I read the fine print many times just to be sure that there were no "catches," and it seemed that a lunch where four people were getting entrees would work. We just had to spend at least $35, and we couldn't include drinks in the gift cert amount. So we went in at 12:00 on a rainy Tues. No one was in the place. We were greeted by Thomas who seated us, and right off the bat he had an attitude toward us. I complimented the place saying that it looked great and that they had changed the decor a bit. He said, "It's been like this for a year." I jokingly replied that we should go there more often. He didn't see the humor. Then we got water, looked at the menus, and when Thomas came back, we showed him the gift cert and asked if it was ok to use it. He said, "No, you can only use these with dinner." He hadn't even read it. I told him that I had read the fine print, and that it appeared as though we could use it for lunch since it didn't say "dinner only." He said that we had to order at least $35 worth of entrees. I said that we'd planned on each getting an entree. He said, "No, you have to have at least two entrees that equal at least $35." I then said, "Yes, but your entrees are all around $13. How could two equal at least $35?" He then said rather snippily, "Yeah, that's why you have to use it at dinner." We told him that it really should say that on the gift cert; it's misleading the way it's written. He then sighed and took it. We ordered over $45 worth of food, which was very good: gnocchi, pizza, and a chicken pot pie. Thomas brought our meals, and did not say much nor did he smile. (Really?? Really?? He has to take it out on us? The restaurant was still very empty; there was only one other table in there by this point. Didn't he need our business, I thought to myself.) It was all very sad and a bit annoying. So we finished our meals and paid the bill. We noticed that he had added an 18% gratuity on the bill. I understand that that's something that restaurant.com does since many people don't tip on the original pre-discounted bill but end up only tipping on the reduced amount. So we paid the bill and left. I really don't understand those kinds of things. My husband and I use groupon, living social, and other gift cerificates and coupons to restaurants all over Boston and Cambridge, and we've never had an experience like that. This guy was taking his frustrations out on us. It definitely doesn't make me want to go back there. Malden has a few good restaurants; I will go to those places instead from now on.
(2)
Joanna F.
I attended a rehearsal dinner here on Friday night. I was really excited to try this restaurant since I had heard so much about it and I wasn't disappointed. We had a table reserved right in the middle of the restaurant and the service was impeccable. The drink list is spectacular. I opted for wine instead of one of their many martinis, but the martinis were reasonably priced and looked good. The food was amazing. Every morsel I put in my mouth was absolutely delicious. We started with several appetizers including calamari, hummus, grilled pizza and bruschetta. I have nothing bad to say about any of the apps... all of them were spectacular. Now, I'm not sure if I'm biased since I never order pasta or a lot of meat sauces at restaurants, but I was blown away by the Wild Boar Bolognese. It was rich and absolutely delicious and the portion was gigantic. Exchange Street Bistro is everything I like in a restaurant... classy without being stuffy, delicious food without the high prices and spectacular service with a sense of humor. I can't wait to come back.
(5)
Amanda Z.
Ok... I've lived in Malden for... over a year now? So, how is it that I had no idea about this place?!? Sure, I'd seen some of the coupons that would pop up on the valupak thing that comes in the mail every once in a while, but I had no idea what a diamond in the rough this place was. People, I think we need to start giving Malden some more credit for the restaurants it has! We were entertaining guests that weekend and were trying to figure out a good place to go for Sunday brunch. The usual was out, and we needed a plan B. Enter yelp to save the day. After mulling over some of the usual suspects, this particular place kept catching my eye. Once I found out people felt there was amazing french toast to be had, I was sold. We promptly trekked over and were shocked. This restaurant is beautiful. Worthy of downtown Boston. And, it's in Malden. Kudos. Everything glistens like its brand new, with a catwalk leading you from the entrance to the hostess station where you'll get a gander of the pretty, green-lit bar. We arrived around noon, and were seated immediately. Soon after that, our party ordered the breakfast burrito, an omelette, the eggs benedict, and the french toast. Oh... and we sort of got our morning drink on, too. (The chambord mimosa is where its at.) Everyone was stuffed and no one was able to finish. The only downside was the wait between putting in our order and getting our food, but it was certainly well worth the wait.
(4)
Traci K.
I walk by Exchange Street Bistro every day on my way home from the T. It's pretty hopping and the menu looked tasty enough so a friend and I decided to check it out for lunch. We both got salads, cobb and nicoise. The cobb was OK. It had lots of stuff in it and the dressing was good, but it wasn't anything really phenomenal. My friend enjoyed her nicoise and didn't have any complaints. The service was decent. The server was polite and quick and readily available. Atmosphere wise, Exchange Street confuses me. It seems really upscale, but the food isn't upscale. I felt under dressed, but it was lunch. I'm not sure how I feel about it.
(3)
Jen R.
I had tried this restaurant over a year ago and wasn't super impressed with the food then. But they renovated the interior and they must have changed chef/ menu since because I was pleasantly surprised at quality and taste of each dish. They have a great , inexpensive tapas bar menu. I tried the calamari, spinach dip and wedge salad at around $5 each and they were nicely presented and delicious. But what I recommend most is the natural chicken pizza. Easily 1 of top 3 pizzas I have EVER had!! It was an amazing thin crust with unusual but perfectly matched toppings, and I would order it every time. To top it off the vanilla bread pudding for dessert was awesome. One of the best I have ever had and it was large enough to share. I would highly recommend this place if you live nearby. But it is also only a 5 minute walk from Malden T.
(5)
Jane S.
LOVE this place as it never disappoints. Truly a "hidden gem" in the heart of Malden - Exchange Street Bistro has saved us many times from driving into Boston in order to find comparable quality and service (and parking is easy). Today I ordered the lunch tapas special which was their best yet - AMAZING - so I just had to rave about it! The food is creative and fresh and their specials are exceptional. Great value, great service, great food and a great local bar/night life. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah, love the new look and live music! BTW's, I rarely write reviews - only when the place is really worth it!
(4)
Adam G.
I can't give an in depth review since I did not try any of the food but I definitely get the sense that Exchange Street Bistro is a cut above most of the restaurants in Malden Square. The bartender was absolutely friendly and helpful in making a recommendation. The tap selection leaves a little to be desired but with Blue Moon available, that can be forgiven.
(4)
Debra B.
I so want to give it 4 stars BUT, the mussels (tasty, plentiful) cost hubby the next day of work. He ate 9/10th of them. I had just 2 or 3 so only a very slight morning surprise for me. He got the whole wrecked-day. Service was very good & cocktails - great. The other food items (calamari, spring roll) generous & well prepared. But should I blame the place for the mussels? Honest, I'm not sure it's anyone's "fault" but it's hard not to blame the kitchen. It just may take a while for the memory of the one bad meal to fade. Maybe the basil gin cocktail will help with that?
(3)
Frances K.
Love their unique food presentation--a delight to the eye and the tongue. Enjoy bringing my [grown] daughter here.
(4)
Kimberly L.
Exchange Street is a classy little gem in the heart of sketchy Malden center. Don't let the exterior surroundings fool you, inside it is well decorated, has wonderful staff, dim but not too dim lighting, & a martini list that will knock your socks off. As a vegetarian, they offer a fair amount of veg options, which is also definitely appreciated. Overall, definitely worth a visit if you're up for venturing out to Malden!
(4)
Liudmila G.
Exchange street Bistro is tucked away in the most unattractive part of Malden! but it truly is the highlight of the area! I have been here on numerous occasions both for lunch and dinner and have always had pleasant service and delicious food. the menu is classic but offers an inspiring modern twist on some of the most traditional dishes. their wine and martini list is a stand out on it's own. Trish that usually works lunch time is very friendly and professional, i have always received best service from her.
(4)
L L.
Great spot with a really good menu and fantastic bar! Love the bartenders (especially Rob) and the wait staff are always friendly. The space is chic without being pretentious. We go here often and will continue to do so.
(4)
Christina O.
I could not be happier with this place! Their portion sizes are huge, prices are fair, martinis are delicious, and service is greaT! Their tomato basil soup is UNBELIEVABLE- you need to go in and try it immediately! I love the goat cheese thin crust pizza with arugala, and I have ordered their salmon and it was delicious. Unfortunately they discontinued their butternut squash raviolis, which were amazing as well! This place has a downtown-Boston feel without the prices or crowds. Everyone is nice, and you will not be dissapointed!
(5)
rex w.
Pleasant atmosphere, and a menu that seems promising. But the food is not all that great, and mostly a disappointment. Been there twice and both times found the food to be blah. One bright spot: deserts are great.
(2)
Justine D.
Well, I think the fact that there's a legitimately classy place for quality martinis in Malden is a miracle. And this place is it. Malden is the town I live in and I think it's basically pretty divy, but at least Exchange Street doesn't disappoint. You can get a lovely, pretty sugar-rimmed martini, or a more manly type of beverage, with friendly service. And the clientele seem pretty decent, too. Also conveniently located by the Malden Center T. My only gripe is that it is a bit pricey, esp. being in Malden...
(4)
Tracey F.
The food at Exchange Street is consistly good. We have eaten there several times and the food and drinks have always been great.
(5)
Julie E.
Exchange Street is the first of two really fantastic Malden restaurants, the other being All Seasons. While rather expensive, the quality of food is excellent and they serve a Sunday brunch that is worth checking out. Their cocktails are well made and they have a lively bar crowd. The decor is simply beautiful. Service has been mixed during the many times I've eaten here. Definitely worth driving to!
(4)
Welton B.
The menu here is great, and they get points for trying. The presentation is also fantastic. The food, however, was somehow mildly disappointing. You certainly get what you pay for--the portions are much larger than I expected, considering the type of food. But I thought it was all somewhat bland. I had the Jumbo Crab Cake, and it was very good, accompanied by lemon aioli and a mild marinara sauce, both of which were adequate. Then I had the Pan-Seared Scallop over Lobster Ravioli. The raviolis had more lobster meat and flavor than I had expected, and the scallops were very well-prepared, but they were missing some kind of sizzle. I just wanted to be more excited about the meal--there was something lacking. More seasoning would have helped. I'm no chef, that's why I pay to go to places like this. It was all presented beautifully, and skillfully prepared, but it needed some kind of spark. As for the ambience, I found it a bit noisy. Why do all these new restaurants discard any attempt at intimacy? It has the look of a converted warehouse with fancy trimming pasted over the walls, and the lights turned down so you can't see the imperfections. All in all, I'd recommend it to try, but I probably won't be going again.
(3)
Nathan M.
Exchange street has continued to improve since first opening up this summer. As a new Maldenite, we've tried ESB several times and it is always worth going to. For the quality of food, the price cannot be beat and though not an extensive wine list, the selections are all very good. There newest tapas plate is always good; blue cheese butter covered NY strip is excellent; duck confit pizza is also excellent. Definitely worth a try if you venture to Malden.
(5)
Rafael S.
great service, food is really good too, and a great option for malden, i highly recommend it!!!!!!
(4)
Nichan S.
Stopped by the restaurant on a Sunday around 3 p.m. which ended up being between their lunch and dinner menu so only appetizers, burgers and salads were available which was mentioned by the host and our waitress. We started with the Korean BBQ Spare Ribs and while the flavor of the was fantastic the ribs were forgettable as they were tough and did not have much meat on them. My companion and I both ordered the American Kobe burger and we both enjoyed it, the burger was prepared perfectly and the accompanying french fries were superb. We opted to split a dessert and chose the Almond Crunch Tiramisu which had a nice presentation and was delicious. I had ordered a cappuccino to go along with the dessert and was disappointed, it was watery and barely warm. The host had stopped by and asked how things were between the appetizer and the burger and I did mention our disappointment with the ribs. The response was they were sorry to hear that. I would expect an offer to remove them from the bill or a suggestion to try a dessert on the restaurant. The gesture itself would convince me to give the restaurant another shot. They advertise heavily and have some great specials but need to take service up a bit. As for the restaurant itself it is modern and has a nice bar area and is handicap accessible with a ramp that leads into the dining area from the street.
(3)
Brooke L.
LOVE THE FOOD, LOVE THE DRINKS, LOVE THE STAFF! I'm from Malden and I'm not going to go into how this is "good for Malden" crap that has been the consensus for the entire page of reviews. Truth is its just good! I've gone multiple times with friends, my brother and ex's :) and each time it has been nothing but the best. Whoever designed the place was genius because if you have ever worked in the restaurant business you are familiar with those haunting words..."oh, can we have a booth?" The front of the restaurant is all booths so its difficult to be disappointed. As far as food goes its all excellent. Definitely try the broccoli rabe and provolone app, and if they have a buffalo entree special, get it! The bar is always packed and they play upbeat music. Drinks are VERY tasty and I am absolutely in love with the staff! I probably go once or twice a month and every time they see my face they light up with a smile and ask how I've been.
(5)
bella c.
dont bother, food is bland and lame!
(1)
chris j.
this place is great. little pricey but worth the trip. considering its in malden it does great always busy and great people at the bar. food has an ethnic touch. not a big meat eater so the seafood tapas are always great and the tuna was seared to perfection. check it out
(4)
David C.
First time here and was impressed all around at the friendliness of the staff, the quality of the drinks and the quality of the food. For a place that focuses on Martinis they have a great beer and wine selection. The awesome bartenders crank out Martinis like its nobody's business, if you sit a t the bar its entertaining. I had the burger which was cooked to perfection and very tasty. The fries were awesome as well. Good place for a swanky feel in the Malden area.
(4)
Danielle C.
I've been a huge fan and fairly regular patron of ESB, but I just hosted my first event there yesterday and was extremely impressed! From start to finish, the process was easy and painless, which makes a big difference. Initially working with John and Mark by phone, all my questions were answered, any calls returned promptly and I never felt I was being mislead or like any upselling was being forced on me. The day of the event, Johanna and Emily were our servers and they were wonderful-- always available and never in the way, which was ideal for a large bridal shower. And when the check came, there were no surprises-- how rare is that for a 60+ person event?! Also want to give a shout out to the best bartender, Pia! Would recommend strongly that you consider ESB for any event as their food and drinks are delicious, the prices are fair, and their staff is superior to most. Thanks for everything, guys!
(5)
Carlos F.
Expensive and food is decent. Drinks are good but definitely over priced for Malden. I tried the lobster sandwich and ended up throwing most of it out. Parking is easy and great location.
Best dinner ever. So we came in for oyster. That was fantastic. Our server (Amanda)was amazing. So we moved on to the 3 course pre fixed menu. We had the risotto and beef stew (soup of the day). Our server (Amanda) recommended that we do that. So we can try both. Was a great idea. Then dinner came and we were full but it was so good we love that too. The sirloin and the seafood scampi. Pictures below. Great price too.
(5)
Brittney T.
Exchange street is my go to restaurant. The food is excellent, I haven't found anything on the menu I don't like. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. I've been to a couple of family events catered here(birthday parties a and graduation parties) and had a great time and good food. They're drinks are amazing, I favor their sangria (both the red and the white). I'm also a huge fan of their bistro wings. I definitely recommend exchange street bistro.
(5)
Davy K.
An unexpected gem in Malden! Great food at a great price. Fun ambiance. They also do private events at the location at a reasonable and competitive rate. I've been here for brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and a couple baby showers. They don't disappoint!
(4)
K Z.
I love love love this bistro! I have dined here several times over about the last year with friends, family, with kids in tow and on date night. The drinks are tasty and the food is ALWAYS on point! I can't wait to see what new dishes the fall brings. The food is plated artfully but more importantly tastes even better with fun flavor combinations. Don't get me wrong, it's not overly pretentious or stuffy and still offers comfort foods. The servers are usually attentive enough to our table too.
(5)
Cole M.
You can't go wrong when visiting Exchange St. Their drink menu will satisfy any thirst. The tapas and apps are all so tasty you may not need to actually order a meal! Their entrees are spot on as well. A bit pricey for the Malden area but worth it to get quality drinks and food in a great comfortable, clean, spacious place.
(4)
Andreina O.
Phenomenal food and staff is always curteous and polite. I have lived in malden for many years this is truly a gem! I always recommend this place it is awesome!
(5)
Amola S.
Cool ambience. Good for couples. Went as a double date ( 2 couples) plus a two year old. They had a high chair and a kid's menu. My lobster mac and cheese was tasty with big chunks of lobster. The calamari app was well done. Good wine list to pair with dishes.
(4)
Jae J.
Popped in here for Sunday brunch yesterday, and I'm definitely a fan! We had reservations 'cause we didn't want to wait a while (as that's definitely the norm for other brunch places we've been to). However, that wasn't needed at all since it wasn't too crowded. Food-wise, loved it. I got the lobster omelette, and was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster actually in it. I expected shredded lobster sprinkled in here and there, but there were actually huge chunks of lobster with the claw and everything. My boyfriend got the crab cake benedict, and while that was good as well, the portion size was much smaller than my omelette. He wolfed down his food in a matter of minutes and ate half of my omelette as well because he was still pretty hungry. Loved the atmosphere of the place with soft jazz in the background, and the waitress (Michelle) was the sweetest and really helpful. I overheard a table near us expressing concerns of a gluten allergy for someone in their party, and their waitress was more than happy to accommodate them/ask the chef about food specifics. Bonus points for awesome service. Overall, definitely will be back soon!
(4)
Ahnauncia S.
Got the lobster mac and cheese and it was amazing!i sat at the bar and got the tapas size which was plenty. I will definitely return!
(5)
Steve X.
This is a Bistro where you will Exchange some good fun if you go. It is located on Exchange st. (hence the name) and has some very good food. But let's talk about the bar, what a nice setting and extremely nice and grandiose. If you are a classy person and prefer to treat someone to something nice, this is where you should go for dinner or late night.
(4)
Amanda C.
the deco is good is good not to many places to park. and the food is good my mom had a burger she liked it. I gave the sandwhich with tomato soup with steak and chese I call it wasn't bad I liked it. my dad got mussels and fish he liked his meal. so all and all we are fans.
(4)
kristen s.
My girlfriends and I went to exchange street tonight and one of us couldn't get a babysitter. She brought her adorable son and unfortunately no matter what we did he wouldn't eat his mac n cheese. A waitress noticed our attempts and came over and saved the day! The service from her was incredible and above and beyond. He told my friend's son Superman made the Mac and cheese just for him! (He is 3.) she brought him "super man cheese and his own super plate and fork. Her name was Trisha and we LOVE her! He ate so much dinner and we couldn't have done it with out her! She was amazing, we will absolutely come back to a place that has people like her. Thanks so much Trisha! a desperate mom and her friends!
(5)
Ev D.
Excellent drinks and staff. Trish is amazing - ask for her when you go! Very attentive, fun and excellent service. They have a good food menu but somewhat limited--look for specials daily. Burger is fantastic and I'm not a burger person. Drinks done very well with lot of specials. Bar very nice although can get busy at night. Definitely a great place to enjoy a nice meal and even meet up at the bar.
(5)
L M.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Everything was great! Nice decor, food was cooked perfectly (white pizza, grilled salmon, stuffed portabellas) and our waitstaff, Howard, was such a nice guy! Will definitely be back!
(5)
Susan T.
I've been here multiple times for dinner, night out, wedding shower and even had a baby shower here. Each time I come I am wowed by how friendly and attentive the staff from the bartenders to the waitstaff are! The Martinis are amazing, the lychee is my favorite! The food is delicious, I've tried the bar menu, brunch and dinner. The margerita pizza and any of their flatbreads are really good, along with calamari. JoAnna is really nice! It's very trendy place and convenient With parking on street or lot so it beats heading into city. A must try!!
(5)
Derek W.
Checked into this place on a Tuesday night for something light and easy. The bar here is real nice, and decor is as well. Parking is awful pretty much anywhere in Malden square and this place is no exception. In a town that has way too much asian food to offer, I'm happy the exchange street bistro is a choice. On this night they had Tapas all over the menu and they were on average about $5. They were hearty and delicious....
(4)
Sarah D.
ESB is the highlight of Malden. The martinis are perfectly on point (my personal fav if banana nut bread), the appetizers are larger than life (I'd eat their baked bree any day of the week for any meal), and their entrees are so flavorful that every bite feels like a full coarse meal (haddock, hands down is the best). Oh wait! How silly of me! How could I forget the desserts! Banana bread pudding and chocolate marquise (aka chocolate meatloaf) are seriously the hands down the greatest I've ever tasted. Service is usually perfect. The prices are worth the quality and dedication to each menu item. The atmosphere is edgy and classy. I'd come here every day if I could!!
(5)
Vicki S.
First time here - this place is a keeper! Beautiful bar - outstanding drink and wine list. Now let's talk small plates- do not miss the homemade meatballs - the real deal. Homemade chips and Mac n cheese are perfect, it's a bit of a drive for me to get here- well worth the drive. GO
(4)
Court S.
We came here for an event last weekend and decided to sit at the bar for an hour because we was early as usual. We ordered butter cookie and s'more martini's and lobster mac n cheese. Everything was absolutely delicious and service at the bar was outstanding. The food items on the menu looked very tasty and the martini menu is extensive with fruity and dessert like combinations. My goal is to try at least 75% of the martini's here. They all sound so delicious. Cheers!
(5)
Jenna W.
I stopped in here for dinner last week with my family, and it was a pretty darned tasty experience. My mom and I split the hummus platter ($8) as an appetizer, and it was delish. The hummus portion was super generous, and I felt half-full by the time I was done. My mom ordered some sort of gin and cucumber drink, which I thought was disgusting, but she loved it, so rock on mom. As a main course, I split the margherita pizza ($12) with my dad. It was thin crust, and the sauce was fairly sweet. Very yummy. I'm typically solidly in the "blue cheese hater" camp, but I'll make an exception for the blue cheese mashed potatoes I stole off my sisters plate. The flavor was pretty mild, and they were ah-ma-zing. On to dessert....order the ice cream waffle sandwich ($7). Seriously. Do it. I don't even remember what the other people in my family ordered, because I was blinded by the towering mass of waffles, vanilla ice cream, sea salt caramel and chocolate. It was so, so good, and there's more than enough to share. Our waitress was also very fun and helpful!
(4)
Nicole R.
Stopped in for dinner with my bestie... (yeah i'm old, but i'm still going to use the term bestie...) We got Patricia as our server and she was super funny, had lots of suggestions, and definitely made for a fun dining experience. We loved her. The food was pretty good. I got the white pizza which was good but would have been better if there was a little more cheese on it. The martinis... they were great. I went for a cucumber martini and the cookie martini. They both exceeded my expectations. I think if i were to come back i'd probably just do apps and drinks and go for dinner elsewhere. There weren't a ton of options and most were either steak or seafood. I'm a salad/boneless chicken kind of girl. Also... i'd prefer no garnish on my drink if the only other option is a decaying piece of fruit/veg... which i did experience when ordering...
(4)
Paolino P.
I took 1 star for the amount of choices on the menu as far as steak goes.. Your a bistro your name sets off alarms in my head that say mmmmmm meat! Problem is choices are slim. I will say the 2 times I dined at Exchange St. The food was great. The bar is big and lively. Bar Tenders are great. And the ambiance is nice. I would just like to see more options on the menu.
(3)
Vincent R.
5 stars. We've started asking for our favorite waitstaff (Pia). They're always friendly and very accommodating. Apparently, they recently got a new chef and I love the food. The husband is partial to the drinks so it's a double win for us. The only downside? It can get a bit noisy, especially if you're near the bar.
(5)
Kaajal M.
My friends and I went to dinner here on Wednesday night and despite the lack of patrons, the service was slow. Our waitress wasn't attentive and would disappear for long periods of time. We were sat at 6:30 and ordered at 7! She also really pushed the specials and drinks and said we couldn't order tapas without also ordering entrees. The whole experience really turned me off. Our food and drinks were delicious though and I will definitely visit again and sit at the bar (bartenders were awesome).
(3)
Craig M.
Came here for a graduation party. Took an hour and a half to get just bread. Food was mediocre. Nothing to brag about. Never go here! Only reason I didn't give a one star was because I had a really good martini from one of their 20 martini list. Very disappointing.
(2)
Jeff N.
I recently visited here for the first time on a Wednesday evening. Wild here, I had to espresso martinis and three sliders. The drinks were divine, why the food was pretty good. The service was excellent. The bar is very bag and there is also plenty of room in the restaurant itself. Also, the restrooms were clean. The martinis were $12 each which is a little bit high but I guess they think they are actually in downtown Boston. Nonetheless, I will definitely be back in the future for more socializing and drinks here.
(4)
Dawn H.
Wonderful experience! Looked a little sketchy walking up to it, but open the doors and you will be excited at what you see. Cozy seating. Great cocktails. Best fried oysters we ever had :-). Will definitely find our way back there.
(4)
Janelle G.
Went to exchange street bistro for a large event. The food was good but not great. Good location for a function but may not return to this restaurant on my own.
(3)
Cecile M.
Very good! The Bacon and Hashbrown Quesadilla was awesome. He Lemon Drop Martini was delicious!
(4)
Edward B.
We have been eating here for years, the food is always top notch!!!! The ambiance is so relaxing, drinks are great and the service is the best !!!! If you have an opportunity to request a waitress, ask for Trisha, she is the best of the best!!!!!
(5)
Misty S.
Went to Exchange Street Bistro for the first time this weekend, for their Sunday Brunch. It's a little hidden gem tucked away in Malden. I'm not sure how I hadn't been before now! Menu: Limited but solid brunch menu which includes some apps, salads, egg-y dishes, pancake-y dishes, and burgers. The portions are generous and the food is fresh and good. I got the Field greens salad and the hummus. The hummus was homemade and full of garlic. It came with pickles, pickled onions, and crispy homemade pita chips. A+. The salad was small but tasty. My only complaint is that it was advertised as having butternut squash on it. I think there may have been about 4 butternut squash shavings on it, but they didn't taste cooked and I don't frankly even know if it was butternut squash on there. Hubby & Friends all got burgers. They were huge and looked juicy and fresh (and came with a big pickle on top). Atmosphere: Cute place that seems good for a date night. Nice sized bar, and has a function room in the back. Service: Friendly and attentive Drinks: Good wine list and cocktail menu. Specialty brunch cocktails. Small draft list but with a few nice craft beers (Anchor steam, sierra nevada, and clown shoes tramp stamp when we were there). Their website does not do them justice. Honestly, it looks like an old folks early bird special type of place from their website, and the beer list on their website turned me off immediately. Don't judge it by their website!
(4)
Brian S.
So the place was nice for Malden .. Great martinis .. Asked for a medium rare burger and got a well done..highly doubt it was Kobe beef for $12 bucks ... Management corrected the problem ASAP ...recommend the daily tapas .. Nice atmosphere ..little pricey but it is a bistro and had nice live music
(3)
Sarah B.
I have to write this because I just don't think it deserves to be number 2 on Malden's restaurant list! I've been here several times and just find it marginal. I make better food at home and have twice gotten rotten garnish in a mediocre drink. So many better places to eat in Malden.
(2)
Kristine D.
First time coming here and I live about a mile down the road for the last 6 months. Came in with a few girlfriends around 9 on a Friday. No wait, but there were still people at the bar and eating. Great martini list. I had the Bellini martini. Definitely recommend it if you're into fruity/fizzy drinks. Also had the lobster mac... So MF good. Had to have a whole lobster in it. I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Humberto B.
Great athmosphere for a night out (bit loud at times). Staff was really generous and the food was good but could improve. We ordered and Haddock and the Salmon and they both looked good back were a bit "meh" in the seasoning department. Definitely going back to try a different dish.
(4)
Tony P.
Im a regular here ...very consistent & the drinks very good & are reasonable ... plus the food is with out question, full of flavor... try to go to Boston & see how much you pay for the same quality.
(5)
Alyssa W.
Finally got a chance to try this place out. Came in for lunch and I liked that the place wasnt packed. We were able to relax, talk and catch up not feeling like we were being rushed out, like some places during lunch. We ordered the brocolli rabe and provolone spring rolls with mustard sauce. OH MY GAWD. Best idea ever, soo delicious! Friend got a clams and fettucine with white sauce. really tasty. I got the burger with sweet potato fries. portions here are big. so be hungry or not surprised to take food home! staff is friendly and very nice. I took a look around and I like how up front it has a bar/lounge feel. In back, it's a little more private and looks like it'd be nice to have dinner there! Definately will be back, but for dinner :)
(4)
Lillie A.
If you want a really good desert come here. The bread pudding is ridiculously amazing !!!!! The food is awesome as well and the staff are really nice.
(4)
Diane W.
I really don't want to give this place a bad review because I've been going there for dinner or drinks for so long however dinning there yesterday was just awful. A part of me wants to call in Bar Rescue to help save this place. The service was disgusting. It's very rude to point fingers at people and the waitress wouldn't not stop it. She slammed the food on the table and constantly gave me an attitude for asking for a refill of water. The food itself wasn't that good and I almost felt like we were forced to order more food than what we wanted. When my father asked for the check it took about 15 minutes for it to be brought to the table and another 20 minutes for it to be picked it. It would be one thing if the place was packed and jamming but it was empty. After being a long time customer, I don't think I'll be back there anytime soon. The bar atmosphere is really and the drink list is pretty awesome. However that server, the one with the epic nails, ruined it.
(2)
Timmy D.
I have not been here in a couple of years and love what they did to the place. We came in on a sunday Night basically for a couple of martinis and apps and just to sit at the bar. First things fist though Larry at the bar was definitly the deal breaker on why I will return. He made it a great experience from beginning to end. I did not give it 4 stars because of the...... how can I say this nicely.... I cant ! The trashy waitress who banged her cup off the bar yelling orders at Larry, Yes I said banging her cup off the bar, and just yelling across the restaurant what she needed. really professional. Overall the staff was friendly we did get a smile. I did see a guy walking around who I assumed to be the manager who didnt stop to say anything to anyone . another reason for the 4 stars. Mr Manager we come in to your establishment that we love, It isnt to hard to say hello and ask how everything is going... Just saying.. Another reason for the 4 stars. Martinis were awesome and not in a small martini glass, Nice big deep martini glasses, Huge selection of different martinis. For apps we got oysters, perfect. the lobster mac and cheese was probably the best I have ever had. So Larry we will be looking forward to sitting at the bar again thank you for making it a great experience you should pass along your work ethics to those around you.
(4)
Robert Q.
The decor and atmosphere is upscale and is probably the high point of the restaurant. To take a business client for lunch, dinner or drinks would be a great idea. I went to exchange street bistro for a family function. Scallops wrapped in bacon is hard to mess up and also hard to make shine. It was as expected. The crab cakes were flavorful with good seasonings but a bit inconsistent with the preparation, as one had a nice crust and was cooked longer there for held together for longer, while another was loose and not crusted and was evidentially not cooked as long. I prefer more crunch but the aioli the used was nice and overall I would buy it as a solid crab cake is hard to find. I had Caesar salad which was solid and pretty standard, ziti in red sauce was ok and maybe slightly over cooked since it was falling apart but it was buffet style so that is some what understandable. The chicken piccata was the biggest disappointment as it was just dry. The capers actually saved it and gave it the salt it needs because it lacked any other real seasoning. Overall it's not bad but it could be pricey and for the money you expect better execution on the food. If however you're looking to have drinks and entertain the atmosphere is very nice and modern.
(3)
Trice B.
I was there as a courteous to one of the employees who was gracious enough to invite me, but I can't really speak for the food as I had specially made items. What I can say about the food, is that it was fresh but I could've used a tab bit more seasoning and umph! The drinks were definitely on point, strong, but you can taste all the ingredients in the cocktail. Ambiance was cool, calm and collective... Zen.
(3)
Andrea H.
I really liked the decor and atmosphere of this place, but they changed it in the last year and I'm not sure I like it as much. To think, this place used to be an old toy store and then sat vacant for years. I'm glad to see some sophistication come to Malden and actually survive. I have been there several times and think it is a bit pricey for what you get. The best thing about this place is the cocktails. They are well mixed and there is a great variety to pick from on their lengthy martini menu. I've had the Very Berry, Undone Pina Colada, Stoli Doli, and Strawberry Shortcake. They were ALL good. Yikes, drink much? For dinner, I've eaten the margherita pizza (just ok) roasted half chicken and angus burger (pretty good). I have also gone and just got some tapas and appetizers. This was a waste of $$, by the time you order a few of these it costs more than a meal and you only got 2 bites on a plate. If you are having a night with the girls or a first date, come to Exchange Street Bistro and sit at the bar, have a signature cocktails, and chat. Otherwise, save your dinner plans for another place.
(3)
Andrea A.
My boyfriend and I end up here probably every other week on a Friday when we just want to relax. We always find a good crowd of people here; it is never a pretentious crowd and it is never a sketchy crowd. Truly a hidden gem. Cocktails are perfectly priced (a competitor in a more affluent town nearby is about $3 more per drink) and the food is always delicious. We have never once been dissatisfied with our drinks, food, or service. The bartenders are all super nice and just attentive enough. They're not up your butt watching you but they're also not completely ignoring you.
(5)
Alisia P.
I love it here! My girlfriends and I come here for drinks and appetizers. The list of drink options are always fun to choose from too! I love the chicken quesadillas & spinach and artichoke dip!
(4)
Lydia D.
I am not sure where to start but I visit Malden once a month to see my employees here and I am sad that I've never been to this place! From the time we walked In with a nice greeting and sat down to waited on hand and foot AND then the food!! Oh my!! Meatballs!! Lobster Mac!! The crabcake!! The wine was sooooo fresh!! So I said all that to say my lunches and dinners going forward will be here when I am in Malden !!!
I visited the restaurant for brunch today. Our waitress Michelle was wonderful! She was very helpful offering suggestions on the cocktail menu and appetizers. The food was delicious! The crab cake appetizer is to die for. The lobster omelette with homefries is a must-have. I will definitely visit again!
(4)
Jennifer L.
We went here today for our Sales "Top Booker Luncheon." From the moment we walked in, I knew it was going to be a great experience! Howard welcomed us at the door and even took our umbrellas, promising he wouldn't let us forget them later! Howard wound up being our server and he was hilarious and on point the whole meal. This place had great specials and a nice lunch menu. I got the steak tips MR which were cooked perfectly. Came with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Couldn't have asked for a better lunch! (Or leftovers for dinner!) The tips had an awesome sauce on them with just the right kick. You know a place is good when they make sure you water is full at all times which I personally appreciate a lot! Wish we had room for dessert and/or a martini but will definitely have to go back! The place was very clean and stylish and parking out front was a breeze. Thanks Howard and kitchen staff for a great afternoon! See you again real soon!
(5)
La H.
I could've sworn I did a review for this before, but alas, here's my review with my update. Last year I went here with friends and I had a Lychee Martini, some amazing food I can't remember, and a chocolate tower of some sorts which was so rich. The service was fast and friendly. My only beef with this place is that I booked it through Open Table and they never confirmed that I went there. It took me three months to get a hold of them maybe three or four times, just get this done. They finally did, but it was super inconvenient. I went here last night with Jess and they had really upped their game. I had some sort of mock-cucumber martini, which was way to strong, but Jess' passionfruit mojito was great. We shared bruschetta and the polenta and honestly I nearly died - when I said we shared, it means I at most of the polenta because it was that orgasmic. For dinner, I had the butternut squash ravioli which was rich and creamy and I can't wait to eat my leftovers. Jess had the lamb dish which she loved - so big she also has leftovers. For dessert we shared (evenly) the vanilla bread pudding which was OMG so amazing. I love this place, I really really do. I think If I ate here all time I would be 500 pounds. Go here, try the lobster mac and cheese, do a review, then die a happy death.
(4)
Kevin D.
One of my absolute favorite places to go. Food is always delicious and expertly served while the drink menu is a paradise to get lost in. Best part is that you can come with your friends and enjoy a conversation because even though the bar is always busy and hopping, it stays classy and refined. And did I mention the lobster macc and cheese??? Do yourself a favor and come enjoy one of the very best.
(5)
Tim F.
Went here for the first time wing the hubby - had heard good things, and happy to say it was well worth it! Hummus appetizer was tasty and a large serving. Oysters were great. I had the smoked salmon with toasted orzo while CJ had the lamb chops - empty plates for both of us! Carrot cake for dessert was lovely, with a citrusy frosting and a molasses sauce - impressive. Definitely a great time, and won't be our last!
(5)
Craig F.
This restaurant used to be good but it's been awhile since I've been back and it will be awhile before I go back. Service was slow, food was not good at all. Steak was over charred on the outside They undercooked my wife's steak.
Great atmosphere! The martinis are awesome. The bartenders really take the time to have a martini come out perfect. I understand the saying " you pay for what you get" This place is very expensive, but the portions are unreal! I got the pork chops that were $26-$30 dollars. Tasted great and had left overs for a whole week! My server Emily was amazing! She was so nice and made my experience wonderful. Cant wait to go back and get the best dirty martini ive ever had!
(4)
Ellen H.
Call me a sucker, but I love when I get to update a review to add more stars. Exchange Street Bistro, you've had some work done and it looks goooood. Decided to give ESB another shot, so my boyfriend and I came here on a Friday night for dinner and drinks. Made a reservation via Opentable, no issues when we arrived. I specifically asked for a seat in the front (bar) room as to avoid the hypnotic vibe of the booths in the dining room. We were seated in a little booth by the bar and we realized the place had a totally new look! The bar was moved and is now a horseshoe shape, much bigger than before, and a great spot for having a few drinks with friends or a date. The dining room is updated, also -- more open and much more well-decorated than before. Decor is great and all, but food and bev is the moneymaker, and both of those were MUCH improved, also! I got the wedge salad - great - the chicken quesadilla - very good - and the apple cider martini -- faaaabulous! I couldn't even eat the quesadilla because the salad was so filling and delish. The quesadilla was exactly as it should be - chicken and cheese and not a whole lot else, unlike many others that are filleddddd to the brim with grilled veggies (not my thang - if I want a veg quesadilla, I'll ask for one!). Overall, a WAYY better experience than before! Can't wait to come back with friends!
(4)
Susan Z.
Yum! Came here with the office for lunch. Everyone liked what they ordered and the servers were friendly. I got the lobster grilled cheese with salad, good amount of lobster and the brioche was delicious. Tried some sweet potato fries, and they were good, too. The pizzas are big individual pizzas - both people who ordered them ate only half, so if you get that there will be enough leftovers for a second meal.
(4)
Garet G.
Great food , great staff , and a very nice looking place if you're thinking about taking your date out !!!
(4)
Amy R.
The Exchange Street Bistro is a great and much needed addition to the Malden scene. I really like the atmosphere up-front and at the bar (but not so much in the back since it's been redone with uncomfortable seating). The mixed drink menu is fantastic, offering drinks such as Old Fashions and Moscow Mules. The menu is decent, offering a range of tapas and appetizers as well as pub-like and higher end dinner options. While this place is relatively busy, there's rarely a wait making it a great place to go on a Friday or Saturday night.
(4)
Karen C.
My mom and I hosted a surprise 65th birthday party for my dad here in August 2014 and we were very happy with how everything turned out. The person who handles the function business, Rich, was easy to work with, very helpful and accommodating to our requests. The servers at our event (Johanna and Emily) were fantastic as well. They were always ready to be of assistance but were not hovering over the party. We had a group of around 50 people in their back room and it was a perfect set up for our party. They let us bring in balloons and some other decorations but you really don't need much in this space as it is already a very attractive room. Having the party at a restaurant and not a standard banquet facility also made it much easier to trick my dad into thinking he was just going out to dinner and that helped keep the surprise! We opted for a buffet and after a lot of research found that Exchange Street was one of the few places that offered a 3rd entree option on a buffet menu without an extra charge per person. This was great for us as we were able to get a beef, fish and a pasta/chicken option. The food was plentiful and very tasty and they packed up the leftovers for us at the end of the night. We were also able to offer beer and wine on consumption at a very reasonable rate. Many of our guests commented on how much they loved the venue and more than one indicated they may host a party of their own here in the future which is always the clearest sign of a great venue!
(4)
Tina B.
My husband and I live in Malden and the Exchange Street was our go to place a few years back. The food was delicious. But we stopped going because we were looking at the same menu each time we went (although they do have specials). I'm happy to say that having gone back again, the food is still delicious, the service always good. The menu has changed. They just need to keep that fresh. The lobster/shrimp risotto was amazing. The chef is good with flavors. The quality of food here parallels anything you'll find in Boston.
(4)
YY L.
Great food for Sunday Brunch. Hope they also have a ourdoor dinning place.
(4)
Mary Beth B.
I live in Boston, a friend who commutes to Oak grove wanted to meet for dinner "somewhere on the orange line". I googled Orange Line and restaurants and found Exchange Street Bistro just a block from the T. What a spectacular gem!! I have never been to Malden but I will be returning to the bistro. Cozy bar, great high top tables, inventive well thought out menu and SPECTACULAR cocktails!! Generous portions and truly something for every type of palate. While there are great places I go to in west roxbury and roslindale I think Exchange Street could find a niche!
(4)
J J.
Was here for a reception event. Fish was overdone, chicken was dry and bland, and the pasta screamed high school cafeteria. The best part was the cheese and crackers but that's kind of tough to mess up. Waitress forgot our drinks and couldn't get anyone else's right either. I get that there's a lot of people, but maybe that means you should have more than 2 waitresses for over 50 people. Jesus. Also, very dark inside.
(1)
Mrs. M.
Exchange Street is one of me & my husbands favorite date night restaurants. The food deserves a 5 star rating, the location is what makes it 4 star. Inside the restaurant is beautiful, trendy, comfortable, relaxing. The waitresses are energetic, friendly, and not overbearing. They have a good selection of beers on tap and live music some nights. But lets get back to the food! One of the best burgers I've ever eaten, and GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. For the love of God just get them and thank me later. Last time we went I got the teriyaki glazed salmon and I didn't want it to end. My husband got the fried chicken and I could see his eyes gloss over and thought he was about to weep. If you want to enjoy great food in a local environment, definitely give this place a shot.
(4)
Natalie T.
Breakfast review: Okay menu, pretty simple breakfast things and some lunch options (fish n chips, eggs and toast) I went with friends. We had this waiter who tried to be funny but kept coming over every 10 minutes to tell us a life story if his. I could tell you his life story now of all those things he told us! and ordered the eggs toast and sausage. It was alright but the sausage wasn't too good. A friend got fish and chips which the waiter said 'they're good until they reach your stomach and blow up'. Well then... Dinner review: nice service. Amazing unique meals and desserts, they change up the menu every now and then which I really love. The lobster Mac n cheese is very good but very rich Breakfast: I don't recommend Dinner: go and have fun!
(3)
Rachael T.
Love the atmosphere of this place. Nice place to go out for dinner. The martini list is very extensive and both that I tried (cucumber and espresso) were great! The lobster mac and cheese was among the best I've had, and I've tried this dish almost everywhere! Tons of great tasting lobster and yummy cheeses. The food presentation is really great also. The prices are a bit high but the quality of the food and drinks makes it worth the price. Went around 4pm and the bartender was serving as the waitress/bartender. It wasn't crowded but for some reason I say there with empty drinks (water and cocktail) for about 15 minutes while I are my meal. This really annoyed me but I didn't even say anything and the bartender said she didn't charge me for the second drink because she had realized how long it had been, so I guess that somewhat makes up for it. I'm still looking forward to coming back again in the near future to try some more of the menu items and martinis. They even have velvet parking available!
(4)
Cheryl S.
I was there Saturday afternoon having drinks at the bar. The staff was really busy but the service was awesome!!! The manager was very rude, smelled like an ash tray, and I would go back as long as that manager guy wasn't there!!! The staff worked great as a team, were very very attentive, and were just over all amazing!!!
(1)
Nick F.
Nice place for a dinner date. When we were living in Malden we ate here four times and were never disappointed by the food. We've had steak, sea food, flat bread, tapas, and lobster mac n' cheese for app/dinner. Surprisingly the brunch was excellent the one time we tried it (a corn soup special and and omelet). We also liked the large martini selection. We enjoyed many of them, some more than others, and it was fun picking out a new one to try each time.
(5)
Ash A.
I have never had a bad experience here. Had an awesome date night with my husband, drinks and dessert, all were great. Service was awesome. Bathrooms are impeccably clean!
(5)
Frederick N.
This place is certainly a little diamond in the rough. Inside is beautiful, warm, sexy, everything you want in a dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. The food is excellent! What a wonderful experience. Prices are decent for an upscale dining experience delivered with the finesse that this group offers. I hope this place a successful 100 years in business!
(5)
William K.
Good food good service at the table I should give 4 stars than more friend jointed me we move to the bar, female bartender so rude she's not happy at all and we feel so uncomfortable sitting at the bar and it's only 9:45, about 11 people sitting at the bar Monday night 10/21/13 if she's ON I won't coming back any more. Sorry I had to taking back 2 star
(2)
Guy M.
I was looking online for a place to bring my girlfriend for valentines day and this perticular place came up first in my search results. I gave it a shot. We sat down an instantly loved the atmosphere. The menu wasn't huge but still delicious. Maybe they change it up? Everything was great and prepared well. The martinis were delicious and hard to choose from the long list. If you are looking for a place after work or a date, this is a place to go. The atmosphere is fun but elegant at the same time. I will be returning soon.
(4)
Jimmy B.
As an ex employee, I have to admit that its good food done really well. The decor is great and the staff was attentive and good at their jobs. Downside, over priced drinks and entrees. If you have the cash to throw towards a once in a while night out, you couldn't do any better.
(4)
Nancy Q.
Keeping it short and sweet... Great atmosphere, bartenders, tapas, and most importantly (LOL) AWESOME DRINKS! Definitely a place to check out!
Really enjoyed my dinner here, tonight. Started with a delicious martini. Then six oysters, followed by lamb chops and finished with a few bites of Tim's carrot cake. It was exceptional; flavored with orange and molasses. I am looking forward to coming back here again.
(4)
Nichole V.
Love it. My husband and I meet friends from Medford here often for drinks and food. Michelle is usually are waitress and she's great!
(5)
Megan G.
Really cool dinner atmosphere and delicious drinks and food. My favorite was the fish tacos and bruschetta!
(5)
Aaron K.
Exchange Street Bistro is a true diamond in the rough. Located down the street from a police station and across the street from an ugly parking garage and dry cleaner we found the oasis that is Exchange Street Bistro. I bought a Boston deals coupon after perusing the menu online. The menu online sounded delicious, the question was could they execute? The food was a homerun and where the restaurant earns most of it's acclaim from me. Fish tacos were excellent, some of the best I've had (maybe the best). They featured jack cheese along with the usual toppings, may not be authentic but it was damn tasty. An order (9$) came with 2 humongous tacos. My fiance had the lobster mac and cheese (23$) which was out of this world. It featured so much lobster, whole claws, tail meat, I think they may have put a whole lobster in it! The mac and cheese was really good too with a cheese sauce as well as melted cheese and breadcrumbs. The lobster tasted really good with some of that cheese sauce on it. This was the ultimate New England comfort food dish, I would highly recommend it. I had the pan seared scallops (22$) over lobster ravioli. This was a much lighter dish and did not actually fill me. Luckily my girl had plenty leftovers for me to steal. The scallops (3) were large and excellent quality. Pan seared perfectly. Lobster ravioli (3) were stuffed with a lobster mixture and were really tasty. While a plate that was a bit small, I was happy about the quality and understand that the ingredients are expensive. Would be nice if there were a few more asparagus (also 3!) on there to fill me up. For dessert we had the double chocolate mousse martini, perfect end to a great meal. It featured belgian chocolate and was killer. We would eat all of these dishes again and were really surprised with the quality and taste of food here. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere and a lively bar. It must of been built recently as everything looked new. Staff was friendly and accomodating throughout the meal. They were there to refill waters and clear dishes as needed. Minor gripes. They have great big windows, but they overlook a dry cleaner and ugly looming parking garage. Prices are a bit expensive for the area, but the food warrants it. I look forward to coming back and hoping I can get myself to try some of the other food here.
(5)
Maria R.
Sat at the bar on a Friday night for some drinks and light dinner. Our server/bartender, Christina, was friendly and attentive. This was a welcomed change in scenery from some of the other bars in Malden. Since we didn't really order a full meal, I don't want to rate the food too much, but we had no complaints. I will definitely be back for the dirty pepper martini!
(4)
Kevin L.
My favorite place to come to brunch when I actually have the time to do it. The food is pretty standard for a brunch menu but the prices are decent and they have a multitude of different mimosa's! The dishes are a hit or miss and the servers are not the best. They lack consistency but have a lot of potential, probably could use better management in the front of the house. But over all it is hard to find a better place for brunch.
(3)
Kerri C.
I've been to Exchange Street a few times and to be honest the only thing I can complain about it that it can get a bit pricey. Their martinis are amazing and they usually have a pretty nice selection of beers on draft. I am in love with their tapas menu, and make sure to try the lobster mac & cheese!
(4)
Julio S.
Good food, good service. Had a good date overall; could use one or two more vegetarian options but that's just a preference.
(4)
Sharon D.
Yum! This place is great! Beautiful atmosphere, extensive martini and drink menu, eclectic tapas menu, modern dinner menu... A perfect place for a date night, girls night or honestly, any night out! I keep hearing about their Sunday brunch and we'll have to check it out soon! I also hear they are expanding, which is always a good sign!
(4)
Chris N.
Good place. Good food and really good drinks. When you walk in you feel like you're in the middle of Boston. The negative is the prices are just as expensive as Boston too. I have a tough time paying $13 for a martini in Malden Sq.
(4)
Stephanie A.
The martinis here are phenomenal. I used to come here at least once a week. The last time I was here, unfortunately, the food had gone down a bit. I was disappointed. I am hoping it was a one time thing because the food here has always been delicious!
(3)
Phil O.
I went here on New Year's Eve with my girlfriend. We were both satisfied with our appetizers and entrees. I ordered from the special holiday menu and got the stuffed sole which was nicely laid out on top of grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes, with a fitting light Hollandaise-type sauce. It was very delicious. I ordered two martinis, which both met my expectations (nice balance of taste and punch) for only $9.25 apiece. The service was good but a bit slow which was to be expected on NYE. I'd give this place a 4.5 if it were an option. I'd like to come back.
(4)
Brendan C.
Came here on a relatively busy Monday night and have to say I was not only pleasantly surprised but very impressed. We started with the bruschetta which was original, with more of a thin crispy bread topped with tomatoes and goat cheese and a bit of balsamic, very tasty. I had the seared tuna, excellent again and presented beautifully. My wife had the salmon and reported good things. Overall a great spot, not very cheap but not overly pricey and worth it.
(4)
Larissa A.
As mentioned Exchange Street Bistro is a total hidden gem. I have now been there twice, once for brunch and once for dinner. I DO need to come in and start working my way through the Martini menu. Luckily I work very close by. I have not had the issues that others have had with the service. The staff has always been super nice and accommodating. Quick and responsive. One tip that I noticed is that if you or anyone in your party orders an appetizer, you MAY want to tell them to not wait on the entrees. They don't like to rush you, which is great. But I did see some bar patrons get antsy about this. I look forward to many visits to come
(4)
Jennie S.
The rudest waitstaff I have ever encountered. The food is okay, but it takes 20 minutes to get sugar for your tea. Most of the waiters have attitude and management should do a better job hiring people. Don't waste your time coming here for Sunday brunch.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro several times now and am happy to give it four stars. It's got great atmosphere, friendly staff, a varied but not over-the-top menu, fancy enough for a date night out but casual enough for jeans and a day of comfort. It's on the pricey side for Malden, but that's the point--it's good food. Treat yourself and come here for the lobster mac and cheese. You won't regret it. There are cheaper alternatives like the angus burger which is also excellent. Some things to note: * They have a lot of great specials, including $1 tapas that your server will tell you about and seem to change with each visit. * I don't like sitting in the booths in the back room because the fabric is dizzying and the lighting is very unflattering--especially for a date (picture interrogation room lighting above your head) * Avoid the restuaraunt.com gift certs to this place. Way too many conditions. Just go and enjoy yourself. Sometimes they have groupons for it anyways. *They validate parking at the garage directly across the street. But it's also T-accessible from the Malden Center T-stop (about a 5 minute walk).
(4)
Kate P.
I dined at ESB last night and was NOT impressed. I got decaying lime on my martini and my boyfriend's alcoholic drink. The bread was like a hockey puck. My roasted haddock could use some taste; it was as bland as could be. And my boyfriend's Bolognese was not good; the noodles could barely be chewed due to their size and texture and there was not enough sauce. My waitress was very good but the staff person that that seated us did so in a manner of slapping down the menus on the table and walking away...
(2)
Kathleen H.
I was here for lunch on a Monday. My drink was good- they have an extensive cocktail list - and I thought the food was great. We started with hummus - some of the best I've ever had. Hummus is one of those things that's gotten kind of de riguer and bland at parties and on nosh platters, and normally I pass. But this was very, very good, and served with a mint pesto. The house salad was nothing super special, but fresh and tasty. My Kobe burger was delicious and cooked rare as ordered, and came with perfectly cooked, kosher-salted, totally addictive fries. Is it just me, or are restaurants doing better with fries these days? Quality fries made for gluttonous stuffing. burp. I really shouldn't have finished them all, because we sat there drinking and eating and also ordered dessert. I ordered the house made ice cream sandwiches. So - they overdo this a bit. They are chocolate chip cookies of average size, filled with a ice cream: Some chocolate, some vanilla. They gave me SIX. SIX, seis, 6. Sigh. I ate one, and licked some of the ice cream out of the other ones. Being raised as the menopause baby of Depression Era parents, I had pangs of guilt all the way home for wasting those other chocolate chip cookies. Aside from that, I look forward to coming back again to try the dinner menu.
(4)
Stacie R.
Our table of 6 was thoroughly impressed with our dinner. Friends of ours just moved to Malden, and I can't wait to meet up at this place again! We started off sharing Spicy Chicken wings, Bruschetta, and Hummus. It was an awesome start. We had a diverse crowd of diners, including a vegan and vegetarian. They accommodated the vegan particularly well, making her a special dish of delicious vegetables. I had the Minted Pea Ravioli though I also want to try the Capellini, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, the Clams Vongole and the Haddock! Needless to say, I will return with friends in tow! Other dishes that were had by our party: Atlantic Salmon, Half Chicken, Bone In Sirloin, and Eggplant Roulade. Rave reviews!!!!
(5)
Jacquil T.
The drinks were yummy! Service was great! Food was good.
(4)
Diane H.
i'm judging this place on the bar soley! My friend invited me to check out this place for drinks after dinner, I was always kind of like "ehhh" to this place, a wannabe trying to be all classy in the middle of malden square, seriously? It's probably over priced..and no good. HAPPY HOUR!!!! Tuesday! My friends were at the bar, so I joined, the bartender is very nice! Sparked up a convo with my friend that I ALMOST THOUGHT THEY KNEW EACH OTHER, haaha. $5 martinis!!! well, a couple of them anyways, i got the stoli doli? mmm delicious! my friend has the elder..something, that tasted strong!!!! my other friend had the malibu sunset, it was good. and my other friend was offered water by the bartender when she said she was driving and will not be drinking...nice touch. They have tapas for cheap! I will definitely hit this place up when i'm in town, as i sadly do not live here anymore so i can't come whenever. my friend did come once on a saturday, she said small portions/high prices. Ambience: Very nice! They had a crowd, the front tables were mostly filled, not sure about the back.
(4)
Heidi H.
Worst service I've ever gotten. There is not a good variety of things on the menu I had to eat a side salad because there wasn't anything I could or wanted to eat. Horrible.
(2)
Susan C.
Exchange Street is a hidden gem in Malden. The food and service are very good, it's basically a trendy Boston type restaurant in the burbs. I've tried their brunch and happy hour, and have yet to be disappointed. Do try their stuffed french toast, and do come for the happy hour. The happy hour is a particular good deal as they have $1 tapas style bar bites and $5 beers on draft. I particularly enjoyed their sliders.
(4)
Erin T.
I have eaten at Exchange Street quite a few times since they have been in business. The food has always been good. They pour a very generous glass of wine.. Always left satisfied.
(4)
Roberta B.
Don't come here on Sunday before dinner time if you don't want brunch. Everything on the menu had eggs in it and i just didnt feel like it, so I was forced to eat lobster mac and cheese, the only thing without eggs, other than a burger I think, which I also wasnt in the mood for. HOWEVER, the lobster mac and cheese was heavenly, and after I took that first bite, my experience went from bad to wonderful.
(4)
Mariel M.
My mom and I decided to host my sister's bridal shower here on a recommendation from someone who was hosting her rehearsal dinner here...and I'm so pleased that we did! We met with the general manager, who put us completely at ease and made it so simple to plan the event that we wanted. We knew that we wanted to have a Friday night shower (who wants to go in the middle of the day and waste a weekend?) and that we wanted it to be cocktails and appetizers. He couldn't have been more accommodating for the amount of people we were planning on having and the event that we wanted to have. The night of the event was great. We had our own private room, with a server that was specifically for our party that would get us drinks from the bar. Our menu consisted of a cheese and fruit platter, beef teriyaki, chicken, feta and grape skewers, pulled pork sliders, margarita pizza, bruschetta and chicken wings. The way that they displayed the food was so nice and classy...no cheesy metal burners here! Everything came out fresh and hot and was gobbled up by everyone. My favorite (or what I got to sneakily eat in between greeting guests) was the beef teriyaki and pulled pork sliders. They were SO yummy and felt like upscale bar food. I can't say enough great things about this place! The parking is so convenient too, if you're hosting a larger group (as we were) since they offer free validation at the garage next door. The martinis are great (very strong!) and the staff is so nice. If you're looking for a classy, fun place to host an event, look no further!
(5)
Robert M.
A nice hidden gem in Malden Center! Friday night dinner, around 7 pm and got sat right away (just missed the rush!). Very big and buzzing bar and lounge area with many tv's, separate dining room area if you aren't into sports. Very attentive service all around throughout the night, even after a flat sat section. The menu caters to everyone, price wise and selection, from basic to a bit adventurous. Food came out very timely and was delicious! Fresh ingredients and flavors all around, from fish tacos, mozzarella salad, a pasta dish and a pizza. All winners, plus leftovers for tmrw lunch
(5)
Jane S.
LOVE this place as it never disappoints. Truly a "hidden gem" in the heart of Malden - Exchange Street Bistro has saved us many times from driving into Boston in order to find comparable quality and service (and parking is easy). Today I ordered the lunch tapas special which was their best yet - AMAZING - so I just had to rave about it! The food is creative and fresh and their specials are exceptional. Great value, great service, great food and a great local bar/night life. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah, love the new look and live music! BTW's, I rarely write reviews - only when the place is really worth it!
(4)
Adam G.
I can't give an in depth review since I did not try any of the food but I definitely get the sense that Exchange Street Bistro is a cut above most of the restaurants in Malden Square. The bartender was absolutely friendly and helpful in making a recommendation. The tap selection leaves a little to be desired but with Blue Moon available, that can be forgiven.
(4)
Che R.
Good food, bad service (i.e., Thomas). I had a restaurant.com gift cerificate for this place, so I took three of my coworkers to lunch. I read the fine print many times just to be sure that there were no "catches," and it seemed that a lunch where four people were getting entrees would work. We just had to spend at least $35, and we couldn't include drinks in the gift cert amount. So we went in at 12:00 on a rainy Tues. No one was in the place. We were greeted by Thomas who seated us, and right off the bat he had an attitude toward us. I complimented the place saying that it looked great and that they had changed the decor a bit. He said, "It's been like this for a year." I jokingly replied that we should go there more often. He didn't see the humor. Then we got water, looked at the menus, and when Thomas came back, we showed him the gift cert and asked if it was ok to use it. He said, "No, you can only use these with dinner." He hadn't even read it. I told him that I had read the fine print, and that it appeared as though we could use it for lunch since it didn't say "dinner only." He said that we had to order at least $35 worth of entrees. I said that we'd planned on each getting an entree. He said, "No, you have to have at least two entrees that equal at least $35." I then said, "Yes, but your entrees are all around $13. How could two equal at least $35?" He then said rather snippily, "Yeah, that's why you have to use it at dinner." We told him that it really should say that on the gift cert; it's misleading the way it's written. He then sighed and took it. We ordered over $45 worth of food, which was very good: gnocchi, pizza, and a chicken pot pie. Thomas brought our meals, and did not say much nor did he smile. (Really?? Really?? He has to take it out on us? The restaurant was still very empty; there was only one other table in there by this point. Didn't he need our business, I thought to myself.) It was all very sad and a bit annoying. So we finished our meals and paid the bill. We noticed that he had added an 18% gratuity on the bill. I understand that that's something that restaurant.com does since many people don't tip on the original pre-discounted bill but end up only tipping on the reduced amount. So we paid the bill and left. I really don't understand those kinds of things. My husband and I use groupon, living social, and other gift cerificates and coupons to restaurants all over Boston and Cambridge, and we've never had an experience like that. This guy was taking his frustrations out on us. It definitely doesn't make me want to go back there. Malden has a few good restaurants; I will go to those places instead from now on.
(2)
Joanna F.
I attended a rehearsal dinner here on Friday night. I was really excited to try this restaurant since I had heard so much about it and I wasn't disappointed. We had a table reserved right in the middle of the restaurant and the service was impeccable. The drink list is spectacular. I opted for wine instead of one of their many martinis, but the martinis were reasonably priced and looked good. The food was amazing. Every morsel I put in my mouth was absolutely delicious. We started with several appetizers including calamari, hummus, grilled pizza and bruschetta. I have nothing bad to say about any of the apps... all of them were spectacular. Now, I'm not sure if I'm biased since I never order pasta or a lot of meat sauces at restaurants, but I was blown away by the Wild Boar Bolognese. It was rich and absolutely delicious and the portion was gigantic. Exchange Street Bistro is everything I like in a restaurant... classy without being stuffy, delicious food without the high prices and spectacular service with a sense of humor. I can't wait to come back.
(5)
Amanda Z.
Ok... I've lived in Malden for... over a year now? So, how is it that I had no idea about this place?!? Sure, I'd seen some of the coupons that would pop up on the valupak thing that comes in the mail every once in a while, but I had no idea what a diamond in the rough this place was. People, I think we need to start giving Malden some more credit for the restaurants it has! We were entertaining guests that weekend and were trying to figure out a good place to go for Sunday brunch. The usual was out, and we needed a plan B. Enter yelp to save the day. After mulling over some of the usual suspects, this particular place kept catching my eye. Once I found out people felt there was amazing french toast to be had, I was sold. We promptly trekked over and were shocked. This restaurant is beautiful. Worthy of downtown Boston. And, it's in Malden. Kudos. Everything glistens like its brand new, with a catwalk leading you from the entrance to the hostess station where you'll get a gander of the pretty, green-lit bar. We arrived around noon, and were seated immediately. Soon after that, our party ordered the breakfast burrito, an omelette, the eggs benedict, and the french toast. Oh... and we sort of got our morning drink on, too. (The chambord mimosa is where its at.) Everyone was stuffed and no one was able to finish. The only downside was the wait between putting in our order and getting our food, but it was certainly well worth the wait.
(4)
Traci K.
I walk by Exchange Street Bistro every day on my way home from the T. It's pretty hopping and the menu looked tasty enough so a friend and I decided to check it out for lunch. We both got salads, cobb and nicoise. The cobb was OK. It had lots of stuff in it and the dressing was good, but it wasn't anything really phenomenal. My friend enjoyed her nicoise and didn't have any complaints. The service was decent. The server was polite and quick and readily available. Atmosphere wise, Exchange Street confuses me. It seems really upscale, but the food isn't upscale. I felt under dressed, but it was lunch. I'm not sure how I feel about it.
(3)
Jen R.
I had tried this restaurant over a year ago and wasn't super impressed with the food then. But they renovated the interior and they must have changed chef/ menu since because I was pleasantly surprised at quality and taste of each dish. They have a great , inexpensive tapas bar menu. I tried the calamari, spinach dip and wedge salad at around $5 each and they were nicely presented and delicious. But what I recommend most is the natural chicken pizza. Easily 1 of top 3 pizzas I have EVER had!! It was an amazing thin crust with unusual but perfectly matched toppings, and I would order it every time. To top it off the vanilla bread pudding for dessert was awesome. One of the best I have ever had and it was large enough to share. I would highly recommend this place if you live nearby. But it is also only a 5 minute walk from Malden T.
(5)
Debra B.
I so want to give it 4 stars BUT, the mussels (tasty, plentiful) cost hubby the next day of work. He ate 9/10th of them. I had just 2 or 3 so only a very slight morning surprise for me. He got the whole wrecked-day. Service was very good & cocktails - great. The other food items (calamari, spring roll) generous & well prepared. But should I blame the place for the mussels? Honest, I'm not sure it's anyone's "fault" but it's hard not to blame the kitchen. It just may take a while for the memory of the one bad meal to fade. Maybe the basil gin cocktail will help with that?
(3)
Frances K.
Love their unique food presentation--a delight to the eye and the tongue. Enjoy bringing my [grown] daughter here.
(4)
Kimberly L.
Exchange Street is a classy little gem in the heart of sketchy Malden center. Don't let the exterior surroundings fool you, inside it is well decorated, has wonderful staff, dim but not too dim lighting, & a martini list that will knock your socks off. As a vegetarian, they offer a fair amount of veg options, which is also definitely appreciated. Overall, definitely worth a visit if you're up for venturing out to Malden!
(4)
Liudmila G.
Exchange street Bistro is tucked away in the most unattractive part of Malden! but it truly is the highlight of the area! I have been here on numerous occasions both for lunch and dinner and have always had pleasant service and delicious food. the menu is classic but offers an inspiring modern twist on some of the most traditional dishes. their wine and martini list is a stand out on it's own. Trish that usually works lunch time is very friendly and professional, i have always received best service from her.
(4)
L L.
Great spot with a really good menu and fantastic bar! Love the bartenders (especially Rob) and the wait staff are always friendly. The space is chic without being pretentious. We go here often and will continue to do so.
(4)
Nastassja G.
I tried this place out on a Tuesday and went back by Saturday -- it was that good! The martini list is amazing (and they make a great lemon drop martini). Every thing I have had there is great. The staff are so nice. They even validate parking! I can't wait to return for brunch.
(5)
Thomas S.
Tapas was great, we sampled everything. My favorite was the cheese and spinach that were fried (I though they were meatballs at first) with a nice sauce on top. Calamari was delicate and not chewy at all. Martini was good but not excellent probably because it wasn't allowed to chill long enough for my liking, but the olives saved the day, a meal in themselves. We only had drinks and the tapas but I'd like to try this place for dinner, what a diamond in the rough!
(4)
Liz L.
Ugh. I want to write a great review for this place, but... ugh. We went to Exchange Street Bistro for a celebration birthday dinner last night and had a great time - until we got our entrees. But, I'll start with all the good. The decor is great. Very chic and intimate. There are tables in the front and back of the restaurant - back of the restaurant has booths that create the feeling of having a private dining experience. The front of the restaurant, even though the tables are somewhat close together, still has that intimate private feel. The waitstaff was fabulous. From the hostess to the waitress to the owner (or manager, I didn't ask), everyone is attentive and friendly. A+ customer service. The selection of wine is pretty decent, especially considering the restaurant is known for their martinis. We got a bottle of Shiraz that was delicious. And the martinis? Mmmm! We saved our martinis for after dinner - I had an Espresso Martini that was to die for. My dining partner got an Iced Pumpkin Latte Martini that was unbelievable. We savored every sip. Delicious. Ok. Now onto the food - my reason for the low review. We ordered a whole bunch of food and none of it was particularly great. Considering the prices, I was expecting much better food. To start, we got a caesar salad and the coconut shrimp. The caesar was just ok and the coconut shrimp was pretty good - nothing fancy, even though it was presented as a fancy dish. For entrees we ordered the special - a hanger steak with scallops, twice baked potato, and asparagus, and the filet mignon with scalloped potatoes and asparagus. The filet had some sort of demi-glaze, but I've forgotten what it was. And this is where the disappointment starts. I have never sent back a dish or even considered doing so, but when I saw my steak I was super bummed out. If it wasn't a Monday night and I had more time for dinner, I would have sent it back. I was expecting a filet and the cut of meat I got may have been a filet... but it was definitely a terrible cut of meat. I asked for medium and my meat was gray inside. Definitely overdone. The scalloped potatoes were ok. The asparagus was the best part of my meal. As for the special? The twice baked potato was delicious, but the scallops were way overcooked. The hanger steak was cooked poorly, medium rare in some places, well done in others. Ugh. I would suggest going to Exchange Street for drinks and atmosphere, but avoid the food. Overpriced, overcooked, and a total disappointment. What a bummer - I realllllly wanted to love this place!
(2)
Joi T.
I have since fallen in love with this place and come here often alone or with a buddy. They do change their tapas menu often so if you fall in love with something it may be gone in a few months. They also changed their tapas time frame which I LOVE!!!!! It's now from 4 pm till close still at bar & lounge. They do not have any drink specials though but it's fine because the food choices make up for it. I did have dinner with some friends not too long ago. I ordered beef wellington from the prix fixe menu. I have never had it before so I had no idea what to expect and have no comparison. It was good very tasty and the pastry was nice and flakey. It is something I will order again.
(4)
Leah P.
Had dinner there recently, Food was SO good! I had the black pepper fettuccine (I think that's what it was called), it was so delicious! Appetizer and soup were great too. Our server Michelle was great as well as the hostsess/busser. The place also has a great ambiance, casual and cool. Will definitely be back the next time We're in Malden.
(5)
EricaLynn J.
Suffering from what seems to be an identity crisis, the Exchange Street Bistro is a 'see and be seen' establishment nestled smack in the midst of one of the busiest areas of Malden, right down the street from the Malden Center T stop and next to a bunch of closed businesses and a bargain hair salon. Signs for valet parking seem quite out of place, though certainly adds to the mystery surrounding the beautifully designed storefront. Once inside, customers simply walk down the long, narrow path and their dining adventures will soon begin. It's hard not to notice the amount of activity surrounding the bar that's in the middle of the entire place. And there you have the Best of Malden - and yes, I do mean the cougars too - all placed around that bar drinking their days away with the charming (but expensive!) drink and specialty martini menu. And while much of the place seems to partake in its own battle of the bands (jazz music blasting from one end, televisions blaring with sports games at another end), your ears will be most attuned to the people at the bar, as with anywhere: as they get drunker, they get louder. With all the hustle and bustle and bizarre eye candy, I almost forgot that I was there to eat - though in a way, I wish I had. The "tapas" appetizer tasted fantastic and came out rather quickly (which may, of course, have been the first indication that something was not quite right) and for $20, it's a steal for two people looking to share all sorts of goodies from teriyaki chicken to mussles to spring rolls. And the regular dinner menu and specials all were pretty mouthwatering at first glance. Lobster mac and cheese, seared scallops with vegetables, and baked penne with sausage with a pomodoro sauce all stood out to me as potentials, and I went with the penne and sausage. My first question to any server when it comes to an entree that can go either way is if the sauce or the meat are spicy. I can't stomach spicy food - what is just reasonably spicy to some will pretty much put me out for the count. So seeing the words 'sausage' and 'pomodoro sauce', I had to ask. I was told that it was absolutely not spicy and I did not give it another thought. My penne and sausage looked absolutely delectable and I was thrilled that I chose that over the lobster mac and cheese, though I certainly tasted quite a bit of it across the table. A few bites in, though, I realized that the sauce was a little bit spicy. I got about a third of the way through and I felt like I had eaten five times as much. My stomach began alerting me to the fact that things were definitely not OK. And to make things worse, fruit flies were rummaging around the table and trying to make friends with my food. I am sure you can probably see where this is going. Poor me, I know. You're playing the tiniest violin for me and I do appreciate it. But my experience with Exchange Street Bistro certainly was more than just the unfortunate incident with the spicy or the undercooked stuff. My general blahs towards this place is based primarily around the fact that it's a really weird restaurant and I got the impression that they're a little too eager to make the place chic and frou-frou that they forget the basics: good, honest service, clean surroundings, and fresh tasty food will get you far.
(2)
Nancy Z.
For the love of PEPPERONCINI MARTINIS! Man. I like wine, and I sure as hell like my beer- but hot damn. Their martinis make me want to pop in a whole season of Sex and the City! All of a sudden, I feel an urge to go into chick-overdrive mode when I hold a martini glass. Is that weird? Do most girls feel like that? Anyways... if you enjoy Dirty Martinis, this will absolutely make your night. Actually, all their drinks will, they have an enormously great selection. It is also one of the best places to meet up with friends. The decor and music is very trendy and the bar and crowd are always lively at night. Malden has come a long way since I grew up here! One of the best dishes I've had there was the livers that's sauteed with onions and other scrumptious and savory ingredients. It's served on sweet, dense pieces of brown bread. I think there's even some cinnamon in it (clever, you). The flavors work together so well. Note that there is also happy hour here, I think from 4-6ish that includes $1 oysters. The service has been great every time. During Friday and Saturday nights, it gets pretty crowded, so there may be a wait if you come in late. You could always be safe and make a reservation as well. Two sets of two words: Pepperoncini Martini Do it.
(4)
Ribblet N.
Tastes pretty darn good tonight. May be all the beers? Had the steak bits and sweet potato fries and a Cesar salad. Spicy chicken wings for appetizer and mussels, front window seating, was great.
(5)
Jennifer R.
The problem: The front of the house is doing their kitchen a huge disservice. We go for dinner. The food is terrific. All of it. Why two stars? Let's start with a strong chemical odor that hits us as we come through the door and never lets up. Follow that with Nurse Ratched approaching our table. We recoil. We order a bottle of wine. She brings the wrong vintage. We point out the error. The vintage offered is unavailable. (The wine list has never been updated.) We order a different wine. Meanwhile, we get an edgy visit from Schlubby the Manager. He's dressed like he's just come from the gym. "It's all the same juice", he argues. This is going down in a place decked out to look swanky and advertised to be fab. (The interior is cool...in a cookie-cutter sort of way. Pussy willow branches, the usual mod "teak" dividers, lots of booths, a back-lit bar.) All the while, GREAT food lands on our table, though we cringe every time Ms. Brassy Breeches delivers it. Otherwise? The martinis are good. Oh, and you can giggle over the misspellings in the menu as you inhale chemicals and are assaulted by the staff. If I worked in that kitchen, I'd be furious.
(2)
Robert B.
Amazing bread pudding and awesome service!!!!
(5)
Kelly C.
For Malden, this is top notch. We stopped in for brunch, and although VERY noisey (2 different bridal showers going on) it was great! The food was really good - I had the Monte Cristo and it and the fries along with it were some of the best I've had. Hubby had the eggs benedict, that came with greens and fruit salad. We also had the fried calamari (we try it everywhere we go) and it wasn't crispy enough for me, but the pepper sauce they put on it was a unique taste that I enjoyed. The portions were large, our waitress was very attentive, and the atmosphere was upscale. We liked it a lot and will definitely be back!
(5)
Lou P.
Upscale atmosphere Great martini selection Good for quiet dates While I used to love the dive bar crowd in college and for a short time thereafter, I ooccasionally find myself tending toward a more refined (read: quiet) experience now. The evening lounge at Exchange Street is right up my alley in that regard. The atmosphere is muted and quiet. It's as if you're in the private back area of a larger, busier club and the music is wafting through the doorway. I've been here twice now, once for a private party, and once for drinks. I'm not sure the food at the party, delicious as it was, is indicative of the overall quality, so I will refrain from comment on that. I would recommend the place for a quiet evening, however, especially if you're in the mood for a martini. We arrived around 10:30 on a Saturday night, and got a seat right at the bar. It wasn't crowded by any means, and the bartender was right over to take our order. The drinks are a bit expensive at around $10.50 for a martini. The ladyfriend had a Lemon Drop, which I sampled. It wasn't too sweet, and not overly sour either. I had a Nucumber (Hendricks and muddled cucumber.) It's a strange taste, but I would recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the Gimlet looking to switch it up. The evening crows is a bit older, so you're best served going there with a date or friends rather than looking for company.
(3)
Michael T.
We went on opening night after the remodel and enjoyed the new layout. The food is always very tasty and portions are good considering it's a bistro. Drinks are amazing. A great time with friends. Hands down the best restaurant in Malden.
(5)
Julia C.
The interior decoration suffers from identity crisis (read: gilded Italian plaster molding + edgy, modern furniture + middle-ages-esque tapestries), but this can only add to your dinner conversation. I came here for a coworker's going-away lunch get-together. The lunch menu is your typical Americana fare, things like burgers, club sandwiches, green salads, etc. The lone chicken pad thai that somehow found its way onto the menu always makes me laugh. Our waitress was a friendly yet excessively bubbly gal who was very willing to please, but came by way too many times (every 10 minutes or so for the hour that we were there, checking for water, making sure that everyone's dish was okay and that we didn't need anything else) for my comfort level. The food portions are HUGE. Almost everyone took a doggie bag home. I've had bites of the club sandwich and ordered the lobster mac and cheese, which were both tasty, but nothing special. I didn't feel comfortable asking for bites of the aforementioned random pad thai, but if anyone has tried it, please let me know how it is! I do not remember any entree item being over $15, mostly in the $10-13 range.
(3)
Mike D.
I have been to the Exchange Bistro a couple times; both times the service was quite bad and food was also terrible. The restaurant is located in wonderful downtown Malden and tries to pretend to be like Boston. It is a bit pricey for the location and area. I would say take the 10 minute drive into downtown Boston and get a much better meal and experience for the same price.
(2)
Joe S.
Jesus Christmas, the Wellington neighborhood is boring! Strip malls and half-assed chain restaurants will give you some bang for your buck, but when all is said and done, the experience feels like you've stood in line at the supermarket. Blase, sir! Blah Say. A brother wants to be in walking distance of good neighborhood eats and the Wellington neighborhood is not that. So my girlfriend and I decided to venture out to Malden Center for some local culture and cuisine. It's not quite walking distance, but the T can trick a man into thinking the ride was part of his stroll. We invited 2 friends, investigated Yelp for places to go, decided on Exchange Street Bistro and off we went. Our friends drove and found ample parking in front of the restaurant at 6pm on a Saturday. We almost passed the front door as it looked like part of the exterior wall. "Better to keep away the riff-raff" I thought. Inside, the restaurant was classier than I had imagined, definitely leaning more to the Bistro side of the name than Exchange Street. High ceilings, deep burgundy walls and some friendly hostesses asking if we had reservations greeted us. We were immediately seated in a booth that made us feel totally separate from the rest of the small crowd and our waitress came by momentarily to make us feel at home. She was sweet, knowledgeable and, most importantly, human. There was nary an R to be heard in any word spoken. Toto, I think we are in Malden. Thank God. We started with drinks. The drinks at Exchange Street Bistro are huge. These bowls that the staff referred to as Martini glasses might hold a quart of liquor. Needless to say, we were big fans right away. My companions chose martinis from the vast drinks menu and I had the Bourbon Manhattan. The Manhattan was standard. I wish I asked for less Vermouth, but then again, I should just start asking for a bowl of chilled Makers Mark with some fruit in it. The apps were good, but not great. To be honest, I hate Broccoli Rabe, so the Broccoli Rabe Spring Rolls hardly tempted me. Interstingly enough, when it is called rapini in the pork chop main dish, I eat it like its being taken away from me. Go figure. The Korean Barbeque Spare Ribs with their sesame glaze tasted like run of the mill Chinese food to me, but I am not a huge fan of Asian cuisine. I think this paragraph describes more the cost I paid to eat where I wanted to than the actual meal. Exchange Street does not offer psychological help on the menu, but I am sure the friendly wait staff would listen. The main courses were much better. I had the Frenched Center Cut Pork Chop with roasted Delicata squash, vinegar peppers and sauteed rapini. The pork chop was succulent, tender and juicy in a rather large portion. The few peppers were delicious, but only made me wish there were more on the plate. The squash and rapini were excellent sides, with the rapini offering a hint of garlic and the tender Delicata offering a nice flavor and change of consistency. Mwah! Delish! My compatriots had no complaints about their meals really. The Ahi Tuna was adequately portioned and disappeared in a matter of moments. The Veal Saltimbocca featured 2 big pieces of veal with cheese over them. It looked good and was boxed up for a highly anticipated breakfast meal. The Eggplant Napoleon was "too cheesy", but very good otherwise. I will go to Exchange Street Bistro again as the $200 price tag was okay for the amount of food we received. Thanks Exchange Street Bistro for making my awful neighborhood a little more acceptable.
The martinis were good, but service and food was not impressive. Also, there are numerous misspelled words on the menu. Overall, the food and service was poor and slow. Not worth the amount of money they charge. I'm surprised because the restaurant was featured on Phantom Gourmet and I've heard so many great things, but it was a big disappointment that ended up costing us a lot of money.
(2)
Karla M.
AWESOME food and ambiance!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The leech martini ROCKS! The only downside is depending which night you go, which bartender you get! I've had GREAT service, and no so great service. The only improvement I'd recommend is training/choosing the appropriate bartenders for an upper class restaurant. A+++++
(4)
Omeed D.
Well, this place has slipped dramatically. When I moved to Malden 18 months ago, this was one of the restaurants I was most excited about. A couple of early visits were encouraging. The martini list is extensive - which is the only reason I give it two stars instead of one. In the last six months, every visit has been a disappointment. The menu has tended towards the mediocre and every meal I've had has been worse than the previous one. The end came for me today. My fiancee and I were coming back from running errands and decided to check out their happy hour. They advertise an extensive list of cut rate drinks and eats. I wish that were the case. As the bartender explained the deals, it became apparent that the happy hour was limited to just a couple of selections. There were two (mediocre sounding) martinis available. When I asked about cocktails, the bartender told me the martinis counted as cocktails - and then offered to whip up some sort of grape-flavored nightmare as well. The happy hour wines were limited to a chardonnay and their cheapest red wine (and it's not like their wine list is pricey; 337 is 12.99 a bottle at Kappys). We just left. The food selection seemed reasonably priced - but, as I mentioned, I've been disappointed in everything I've eaten there for quite some time. As much as I like to support local businesses, I'm done with this place. If you're looking for good food in the area, I'd recommend my new favorite: Bistro 5 in Medford. Going to write my review for that... right now!
(2)
Lizzie S.
I was so surprised to find food this good and atmosphere this wonderful in Malden! We ordered appetizers and entrees, and every bite was incredible. Also, the night we were there had live entertainment of a singer/guitarist. The wait staff was friendly, the food came out fast, and everything was delicious. Conveniently located near the Malden enter T stop, this place is definitely worth a try.
(5)
Meredith K.
I'm so sad the old chef left. When we first started to come here - it was SO delicious and the menu seemed to change frequently (which I like). The mussels with julienned veggies and garlic toast was to die for, but alas - it is no more. We have gone back maybe 3 times since the (original or at least last chef) left and all 3 times it's just been ok - pretty boring forgetttable meals. The menu has been the exact same (except specials) all 3 times over a 10 month period and nothing really stands out that much. The mac and cheese - meh I can make it better at home. The steak - I've had better at so many places. the braised short ribs - I've had SO much better elsewhere. It just felt like the quality of food went downhill and so did the flavor (it was bland). I do have to say the drinks are fun and tasty (lots of specialty martinis) and a decent wine list. Also the servers have always been friendly, but occasionally on the slow side to bring dishes/refills.
(2)
Ernald N.
I stepped in here for the first time ever for a takeout order so I didn't have the In-House experience. The decor of this place is nice, very stylish and appears to have a great bar. My review is based primarily on the food quality really, I ordered the "Exchange" Steak Frittes dish and while the steak was tasty the meal itself was lacking. For $20 I got 4-5 small pieces of steak which didn't fill me up at all. The sweet potato fries were soaked & soggy instead of crisp since they were topped with watery baby arugula. The arugula was fresh and good but again because of the quantity of food provided I couldn't give a review over 3 stars for my experience. I'll likely come back for drinks but I'm on the fence for having another meal here especially since my appetite is about average.
(3)
Mark A.
I receive coupons for this place every once in a while, and have to admit that's usually the only thing that gets me to think of going to this place. I have been here a handful of times though. The food's always been good, though I'd prefer a little more variation in their menu. The drinks are good, and they have a fairly well stocked bar. I've had a couple of "less-than-great" service experiences here, which is probably the reason I don't go here more often. I think they're targeting the "after work drink/dinner" crowd, which is fine, but it does give the place a different vibe than your average "classy" restaurant.
(3)
David P.
Excellent food, excellent prices, excellent service! We've had friends from out of town come and this is the first place we thought of to take them! This is truly a gem!
(5)
Annette M.
I honestly want to give this restaurant more stars because the food is different and delicious, the drinks are fantastic, and the decor is trendy and fun. Where this place falls is that it is REALLY loud. The volume of the music is always too high, and it is music you would dance to not eat to. You end up having to yell to have a conversation. As the place fills up it only gets worse. Also, I am one of those people who HATE certain food items (mushroom, onions, blue cheese, olives, rare steaks, etc. - clearly foods that impact the flavor of a dish), so I usually ask for my meals to be without these items. I also have to say that I am never rude or demanding with my meal requests. I am never unreasonable, but the waitstaff always seem to be put out when you ask for something simple like no blue cheese in a salad. I have no problem paying the same price for 1 less ingredient. I once asked for a steak to be made medium well, (the way I like it) and the waiter argued with me and insisted that the chef recommended it medium rare. My steak did not come out the way I wanted it but I was so embarrassed by the ordering discussion that I refused to send it back. I LOVE eating out, and I want to enjoy my night out.
(2)
tavia m.
I like the Exchange Street Bistro and have had a pleasant experience every time I have come here. The reason they don't get four stars is because sometimes the service isn't at four star level and their food is hit or miss. I like the atmosphere of the ESB, and it's very large and good for groups. The wait staff is accommodating and helpful, but tends to disappear for long periods of time. The martini list is extensive and I have tried several of them from the list, most recently the Creamsicle, which is great. The Malden Martini is a bit too sweet for me. I also sampled the Pear Side Car recently, which is tasty. Overall, the quality of the food at the ESB is good, but overpriced. The menu at the Exchange Street Bistro changes seasonally. There are some staples that are always on the menu, like their lobster mac & cheese, which is pretty tasty but somewhat pricey. Also I have had the pork chop, which was very good and the braised short rib, which was ok. A lot of their food is fine, but unmemorable. Recently, I tried the spring rolls, which had an unpleasant aftertaste. Yuck. Dessert-wise, the ice cream sandwiches are a MUST. You only need one order for a group of four. The portion size is huge. Whenever someone suggests the ESB, I always say yes and I always have a fine time. I would recommend this location if you're looking for American fare.
(3)
jerry b.
1st time at exchange st & will be back again. service was very good & as the evening wore on it got better as different workers cleared or asked about refills. Our server was very attentive as well waiting til we were nearly done to ask about the next plate .Bruchetta without mozzarella? Goat cheese instead was really a great choice. tappas plate was excellent. I had the pork chop, juicy, perfectly cooked, I asked for a twice baked potato instead of the veggies, no problem. My wife & a friend split the fettacini & both thought it to be great. The onion soup was perfect. Nice wine list. We wil be back. Oh, they have validated parking across the street.
(4)
Emily P.
Had a wonderful dinner at Exchange Street. It was pretty busy for a Wednesday night, and we loved our waitress Linda. We started with the pepper encrusted calamari -- to die for. Husband and I like to think of ourselves as calamari experts, and this was top notch. I was contemplating the cucumber martini but was hesitant about it being made with gin. Linda suggested I try the cucumber martini but with grey goose. I hadn't even mentioned that I was thinking of trying it -- it was like she read my mind! Also had a flirtini which was yum. I had the lobster mac & cheese which was delish. There were large hunks of buttery lobster which made me tres happy. Husband had the steak frittes with mashed instead of sweet potato fries and he loved it. The reason it's getting 4 instead of 5 is because the heavenly rolls we were promised didn't show up until we got our entrees and we had to ask for them. Overall it's a good spot with a city vibe (and free parking!) without having to venture over the Charles.
(4)
John B.
Best martinis around! The lobster Mac and cheese is awesome. They have daily tapas that is pretty good...... And! The girl I am with right now wants to " try all of these" martinis on their list... (hopefully I am around to see that)
(5)
Ladyjane S.
I came here for brunch this past Sunday and the service was extremely slow. I had to chase down our waitress more than a couple times just to get our check, food wrapped, etc. Also, the food took an extremely long time to come out. The slow pace wouldn't have bothered me but I didn't really want to spend my entire afternoon there, so it got kind of annoying towards the end. We got the waffle, a sausage corn dog, tomato basil soup and the lobster mac and cheese. Waffle was terrible. It was thick and pasty and just...not good. The sausage corn dog had runny batter on the inside but the outside was pretty good and very greasy. The soup was fantastic. They cut up a few pieces of yummy grilled cheese and put it right on top. I really wish they just served a whole grilled cheese with it beacuse I totally would order that next time I come! The lobster mac was good but not great when I ate it at the restaurant but for some reason it was AMAZING the next day when I heated it up in the microwave. Not sure why that is but I ate it for 2 separate meals afterwards so I can't complain. They sure do give you a lot. I don't think I'd come here again for brunch. I think the prices are too high and it just doesn't seem like a brunch place. However, I will come back and try them for dinner. I think the quality is there, just not for breakfast foods.
(3)
Tara S.
I'm impressed. I have lived in Malden for a while and have heard about this place from a few people. I always heard good things. Now, I can reccommend it to my people! I very much enjoyed the food and drinks. The calamari is so crispy and the marinara is simple and a perfect compliment. I can't wait to go back.
(4)
JEM C.
I didn't have high expectations and thats about where this place landed at the end of the experience. We went there for brunch on a Sunday at 11am and had no wait--nice plus. Its in Malden so the interior and ambiance were nice for the area. The menu sounded good but the flavors are were I felt most let down. I had the french toast (and as an avid bruncher) I can tell you these are amongst my least face ever. If Im doing the calories, I want them to be scrumptious...these just weren't :( The prices were ok, but really I probably wont go back because I love brunch and have MANY better places around for it.
(3)
Inna H.
Very nice place. Has a great bar and good martinis. Very pricey though. For the amount of money you are going to spend here on two drinks you can have three in Boston. Way overpriced for Malden.
(3)
Aboud Y.
Nice spot. Lively bar. Too bad the food isn't that great. I tried the burger, steak, duck leg, korean spare ribs, and lobster mac and everything was ok. Not bad...but not that great either. Service was good but a bit pushy (esp. with dessert). Anyhow...true litmus test: I doubt I'll be back. 2.5 stars...I'll round up to 3.
(3)
A Z.
Went here for "Sunday Brunch". My friend and I shared these two plates: Homemade Belgian Waffles -Topped with caramelized bananas, orange cream & side of bacon. ($8) Stuffed French Toast - Peaches, Blueberry Compote and Mascarpone Cheese. ($10) The belgian "waffles" = just ONE waffle, but it's plenty. The terrible part was, however, that what appears to make this dish is the "carmelized bananas". That's why we chose it. They didn't tell us until they brought it to our table that "oops, we're all out of bananas". So I guess it's just a Belgian Waffle now, isn't it? Would have been nice to know BEFORE so we could have picked something else. And I mean, the place was not busy by any means, where did the bananas go? The stuffed french toast was really good, and the peaches were definitely fresh and not canned. All of it plus the mascarpone was a little too sweet for me though, so I wasn't able to eat too much of it. The womens bathroom was being fixed while we were there, but one of the friendly hosts offered to "keep watch" for me in the Men's bathroom. No complaints there. The bathroom was very clean. Overall, the place looks nice, they use quality ingredients, and the prices are decent (for breakfast at least). There's not a huge selection for Sunday Brunch, in fact, half of the menu is lunch food, but what they have is good enough. Still a little annoyed about the last-minute banana mystery, but otherwise I can't complain.
(4)
Ploy K.
I have been to Exchange Street for brunch twice now, and will likely go again. It is a nice little place of the beaten path in Malden, with city food at neighborhood prices. Both times I have spent under $20 and been fairly pleased with my food. The first time I went, I had eggs benedict, which I loved. The second time, I had the BLT omelet, which had Boursin cheese, Lobster, and Truffle oil. Sadly, this dish was NOT worth $14. The cheese was overpowering, the lobster was a bit chewy, and the egg was dry dry dry. I didn't even know there was truffle oil in there. If the ingredients had been mixed together better and the eggs not been overcooked, it might have been delicious. It was, however, disappointing. Despite one bad dish, I do like Exchange Street. The atmosphere is very chic without being pretentious and the staff is very friendly. I arrived 15 minutes before they opened, and while some restaurants might make you wait outside in the freezing cold, those at Exchange Street allowed me to sit quietly at the bar and read. While there wasn't a line at the door, by 11:45am or so, the place had filled up nicely and had a good, friendly vibe. I will go back to the Bistro and try some of their sweeter brunch options. I would also love to try their lunch or dinner.
(3)
Sasha B.
I loved Exchange Street Bistro! The martinis are amazing, they have (easily drinkable) chunks of fruit floating in them! We had the strawberry gimlet, which was fab, and the pear sidecar. I was truly impressed with both, some of the best I've had. Disclaimer, I am an extra pulp in my juice kind of person, so I may be biased. I ordered the lobster mac, creamy, big chunks of claw meat, grain mustard, I loved it!! The service was incredibly nice, my water glass was constantly refilled.
(4)
Bill Y.
I'm incredibly torn as to what to rate the Exchange Street Bistro. It's a nice-looking place with excellent decor and very good food that severely lacked in service during our recent visit. My girlfriend and I had never been there, so we decided to give it a shot Friday night. After being seated in a large booth, we waited for 10 minutes before anyone acknowledged us; it was someone bringing us rolls but not greeting us. After 15 minutes, a manager apologized and a waitress was over to take our order. But we seriously considered leaving at this point. The manager, however, did comp our drinks, which was something they didn't have to do but was very nice. I ordered the $25 prix fixe dinner, consisting of caesar salad, a t-bone steak (ordered medium rare) and the lemon sorbet, while my girlfriend had the scallops. We split an appetizer of the calamari. While we had to wait about 15 minutes for appetizers after this -- not sure how frying calamari or putting together a simple caesar salad takes this long -- but it wasn't an overly long wait. The big problem happened when my "medium rare" steak showed up. It was cooked between medium well and well-done, and frankly, it was nearly impossible to cut. Although I can't remember ever sending a steak back, I asked the waitress to return it, letting her know it was not medium rare. She questioned me and suggested this was a medium rare steak before I told her it was unacceptable and asked her to return it. For someone in the service industry to question a customer is completely unacceptable -- her job is to make a patron's night, not argue with the guest over the cook times of meat. When the medium-rare steak did come out, however, it was delicious. The calamari from earlier was as well. My girlfriend only received 4 scallops, however; for a $22 entree, I'd expect more. This seemed like a portion size that was exceedingly small. But they were very tasty. But our waitress' extreme lack of hospitality made the meal a downer. It continued on to when my girlfriend, after reviewing the dessert menu, asked for the lemon sorbet, which comes with the prix fixe meal, but isn't listed on the dessert menu. The waitress, rather than agreeing, hemmed and hawed, saying she didn't really think that was possible. I let my girlfriend take my sorbet, and ordered the lava cake -- which was really the best part of the entire evening -- but the fact that a $2 scoop of sorbet would cause such an issue with the server is ridiculous. And while bringing the bill, wouldn't you know it? Our waitress tacked that *free* round of drinks right back onto our bill, even though the manager let us know -- with her there -- that it should be comped. Really disappointing when you deliver bad service and don't follow through on promises. The charges were removed on bringing it to the restaurant's attention. Bottom line is that the food at Exchange Street Bistro is excellent and while the scallops entree is rather small, other portions are good. The prix fixe meal is a good bargain. But we'll never return because of our waitress' horrible attitude and her lack of attention. One person who fouled up a meal from beginning to end really ruined our experience, and while the manager did give out a free round and was extremely apologetic, it wasn't enough to salvage the awful night we had here.
(2)
Michelle D.
I got married here a few weeks ago and it was FABULOUS!!!! The whole experience was great; from the original booking of the room, to any questions along the way, to finalizing the menu. The food and servers were tremendous. Thank you Felicia and Joanna! The guests could not stop talking about how wonderful everything was. I cannot thank the staff enough for making our wedding outstanding!
(5)
Chrissy H.
We couldn't wait, we had to taste the real food. So another date night spent in Malden. I had a Goddess Martini to start... no offense to the bar tender but "ICK", way too sweet for this sour girls taste buds. I had to switch to a glass of Pinot Grigio to go with my pan seared scallops over Lobster Ravioli with a lobster cream sauce. Very tasty indeed! And the hubby had a veil cutlet special over risotto and three shrimps. I didn't get to taste the shrimp, cause he's greedy, but the veil and risotto were delicious. I liked the small portion sizes too because I didn't leave the restaurant, for once, feeling like a whale. The music was a bit more mellow too, which was nice for dinner time. Just quiet, holiday music in the background. The wait staff was great. Very friendly and efficient. I think we've found a new place for date night.
(5)
Sarah A.
Very impressed with the lunch menu! The food was excellent. We started with a selection of tapas that included caprese salad, meatballs, broccoli rabe and shrimp: all very tasty. For an entree I had the daily special of haddock on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with spinach and surrounded with a generous portion of lobster sauce. The sauce was delicious! I even had to clean the last bits off my plate with a dinner roll it was so good. The potatoes were done very nicely, very rich and smooth. The fish was cooked perfectly. To finish up the meal I had a cappucino which was certainly among the best I've enjoyed lately at a restaurant. My only complaint with the meal was that our server was not very attentive to our water glasses. I was left without water for a good portion of the meal. Also, our first round of water was WARM, not just not cold with no ice, WARM. The place is very clean, new and fresh and definitely has a more downtown Boston feel to it. The bar was huge and looked like it would be a great place to come in the evening. The bathrooms are very clean and modern. I will definitely be back! Can't wait to try the bar!
(4)
Lindsey C.
I went to the Exchange Street Bistro on Valentine's Day with my fiance (we're considering it for our rehearsal dinner), and it did not disappoint. They offer a very extensive martini list and a romantic, cool, and slightly trendy atmosphere. The food was delicious (I had the lobster mac and cheese - sooo good). I would definitely recommend this restaurant for dinner with friends or a date night.
(5)
Whiskey C.
Elderflower. Check. Hot Pepper. Check. Bee's Knees. Check. Not to mention, the specials. Sea bass. Aaaah. Again please.
(5)
Jon M.
Need to come here more often, always enjoy this place. Had family party of 17 a few weeks ago and not one complaint! Was able to order off menu despite size of group. Martinis are by far the best around. Try the Hendricks Gin cucumber one, WOW! Bar was recently done over so have to go back, for drinks/apps.
(4)
Mike Z.
We came here for drinks on a Friday night - the experience was enjoyable, but the food and beer selection was lacking. We ordered the pricey, bland, and small-portioned Lobster Pizza - it was probably the worst pizza I've had in a while. The ambiance is very nice and modern, but that's all it's got.
(3)
Erin R.
What can I say? The food was absolutely AMAZING! I had the haddock and it was to die for! My fiance had the scallops...also amazing. Our server Linda was super sweet, and had great suggestions! It is a bit loud, other than that, it's fabulous. I can't wait to go back!
(5)
Lisa J.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a large group. Our server was really nice, with a great personality. Nice ambiance inside, and strong - and delicious - cosmos. The raw oysters were delish, and my dinner was really good too. However, the best part of the meal (besides the company) was the amazing presentation (and taste) of the ice cream cookie sandwich. Not your typical ice cream sandwich - it was two chocolate chip cookies, stuffed with ice cream, cut into biscotti-shaped pieces, and stacked like a Jenga game. Never seen such a great way to serve this dessert! Very cool. Very jealous of the people who got it. : )
(5)
Lin M.
WooHoo! The original chef is back with favorite items on menu. Can you say Scallops and Lobster Ravioli. Delicious. This is my all time favorite eatery. I have never had a bad meal or cocktail. I have been to two parties here and the staff and food were exemplary. Is it pricey? Yes but quality comes at a cost. The martinis are excellent. The sauces used are delectable. I sometimes wish I lived in Malden so I could go more often.
(5)
Bill C.
Okay, so here's the deal: four of us went to the place last night and three ordered the prix fixe offering and I ordered a la carte. One of us liked the meal and three didn't. I won. I ordered a meal size portion of the seared Tuna appetizer over soba noodles and fried calamari and I was really happy. The tuna was prepared perfectly and the slices were thick and generous. The sauce wasn't particularly creative but still very tasty. The calamari was not spicy as advertised, but once again really good. As for the prix fixe trio, two ordered the coconut curry squash soup, one of found it inedible, the other just didn't care for it. The third ordered a meager salad with feta and grapes, that looked very unappealing. All three order the cioppino pasta, none finished it, not because of size, but boredom. The Chef Boy Ar Dee inspired pasta was flavorless and very orange looking. The seafood was not particularly interesting and not well prepared (rubbery scallops and small shrimp). Dessert was another disappointment, they had a choice of ice cream (the flavors were red pepper and basil - seriously) and vendor supplied cheesecake that was burnt on top. Our server was a royal pain more interested in schmoozing and interrupting than serving. It was half-way through the dish before he remembered the parmesan cheese that was requested as the dish was served. He was simply annoying and very slow, yet very, very talkative. It's a great looking restaurant, but we won't return.
(2)
Brian S.
Exchange Street Bistro is GREAT. It is once of our favorite restaurants in the area. The ambiance is perfect: trendy, but not pretentious. And the fact that there is FREE validated parking in a garage is just another plus. They lose a star because the menu could use a few more items and because sometimes the service can be a bit off. With that said, I've never had *bad* service, and it's usually great, as is the food!
(4)
Alice G.
The food was terrible; the fish was not fresh and so covered in breadcrumbs there was barely any fish left. Especially considering the high prices, it was awful. The service was really bad; as soon as the waitress realized we had a Restaurant.com thing, she basically started ignoring us. The only reason it gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the drinks are really tasty and creative. I would go here for drinks but NEVER for food.
(2)
Christopher R.
This place is very big, even bigger than it looks from the outside. I only had a Cobb salad, but it was very good. I would love to come back and try the rest of the menu items, as they sound very promising. The salad was huge and stocked with plenty of items. The chicken was grilled to perfection and plentiful. They certainly don't skimp while making these.
(4)
Greg A.
I love this place. Wonderful environment, awesome food. It's a little bit pricey. And watch out for the mysterious "limited menu" time between about 2PM-5PM. I've gotten burned by that a few times. Though there are still always great things on the menu.
(5)
Ellen S.
So disappointing to finally go somewhere we've had on our running "we should check that place out" list and have such a poor experience. What made it even worse was that after watching people around us who were seated AFTER us get their apps and dinner, we were told that ours would be another 10-15 minutes due to a large function there that evening. We mentioned that this was our first time there and the waiter (who really seemed like he could have cared less - as he brought meals to the other tables that had been seated after us) told us that we really should come in during the week when it is less busy...as if somehow the extended wait for food that was "ok" was somehow our fault. I don't care how many different martini's you have on your drinks menu buddy, I won't be back to try any of the others out.
(2)
Matthew A.
I just came in from a business lunch at Exchange st and let me tell you it was very nice, this brand new contemporary large bistro had easy parking, bright colors, and comfy booths. I had the lemon pasta with grilled in season vegetables. We started with the Asian spring rolls. Warm bread, ice tea, and great service. The bar looked very inviting too bad I couldn't have a 2 martini lunch but I might stop by after work for a libation. This kind of place is long overdue in Malden. I will certainly be back.
(5)
Jeffrey F.
Good after work spot, with good food and wine options. Always an interesting crowd in there.
(3)
Lad D.
I've passed by the Exchange Street Bistro enough times and from the outside it always appeared to have a nice energy about it. So finally last night I decided to take the plunge and bring my mother for an early dinner. Like many of the reviews have said, Malden doesn't have many "trendy" dining establishments, so the fact that it is here is nice. I thought the decor was nice and not over done. From where I was sitting, I didn't realize that there were flatscreens all around and since it was early the patrons at the bar weren't all that rowdy. I was a little bit confused who my server was at first. Someone came to fill our water glasses and then someone else brought us bread. Neither introduced themselves or let us know who our server would be. I think they need to coordinate that better. We ordered the mussels as an appetizer and they were great. I was surprised by how large a portion it was. The entrees, however, were a disappointment. My mother had the steak frittes. The steak came out all chopped up, marinated in a lime/ vinegar sauce and set on top of the fries. The fries as a result were soggy. There's something about ordering a steak and cutting it yourself. I had the short rib and the meat was somewhat dry and lacking in flavor. The sauce that came with it did little to enhance the short rib. It seemed that presentation was more important. Our server was really nice and checked back every so often to see how we were doing, so I guess we were lucky compared to the experiences of some other diners. All in all, I wasn't terribly impressed by the overall experience, but I would give it another try (knowing what not to order). I think it's worth checking out and seeing for yourself. The menu doesn't seem too coordinated and is a bit pricey in my opinion.
(3)
Bethany S.
I've always wanted to try the Exchange Street Bistro since it opened 5 years ago, and last weekend I finally made it over there. The decor of the restaurant is hip and modern. I like the fact that it's ot really a "family-style" restaurant in the sense that there are no toddlers walking around between tables of screamig somewhere in a booth nearby. It's a wonderful place to have a relaxing adult conversation. The food is not bad. It's sort of an up-scale twist on classic dishes. (For example, the "pizza" contains lobster, avacado, and brie cheese.) It was actually a lot less expensive than what I would expect in a place like this. Also, this establishment is known for their martini bar. They have a selection of about 15 differant martinis all at $9 each. A bargain compared to other places I've been to. I wanted to give this place a rating of 4 stars, but I deducted a star due to the service... our waitress disappeared for long periods of time and we couldn't figure out where she was or when/if she was coming back. It got to the point that my friend and I were looking so desperate that other waitresses came by to check on us... not good. Maybe at the bar they are more attentive...
(3)
Robin S.
Been here twice & have enjoyed both times. Went for a girls night out and ordered a bunch of apps & drinks. Our server Mindy was really friendly & kept checking in on us throughout the night. Will definitely come back!
(4)
Anna W.
Fine dining in Malden? Quite an oxymoron!! But honestly, this is one of my new favorite places, and I am so glad it's in Malden! It's closer to my house, there is plenty of parking available, and I don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Boston to have a wonderful meal. They have FREE valet, as well as easily-accessible street parking, and an adjacent garage that is free with validation. Seriously, you can't go wrong! I've been here several times already, and each time, it has far exceeded my expectations. The first time I went here, I had the BEST server experience ever. Our server, Anastaysia, was awesome! She was friendly, warm, and incredibly helpful with explaining items on the menu to us. We started off with their tapas appetizer, which changes daily. My friend had some kind of fish on lobster risotto, and I had the steak. They were both incredibly delicious. The lobster risotto had HUGE chunks of lobster in there! Most of the time, restaurants try to gyp you, especially on lobster, but Exchange Street Bistro didn't. In addition to their regular menu, they also have a fixed-price three-course menu that changes regularly as well. It is only $25, which is about the same price as some of their regular-priced entrees! Their portions are incredibly generous, the ambiance inside is dark and inviting, the service is impeccable, and don't even get me started on how extensive and yummy their martini menu is. The drinks are unique, creative, and won't cost you an arm and a leg. I will certainly be back many more times. I love ESB :-)
(5)
Wayne D.
I sort of didn't want to give this place 5 stars but I sort of don't have any reason not to! A friend and I went there for lunch/brunch yesterday and we both loved it!!!! The restaurant is sort of an out-of place gem in Malden Center, much like it's around-the-corner neighbor, All Seasons Table (which I love). As I sat inside the windows I felt like I could look out but nobody else could look in. Of course this is not the case but it's just so nice in this place while the neighborhood doesn't have much at all to brag about. The decor is nice with lots of earthy colors and sort of looks a little asian to me, but not by much. A private dining room out back features a huge mural and a fireplace which is nice. The food was where it was at! I tried the chef's Lobster and Asparagus Omelette and it was amazing. It came with a nice green mesculine salad with the most bang-up dressing I've ever tried. For dessert (of course there is dessert at my table...HA) a honey-mascarpone tiramisu. It was just so rich and amazing and served in a martini glass. Had I known it would be that good I would have asked for two and held the omelette. The cons is that there didn't seem to be much on the menu for brunch, it was mostly all lunch ideas but I'm sure Sunday boasts a better selection.
(5)
Inman S.
First time I went here was using a restaurant.com gift certificate. I very surprised by how amazing this place was. The ambiance, staff, and food were all wonderful. I went back a second time to find the same to be true. Its definately one of my new favorite places to go grab dinner at a reasonable (and well worth it) price.
(5)
Nicole L.
I love love love this place and with their new renovation it is so fantastic! The servers are great and the drinks are yummy. LOVE the Tuna Tartare!!! The small plates are big plates and SO good!
(4)
Michelle P.
Ugh. What a bummer! Went this past Friday for drinks with a couple friends. I have been here before once for dinner and drinks and another time for brunch. Both were decent. Last Friday, however, was not. I decided to try out a new martini. It was disappointing at best. When the waitress came back around an hour later, she commented that I had barely drank anything but never asked if I did not like it or offer to bring something else. To be fair, I would not have expected her to comp my drink as I freely chose it. However, it would have been nice to offer. We then decided to order a pitcher of sangria. I have had it in the past and was pleased and really, how can you screw it up? Well, they did. The carafe the sangria came in, our glasses, and the sangria itself all smelled and tasted like NAIR! Yes, as in the stuff you use to remove hair from your legs. It was truly disgusting. When we paid with three full glasses of sangria, the waitress failed to ask if anything was wrong. This brings me to my next point. We only saw the waitress when she took our initial order, dropped off our drinks, and then gave us the check without offering us another round. We opted to order the sangria despite her bringing the check. She then dropped another check off with the sangria. When we finally approached her asking for change, she provided that and then immediately took the check but still failed to ask why we were leaving three full glasses of sangria. I was very, very disappointed. I will not be back again.
(1)
Tina D.
We are always a little apprehensive to walk into upscale restaurants with two kids but it was my birthday so we did it anyway. Upon entering there were two hostesses and when asked how many in our party as if our arrival was welcomed. The other stepped to her computer and asked if we had a reservation as if we couldn't be seated if we didn't. It was a Tuesday and there were 3 tables taken with a handful of people at the bar. By the time we left all the dining room tables were full but there was no one waiting for a table and all the lounge tables were still empty. Once we were seated, the experience was nothing but positive. Our server informed us of the children's menu since they do not have a printed one. We were offered tasters of wine that we asked about. The food was excellent and not over priced. The caeser dressing is made on site and you can tell by how fresh it tastes. I believe they also make their own croutons. I had the lobster mac and cheese and it had huge clumps of lobster in it. My spouse had the prix fixe menu of seafood stuffed shrimp with spinach and baked potato. It was good but mine was better. The dining room is small and intimate and yet somehow each table feels quite private. I'll go back but I might make that reservation just to be safe!
(4)
Mike C.
Lobster Mac-n-Cheese. I'll say it again. Lobster Mac-n-Cheese! So good. As a matter of fact, most everything is so good. What I really loved about this place is it's "let's meet at the Bistro and relax" atmosphere. Having dinner there with friends, a bottle of wine and some lobster mac-n-cheese is just awesome. I've always had great wait staff and I feel at home there.
(4)
Lucy M.
We have been to Exchange st many times for dinner, a couple times for lunch and brunch as well. I enjoy it every time. I have had spectacular food there and food that was just ok. The antipasto plate is probably the best I have ever had, and the cocktails and bar deals at happy hour are great. We had a spectacular brunch recently and it was probably the best meal there so far. I had the steak and portobello benedict and my bo had the Monte Cristo. We each only ate half of our meals, leftovers yay! My bene was only $14 and came with a nice piece of filet. I always feel like I get a good deal for what I am paying there. Its not what you would call cheap, but a good value. We go there atleast once a month as we live in Malden and its so wonderful to have a great restaurant so close.
(4)
MJ T.
Stopped in here for lunch. Somewhat limited menu for lunch choices, but good choices over all. Only three beers on tap, one of which was Bud Light (which barely qualifies as a beer). Really tasty broccoli rabe and mozz spring rolls with a zingy sweet mustard dip. Tomato basil bisque was exceedingly smooth and decadent. I ordered the beets and greens salad w/ lemon dill dressing as my meal and was really pleased. My boyfriend ordered the burger and was a bit disappointed. The burger was WAY to large for the bun (a dinner roll sized ciabatta bread) and tasted like plain old ground beef, no seasonings from what he could tell. His plate was redeemed a bit by the super crisp wedge fries, coleslaw, and homemade tasting mayonnaise.
(3)
Kathy Y.
Went here for a Bachelorette Party Dinner. It was okay. Service was a bit slower then anticipated, if we weren't rushing i suppose it wouldn't have been too bad. The Filet - was decent. Good Portion Caramel Apple Martini is to die for! This place is a good place for large parties.
(3)
Charlie B.
At lunch our waiter could barely disguise his lack of interest. The coffee was weak and flat, so it's probably good that no refills were offered. A simple question about whether the soup (tomato basil) is vegetarian yielded only a shrug and a look saying, oh, you're one of THOSE types. The pizza was tasty, but the service experience and lousy coffee left a bad taste In our mouths, so to speak. People seem to like the bar scene here, so maybe lunch just isn't their strong suit.
(2)
Gina M.
I avoided this place for MONTHS, fearing another, "good...FOR MALDEN" experience. But finally I popped in with friends for just dessert a few weeks ago and have to say we were pleased with everything we ordered. We had a bread pudding and a berry shortcake and both were tremendous (size and flavour). I also really enjoyed my espresso martini--sweet but not cloying. We all did agree however, that a place in Malden has no business charging 10 dollars for drinks. It just doesn't. Not when the best scene and best drinks in Cambridge are available at the B-Side for 7-8 dollars a drink. I will go back for dinner and am hoping beyond hope that the rest of the fare is as good as the desserts we had.
(3)
Josie C.
So convenient if you live in Malden. Like All Seasons Table, this place is located right within Malden Center and can come off sketchy due to location, however do not be fooled, it is wonderful! The specialize in their elaborate list of martinis (so good!) but also have a full bar and decently priced, large beers. The food is amazing and very high-end (comparable to the swanky restaurants in Boston), however my siblings say the portions are small (I prefer quality over quantity, though). Just take a look at all the food photos posted here, mmm. *Also a fun fact: Enrique, the head chef/owner, is one of the kindest and funniest guys in town - me and my boyfriend stumbled upon him one late night while we were at the bar in All Seasons Table actually (right around the corner, the owner of that restaurant and Enrique are said long time friends), and he literally bought us about 5 plates of food and a bounty of refills of some spectacular white wine! It was, needless to say, one of the best nights ever.
(4)
Elle S.
My friend and I went here for Malden's Restaurant Week. Neither of us is that familiar with the area, but the restaurant is about a five minute walk from Malden Center on the Orange line. Our reservation was for 6:30 on a Friday, but there were hardly any diners. Most of the activity seemed to be around the bar. We were seated in a tall booth that could have easily sat 6 comfortably, or as comfortably as one can sit against a completely flat backed seat. I ordered the toasted ravioli, baked stuffed lobster, and lemon sorbet. The toasted ravioli and sorbet were just okay; it is hard to mess those up. The lobster was almost all breading and there was no detecabke seafood in the stuffing as the menu indicated. The lobster claws and zucchini logs were ice cold. My friend ordered the coconut shrimp, Thai bouillabaisse, and chocolate mousse cake. She liked the shrimp and cake, but said the mussels were overcooked and rubbery. One thing we both noticed was how quickly our courses came. Given that and how cold our food was, I think the food was precooked, refrigerated, and reheated. There were two things that I did like about this restaurant however: the bright, clean restrooms and our server, Felisha. She was incredibly nice and attentive without being overbearing. I will not be returning and do not recommend this restaurant.
(1)
Lia M.
Since I have not eaten a meal here, I am going with three stars for now. I had dessert, the chocolate terrine, and it was only alright, not horrible, but probably two stars & I wouldn't waste the calories again. It's a chocolate brownie/fudge piece served with vanilla gelate. The chocolate was very dense, but not a lot of flavor. We sat at the bar. The bartenders were helpful and attentive, but not real friendly. My martini was good and strong (Kahlua, Bailey's, Frangelico, & vodka). The atmosphere was nice, especially in Malden. As others mentioned, it's classy & upscale. It's very big inside. We were there around 10 on a Saturday night and it wasn't busy and we left by 11:30 and it still wasn't busy. They close at 1; food service stops at 11, last call is 12:15. I plan on going back and eating dinner. ***** Update, 3/17/2008 I have eaten dinner here now. I did not like my meal (shrimp scampi). The pasta was undercooked and it had very strong taste that I did not care for. However, my boyfriend's lobster mac and cheese was excellent. I say go here for the drinks though, which I loved. And I did enjoy the warm apple crisp, which was very cinnamon-y, but I liked it.
(3)
RoseAnne D.
I too wanted to love this place, as I have recently moved back to Malden and wanted a nice place to hang. I'll go for drinks, but the food.....yuck! 2 entrees, and app, all bad. French Onion soup with a tomato base? I think not. And they used the same rolls for the top as the bread and butter, way too chewy for the soup. My salad tasted...mmm, I don't know, old lettuce? Not sure. Beef Wellington, could have used just a bit of salt on the fillet, but it was tender and cooked well, but the chef ruined it with the sauce. I think he used the tomato onion soup we didn't finish. A nice brown mushroom sauce would have been better. Short Rib Risotto, was okay, but would have liked bigger pieces of meat. Only had shredded pieces. Spinach side was way bitter, and I'm a spinach lover. Service was excellent and attentive, but Chef.....take a lesson!
(2)
Linh V.
I give the food a 4 star but the service ehh 2 stars, landing Exchange Street Bistro at a 3 star. The food is pretty good, especially for a restaurant strangely dropped in the middle of Malden. I got the tuna steak which I tricked my friend who hates seafood into trying. She quickly yelped. "this is the BESSSSST meat i've ever eaten!" Little does she know it wasn't exactly farm raised.
(3)
Katie A.
We went for our first time for brunch on Sunday, and it was great! Breakfast burrito, Monte Cristo sandwich, and eggs over easy with sausage and home fries all were huge portions of deliciousness. The interior is swanky and I definitely want to try out dinner there. The four stars can easily be bumped up to 5 after one more visit...
(4)
Eric B.
Great drinks menu! Dinner menu is limited and a bit pricey. I had the New York Sirloin. It was probably the fattiest sirloin I have ever eaten. I could have gotten a better quality steak at Texas Roadhouse!
(3)
Carol J.
We held a bridal shower at the Bistro for my daughter earlier this month. I have to say that the ESB exceeded my expectations. We were set up in the front of the restaurant and had access to the bar and plenty of room to move around. The food was delicious. We had the brunch from the functions menu and there was something for everyone. All our guests enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. The staff was very helpful and made our special day even more special. I would definitely recommend the Exchange Street Bistro for anyone having a small function.
(5)
Chere G.
Wow! Seriously, I sometimes have to cringe when I tell people I live in Malden. For me it was a choice of close enough to the city with a sic ass commute for work 30 minutes north. I have the best of both worlds. But honestly, there was never a reason to chilll in Malden on a Friday night because I thougt it didn't have anything to offer. Exchange ST Bistro brings some bling to Malden for sure. If you live in the area you need to peep this place. It's pricey, no doubt. But they can definitely back the price. Ambiance is fantastic - if you didn't know you were parking on a side street in an ehh part of Malden you wouldn't know your were in Malden. Kind of like a time warp. Woooosh...holy crap check this place out, dimly lit, loungey, nice music, attentive staff. Okay, Okay me likey. The waitstaff is so sweet....ahem....and I must admit we did have a hottie for a waiter. I'm just sayin. Dinner - I had the Grill and chill: A freaking 5 star BBQ Ribbs, chicken, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoe salad and a slab of watermelon. Mmmm Mmmmm. Never had a nice BBQ'd chicken that peeled apart and melted in my mouth. Now this is finger lickin gooooooood. Dessert was Creme Brulee - BOO effin Yah! Well poured drinks and standard price. It was such a nice loungey feel to it. I'm very impressed especially since I've been so against chilling in Malden. I also liked te manager takes the time in midst of your dinner and check things out. Very peronable and a nice touch. Probably the first time I'll ever say it's worth driving through the city rather than making it a night in it.
(5)
Valerie F.
The most AMAZING creamy tomato and basil soup! The best part....the soup comes with mini grilled cheese croutons...GENIUS! Don't know how I never thought of this myself! Will definitely go back just for this soup! The espresso martini was delish as well. Other appetizers were good too, the white pizza, caesar salad, spring rolls, and quesadilla. Bar service was slow, they only had 1 bartender on and it was rather busy so we waited a long time for drinks, about 20 minutes or so. Our waitress was very apologetic though and super nice. Decor was cool, very modern. Only gave three stars because it was a bit pricey and for the slowness of the drinks.
(3)
Craig C.
I went New Years Eve the night of one of the blizzards with no reservation. It was packed and they still took us with a short wait at the awesome bar. Great bar menu w/ funky drinks. Nice quick bartenders. Eclectic and diverse crowd. Special menu 3 courses for 40 bucks FOR TWO!!!!! Food was delicious and can't wait to go back. Upscale city type place with country type prices. Go with friends for dinner and drinks ALSO for Valentines Day they are doing the same deal as New Years. Best food deal around. Go Go Go . Highly reccomended by Senior Me.
(5)
C R.
Has the ambience of something chic-enough for Boston's swankier restaurants - in easy-to-get-to Malden. 10 min north of Boston. Plenty of parking, GREAT menu, not too pricey (not cheap though), staff are attentive and know their stuff. I've been here 4 or 5 times now and have always left happy. DEFINITELY a place worth traveling to....whether you're local or live on the north or south shore.
(4)
Bernadette S.
I completely agree with the crowd, here. My expectations started low, because it is Malden. But our two gay boyfriends/Malden homeowners, swore by it, so off we went, my expectations now soaring. I agree - the location is odd, but I can get over that. The atmosphere was humming, the lighting nice. I think our server was an idiot, a nice idiot, but still he had a lot to learn. He convinced us to try a Riesling with dinner, and I kept my mouth shut, but it was a sweet Riesling. It was tasty but it was dessert. I ordered the special seafood stew, which was mostly potatoes and a few pieces of calamari. Flavorless. I added salt and pepper. Then I ordered the chicken petto, stuffed with proscuitto and goat cheese, served with garlic mashed, spinach and sundried cream sauce. Not only was the chicken completely dry, but the only flavor on the plate was from the proscuitto and goat cheese, and of course there wasn't enough of it. Until I just looked up the menu online this second, I had forgotten that the cream sauce was sundried tomato, because it was flavorless! Of course, my gay boyfriends loved their dinners and my girlfriend swore her pork was better than what she had at Harvest last week, so what do I know?
(2)
Amber H.
THRILLED! This is by far my favorite restaurant, in Malden - maybe even Boston. Its a great restaurant with a beautiful trendy vibe, and gorgeous decor. The martini list alone is worth going for. In fact I went several times just for the martini list, until one night i decided to order dinner and it completely blew my mind! The Big Chopp and the Salmon where unbelievable (my mouth is watering just thinking about it) i have also had the duck, as well as one of the Tapa's chefs specials. Service has always been impeccable. I frequent this bar and I must say, I have NEVER been disappointed. What a fantastic operation, its worth every penny!
(5)
Tara V.
I really like this place. All I can say is TRY THE VANILLA BEAN BREAD PUDDING!!! That dessert is orgasmic! The food is pretty darned good too. I took off one star because the drinks suck. Or should I say the bartender(s) suck! I have never been able to get a decent drink at this place.
(4)
Whitney K.
Awesome martini list, comfortable bar area and reasonable prices that reflect the Malden location but make you feel like you're in Boston. The food is good...they are adventerous with a modern flair to the menu, but aren't always successful.
(4)
Ania Z.
Great food, great prices, great atmosphere and it was really busy when we were there on a Thursday night. We checked to make sure they were serving food till 11 and got there at 10:20 I understand its close to closing time and I knew what I wanted but when I got to the host stand the waitress did not seem like she wanted to seat us until I believe a manager walked over and I asked if they still were serving, then she rushed us to order which was pushy. But the food was awesome I loved the Lobster Pizza and Haddock Dish!
(4)
Hilary C.
Went here because I'd seen some good reviews but boy was I disappointed. Where to begin: This was a weekday, on the tail end of the lunch rush and we were the only ones in the restaurant besides a couple at the bar who were as baffled as we were. For supposedly being known for their burgers, the patty I got looked like a frozen one I could have gotten from Market Basket. It was WAY overdone, tasteless and dry. And it cost me $12. I'd have complained to the waitress except I couldn't find her. In fact, after she brought us our meals we didn't see her for the rest of the meal. We eventually got fed up with waiting and had to actually walk back to the kitchen to find someone to pay. We could have looted the bar and probably taken out half the furniture before anybody would have even noticed. It was almost to the point where we wondered why we should pay at all. Total time spent: 2 hours. For a burger. Part of me wants to know what the hype is all about. (Did they have an exceptionally bad day?) The other part thinks that this restaurant doesn't deserve any more of my time or money.
(1)
Denise T.
I have eaten there about 3 times before and will definately go back. The Bistro has done renovations with a new menu. Our waitress(Linda) was very pleasant and had great knowledge about the restaurant itself and all the dishes. Rich the manager is also unbelievable. He is very pleasant and cares about all the patrons who enter by greeting them with a smile. I had the Natural Roasted Chicken, which was delicious and the presentation of this dish was remarkable. My guest had the Lobster Mac and Cheese and according to him, was extremely creamy and delicious. This Bistro is worth the trip. The food is delicious and they make the best Martinis in the world. I can't wait to go back again.
(5)
Ken M.
Exchange Street Bistro saves the day again. My sister-in-law made a reservation at another establishment for my mother-in-law's 60th birthday and for whatever reason, the reservation was dropped. Exchange Street was available to accommodate us last minute. Fabulous service from Trish. The food was delicious and the drinks took a starring role as usual. Delicious and friendly. Thanks again Exchange Street!
(5)
larry m.
I have been here 5 or 6 times and have had a great meal every time. The decor is funky but not over the top and they're constantly playing some sort of electronica/jazzy music. Enough about the atmosphere because it's all about the food here. The menu is small - medium with a lot of Italian influenced dishes. 4 out of 5 of those times I had the pork chop. It's stuffed with fontina, caplicola, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini and served over roasted potatoes. I was sold on the title "Stuffed 19 OZ Pork Chop." My wife's grandmother ate there and was blown away by the risotto....as was I. This is coming from a woman born in Italy. She speaks italian...cooks Italian....and doesn't like food at Italian restaurants. She has been back once or twice since we introduced her to the place. I have had several of the appetizers and all of them were amazing. One standout was the Sicilian Chips. They are nachos but covered in fontina, salami and talian peppers. The absolute best appetizer there was the risotto croquet's. They are not on the menu right now.....but the waitstaff promised me they'd be back. These are basically mini rice balls (or arancini) served with several different dipping sauces. The prices are OK....a little pricey for Malden but definitely the best restaurant in the city. Since moving to the area this has become my "go to" restaurant.
(4)
jennifer m.
Ugh. My boyfriend and I went here after hearing good things about the food and atmosphere. The atmosphere was good... it's got nice decor, and it was relatively quiet, which is what we were looking for. We were promptly seated, and the waitress came over almost immediately to take our drink order. However, when asked about the beer selection, she wouldn't/didn't tell us what they had available in a bottle. She would rattle off a few (bud, bud light, gross, etc.), and then say "and others.." and my boyfriend would say "what others?", and then she'd get through a couple more and say, "and others". Finally, he asked her if they had Sam Adams, and ordered that. She left, but returned shortly afterwards, and put someone else's empty Budweiser bottle on our table while admitting she forgot to tell us the specials. She told us, and then left. When she came back with our drinks and to take our order, I asked her what "Banana Ketchup" is, and her response was to look at me dumbly and say, "It's self-explanatory." And I said, "Uhh... if it was, I wouldnt be asking." It turns out it's bananas pureed in ketchup, which is certainly LITERAL, but the thought of that is just too gross for me to believe, hence that whole disbelief over the "self-explanatory" bit. So instead of The Big Chop, I ordered the Filet Mignon, medium. My boyfriend's burger was fine, but nothing fantastic. My filet came out WELL DONE, and then some. It's really a shame to ruin a piece of meat like that. The rest of the food was fairly bland and uninspired, and certainly not worth my entree's $26 price tag. We won't be returning. If we want to spend that kind of money, we'll drive into the city.
(1)
The New Mrs. U.
I recently went to exchange street for brunch. I was looking for a local place to take my out of town family for brunch. I was a bit hesitant due to the mixed reviews, but I am happy I went. I was pleasantly surprised. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. They serve corn bread with the brunch , which for me is a big plus! The menu was not a book and had items that were simple and not trying to be too fancy. I did read one reviewer who complained about the booth seats print. Yes, it is a bit busy but it was not that bad! Clearly if you have good food, good company, a mimosa, and free corn bread, anything can be overlooked. Definitely a good neighborhood restaurant for the area. I will definitely go back.
(4)
Josh S.
My partner and I met some friends here for brunch this morning, and we all had a good time. The service was excellent while not being overwhelming, i.e. we got coffee/water refills when needed, but didn't have people interrupting us all the time or hovering. Three of the 4 of us had a form of eggs benedict, and we all loved our plates. The fourth person had an omelet, and she was also impressed. The coffee was also much better than most places where I have brunch. We would all recommend this place for brunch.
(4)
Riem K.
Decor was great, although the restaurant seemed a little out of place. Your view at the dining area is the local dry cleaner and the parking lot of Super Fitness. Food was unexciting and nothing to rave about. The oyster Rockefeller- it's just a green soppy mess and they could of at least shuck the oysters all the way out of the shell. We had to scrape the sauce off and then use our knife to try to pry the oyster meat off. The sirloin and the filet- Meat was tough and a little chewy, however the filet was drowned in a sauce that I wish it wasn't. Price, I thought was a little steep for what you were getting. I could of paid the same amount at the Great Bay and got a better view with a better meal. Alcohol- martini list was very good. I would return for drinks and not dinner. Overall, I would come back just for drinks at the bar and not for dinner. That was disappointing after all the hype I kept on hearing about this place.
(2)
Andrew M.
Its like a South End Bistro got lost, and landed in Malden. OK, so lets be honest--this ain't your typical Malden restaurant. If you're looking for cheap, low-class dining, the Exchange Street is the wrong place (try the Dockside). The food & drinks at Exchange Street are delicious. In fact, the food is as good as you would expect in Boston, and the prices are slightly better. The worst thing about this place is that its too nice for the neighborhood. I see lots of people complaining about price in other reviews. I'll admit that Exchange Street is more expensive than other dining options in Malden--but thats because its better than other places in Malden. And its still cheaper and easier than going into Boston for a nice dinner out.
(5)
Kate S.
I have only been here twice, and the first time was back in July for their 1 year anniversary party, which was amazing. They provided tons and tons of free food, beer and wine for 5 hours! They served right up to the end of the party and we were trashed. The people there were all great and it was really a good time. That was the only time I have had their food, I know people that enjoy eating there. However, if you want to read a scathing review by the globe have a look boston.com/ae/food/resta… I have never read a worse restaurant review, well actually it's pretty funny. Anyhow, the Exchange Street Bistro is primarily known as a martini bar and everyone raves about this one bartender that's there on wednesday and thursday nights. I ordered a manhattan, but I wanted whiskey not bourbon and asked for just well. He didn't want to give me well whiskey so he suggested Jack. Puzzled, I restated whiskey not bourbon and foolishly asked for well whiskey again. He served me the manhattan in a martini glass, not a rocks, and it tasted horrible. I learned that he used Dewars, which on the label says blended scotch whiskey but I consider it a bourbon because it's spicy and north american. I don't know maybe I am wrong about the Dewars but I am not wrong that this was a super gross drink. I ended up giving it back to him because I just couldn't drink it. The only reason I gave Exchange Street 3 stars is because of the fabulous and generous anniversary party they threw. Otherwise, I think I have to side with the Globe.
(3)
Ashley P.
This place has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. It is like an amazing Boston restaurant without the Boston prices. The location is good and you can usually find street parking, but if not they offer free validated parking across the street. The food was out of this world! I also love the the menu changes with the seasons (read = fresh ingredients!) which is something you don't normally get outside of a big city. My friend and I started with martinis and two apps, the white pizza and the fig bruschetta which were both outstanding. We then all had the fillet mignon, which was so perfectly tender and delicious. And, on top of everything, the steak came with amazing mushroom risotto...mmmm!! We also had a bottle of wine and the amazing homemade ice cream sandwiches. It is an amazing place and I will be back very often!
(5)
Tom D.
Still one of my favorite restaurants several years later. I celebrated my upcoming birthday here last night. We were a large party of what we thought was 16, but turned into 18 at the last minute. The folks at Exchange St were more than accomdating and in no time had set up an area for us in the lounge. We had one server, Trish, for our party and she was fantastic. Never frazzled by the number of people, efficient, just wonderful all around. She really made the evening great. The food as always was outstanding. I had the braised lamb shank for the first time and it's a new favorite. The lamb was tender and moist, and the accompanying minted risotto was the perfect side dish. I'm usually not crazy about mint with meat, but I have to rethink my position on that after this. All around a wonderful evening and I can't wait to go back soon!
(5)
Jason B.
I've never gone to a restaraunt and had any of its employees come up to me, fall on their knees and say "please write a bad review of our establishment." But my experience at the Exchange Street Bistro comes the closest yet. Food: One word: Yuck. The burger was dry, NOT cooked the way it was ordered, and very suspicious-tasting. I've been a poor college and post-college student, and I know what borderline hamburger meat tastes like when it's cooked. This was it. In a way I'm thankful that they didn't cook it medium rare as I asked; I might be writing this review from the emergency room on my blackberry. The fries were cold but crispy enough. Remember before when I talked about the staff begging for a bad review? Here it is - the omelet: we were informed by the waitstaff that no, they did not have egg beaters, and no, the chef would not seperate eggs to make an egg white omelet. The reason? They had a large party in the back and were too busy. Too busy. Translation: We're taking care of the big group and your measly little two-top doesn't merit anything special, so go perform anatomically unlikely operations on yourself. Hash browns? cold, soggy, and suspiciously redolent of having been cooked in a pan that was used for something else before hand. The rolls were good, though, I'll give them that. Service: One word - yuck. Maybe we got him on a bad day, maybe he was worried about rolling the keg over to his frat party, but our waiter was terrible. Made us feel like we were inconveniencing both him and the kitchen staff whenever we asked for anything - more coffee, screw you. No we don't have equal, skim, or lowfat milk. Mimosa? That's weird but I'll see if they'll make one for you. This guy really made me say it: "I don't think Buddy Holly is much of a waiter." The busgirl tried to remove food we were actually eating - we had to reach back onto her tray to take a ramikin of ketchup away that she REALLY wanted to remove - "I'm not done with that yet" didn't seem to do it. Decor: This is nice. They really went out of their way to make the place look like it belongs in Cambridge or the South End. Backlit translucent colored glass, marble tabletops, hardwood floors, signed original artwork on the walls, very classy. Too bad the place sucks as bad as it does. Crowd: Odd Malden people. Families. Old people. Us. Random people who like to stare at you while you're eating. The usual. A negative experience that made me feel bad for being a restaurant patron. Maybe we caught them on a bad day, and we should give them another try...but little about this experience was positive.
(2)
Charles G.
excellent food. have eaten there a few times. great sauces. great ambience, if you r in the malden area this restaurant is well worth trying. and oh yes, good prices to boot.
(4)
Mark W.
We've been here a few times. It's becoming more of a bar hang out for locals then what it's trying to be which is a fine dinning establishment. Our meals have always been ok so hasn't the service. Reasonably priced.
(3)
Danielle F.
We decided to have a date night close to home and wound up at Exchange Street Bistro at the end of the evening for dessert and cocktails. The relaxed and upscale atmosphere was a total, and pleasant, surprise for the area. The staff was very friendly and attentive and helped us to secure a seat at the bar which, for a good part of our visit, was rather rowdy. Our bartender, Kat, was pleasant, helpful and provided speedy service as well as super strong martinis. The drinks were excellent, but the dessert was a little lacking. We shared the bread pudding with cinnamon ice cream, and while it was tasty, it wasn't great. So, overall, excellent service, strong and delicious martinis, chill atmosphere and dessert that hits the spot but isn't a showstopper.
(3)
Amy B.
I've been for dinner probably 6 or 8 times, and this summer co-hosted my friend's bridal shower there. The food is always tasty, although I don't have a favorite dish. I've tried a lot of different things and have been satisfied each time. The service is usually nice and friendly - just one time was the exception, when the waitress seemed so stiff and like she was reciting a script that we joked she'd be at home in the Hall of Presidents at Disney World. I liked hosting an event there as well. The maid of honor mostly dealt with them during the planning, and she had no problems. On the day of, we were able to get in early to set everything up, and they were very accommodating about the room setup. We didn't use the function room in the back - we were in the front portion of the restaurant, and they moved all the tables/booths around for a great setup. Food on the function menu was basic but good - we went with a buffet including salad and assorted sandwiches. The price was really great - I think it ended up being around $15/person, maybe even less. Definitely try the martinis - I felt like a lush drinking a watermelon martini before noon at the shower, but I couldn't resist. In fact, I had two!
(4)
Ju L.
Went there on Sunday for brunch and had the French Toast Brioche and Monte Cristo. Both were surprisingly quite good. The French Toast Brioche was supposed to come with caramelized bananas and berries -- it did come with them, though there was only 1 strawberry. Decor is tasteful and somewhat trendy. Service was good, and overall food prices were quite modest. I'd definitely come again. Best still, they provide free validated parking at the nearby parking garage.
(4)
N C.
I've been to this place a couple of times after my review and I think it needs a little updating. I would give the place between 2.5-3 stars. I order meat each time I've been there and there's a waitress that gives me grief each time I order steak medium-well, claiming the kitchen doesn't cook meat medium-well. I basically have to insist that that's how I wanted it cooked, period. Second, the food is insanely salty. Wow. I've ordered the steak frittes a couple of times and between the sauce on the steak and the dressing on the arugula, wow, I needed like 6 glasses of water. They need to lighten up on the salt.
(3)
Andrea F.
First of all, I'd like to say I have been here numerous times, and the wait for food has always been long, but usually worth it....but not this time. My Saturday night was a meal from hell. We walk in 8 minutes late for our reservation's hostess tells us they can only hold our table for 10 minutes...so you would think everything would be ok...but I guess her clock is fast. So she didn't hold our table and said they don't have a table available even if we came on time.. So, she made us wait for 30 minutes. We luckily found a cocktail table in the bar, ordered drinks..but they never came. So we get seated..order food and the wait begins. 45 minutes to get "OK" apps...and then another 30 minutes until dinner arrived. We were a party of 3, and only 2 meals came out.. after another 5 minutes, my friends scollop's come out stone cold raw. We send them back, the manager says she'll take care of it. So at this point we were ok, mistakes happen. But it gets worse......So instead of making a fresh plate, they reheat her original scallops that she cut into. They come back dry as the desert. So the OWNER comes over and is very abrubt/abrasive. He was interrogating my friend and telling her the story of "sushi grade scallops" We are all in the medical field and we all know YOU CAN NOT EAT RAW SCALLOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He then proceeded to stare at my friends Ta-Ta's while trying to make her feel like an idiot for sending back her raw scallop's. Being the out spoken friend that I am, I found myself trying to help her talk to this jack ass and he has the nerve to put his hand up to my face and said "this is between her and I" And to top it all off, they didn't even take them off the bill. The owner did nothing to rectify the situation. He made things worse. The waitress brought us over a round on "Her" Bottom line, if you treat your paying customers like crap...we will not be back no matter what you try to give us. In a tough economy, people are selective when they go out, and I hope this review will make you choose otherwise.
(1)
Stacey B.
I love, love, love this place... Great Martini's, Food and atmosphere. The Bartenders Christine and Rob are the best!!!
(5)
Mike H.
I swear it's wicked good! Amid the dumpy streets, rubbish and abandoned shopping carts of malden is this fabulous gem of a restaurant that serves amazing steak, chops, lobster ravioli and a brunch that makes it worth getting out of bed on sunday. They've got a wonderful, friendly staff who are cool and pleasant without being smarmy and obnoxious. And the bartender knows how to make a good mixed drink, even if they call everything a martini instead of a cocktail. So it's almost perfect, oh well.
(5)
Zane G.
This is a great hidden secret of Malden. The food and the drinks are simply wonderful. The bartenders, Rob and Alicia in particular are great people and know what they are doing. Their calamari is fabulous, FABULOUS! My favorite place to be on Thursday nights, full of regulars, the best kind bar.
(5)
Yuko I.
Food was mediocre, the place was too loud. I hardly could enjoy my conversation.
(2)
Paulette B.
I moved to Malden recently and was afraid that I was moving into a town of average ehh restaurants. As I moved in to the neighborhood a new restaurant was opening, Exchange Street Bistro. It's located in the center of Malden so parking was very easy. The food was awesome. My friend compared the Lobster Ravioli to making love where your partner spends an hour on you doing what you like most. I want to know where she finds these lovers. I know some of the guys she dated. I don't know if she was saying the Ravioli were better than any sex she has ever had. Anyway the Ravioli were very good. We also shared had the Eggplant Napoleon. Another home run. Very yummy. If I would have had this by myself I would have had enough to take some home for lunch today. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of the food. I have paid more for food that wasn't as good. The wait staff and everyone was so friendly and nice. They also have some very good martini's. Loved the olive in the pear martini. This is one place I can bring friends to without having to say well it's good for Malden...it's just good for any where.
(5)
Ken L.
3.5 stars - but closer to 4 than 3. positives: Food is pretty good. Service is as well. Went there for dinner with another couple. My buddy and I got the steak - I thought it was pretty good. My wife got some shrimp dish and she said it was "o.k.". My buddy's wife got the eggplant dish and liked it. The ice cream sandwich desert is a bit misleading. It's cookie sandwiches. None of us liked it (it was huge and enough for 4, too bad it kinda sucks). Everything else was good. Martinis were all a hit - they're the bigger martinis no the joke tiny things that some places try and sell you. I had a dirty martini which was really good and another pepper and olive with blue cheese martini. I didn't love that one. Wife got a cosmo kind of martini and loved it. Buddy and wife were having the pineapple infused ones - she loved, he said it was a girl martini (then why'd you get two, bro??). Lol check it out - prices are pretty good, food is pretty good, drinks are solid, overall a fun atmosphere...
(4)
Joe D.
First time, food was good... every time after, it was bland and not worth it.
(3)
Ricky B.
Went there recently on a Wednesday evening and had a wonderful dining experience. Friendly, attentive staff and the food was great! I had a 10 oz. Prime Rib that came with a side of Lobster/Shrimp Ricotta pie...I have never had it and never even thought about the combo but damn! It was DEEE-licious! Higly recommend ESB!!!
(4)
Lauren W.
I was very confused by this restaurant. It seems misplaced. The food was delicious. The service was good. The prices are high. The ambiance reminded me of a Mediterranean restaurant I went to in Greece but a cheap version of it. If I'm craving expensive food while in Malden I'll definitely come back here.
(3)
Lisa E.
Ok where do I start? I usually love this place! They have the tequilla I drink and their food is out of this world, such a hidden gem for malden, but last night I felt almost broken up with. As a bartender employed in a pretty well known resteraunt I realize it may be easy to be a little overly critical, but I usually take that into account because I understand the inner workings of the industry and know how some nights can be. Last night was a complete bust...with everything. First off I ordered my go to drink, milagro anejo straight up..now any other seasoned server that I know that gets an order for a straight up drink knows the drink should either be in a martini glass or snifter...maybe even scotch glass..I received it in a shot glass. Tequilla doesn't mean shot all of the time. Some people enjoy tequilla as they do wine, ports, scotch, or some other cordial. I hate to be difficult because I know how it feels but only when its unjustified..this was COMPLETELY justified..sooo I asked very politely if I could change it to a snifter. In between the time I asked him that and the time I got it again it was chilled..which I specifically told him I didn't want. I know that sometimes servers don't have the alcohol knowledge of their bartender counterparts so I understood when he replied,"but that's what u asked for" after I had my first sip and politely said mmmm Yah this doesn't taste like what I asked for, slightly cold and verrrrrry diluted, usually the result of a shaken drink. At this point, I feel like I have to prove myself, opting to go to a sister bartender to explain my desires. Oh he said chilled she replied...but almost like she was annoyed that I had challenged her..I'm sorry honey but I work in a tequilla bar where I know the notes, ages and even barrels each tequilla is born in..I'm not challenging you to be a jerk...I just want what I want...which is USUALLY why I come there, even recommend it to MY customers.. even though the bartenders' drinks haven't been that consistent...maybe high turnover..not sure. Drinks aside, when I get people talking at my bar about the food we don't offer I push them towards Exchange. Hoping whatever new guy they have back there can really pull it together for them..or maybe it was just an off night. Coconut rum shrimp and gorgonzola and steak (hangar) with warm bacon vinigrette complete hit, on target as usual...but short rib risotto big F. Way tooooo salty..almost not palettable..risotto was soupy. So for now putting my recommendations on pause and hoping they pull it together for a big win because I usually really love this place. Manager comped prior chilled drinks, but I was going in there with mad money to spend and really didn't want that. Just wanted some nice tequilla and great dinner. Apparently they're out of that bottle now anyway..here's to hoping the bartender wasn't shaking it like that to save what she had. :P feel jipped and dumped..hoping things are better next time..
(3)
D P.
I have been going to Exchange Street Bistro since they opened up in Malden. Positive: Great Ambience. Stylish, clean, modern. Drinks are great. Why 2 stars? Well, this place has a newer chef and the food is just not the same. For years, I would have given 5 stars because the food was so good. Having gone a lot of times, I have tried all varieties of food and I used to agree with their advertisement --'back bay experience with neighborhood prices'. Last two time I went back, I realized how the quality of food has detoriated ,so I am going to stay away from it for a while.
(2)
samantha m.
I had seen ads for this place a lot and was excited I found a restaurant.com deal. My boyfriend and I went there later on a Tuesday, thought the menu looked great. The dining experience went downhill from then on. Service was lax at best, no menu knowledge, forgot to bring items we asked for multiple times. To top it off on one of the meals ordered we had asked for no mushrooms, to be told after waiting 30 min the Steak Wellington had mushrooms cooked into it. We decided to just pick them out as we were tired of waiting only to realize as the waitress took her time figuring out the entree screw up the entrees had been sitting in the window and the sides were cold and very disappointing for how small the steak was and how much it was. After sending them back we finished the rest and when they finally came back they were a more raw form of their disappointing selves. The manager was nice but didn't really offer anything other than a complimentary dessert which we decided to take (better than nothing though after 15 minutes of waiting we just wanted to leave) only to find out when we got home that it was pathetic in size and about as good as the sides (the teaspoon of ice cream that accompanied the minisule apple crisp fit in a plastic ramikin.... Hoping this was an isolated experience, but sadly we won't be back.
(1)
s b.
nice meeting spot, for drinks, just apps, or a full meal. it's nice to have such a place that's local and with pretty easy parking. i've enjoyed the food a lot, especially the broccoli rabe and asiago eggroll things. some items can be [unexpectedly/inexplicably] pricey -- i nearly fell off my seat when we got our bill and found out our app sampler cost $21.
(4)
Jason D.
This is a really cool place that's definitely not what you expect to find in Malden. It's a very hip, well-decorated restaurant with a slightly higher end menu (lots of wines, a big martini menu, higher end food) that's more in line with what you'd expect to find in Boston. We went for brunch and each thing we tried was excellent (Cobb Salad, Stuffed French Toast, and Western Omelette) and the presentation was as impressive as the decor. It was quiet (and not very busy) when we went. Service was good. I'd definitely go back and would recommend it to anyone living in the northern suburbs who is looking for a "downtown" type place in our neighborhood.
(5)
Wayne M.
First off it's a beautiful place and I've always had very friendly and wonderful waitpersons there. Even when there's a problem they clear it up. At one point I had to wait about 15 minutes just to order a drink. The waitress came up, apologized profusely and gave me my first drink free of charge cause of the wait! The tables are good-sized, the atmosphere is OK and the food is OK. Nothing great but OK. On the other hand--the tables in the back are scary. Badly lit and quite dark. They have about three TVs on blaring loudly at times. The martini bar can get LOUD! One night there was so much screaming and laughing I could barely think. Also the food is over priced. Yes it's good but not THAT good! It's best for groups too. I go out to eat alone. They've always immediately cleared a whole table for me but I feel kind of funny. So it IS good but over priced and a little too loud.
(2)
BonBon H.
Awesome place! The happy hour specials are great from 4-7! There are dollar oysters and appetizers. Although the portions are small, they taste fantastic and go wonderfully with any of their five dollar martinis, four dollar wine, or three dollar beers! The oysters were fresh and juicy and the appetizers were quite flavorfull! The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing, especially after a long day at work. I would go back everyday just for the martinis and oysters! The people are so friendly as well. My boyfriend went there for the first time and ordered a regular specialty martini mistaking it for five dollars and when the check came and he told the bartender, he just changed the price of the drink to five bucks! The customer service is pretty great. The only thing I found a little disappointing was the portions of the appetizers because it was one crab cake for a dollar or one eggroll for a dollar. But the taste was good.
(4)
Kristen L.
I have only been here once and I was really surprised at the atmosphere once I had walked in. within the area of Malden it is not exactly your upscale side of town, but once you go beyond the other side of the cool little wooden door that blends into the restaurant, you feel as tho your in another world away from Malden. somewhere really quaint and comfortable . the lighting is very low and intimate you can really enjoy the company of others here.drinks are good and the food portions are very nice and tasty as well. so if you feel like you wanna get away but do not want to go too far, come here and for me I was in another place once i sat down at the Exchange Street Bistro.
(5)
Michael C.
We just ate at Exchange Street Bistro for the first time. Our impression is that it's okay, but there's no compelling reason to return. Appetizers: The hog wings (pork shanks) were actually quite good--quite possibly the highlight of the meal. The "jumbo" shrimp cocktail was anything but. For the $12 price tag, we'd recommend skipping it. Entrees: The baked haddock could have been very good, but the temperature of the dish was a little too cool. The steak frites was decent, but one piece of meat was terribly undercooked and the frites were a little bit soggy. (I think serving the beef on top of the fries was a bad call.) Overall, adequate. But there are too many better places to spend money on a second meal here.
(2)
Najely S.
I've been here a few times for dinner and brunch, loved it! The food and decor are great. It certainly doesn't feel like you are in Malden once you step inside. It's beautiful and comfortable and always hopping with people.
(4)
Sarah A.
Since moving up north of Boston, this has been a frequent haunt for us (myself and my husband). It was recommended by my sister's boyfriend, and has never once disappointed us. Their Elderflower martini is out of this world, they rotate the menu, their state is friendly, service is good, and best of all---they are a short walk from the Malden Center T stop on the orange line. That means an extra martini since driving is not a concern (though there is validated parking available, and some street parking if you're lucky). A true neighborhood gem.
(4)
Cee D.
Really 3.5 stars. This restaurant has an interesting layout and decor. I liked that the bar did not have a TV right in front of it. Might be nice for a drink with friends. We had dinner. Seated immediately and water poured as we sat down, which was nice. Tried the calamari and the onion soup. Onion soup was nice. Calamari was cooked well and tasty, but overdressed with the tartar style sauce. Entrees were pan seared scallops over lobster ravioli and the rack of lamb. Wife said scallops were cooked perfectly but a little salty, and she likes salt. The rack of lamb was overseasoned on the rosemary, and a little fatty, but were also cooked perfectly. So, it seems that everything is cooked well but overseasoned. A less heavy handed chef might pull another star. The only real complaint was the goat cheese whipped potatoes that came with the lamb. I would never pair these two foods. Overall good service. We were too full for dessert. Worth a try if you are in the downtown Malden area.
(3)
Christina O.
I could not be happier with this place! Their portion sizes are huge, prices are fair, martinis are delicious, and service is greaT! Their tomato basil soup is UNBELIEVABLE- you need to go in and try it immediately! I love the goat cheese thin crust pizza with arugala, and I have ordered their salmon and it was delicious. Unfortunately they discontinued their butternut squash raviolis, which were amazing as well! This place has a downtown-Boston feel without the prices or crowds. Everyone is nice, and you will not be dissapointed!
(5)
rex w.
Pleasant atmosphere, and a menu that seems promising. But the food is not all that great, and mostly a disappointment. Been there twice and both times found the food to be blah. One bright spot: deserts are great.
(2)
Justine D.
Well, I think the fact that there's a legitimately classy place for quality martinis in Malden is a miracle. And this place is it. Malden is the town I live in and I think it's basically pretty divy, but at least Exchange Street doesn't disappoint. You can get a lovely, pretty sugar-rimmed martini, or a more manly type of beverage, with friendly service. And the clientele seem pretty decent, too. Also conveniently located by the Malden Center T. My only gripe is that it is a bit pricey, esp. being in Malden...
(4)
Tracey F.
The food at Exchange Street is consistly good. We have eaten there several times and the food and drinks have always been great.
(5)
Julie E.
Exchange Street is the first of two really fantastic Malden restaurants, the other being All Seasons. While rather expensive, the quality of food is excellent and they serve a Sunday brunch that is worth checking out. Their cocktails are well made and they have a lively bar crowd. The decor is simply beautiful. Service has been mixed during the many times I've eaten here. Definitely worth driving to!
(4)
Welton B.
The menu here is great, and they get points for trying. The presentation is also fantastic. The food, however, was somehow mildly disappointing. You certainly get what you pay for--the portions are much larger than I expected, considering the type of food. But I thought it was all somewhat bland. I had the Jumbo Crab Cake, and it was very good, accompanied by lemon aioli and a mild marinara sauce, both of which were adequate. Then I had the Pan-Seared Scallop over Lobster Ravioli. The raviolis had more lobster meat and flavor than I had expected, and the scallops were very well-prepared, but they were missing some kind of sizzle. I just wanted to be more excited about the meal--there was something lacking. More seasoning would have helped. I'm no chef, that's why I pay to go to places like this. It was all presented beautifully, and skillfully prepared, but it needed some kind of spark. As for the ambience, I found it a bit noisy. Why do all these new restaurants discard any attempt at intimacy? It has the look of a converted warehouse with fancy trimming pasted over the walls, and the lights turned down so you can't see the imperfections. All in all, I'd recommend it to try, but I probably won't be going again.
(3)
Nathan M.
Exchange street has continued to improve since first opening up this summer. As a new Maldenite, we've tried ESB several times and it is always worth going to. For the quality of food, the price cannot be beat and though not an extensive wine list, the selections are all very good. There newest tapas plate is always good; blue cheese butter covered NY strip is excellent; duck confit pizza is also excellent. Definitely worth a try if you venture to Malden.
(5)
Rafael S.
great service, food is really good too, and a great option for malden, i highly recommend it!!!!!!
(4)
Nichan S.
Stopped by the restaurant on a Sunday around 3 p.m. which ended up being between their lunch and dinner menu so only appetizers, burgers and salads were available which was mentioned by the host and our waitress. We started with the Korean BBQ Spare Ribs and while the flavor of the was fantastic the ribs were forgettable as they were tough and did not have much meat on them. My companion and I both ordered the American Kobe burger and we both enjoyed it, the burger was prepared perfectly and the accompanying french fries were superb. We opted to split a dessert and chose the Almond Crunch Tiramisu which had a nice presentation and was delicious. I had ordered a cappuccino to go along with the dessert and was disappointed, it was watery and barely warm. The host had stopped by and asked how things were between the appetizer and the burger and I did mention our disappointment with the ribs. The response was they were sorry to hear that. I would expect an offer to remove them from the bill or a suggestion to try a dessert on the restaurant. The gesture itself would convince me to give the restaurant another shot. They advertise heavily and have some great specials but need to take service up a bit. As for the restaurant itself it is modern and has a nice bar area and is handicap accessible with a ramp that leads into the dining area from the street.
(3)
Brooke L.
LOVE THE FOOD, LOVE THE DRINKS, LOVE THE STAFF! I'm from Malden and I'm not going to go into how this is "good for Malden" crap that has been the consensus for the entire page of reviews. Truth is its just good! I've gone multiple times with friends, my brother and ex's :) and each time it has been nothing but the best. Whoever designed the place was genius because if you have ever worked in the restaurant business you are familiar with those haunting words..."oh, can we have a booth?" The front of the restaurant is all booths so its difficult to be disappointed. As far as food goes its all excellent. Definitely try the broccoli rabe and provolone app, and if they have a buffalo entree special, get it! The bar is always packed and they play upbeat music. Drinks are VERY tasty and I am absolutely in love with the staff! I probably go once or twice a month and every time they see my face they light up with a smile and ask how I've been.
(5)
bella c.
dont bother, food is bland and lame!
(1)
chris j.
this place is great. little pricey but worth the trip. considering its in malden it does great always busy and great people at the bar. food has an ethnic touch. not a big meat eater so the seafood tapas are always great and the tuna was seared to perfection. check it out
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Garage, Street, Validated Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : Yes Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Nastassja G.
I tried this place out on a Tuesday and went back by Saturday -- it was that good! The martini list is amazing (and they make a great lemon drop martini). Every thing I have had there is great. The staff are so nice. They even validate parking! I can't wait to return for brunch.
(5)Liz L.
Ugh. I want to write a great review for this place, but... ugh. We went to Exchange Street Bistro for a celebration birthday dinner last night and had a great time - until we got our entrees. But, I'll start with all the good. The decor is great. Very chic and intimate. There are tables in the front and back of the restaurant - back of the restaurant has booths that create the feeling of having a private dining experience. The front of the restaurant, even though the tables are somewhat close together, still has that intimate private feel. The waitstaff was fabulous. From the hostess to the waitress to the owner (or manager, I didn't ask), everyone is attentive and friendly. A+ customer service. The selection of wine is pretty decent, especially considering the restaurant is known for their martinis. We got a bottle of Shiraz that was delicious. And the martinis? Mmmm! We saved our martinis for after dinner - I had an Espresso Martini that was to die for. My dining partner got an Iced Pumpkin Latte Martini that was unbelievable. We savored every sip. Delicious. Ok. Now onto the food - my reason for the low review. We ordered a whole bunch of food and none of it was particularly great. Considering the prices, I was expecting much better food. To start, we got a caesar salad and the coconut shrimp. The caesar was just ok and the coconut shrimp was pretty good - nothing fancy, even though it was presented as a fancy dish. For entrees we ordered the special - a hanger steak with scallops, twice baked potato, and asparagus, and the filet mignon with scalloped potatoes and asparagus. The filet had some sort of demi-glaze, but I've forgotten what it was. And this is where the disappointment starts. I have never sent back a dish or even considered doing so, but when I saw my steak I was super bummed out. If it wasn't a Monday night and I had more time for dinner, I would have sent it back. I was expecting a filet and the cut of meat I got may have been a filet... but it was definitely a terrible cut of meat. I asked for medium and my meat was gray inside. Definitely overdone. The scalloped potatoes were ok. The asparagus was the best part of my meal. As for the special? The twice baked potato was delicious, but the scallops were way overcooked. The hanger steak was cooked poorly, medium rare in some places, well done in others. Ugh. I would suggest going to Exchange Street for drinks and atmosphere, but avoid the food. Overpriced, overcooked, and a total disappointment. What a bummer - I realllllly wanted to love this place!
(2)Joi T.
I have since fallen in love with this place and come here often alone or with a buddy. They do change their tapas menu often so if you fall in love with something it may be gone in a few months. They also changed their tapas time frame which I LOVE!!!!! It's now from 4 pm till close still at bar & lounge. They do not have any drink specials though but it's fine because the food choices make up for it. I did have dinner with some friends not too long ago. I ordered beef wellington from the prix fixe menu. I have never had it before so I had no idea what to expect and have no comparison. It was good very tasty and the pastry was nice and flakey. It is something I will order again.
(4)Leah P.
Had dinner there recently, Food was SO good! I had the black pepper fettuccine (I think that's what it was called), it was so delicious! Appetizer and soup were great too. Our server Michelle was great as well as the hostsess/busser. The place also has a great ambiance, casual and cool. Will definitely be back the next time We're in Malden.
(5)EricaLynn J.
Suffering from what seems to be an identity crisis, the Exchange Street Bistro is a 'see and be seen' establishment nestled smack in the midst of one of the busiest areas of Malden, right down the street from the Malden Center T stop and next to a bunch of closed businesses and a bargain hair salon. Signs for valet parking seem quite out of place, though certainly adds to the mystery surrounding the beautifully designed storefront. Once inside, customers simply walk down the long, narrow path and their dining adventures will soon begin. It's hard not to notice the amount of activity surrounding the bar that's in the middle of the entire place. And there you have the Best of Malden - and yes, I do mean the cougars too - all placed around that bar drinking their days away with the charming (but expensive!) drink and specialty martini menu. And while much of the place seems to partake in its own battle of the bands (jazz music blasting from one end, televisions blaring with sports games at another end), your ears will be most attuned to the people at the bar, as with anywhere: as they get drunker, they get louder. With all the hustle and bustle and bizarre eye candy, I almost forgot that I was there to eat - though in a way, I wish I had. The "tapas" appetizer tasted fantastic and came out rather quickly (which may, of course, have been the first indication that something was not quite right) and for $20, it's a steal for two people looking to share all sorts of goodies from teriyaki chicken to mussles to spring rolls. And the regular dinner menu and specials all were pretty mouthwatering at first glance. Lobster mac and cheese, seared scallops with vegetables, and baked penne with sausage with a pomodoro sauce all stood out to me as potentials, and I went with the penne and sausage. My first question to any server when it comes to an entree that can go either way is if the sauce or the meat are spicy. I can't stomach spicy food - what is just reasonably spicy to some will pretty much put me out for the count. So seeing the words 'sausage' and 'pomodoro sauce', I had to ask. I was told that it was absolutely not spicy and I did not give it another thought. My penne and sausage looked absolutely delectable and I was thrilled that I chose that over the lobster mac and cheese, though I certainly tasted quite a bit of it across the table. A few bites in, though, I realized that the sauce was a little bit spicy. I got about a third of the way through and I felt like I had eaten five times as much. My stomach began alerting me to the fact that things were definitely not OK. And to make things worse, fruit flies were rummaging around the table and trying to make friends with my food. I am sure you can probably see where this is going. Poor me, I know. You're playing the tiniest violin for me and I do appreciate it. But my experience with Exchange Street Bistro certainly was more than just the unfortunate incident with the spicy or the undercooked stuff. My general blahs towards this place is based primarily around the fact that it's a really weird restaurant and I got the impression that they're a little too eager to make the place chic and frou-frou that they forget the basics: good, honest service, clean surroundings, and fresh tasty food will get you far.
(2)Nancy Z.
For the love of PEPPERONCINI MARTINIS! Man. I like wine, and I sure as hell like my beer- but hot damn. Their martinis make me want to pop in a whole season of Sex and the City! All of a sudden, I feel an urge to go into chick-overdrive mode when I hold a martini glass. Is that weird? Do most girls feel like that? Anyways... if you enjoy Dirty Martinis, this will absolutely make your night. Actually, all their drinks will, they have an enormously great selection. It is also one of the best places to meet up with friends. The decor and music is very trendy and the bar and crowd are always lively at night. Malden has come a long way since I grew up here! One of the best dishes I've had there was the livers that's sauteed with onions and other scrumptious and savory ingredients. It's served on sweet, dense pieces of brown bread. I think there's even some cinnamon in it (clever, you). The flavors work together so well. Note that there is also happy hour here, I think from 4-6ish that includes $1 oysters. The service has been great every time. During Friday and Saturday nights, it gets pretty crowded, so there may be a wait if you come in late. You could always be safe and make a reservation as well. Two sets of two words: Pepperoncini Martini Do it.
(4)Ribblet N.
Tastes pretty darn good tonight. May be all the beers? Had the steak bits and sweet potato fries and a Cesar salad. Spicy chicken wings for appetizer and mussels, front window seating, was great.
(5)Jennifer R.
The problem: The front of the house is doing their kitchen a huge disservice. We go for dinner. The food is terrific. All of it. Why two stars? Let's start with a strong chemical odor that hits us as we come through the door and never lets up. Follow that with Nurse Ratched approaching our table. We recoil. We order a bottle of wine. She brings the wrong vintage. We point out the error. The vintage offered is unavailable. (The wine list has never been updated.) We order a different wine. Meanwhile, we get an edgy visit from Schlubby the Manager. He's dressed like he's just come from the gym. "It's all the same juice", he argues. This is going down in a place decked out to look swanky and advertised to be fab. (The interior is cool...in a cookie-cutter sort of way. Pussy willow branches, the usual mod "teak" dividers, lots of booths, a back-lit bar.) All the while, GREAT food lands on our table, though we cringe every time Ms. Brassy Breeches delivers it. Otherwise? The martinis are good. Oh, and you can giggle over the misspellings in the menu as you inhale chemicals and are assaulted by the staff. If I worked in that kitchen, I'd be furious.
(2)Robert B.
Amazing bread pudding and awesome service!!!!
(5)Thomas S.
Tapas was great, we sampled everything. My favorite was the cheese and spinach that were fried (I though they were meatballs at first) with a nice sauce on top. Calamari was delicate and not chewy at all. Martini was good but not excellent probably because it wasn't allowed to chill long enough for my liking, but the olives saved the day, a meal in themselves. We only had drinks and the tapas but I'd like to try this place for dinner, what a diamond in the rough!
(4)Lou P.
Upscale atmosphere Great martini selection Good for quiet dates While I used to love the dive bar crowd in college and for a short time thereafter, I ooccasionally find myself tending toward a more refined (read: quiet) experience now. The evening lounge at Exchange Street is right up my alley in that regard. The atmosphere is muted and quiet. It's as if you're in the private back area of a larger, busier club and the music is wafting through the doorway. I've been here twice now, once for a private party, and once for drinks. I'm not sure the food at the party, delicious as it was, is indicative of the overall quality, so I will refrain from comment on that. I would recommend the place for a quiet evening, however, especially if you're in the mood for a martini. We arrived around 10:30 on a Saturday night, and got a seat right at the bar. It wasn't crowded by any means, and the bartender was right over to take our order. The drinks are a bit expensive at around $10.50 for a martini. The ladyfriend had a Lemon Drop, which I sampled. It wasn't too sweet, and not overly sour either. I had a Nucumber (Hendricks and muddled cucumber.) It's a strange taste, but I would recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the Gimlet looking to switch it up. The evening crows is a bit older, so you're best served going there with a date or friends rather than looking for company.
(3)Michael T.
We went on opening night after the remodel and enjoyed the new layout. The food is always very tasty and portions are good considering it's a bistro. Drinks are amazing. A great time with friends. Hands down the best restaurant in Malden.
(5)Julia C.
The interior decoration suffers from identity crisis (read: gilded Italian plaster molding + edgy, modern furniture + middle-ages-esque tapestries), but this can only add to your dinner conversation. I came here for a coworker's going-away lunch get-together. The lunch menu is your typical Americana fare, things like burgers, club sandwiches, green salads, etc. The lone chicken pad thai that somehow found its way onto the menu always makes me laugh. Our waitress was a friendly yet excessively bubbly gal who was very willing to please, but came by way too many times (every 10 minutes or so for the hour that we were there, checking for water, making sure that everyone's dish was okay and that we didn't need anything else) for my comfort level. The food portions are HUGE. Almost everyone took a doggie bag home. I've had bites of the club sandwich and ordered the lobster mac and cheese, which were both tasty, but nothing special. I didn't feel comfortable asking for bites of the aforementioned random pad thai, but if anyone has tried it, please let me know how it is! I do not remember any entree item being over $15, mostly in the $10-13 range.
(3)Kelly C.
For Malden, this is top notch. We stopped in for brunch, and although VERY noisey (2 different bridal showers going on) it was great! The food was really good - I had the Monte Cristo and it and the fries along with it were some of the best I've had. Hubby had the eggs benedict, that came with greens and fruit salad. We also had the fried calamari (we try it everywhere we go) and it wasn't crispy enough for me, but the pepper sauce they put on it was a unique taste that I enjoyed. The portions were large, our waitress was very attentive, and the atmosphere was upscale. We liked it a lot and will definitely be back!
(5)Joe S.
Jesus Christmas, the Wellington neighborhood is boring! Strip malls and half-assed chain restaurants will give you some bang for your buck, but when all is said and done, the experience feels like you've stood in line at the supermarket. Blase, sir! Blah Say. A brother wants to be in walking distance of good neighborhood eats and the Wellington neighborhood is not that. So my girlfriend and I decided to venture out to Malden Center for some local culture and cuisine. It's not quite walking distance, but the T can trick a man into thinking the ride was part of his stroll. We invited 2 friends, investigated Yelp for places to go, decided on Exchange Street Bistro and off we went. Our friends drove and found ample parking in front of the restaurant at 6pm on a Saturday. We almost passed the front door as it looked like part of the exterior wall. "Better to keep away the riff-raff" I thought. Inside, the restaurant was classier than I had imagined, definitely leaning more to the Bistro side of the name than Exchange Street. High ceilings, deep burgundy walls and some friendly hostesses asking if we had reservations greeted us. We were immediately seated in a booth that made us feel totally separate from the rest of the small crowd and our waitress came by momentarily to make us feel at home. She was sweet, knowledgeable and, most importantly, human. There was nary an R to be heard in any word spoken. Toto, I think we are in Malden. Thank God. We started with drinks. The drinks at Exchange Street Bistro are huge. These bowls that the staff referred to as Martini glasses might hold a quart of liquor. Needless to say, we were big fans right away. My companions chose martinis from the vast drinks menu and I had the Bourbon Manhattan. The Manhattan was standard. I wish I asked for less Vermouth, but then again, I should just start asking for a bowl of chilled Makers Mark with some fruit in it. The apps were good, but not great. To be honest, I hate Broccoli Rabe, so the Broccoli Rabe Spring Rolls hardly tempted me. Interstingly enough, when it is called rapini in the pork chop main dish, I eat it like its being taken away from me. Go figure. The Korean Barbeque Spare Ribs with their sesame glaze tasted like run of the mill Chinese food to me, but I am not a huge fan of Asian cuisine. I think this paragraph describes more the cost I paid to eat where I wanted to than the actual meal. Exchange Street does not offer psychological help on the menu, but I am sure the friendly wait staff would listen. The main courses were much better. I had the Frenched Center Cut Pork Chop with roasted Delicata squash, vinegar peppers and sauteed rapini. The pork chop was succulent, tender and juicy in a rather large portion. The few peppers were delicious, but only made me wish there were more on the plate. The squash and rapini were excellent sides, with the rapini offering a hint of garlic and the tender Delicata offering a nice flavor and change of consistency. Mwah! Delish! My compatriots had no complaints about their meals really. The Ahi Tuna was adequately portioned and disappeared in a matter of moments. The Veal Saltimbocca featured 2 big pieces of veal with cheese over them. It looked good and was boxed up for a highly anticipated breakfast meal. The Eggplant Napoleon was "too cheesy", but very good otherwise. I will go to Exchange Street Bistro again as the $200 price tag was okay for the amount of food we received. Thanks Exchange Street Bistro for making my awful neighborhood a little more acceptable.
(4)Christopher M.
Another peg in the slow but steady gentrification of Malden Center, Exchange Street Bistro sits on Exchange Street (no kidding) between the Hobby Bunker and a run down thrift store. When you gaze out the front windows, you're rewarded with a not-so-stunning view of the backside of the Malden Center MBTA parking garage, but an inward glance into Exchange Street Bistro tells an entirely different story. Exchange Street is modern chic, from the décor to the menu. The seasonal martini menu features funky cocktails like the Goddess Martini (Skyy Raspberry, Stoli Peach, Grenadine, Cranberry, Pineapple and OJ) and the Dirty Pepper Martini (Skyy Vodka, Olive Juice and Pepperoncini Juice). The hip, modern menu features a Daily Tapas selection, Pan Seared Scallops over Lobster Ravioli and Pollo Alicia, a chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto, portobello mushrooms, mozzarella and roasted red peppers. Just reading it is enough to make your mouth water. Unfortunately, Exchange Street Bistro is one of those restaurants that looks better on paper than it does in person. The service is consistently poor, which is a drag on the experience. Every time I've visited they've appeared understaffed, with one server rushing to cover a dozen tables. The wait for service is always long (last time we waited 15 minutes just to place a drink order), and the server's attitude is less than hospitable. The food, while exciting and creative, is not always well executed. Often the daily tapas taste like they just came out of the freezer, and the ingredients in the Pollo Alicia are anything but fresh. On the other hand, the Pan Seared Scallops over Lobster Ravioli are absolutely to die for. My least favorite aspect of Exchange Street Bistro is the atmosphere. There are TVs everywhere (do we really need CSI from six different angles during dinner?) and the music is often so loud it's difficult to carry on a conversation. Unfortunately it's not loud enough to drown out the obnoxious locals patrons who always seem to frequent the restaurant. Loud, vulgar guys dressed in bagged sweatpants with skanky girlfriends seem to perpetually occupy every other booth. I suppose you can put a little sophistication into Malden, but you can't keep Malden out of Exchange Street Bistro.
(3)Marcy M.
The martinis were good, but service and food was not impressive. Also, there are numerous misspelled words on the menu. Overall, the food and service was poor and slow. Not worth the amount of money they charge. I'm surprised because the restaurant was featured on Phantom Gourmet and I've heard so many great things, but it was a big disappointment that ended up costing us a lot of money.
(2)Karla M.
AWESOME food and ambiance!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The leech martini ROCKS! The only downside is depending which night you go, which bartender you get! I've had GREAT service, and no so great service. The only improvement I'd recommend is training/choosing the appropriate bartenders for an upper class restaurant. A+++++
(4)Omeed D.
Well, this place has slipped dramatically. When I moved to Malden 18 months ago, this was one of the restaurants I was most excited about. A couple of early visits were encouraging. The martini list is extensive - which is the only reason I give it two stars instead of one. In the last six months, every visit has been a disappointment. The menu has tended towards the mediocre and every meal I've had has been worse than the previous one. The end came for me today. My fiancee and I were coming back from running errands and decided to check out their happy hour. They advertise an extensive list of cut rate drinks and eats. I wish that were the case. As the bartender explained the deals, it became apparent that the happy hour was limited to just a couple of selections. There were two (mediocre sounding) martinis available. When I asked about cocktails, the bartender told me the martinis counted as cocktails - and then offered to whip up some sort of grape-flavored nightmare as well. The happy hour wines were limited to a chardonnay and their cheapest red wine (and it's not like their wine list is pricey; 337 is 12.99 a bottle at Kappys). We just left. The food selection seemed reasonably priced - but, as I mentioned, I've been disappointed in everything I've eaten there for quite some time. As much as I like to support local businesses, I'm done with this place. If you're looking for good food in the area, I'd recommend my new favorite: Bistro 5 in Medford. Going to write my review for that... right now!
(2)Lizzie S.
I was so surprised to find food this good and atmosphere this wonderful in Malden! We ordered appetizers and entrees, and every bite was incredible. Also, the night we were there had live entertainment of a singer/guitarist. The wait staff was friendly, the food came out fast, and everything was delicious. Conveniently located near the Malden enter T stop, this place is definitely worth a try.
(5)Meredith K.
I'm so sad the old chef left. When we first started to come here - it was SO delicious and the menu seemed to change frequently (which I like). The mussels with julienned veggies and garlic toast was to die for, but alas - it is no more. We have gone back maybe 3 times since the (original or at least last chef) left and all 3 times it's just been ok - pretty boring forgetttable meals. The menu has been the exact same (except specials) all 3 times over a 10 month period and nothing really stands out that much. The mac and cheese - meh I can make it better at home. The steak - I've had better at so many places. the braised short ribs - I've had SO much better elsewhere. It just felt like the quality of food went downhill and so did the flavor (it was bland). I do have to say the drinks are fun and tasty (lots of specialty martinis) and a decent wine list. Also the servers have always been friendly, but occasionally on the slow side to bring dishes/refills.
(2)Ernald N.
I stepped in here for the first time ever for a takeout order so I didn't have the In-House experience. The decor of this place is nice, very stylish and appears to have a great bar. My review is based primarily on the food quality really, I ordered the "Exchange" Steak Frittes dish and while the steak was tasty the meal itself was lacking. For $20 I got 4-5 small pieces of steak which didn't fill me up at all. The sweet potato fries were soaked & soggy instead of crisp since they were topped with watery baby arugula. The arugula was fresh and good but again because of the quantity of food provided I couldn't give a review over 3 stars for my experience. I'll likely come back for drinks but I'm on the fence for having another meal here especially since my appetite is about average.
(3)Mark A.
I receive coupons for this place every once in a while, and have to admit that's usually the only thing that gets me to think of going to this place. I have been here a handful of times though. The food's always been good, though I'd prefer a little more variation in their menu. The drinks are good, and they have a fairly well stocked bar. I've had a couple of "less-than-great" service experiences here, which is probably the reason I don't go here more often. I think they're targeting the "after work drink/dinner" crowd, which is fine, but it does give the place a different vibe than your average "classy" restaurant.
(3)David P.
Excellent food, excellent prices, excellent service! We've had friends from out of town come and this is the first place we thought of to take them! This is truly a gem!
(5)Annette M.
I honestly want to give this restaurant more stars because the food is different and delicious, the drinks are fantastic, and the decor is trendy and fun. Where this place falls is that it is REALLY loud. The volume of the music is always too high, and it is music you would dance to not eat to. You end up having to yell to have a conversation. As the place fills up it only gets worse. Also, I am one of those people who HATE certain food items (mushroom, onions, blue cheese, olives, rare steaks, etc. - clearly foods that impact the flavor of a dish), so I usually ask for my meals to be without these items. I also have to say that I am never rude or demanding with my meal requests. I am never unreasonable, but the waitstaff always seem to be put out when you ask for something simple like no blue cheese in a salad. I have no problem paying the same price for 1 less ingredient. I once asked for a steak to be made medium well, (the way I like it) and the waiter argued with me and insisted that the chef recommended it medium rare. My steak did not come out the way I wanted it but I was so embarrassed by the ordering discussion that I refused to send it back. I LOVE eating out, and I want to enjoy my night out.
(2)tavia m.
I like the Exchange Street Bistro and have had a pleasant experience every time I have come here. The reason they don't get four stars is because sometimes the service isn't at four star level and their food is hit or miss. I like the atmosphere of the ESB, and it's very large and good for groups. The wait staff is accommodating and helpful, but tends to disappear for long periods of time. The martini list is extensive and I have tried several of them from the list, most recently the Creamsicle, which is great. The Malden Martini is a bit too sweet for me. I also sampled the Pear Side Car recently, which is tasty. Overall, the quality of the food at the ESB is good, but overpriced. The menu at the Exchange Street Bistro changes seasonally. There are some staples that are always on the menu, like their lobster mac & cheese, which is pretty tasty but somewhat pricey. Also I have had the pork chop, which was very good and the braised short rib, which was ok. A lot of their food is fine, but unmemorable. Recently, I tried the spring rolls, which had an unpleasant aftertaste. Yuck. Dessert-wise, the ice cream sandwiches are a MUST. You only need one order for a group of four. The portion size is huge. Whenever someone suggests the ESB, I always say yes and I always have a fine time. I would recommend this location if you're looking for American fare.
(3)jerry b.
1st time at exchange st & will be back again. service was very good & as the evening wore on it got better as different workers cleared or asked about refills. Our server was very attentive as well waiting til we were nearly done to ask about the next plate .Bruchetta without mozzarella? Goat cheese instead was really a great choice. tappas plate was excellent. I had the pork chop, juicy, perfectly cooked, I asked for a twice baked potato instead of the veggies, no problem. My wife & a friend split the fettacini & both thought it to be great. The onion soup was perfect. Nice wine list. We wil be back. Oh, they have validated parking across the street.
(4)Emily P.
Had a wonderful dinner at Exchange Street. It was pretty busy for a Wednesday night, and we loved our waitress Linda. We started with the pepper encrusted calamari -- to die for. Husband and I like to think of ourselves as calamari experts, and this was top notch. I was contemplating the cucumber martini but was hesitant about it being made with gin. Linda suggested I try the cucumber martini but with grey goose. I hadn't even mentioned that I was thinking of trying it -- it was like she read my mind! Also had a flirtini which was yum. I had the lobster mac & cheese which was delish. There were large hunks of buttery lobster which made me tres happy. Husband had the steak frittes with mashed instead of sweet potato fries and he loved it. The reason it's getting 4 instead of 5 is because the heavenly rolls we were promised didn't show up until we got our entrees and we had to ask for them. Overall it's a good spot with a city vibe (and free parking!) without having to venture over the Charles.
(4)Mike D.
I have been to the Exchange Bistro a couple times; both times the service was quite bad and food was also terrible. The restaurant is located in wonderful downtown Malden and tries to pretend to be like Boston. It is a bit pricey for the location and area. I would say take the 10 minute drive into downtown Boston and get a much better meal and experience for the same price.
(2)John B.
Best martinis around! The lobster Mac and cheese is awesome. They have daily tapas that is pretty good...... And! The girl I am with right now wants to " try all of these" martinis on their list... (hopefully I am around to see that)
(5)Ladyjane S.
I came here for brunch this past Sunday and the service was extremely slow. I had to chase down our waitress more than a couple times just to get our check, food wrapped, etc. Also, the food took an extremely long time to come out. The slow pace wouldn't have bothered me but I didn't really want to spend my entire afternoon there, so it got kind of annoying towards the end. We got the waffle, a sausage corn dog, tomato basil soup and the lobster mac and cheese. Waffle was terrible. It was thick and pasty and just...not good. The sausage corn dog had runny batter on the inside but the outside was pretty good and very greasy. The soup was fantastic. They cut up a few pieces of yummy grilled cheese and put it right on top. I really wish they just served a whole grilled cheese with it beacuse I totally would order that next time I come! The lobster mac was good but not great when I ate it at the restaurant but for some reason it was AMAZING the next day when I heated it up in the microwave. Not sure why that is but I ate it for 2 separate meals afterwards so I can't complain. They sure do give you a lot. I don't think I'd come here again for brunch. I think the prices are too high and it just doesn't seem like a brunch place. However, I will come back and try them for dinner. I think the quality is there, just not for breakfast foods.
(3)Tara S.
I'm impressed. I have lived in Malden for a while and have heard about this place from a few people. I always heard good things. Now, I can reccommend it to my people! I very much enjoyed the food and drinks. The calamari is so crispy and the marinara is simple and a perfect compliment. I can't wait to go back.
(4)JEM C.
I didn't have high expectations and thats about where this place landed at the end of the experience. We went there for brunch on a Sunday at 11am and had no wait--nice plus. Its in Malden so the interior and ambiance were nice for the area. The menu sounded good but the flavors are were I felt most let down. I had the french toast (and as an avid bruncher) I can tell you these are amongst my least face ever. If Im doing the calories, I want them to be scrumptious...these just weren't :( The prices were ok, but really I probably wont go back because I love brunch and have MANY better places around for it.
(3)A Z.
Went here for "Sunday Brunch". My friend and I shared these two plates: Homemade Belgian Waffles -Topped with caramelized bananas, orange cream & side of bacon. ($8) Stuffed French Toast - Peaches, Blueberry Compote and Mascarpone Cheese. ($10) The belgian "waffles" = just ONE waffle, but it's plenty. The terrible part was, however, that what appears to make this dish is the "carmelized bananas". That's why we chose it. They didn't tell us until they brought it to our table that "oops, we're all out of bananas". So I guess it's just a Belgian Waffle now, isn't it? Would have been nice to know BEFORE so we could have picked something else. And I mean, the place was not busy by any means, where did the bananas go? The stuffed french toast was really good, and the peaches were definitely fresh and not canned. All of it plus the mascarpone was a little too sweet for me though, so I wasn't able to eat too much of it. The womens bathroom was being fixed while we were there, but one of the friendly hosts offered to "keep watch" for me in the Men's bathroom. No complaints there. The bathroom was very clean. Overall, the place looks nice, they use quality ingredients, and the prices are decent (for breakfast at least). There's not a huge selection for Sunday Brunch, in fact, half of the menu is lunch food, but what they have is good enough. Still a little annoyed about the last-minute banana mystery, but otherwise I can't complain.
(4)Ploy K.
I have been to Exchange Street for brunch twice now, and will likely go again. It is a nice little place of the beaten path in Malden, with city food at neighborhood prices. Both times I have spent under $20 and been fairly pleased with my food. The first time I went, I had eggs benedict, which I loved. The second time, I had the BLT omelet, which had Boursin cheese, Lobster, and Truffle oil. Sadly, this dish was NOT worth $14. The cheese was overpowering, the lobster was a bit chewy, and the egg was dry dry dry. I didn't even know there was truffle oil in there. If the ingredients had been mixed together better and the eggs not been overcooked, it might have been delicious. It was, however, disappointing. Despite one bad dish, I do like Exchange Street. The atmosphere is very chic without being pretentious and the staff is very friendly. I arrived 15 minutes before they opened, and while some restaurants might make you wait outside in the freezing cold, those at Exchange Street allowed me to sit quietly at the bar and read. While there wasn't a line at the door, by 11:45am or so, the place had filled up nicely and had a good, friendly vibe. I will go back to the Bistro and try some of their sweeter brunch options. I would also love to try their lunch or dinner.
(3)Sasha B.
I loved Exchange Street Bistro! The martinis are amazing, they have (easily drinkable) chunks of fruit floating in them! We had the strawberry gimlet, which was fab, and the pear sidecar. I was truly impressed with both, some of the best I've had. Disclaimer, I am an extra pulp in my juice kind of person, so I may be biased. I ordered the lobster mac, creamy, big chunks of claw meat, grain mustard, I loved it!! The service was incredibly nice, my water glass was constantly refilled.
(4)Bill Y.
I'm incredibly torn as to what to rate the Exchange Street Bistro. It's a nice-looking place with excellent decor and very good food that severely lacked in service during our recent visit. My girlfriend and I had never been there, so we decided to give it a shot Friday night. After being seated in a large booth, we waited for 10 minutes before anyone acknowledged us; it was someone bringing us rolls but not greeting us. After 15 minutes, a manager apologized and a waitress was over to take our order. But we seriously considered leaving at this point. The manager, however, did comp our drinks, which was something they didn't have to do but was very nice. I ordered the $25 prix fixe dinner, consisting of caesar salad, a t-bone steak (ordered medium rare) and the lemon sorbet, while my girlfriend had the scallops. We split an appetizer of the calamari. While we had to wait about 15 minutes for appetizers after this -- not sure how frying calamari or putting together a simple caesar salad takes this long -- but it wasn't an overly long wait. The big problem happened when my "medium rare" steak showed up. It was cooked between medium well and well-done, and frankly, it was nearly impossible to cut. Although I can't remember ever sending a steak back, I asked the waitress to return it, letting her know it was not medium rare. She questioned me and suggested this was a medium rare steak before I told her it was unacceptable and asked her to return it. For someone in the service industry to question a customer is completely unacceptable -- her job is to make a patron's night, not argue with the guest over the cook times of meat. When the medium-rare steak did come out, however, it was delicious. The calamari from earlier was as well. My girlfriend only received 4 scallops, however; for a $22 entree, I'd expect more. This seemed like a portion size that was exceedingly small. But they were very tasty. But our waitress' extreme lack of hospitality made the meal a downer. It continued on to when my girlfriend, after reviewing the dessert menu, asked for the lemon sorbet, which comes with the prix fixe meal, but isn't listed on the dessert menu. The waitress, rather than agreeing, hemmed and hawed, saying she didn't really think that was possible. I let my girlfriend take my sorbet, and ordered the lava cake -- which was really the best part of the entire evening -- but the fact that a $2 scoop of sorbet would cause such an issue with the server is ridiculous. And while bringing the bill, wouldn't you know it? Our waitress tacked that *free* round of drinks right back onto our bill, even though the manager let us know -- with her there -- that it should be comped. Really disappointing when you deliver bad service and don't follow through on promises. The charges were removed on bringing it to the restaurant's attention. Bottom line is that the food at Exchange Street Bistro is excellent and while the scallops entree is rather small, other portions are good. The prix fixe meal is a good bargain. But we'll never return because of our waitress' horrible attitude and her lack of attention. One person who fouled up a meal from beginning to end really ruined our experience, and while the manager did give out a free round and was extremely apologetic, it wasn't enough to salvage the awful night we had here.
(2)Michelle D.
I got married here a few weeks ago and it was FABULOUS!!!! The whole experience was great; from the original booking of the room, to any questions along the way, to finalizing the menu. The food and servers were tremendous. Thank you Felicia and Joanna! The guests could not stop talking about how wonderful everything was. I cannot thank the staff enough for making our wedding outstanding!
(5)Chrissy H.
We couldn't wait, we had to taste the real food. So another date night spent in Malden. I had a Goddess Martini to start... no offense to the bar tender but "ICK", way too sweet for this sour girls taste buds. I had to switch to a glass of Pinot Grigio to go with my pan seared scallops over Lobster Ravioli with a lobster cream sauce. Very tasty indeed! And the hubby had a veil cutlet special over risotto and three shrimps. I didn't get to taste the shrimp, cause he's greedy, but the veil and risotto were delicious. I liked the small portion sizes too because I didn't leave the restaurant, for once, feeling like a whale. The music was a bit more mellow too, which was nice for dinner time. Just quiet, holiday music in the background. The wait staff was great. Very friendly and efficient. I think we've found a new place for date night.
(5)Sarah A.
Very impressed with the lunch menu! The food was excellent. We started with a selection of tapas that included caprese salad, meatballs, broccoli rabe and shrimp: all very tasty. For an entree I had the daily special of haddock on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with spinach and surrounded with a generous portion of lobster sauce. The sauce was delicious! I even had to clean the last bits off my plate with a dinner roll it was so good. The potatoes were done very nicely, very rich and smooth. The fish was cooked perfectly. To finish up the meal I had a cappucino which was certainly among the best I've enjoyed lately at a restaurant. My only complaint with the meal was that our server was not very attentive to our water glasses. I was left without water for a good portion of the meal. Also, our first round of water was WARM, not just not cold with no ice, WARM. The place is very clean, new and fresh and definitely has a more downtown Boston feel to it. The bar was huge and looked like it would be a great place to come in the evening. The bathrooms are very clean and modern. I will definitely be back! Can't wait to try the bar!
(4)Lindsey C.
I went to the Exchange Street Bistro on Valentine's Day with my fiance (we're considering it for our rehearsal dinner), and it did not disappoint. They offer a very extensive martini list and a romantic, cool, and slightly trendy atmosphere. The food was delicious (I had the lobster mac and cheese - sooo good). I would definitely recommend this restaurant for dinner with friends or a date night.
(5)Whiskey C.
Elderflower. Check. Hot Pepper. Check. Bee's Knees. Check. Not to mention, the specials. Sea bass. Aaaah. Again please.
(5)Jon M.
Need to come here more often, always enjoy this place. Had family party of 17 a few weeks ago and not one complaint! Was able to order off menu despite size of group. Martinis are by far the best around. Try the Hendricks Gin cucumber one, WOW! Bar was recently done over so have to go back, for drinks/apps.
(4)Mike Z.
We came here for drinks on a Friday night - the experience was enjoyable, but the food and beer selection was lacking. We ordered the pricey, bland, and small-portioned Lobster Pizza - it was probably the worst pizza I've had in a while. The ambiance is very nice and modern, but that's all it's got.
(3)Inna H.
Very nice place. Has a great bar and good martinis. Very pricey though. For the amount of money you are going to spend here on two drinks you can have three in Boston. Way overpriced for Malden.
(3)Aboud Y.
Nice spot. Lively bar. Too bad the food isn't that great. I tried the burger, steak, duck leg, korean spare ribs, and lobster mac and everything was ok. Not bad...but not that great either. Service was good but a bit pushy (esp. with dessert). Anyhow...true litmus test: I doubt I'll be back. 2.5 stars...I'll round up to 3.
(3)Erin R.
What can I say? The food was absolutely AMAZING! I had the haddock and it was to die for! My fiance had the scallops...also amazing. Our server Linda was super sweet, and had great suggestions! It is a bit loud, other than that, it's fabulous. I can't wait to go back!
(5)Lisa J.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a large group. Our server was really nice, with a great personality. Nice ambiance inside, and strong - and delicious - cosmos. The raw oysters were delish, and my dinner was really good too. However, the best part of the meal (besides the company) was the amazing presentation (and taste) of the ice cream cookie sandwich. Not your typical ice cream sandwich - it was two chocolate chip cookies, stuffed with ice cream, cut into biscotti-shaped pieces, and stacked like a Jenga game. Never seen such a great way to serve this dessert! Very cool. Very jealous of the people who got it. : )
(5)Lin M.
WooHoo! The original chef is back with favorite items on menu. Can you say Scallops and Lobster Ravioli. Delicious. This is my all time favorite eatery. I have never had a bad meal or cocktail. I have been to two parties here and the staff and food were exemplary. Is it pricey? Yes but quality comes at a cost. The martinis are excellent. The sauces used are delectable. I sometimes wish I lived in Malden so I could go more often.
(5)Linh V.
I give the food a 4 star but the service ehh 2 stars, landing Exchange Street Bistro at a 3 star. The food is pretty good, especially for a restaurant strangely dropped in the middle of Malden. I got the tuna steak which I tricked my friend who hates seafood into trying. She quickly yelped. "this is the BESSSSST meat i've ever eaten!" Little does she know it wasn't exactly farm raised.
(3)Katie A.
We went for our first time for brunch on Sunday, and it was great! Breakfast burrito, Monte Cristo sandwich, and eggs over easy with sausage and home fries all were huge portions of deliciousness. The interior is swanky and I definitely want to try out dinner there. The four stars can easily be bumped up to 5 after one more visit...
(4)Eric B.
Great drinks menu! Dinner menu is limited and a bit pricey. I had the New York Sirloin. It was probably the fattiest sirloin I have ever eaten. I could have gotten a better quality steak at Texas Roadhouse!
(3)Bill C.
Okay, so here's the deal: four of us went to the place last night and three ordered the prix fixe offering and I ordered a la carte. One of us liked the meal and three didn't. I won. I ordered a meal size portion of the seared Tuna appetizer over soba noodles and fried calamari and I was really happy. The tuna was prepared perfectly and the slices were thick and generous. The sauce wasn't particularly creative but still very tasty. The calamari was not spicy as advertised, but once again really good. As for the prix fixe trio, two ordered the coconut curry squash soup, one of found it inedible, the other just didn't care for it. The third ordered a meager salad with feta and grapes, that looked very unappealing. All three order the cioppino pasta, none finished it, not because of size, but boredom. The Chef Boy Ar Dee inspired pasta was flavorless and very orange looking. The seafood was not particularly interesting and not well prepared (rubbery scallops and small shrimp). Dessert was another disappointment, they had a choice of ice cream (the flavors were red pepper and basil - seriously) and vendor supplied cheesecake that was burnt on top. Our server was a royal pain more interested in schmoozing and interrupting than serving. It was half-way through the dish before he remembered the parmesan cheese that was requested as the dish was served. He was simply annoying and very slow, yet very, very talkative. It's a great looking restaurant, but we won't return.
(2)Brian S.
Exchange Street Bistro is GREAT. It is once of our favorite restaurants in the area. The ambiance is perfect: trendy, but not pretentious. And the fact that there is FREE validated parking in a garage is just another plus. They lose a star because the menu could use a few more items and because sometimes the service can be a bit off. With that said, I've never had *bad* service, and it's usually great, as is the food!
(4)Alice G.
The food was terrible; the fish was not fresh and so covered in breadcrumbs there was barely any fish left. Especially considering the high prices, it was awful. The service was really bad; as soon as the waitress realized we had a Restaurant.com thing, she basically started ignoring us. The only reason it gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the drinks are really tasty and creative. I would go here for drinks but NEVER for food.
(2)Christopher R.
This place is very big, even bigger than it looks from the outside. I only had a Cobb salad, but it was very good. I would love to come back and try the rest of the menu items, as they sound very promising. The salad was huge and stocked with plenty of items. The chicken was grilled to perfection and plentiful. They certainly don't skimp while making these.
(4)Greg A.
I love this place. Wonderful environment, awesome food. It's a little bit pricey. And watch out for the mysterious "limited menu" time between about 2PM-5PM. I've gotten burned by that a few times. Though there are still always great things on the menu.
(5)Ellen S.
So disappointing to finally go somewhere we've had on our running "we should check that place out" list and have such a poor experience. What made it even worse was that after watching people around us who were seated AFTER us get their apps and dinner, we were told that ours would be another 10-15 minutes due to a large function there that evening. We mentioned that this was our first time there and the waiter (who really seemed like he could have cared less - as he brought meals to the other tables that had been seated after us) told us that we really should come in during the week when it is less busy...as if somehow the extended wait for food that was "ok" was somehow our fault. I don't care how many different martini's you have on your drinks menu buddy, I won't be back to try any of the others out.
(2)Lad D.
I've passed by the Exchange Street Bistro enough times and from the outside it always appeared to have a nice energy about it. So finally last night I decided to take the plunge and bring my mother for an early dinner. Like many of the reviews have said, Malden doesn't have many "trendy" dining establishments, so the fact that it is here is nice. I thought the decor was nice and not over done. From where I was sitting, I didn't realize that there were flatscreens all around and since it was early the patrons at the bar weren't all that rowdy. I was a little bit confused who my server was at first. Someone came to fill our water glasses and then someone else brought us bread. Neither introduced themselves or let us know who our server would be. I think they need to coordinate that better. We ordered the mussels as an appetizer and they were great. I was surprised by how large a portion it was. The entrees, however, were a disappointment. My mother had the steak frittes. The steak came out all chopped up, marinated in a lime/ vinegar sauce and set on top of the fries. The fries as a result were soggy. There's something about ordering a steak and cutting it yourself. I had the short rib and the meat was somewhat dry and lacking in flavor. The sauce that came with it did little to enhance the short rib. It seemed that presentation was more important. Our server was really nice and checked back every so often to see how we were doing, so I guess we were lucky compared to the experiences of some other diners. All in all, I wasn't terribly impressed by the overall experience, but I would give it another try (knowing what not to order). I think it's worth checking out and seeing for yourself. The menu doesn't seem too coordinated and is a bit pricey in my opinion.
(3)Bethany S.
I've always wanted to try the Exchange Street Bistro since it opened 5 years ago, and last weekend I finally made it over there. The decor of the restaurant is hip and modern. I like the fact that it's ot really a "family-style" restaurant in the sense that there are no toddlers walking around between tables of screamig somewhere in a booth nearby. It's a wonderful place to have a relaxing adult conversation. The food is not bad. It's sort of an up-scale twist on classic dishes. (For example, the "pizza" contains lobster, avacado, and brie cheese.) It was actually a lot less expensive than what I would expect in a place like this. Also, this establishment is known for their martini bar. They have a selection of about 15 differant martinis all at $9 each. A bargain compared to other places I've been to. I wanted to give this place a rating of 4 stars, but I deducted a star due to the service... our waitress disappeared for long periods of time and we couldn't figure out where she was or when/if she was coming back. It got to the point that my friend and I were looking so desperate that other waitresses came by to check on us... not good. Maybe at the bar they are more attentive...
(3)Robin S.
Been here twice & have enjoyed both times. Went for a girls night out and ordered a bunch of apps & drinks. Our server Mindy was really friendly & kept checking in on us throughout the night. Will definitely come back!
(4)Anna W.
Fine dining in Malden? Quite an oxymoron!! But honestly, this is one of my new favorite places, and I am so glad it's in Malden! It's closer to my house, there is plenty of parking available, and I don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Boston to have a wonderful meal. They have FREE valet, as well as easily-accessible street parking, and an adjacent garage that is free with validation. Seriously, you can't go wrong! I've been here several times already, and each time, it has far exceeded my expectations. The first time I went here, I had the BEST server experience ever. Our server, Anastaysia, was awesome! She was friendly, warm, and incredibly helpful with explaining items on the menu to us. We started off with their tapas appetizer, which changes daily. My friend had some kind of fish on lobster risotto, and I had the steak. They were both incredibly delicious. The lobster risotto had HUGE chunks of lobster in there! Most of the time, restaurants try to gyp you, especially on lobster, but Exchange Street Bistro didn't. In addition to their regular menu, they also have a fixed-price three-course menu that changes regularly as well. It is only $25, which is about the same price as some of their regular-priced entrees! Their portions are incredibly generous, the ambiance inside is dark and inviting, the service is impeccable, and don't even get me started on how extensive and yummy their martini menu is. The drinks are unique, creative, and won't cost you an arm and a leg. I will certainly be back many more times. I love ESB :-)
(5)Wayne D.
I sort of didn't want to give this place 5 stars but I sort of don't have any reason not to! A friend and I went there for lunch/brunch yesterday and we both loved it!!!! The restaurant is sort of an out-of place gem in Malden Center, much like it's around-the-corner neighbor, All Seasons Table (which I love). As I sat inside the windows I felt like I could look out but nobody else could look in. Of course this is not the case but it's just so nice in this place while the neighborhood doesn't have much at all to brag about. The decor is nice with lots of earthy colors and sort of looks a little asian to me, but not by much. A private dining room out back features a huge mural and a fireplace which is nice. The food was where it was at! I tried the chef's Lobster and Asparagus Omelette and it was amazing. It came with a nice green mesculine salad with the most bang-up dressing I've ever tried. For dessert (of course there is dessert at my table...HA) a honey-mascarpone tiramisu. It was just so rich and amazing and served in a martini glass. Had I known it would be that good I would have asked for two and held the omelette. The cons is that there didn't seem to be much on the menu for brunch, it was mostly all lunch ideas but I'm sure Sunday boasts a better selection.
(5)Inman S.
First time I went here was using a restaurant.com gift certificate. I very surprised by how amazing this place was. The ambiance, staff, and food were all wonderful. I went back a second time to find the same to be true. Its definately one of my new favorite places to go grab dinner at a reasonable (and well worth it) price.
(5)Nicole L.
I love love love this place and with their new renovation it is so fantastic! The servers are great and the drinks are yummy. LOVE the Tuna Tartare!!! The small plates are big plates and SO good!
(4)Michelle P.
Ugh. What a bummer! Went this past Friday for drinks with a couple friends. I have been here before once for dinner and drinks and another time for brunch. Both were decent. Last Friday, however, was not. I decided to try out a new martini. It was disappointing at best. When the waitress came back around an hour later, she commented that I had barely drank anything but never asked if I did not like it or offer to bring something else. To be fair, I would not have expected her to comp my drink as I freely chose it. However, it would have been nice to offer. We then decided to order a pitcher of sangria. I have had it in the past and was pleased and really, how can you screw it up? Well, they did. The carafe the sangria came in, our glasses, and the sangria itself all smelled and tasted like NAIR! Yes, as in the stuff you use to remove hair from your legs. It was truly disgusting. When we paid with three full glasses of sangria, the waitress failed to ask if anything was wrong. This brings me to my next point. We only saw the waitress when she took our initial order, dropped off our drinks, and then gave us the check without offering us another round. We opted to order the sangria despite her bringing the check. She then dropped another check off with the sangria. When we finally approached her asking for change, she provided that and then immediately took the check but still failed to ask why we were leaving three full glasses of sangria. I was very, very disappointed. I will not be back again.
(1)Tina D.
We are always a little apprehensive to walk into upscale restaurants with two kids but it was my birthday so we did it anyway. Upon entering there were two hostesses and when asked how many in our party as if our arrival was welcomed. The other stepped to her computer and asked if we had a reservation as if we couldn't be seated if we didn't. It was a Tuesday and there were 3 tables taken with a handful of people at the bar. By the time we left all the dining room tables were full but there was no one waiting for a table and all the lounge tables were still empty. Once we were seated, the experience was nothing but positive. Our server informed us of the children's menu since they do not have a printed one. We were offered tasters of wine that we asked about. The food was excellent and not over priced. The caeser dressing is made on site and you can tell by how fresh it tastes. I believe they also make their own croutons. I had the lobster mac and cheese and it had huge clumps of lobster in it. My spouse had the prix fixe menu of seafood stuffed shrimp with spinach and baked potato. It was good but mine was better. The dining room is small and intimate and yet somehow each table feels quite private. I'll go back but I might make that reservation just to be safe!
(4)Mike C.
Lobster Mac-n-Cheese. I'll say it again. Lobster Mac-n-Cheese! So good. As a matter of fact, most everything is so good. What I really loved about this place is it's "let's meet at the Bistro and relax" atmosphere. Having dinner there with friends, a bottle of wine and some lobster mac-n-cheese is just awesome. I've always had great wait staff and I feel at home there.
(4)Matthew A.
I just came in from a business lunch at Exchange st and let me tell you it was very nice, this brand new contemporary large bistro had easy parking, bright colors, and comfy booths. I had the lemon pasta with grilled in season vegetables. We started with the Asian spring rolls. Warm bread, ice tea, and great service. The bar looked very inviting too bad I couldn't have a 2 martini lunch but I might stop by after work for a libation. This kind of place is long overdue in Malden. I will certainly be back.
(5)Jeffrey F.
Good after work spot, with good food and wine options. Always an interesting crowd in there.
(3)Lucy M.
We have been to Exchange st many times for dinner, a couple times for lunch and brunch as well. I enjoy it every time. I have had spectacular food there and food that was just ok. The antipasto plate is probably the best I have ever had, and the cocktails and bar deals at happy hour are great. We had a spectacular brunch recently and it was probably the best meal there so far. I had the steak and portobello benedict and my bo had the Monte Cristo. We each only ate half of our meals, leftovers yay! My bene was only $14 and came with a nice piece of filet. I always feel like I get a good deal for what I am paying there. Its not what you would call cheap, but a good value. We go there atleast once a month as we live in Malden and its so wonderful to have a great restaurant so close.
(4)MJ T.
Stopped in here for lunch. Somewhat limited menu for lunch choices, but good choices over all. Only three beers on tap, one of which was Bud Light (which barely qualifies as a beer). Really tasty broccoli rabe and mozz spring rolls with a zingy sweet mustard dip. Tomato basil bisque was exceedingly smooth and decadent. I ordered the beets and greens salad w/ lemon dill dressing as my meal and was really pleased. My boyfriend ordered the burger and was a bit disappointed. The burger was WAY to large for the bun (a dinner roll sized ciabatta bread) and tasted like plain old ground beef, no seasonings from what he could tell. His plate was redeemed a bit by the super crisp wedge fries, coleslaw, and homemade tasting mayonnaise.
(3)Kathy Y.
Went here for a Bachelorette Party Dinner. It was okay. Service was a bit slower then anticipated, if we weren't rushing i suppose it wouldn't have been too bad. The Filet - was decent. Good Portion Caramel Apple Martini is to die for! This place is a good place for large parties.
(3)Charlie B.
At lunch our waiter could barely disguise his lack of interest. The coffee was weak and flat, so it's probably good that no refills were offered. A simple question about whether the soup (tomato basil) is vegetarian yielded only a shrug and a look saying, oh, you're one of THOSE types. The pizza was tasty, but the service experience and lousy coffee left a bad taste In our mouths, so to speak. People seem to like the bar scene here, so maybe lunch just isn't their strong suit.
(2)Gina M.
I avoided this place for MONTHS, fearing another, "good...FOR MALDEN" experience. But finally I popped in with friends for just dessert a few weeks ago and have to say we were pleased with everything we ordered. We had a bread pudding and a berry shortcake and both were tremendous (size and flavour). I also really enjoyed my espresso martini--sweet but not cloying. We all did agree however, that a place in Malden has no business charging 10 dollars for drinks. It just doesn't. Not when the best scene and best drinks in Cambridge are available at the B-Side for 7-8 dollars a drink. I will go back for dinner and am hoping beyond hope that the rest of the fare is as good as the desserts we had.
(3)Josie C.
So convenient if you live in Malden. Like All Seasons Table, this place is located right within Malden Center and can come off sketchy due to location, however do not be fooled, it is wonderful! The specialize in their elaborate list of martinis (so good!) but also have a full bar and decently priced, large beers. The food is amazing and very high-end (comparable to the swanky restaurants in Boston), however my siblings say the portions are small (I prefer quality over quantity, though). Just take a look at all the food photos posted here, mmm. *Also a fun fact: Enrique, the head chef/owner, is one of the kindest and funniest guys in town - me and my boyfriend stumbled upon him one late night while we were at the bar in All Seasons Table actually (right around the corner, the owner of that restaurant and Enrique are said long time friends), and he literally bought us about 5 plates of food and a bounty of refills of some spectacular white wine! It was, needless to say, one of the best nights ever.
(4)Elle S.
My friend and I went here for Malden's Restaurant Week. Neither of us is that familiar with the area, but the restaurant is about a five minute walk from Malden Center on the Orange line. Our reservation was for 6:30 on a Friday, but there were hardly any diners. Most of the activity seemed to be around the bar. We were seated in a tall booth that could have easily sat 6 comfortably, or as comfortably as one can sit against a completely flat backed seat. I ordered the toasted ravioli, baked stuffed lobster, and lemon sorbet. The toasted ravioli and sorbet were just okay; it is hard to mess those up. The lobster was almost all breading and there was no detecabke seafood in the stuffing as the menu indicated. The lobster claws and zucchini logs were ice cold. My friend ordered the coconut shrimp, Thai bouillabaisse, and chocolate mousse cake. She liked the shrimp and cake, but said the mussels were overcooked and rubbery. One thing we both noticed was how quickly our courses came. Given that and how cold our food was, I think the food was precooked, refrigerated, and reheated. There were two things that I did like about this restaurant however: the bright, clean restrooms and our server, Felisha. She was incredibly nice and attentive without being overbearing. I will not be returning and do not recommend this restaurant.
(1)Lia M.
Since I have not eaten a meal here, I am going with three stars for now. I had dessert, the chocolate terrine, and it was only alright, not horrible, but probably two stars & I wouldn't waste the calories again. It's a chocolate brownie/fudge piece served with vanilla gelate. The chocolate was very dense, but not a lot of flavor. We sat at the bar. The bartenders were helpful and attentive, but not real friendly. My martini was good and strong (Kahlua, Bailey's, Frangelico, & vodka). The atmosphere was nice, especially in Malden. As others mentioned, it's classy & upscale. It's very big inside. We were there around 10 on a Saturday night and it wasn't busy and we left by 11:30 and it still wasn't busy. They close at 1; food service stops at 11, last call is 12:15. I plan on going back and eating dinner. ***** Update, 3/17/2008 I have eaten dinner here now. I did not like my meal (shrimp scampi). The pasta was undercooked and it had very strong taste that I did not care for. However, my boyfriend's lobster mac and cheese was excellent. I say go here for the drinks though, which I loved. And I did enjoy the warm apple crisp, which was very cinnamon-y, but I liked it.
(3)RoseAnne D.
I too wanted to love this place, as I have recently moved back to Malden and wanted a nice place to hang. I'll go for drinks, but the food.....yuck! 2 entrees, and app, all bad. French Onion soup with a tomato base? I think not. And they used the same rolls for the top as the bread and butter, way too chewy for the soup. My salad tasted...mmm, I don't know, old lettuce? Not sure. Beef Wellington, could have used just a bit of salt on the fillet, but it was tender and cooked well, but the chef ruined it with the sauce. I think he used the tomato onion soup we didn't finish. A nice brown mushroom sauce would have been better. Short Rib Risotto, was okay, but would have liked bigger pieces of meat. Only had shredded pieces. Spinach side was way bitter, and I'm a spinach lover. Service was excellent and attentive, but Chef.....take a lesson!
(2)Chere G.
Wow! Seriously, I sometimes have to cringe when I tell people I live in Malden. For me it was a choice of close enough to the city with a sic ass commute for work 30 minutes north. I have the best of both worlds. But honestly, there was never a reason to chilll in Malden on a Friday night because I thougt it didn't have anything to offer. Exchange ST Bistro brings some bling to Malden for sure. If you live in the area you need to peep this place. It's pricey, no doubt. But they can definitely back the price. Ambiance is fantastic - if you didn't know you were parking on a side street in an ehh part of Malden you wouldn't know your were in Malden. Kind of like a time warp. Woooosh...holy crap check this place out, dimly lit, loungey, nice music, attentive staff. Okay, Okay me likey. The waitstaff is so sweet....ahem....and I must admit we did have a hottie for a waiter. I'm just sayin. Dinner - I had the Grill and chill: A freaking 5 star BBQ Ribbs, chicken, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoe salad and a slab of watermelon. Mmmm Mmmmm. Never had a nice BBQ'd chicken that peeled apart and melted in my mouth. Now this is finger lickin gooooooood. Dessert was Creme Brulee - BOO effin Yah! Well poured drinks and standard price. It was such a nice loungey feel to it. I'm very impressed especially since I've been so against chilling in Malden. I also liked te manager takes the time in midst of your dinner and check things out. Very peronable and a nice touch. Probably the first time I'll ever say it's worth driving through the city rather than making it a night in it.
(5)Valerie F.
The most AMAZING creamy tomato and basil soup! The best part....the soup comes with mini grilled cheese croutons...GENIUS! Don't know how I never thought of this myself! Will definitely go back just for this soup! The espresso martini was delish as well. Other appetizers were good too, the white pizza, caesar salad, spring rolls, and quesadilla. Bar service was slow, they only had 1 bartender on and it was rather busy so we waited a long time for drinks, about 20 minutes or so. Our waitress was very apologetic though and super nice. Decor was cool, very modern. Only gave three stars because it was a bit pricey and for the slowness of the drinks.
(3)Craig C.
I went New Years Eve the night of one of the blizzards with no reservation. It was packed and they still took us with a short wait at the awesome bar. Great bar menu w/ funky drinks. Nice quick bartenders. Eclectic and diverse crowd. Special menu 3 courses for 40 bucks FOR TWO!!!!! Food was delicious and can't wait to go back. Upscale city type place with country type prices. Go with friends for dinner and drinks ALSO for Valentines Day they are doing the same deal as New Years. Best food deal around. Go Go Go . Highly reccomended by Senior Me.
(5)Bernadette S.
I completely agree with the crowd, here. My expectations started low, because it is Malden. But our two gay boyfriends/Malden homeowners, swore by it, so off we went, my expectations now soaring. I agree - the location is odd, but I can get over that. The atmosphere was humming, the lighting nice. I think our server was an idiot, a nice idiot, but still he had a lot to learn. He convinced us to try a Riesling with dinner, and I kept my mouth shut, but it was a sweet Riesling. It was tasty but it was dessert. I ordered the special seafood stew, which was mostly potatoes and a few pieces of calamari. Flavorless. I added salt and pepper. Then I ordered the chicken petto, stuffed with proscuitto and goat cheese, served with garlic mashed, spinach and sundried cream sauce. Not only was the chicken completely dry, but the only flavor on the plate was from the proscuitto and goat cheese, and of course there wasn't enough of it. Until I just looked up the menu online this second, I had forgotten that the cream sauce was sundried tomato, because it was flavorless! Of course, my gay boyfriends loved their dinners and my girlfriend swore her pork was better than what she had at Harvest last week, so what do I know?
(2)Amber H.
THRILLED! This is by far my favorite restaurant, in Malden - maybe even Boston. Its a great restaurant with a beautiful trendy vibe, and gorgeous decor. The martini list alone is worth going for. In fact I went several times just for the martini list, until one night i decided to order dinner and it completely blew my mind! The Big Chopp and the Salmon where unbelievable (my mouth is watering just thinking about it) i have also had the duck, as well as one of the Tapa's chefs specials. Service has always been impeccable. I frequent this bar and I must say, I have NEVER been disappointed. What a fantastic operation, its worth every penny!
(5)Tara V.
I really like this place. All I can say is TRY THE VANILLA BEAN BREAD PUDDING!!! That dessert is orgasmic! The food is pretty darned good too. I took off one star because the drinks suck. Or should I say the bartender(s) suck! I have never been able to get a decent drink at this place.
(4)Whitney K.
Awesome martini list, comfortable bar area and reasonable prices that reflect the Malden location but make you feel like you're in Boston. The food is good...they are adventerous with a modern flair to the menu, but aren't always successful.
(4)Ania Z.
Great food, great prices, great atmosphere and it was really busy when we were there on a Thursday night. We checked to make sure they were serving food till 11 and got there at 10:20 I understand its close to closing time and I knew what I wanted but when I got to the host stand the waitress did not seem like she wanted to seat us until I believe a manager walked over and I asked if they still were serving, then she rushed us to order which was pushy. But the food was awesome I loved the Lobster Pizza and Haddock Dish!
(4)Hilary C.
Went here because I'd seen some good reviews but boy was I disappointed. Where to begin: This was a weekday, on the tail end of the lunch rush and we were the only ones in the restaurant besides a couple at the bar who were as baffled as we were. For supposedly being known for their burgers, the patty I got looked like a frozen one I could have gotten from Market Basket. It was WAY overdone, tasteless and dry. And it cost me $12. I'd have complained to the waitress except I couldn't find her. In fact, after she brought us our meals we didn't see her for the rest of the meal. We eventually got fed up with waiting and had to actually walk back to the kitchen to find someone to pay. We could have looted the bar and probably taken out half the furniture before anybody would have even noticed. It was almost to the point where we wondered why we should pay at all. Total time spent: 2 hours. For a burger. Part of me wants to know what the hype is all about. (Did they have an exceptionally bad day?) The other part thinks that this restaurant doesn't deserve any more of my time or money.
(1)Denise T.
I have eaten there about 3 times before and will definately go back. The Bistro has done renovations with a new menu. Our waitress(Linda) was very pleasant and had great knowledge about the restaurant itself and all the dishes. Rich the manager is also unbelievable. He is very pleasant and cares about all the patrons who enter by greeting them with a smile. I had the Natural Roasted Chicken, which was delicious and the presentation of this dish was remarkable. My guest had the Lobster Mac and Cheese and according to him, was extremely creamy and delicious. This Bistro is worth the trip. The food is delicious and they make the best Martinis in the world. I can't wait to go back again.
(5)Ken M.
Exchange Street Bistro saves the day again. My sister-in-law made a reservation at another establishment for my mother-in-law's 60th birthday and for whatever reason, the reservation was dropped. Exchange Street was available to accommodate us last minute. Fabulous service from Trish. The food was delicious and the drinks took a starring role as usual. Delicious and friendly. Thanks again Exchange Street!
(5)C R.
Has the ambience of something chic-enough for Boston's swankier restaurants - in easy-to-get-to Malden. 10 min north of Boston. Plenty of parking, GREAT menu, not too pricey (not cheap though), staff are attentive and know their stuff. I've been here 4 or 5 times now and have always left happy. DEFINITELY a place worth traveling to....whether you're local or live on the north or south shore.
(4)Carol J.
We held a bridal shower at the Bistro for my daughter earlier this month. I have to say that the ESB exceeded my expectations. We were set up in the front of the restaurant and had access to the bar and plenty of room to move around. The food was delicious. We had the brunch from the functions menu and there was something for everyone. All our guests enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. The staff was very helpful and made our special day even more special. I would definitely recommend the Exchange Street Bistro for anyone having a small function.
(5)larry m.
I have been here 5 or 6 times and have had a great meal every time. The decor is funky but not over the top and they're constantly playing some sort of electronica/jazzy music. Enough about the atmosphere because it's all about the food here. The menu is small - medium with a lot of Italian influenced dishes. 4 out of 5 of those times I had the pork chop. It's stuffed with fontina, caplicola, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini and served over roasted potatoes. I was sold on the title "Stuffed 19 OZ Pork Chop." My wife's grandmother ate there and was blown away by the risotto....as was I. This is coming from a woman born in Italy. She speaks italian...cooks Italian....and doesn't like food at Italian restaurants. She has been back once or twice since we introduced her to the place. I have had several of the appetizers and all of them were amazing. One standout was the Sicilian Chips. They are nachos but covered in fontina, salami and talian peppers. The absolute best appetizer there was the risotto croquet's. They are not on the menu right now.....but the waitstaff promised me they'd be back. These are basically mini rice balls (or arancini) served with several different dipping sauces. The prices are OK....a little pricey for Malden but definitely the best restaurant in the city. Since moving to the area this has become my "go to" restaurant.
(4)jennifer m.
Ugh. My boyfriend and I went here after hearing good things about the food and atmosphere. The atmosphere was good... it's got nice decor, and it was relatively quiet, which is what we were looking for. We were promptly seated, and the waitress came over almost immediately to take our drink order. However, when asked about the beer selection, she wouldn't/didn't tell us what they had available in a bottle. She would rattle off a few (bud, bud light, gross, etc.), and then say "and others.." and my boyfriend would say "what others?", and then she'd get through a couple more and say, "and others". Finally, he asked her if they had Sam Adams, and ordered that. She left, but returned shortly afterwards, and put someone else's empty Budweiser bottle on our table while admitting she forgot to tell us the specials. She told us, and then left. When she came back with our drinks and to take our order, I asked her what "Banana Ketchup" is, and her response was to look at me dumbly and say, "It's self-explanatory." And I said, "Uhh... if it was, I wouldnt be asking." It turns out it's bananas pureed in ketchup, which is certainly LITERAL, but the thought of that is just too gross for me to believe, hence that whole disbelief over the "self-explanatory" bit. So instead of The Big Chop, I ordered the Filet Mignon, medium. My boyfriend's burger was fine, but nothing fantastic. My filet came out WELL DONE, and then some. It's really a shame to ruin a piece of meat like that. The rest of the food was fairly bland and uninspired, and certainly not worth my entree's $26 price tag. We won't be returning. If we want to spend that kind of money, we'll drive into the city.
(1)The New Mrs. U.
I recently went to exchange street for brunch. I was looking for a local place to take my out of town family for brunch. I was a bit hesitant due to the mixed reviews, but I am happy I went. I was pleasantly surprised. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. They serve corn bread with the brunch , which for me is a big plus! The menu was not a book and had items that were simple and not trying to be too fancy. I did read one reviewer who complained about the booth seats print. Yes, it is a bit busy but it was not that bad! Clearly if you have good food, good company, a mimosa, and free corn bread, anything can be overlooked. Definitely a good neighborhood restaurant for the area. I will definitely go back.
(4)Josh S.
My partner and I met some friends here for brunch this morning, and we all had a good time. The service was excellent while not being overwhelming, i.e. we got coffee/water refills when needed, but didn't have people interrupting us all the time or hovering. Three of the 4 of us had a form of eggs benedict, and we all loved our plates. The fourth person had an omelet, and she was also impressed. The coffee was also much better than most places where I have brunch. We would all recommend this place for brunch.
(4)Riem K.
Decor was great, although the restaurant seemed a little out of place. Your view at the dining area is the local dry cleaner and the parking lot of Super Fitness. Food was unexciting and nothing to rave about. The oyster Rockefeller- it's just a green soppy mess and they could of at least shuck the oysters all the way out of the shell. We had to scrape the sauce off and then use our knife to try to pry the oyster meat off. The sirloin and the filet- Meat was tough and a little chewy, however the filet was drowned in a sauce that I wish it wasn't. Price, I thought was a little steep for what you were getting. I could of paid the same amount at the Great Bay and got a better view with a better meal. Alcohol- martini list was very good. I would return for drinks and not dinner. Overall, I would come back just for drinks at the bar and not for dinner. That was disappointing after all the hype I kept on hearing about this place.
(2)Andrew M.
Its like a South End Bistro got lost, and landed in Malden. OK, so lets be honest--this ain't your typical Malden restaurant. If you're looking for cheap, low-class dining, the Exchange Street is the wrong place (try the Dockside). The food & drinks at Exchange Street are delicious. In fact, the food is as good as you would expect in Boston, and the prices are slightly better. The worst thing about this place is that its too nice for the neighborhood. I see lots of people complaining about price in other reviews. I'll admit that Exchange Street is more expensive than other dining options in Malden--but thats because its better than other places in Malden. And its still cheaper and easier than going into Boston for a nice dinner out.
(5)Kate S.
I have only been here twice, and the first time was back in July for their 1 year anniversary party, which was amazing. They provided tons and tons of free food, beer and wine for 5 hours! They served right up to the end of the party and we were trashed. The people there were all great and it was really a good time. That was the only time I have had their food, I know people that enjoy eating there. However, if you want to read a scathing review by the globe have a look boston.com/ae/food/resta… I have never read a worse restaurant review, well actually it's pretty funny. Anyhow, the Exchange Street Bistro is primarily known as a martini bar and everyone raves about this one bartender that's there on wednesday and thursday nights. I ordered a manhattan, but I wanted whiskey not bourbon and asked for just well. He didn't want to give me well whiskey so he suggested Jack. Puzzled, I restated whiskey not bourbon and foolishly asked for well whiskey again. He served me the manhattan in a martini glass, not a rocks, and it tasted horrible. I learned that he used Dewars, which on the label says blended scotch whiskey but I consider it a bourbon because it's spicy and north american. I don't know maybe I am wrong about the Dewars but I am not wrong that this was a super gross drink. I ended up giving it back to him because I just couldn't drink it. The only reason I gave Exchange Street 3 stars is because of the fabulous and generous anniversary party they threw. Otherwise, I think I have to side with the Globe.
(3)Ashley P.
This place has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. It is like an amazing Boston restaurant without the Boston prices. The location is good and you can usually find street parking, but if not they offer free validated parking across the street. The food was out of this world! I also love the the menu changes with the seasons (read = fresh ingredients!) which is something you don't normally get outside of a big city. My friend and I started with martinis and two apps, the white pizza and the fig bruschetta which were both outstanding. We then all had the fillet mignon, which was so perfectly tender and delicious. And, on top of everything, the steak came with amazing mushroom risotto...mmmm!! We also had a bottle of wine and the amazing homemade ice cream sandwiches. It is an amazing place and I will be back very often!
(5)Tom D.
Still one of my favorite restaurants several years later. I celebrated my upcoming birthday here last night. We were a large party of what we thought was 16, but turned into 18 at the last minute. The folks at Exchange St were more than accomdating and in no time had set up an area for us in the lounge. We had one server, Trish, for our party and she was fantastic. Never frazzled by the number of people, efficient, just wonderful all around. She really made the evening great. The food as always was outstanding. I had the braised lamb shank for the first time and it's a new favorite. The lamb was tender and moist, and the accompanying minted risotto was the perfect side dish. I'm usually not crazy about mint with meat, but I have to rethink my position on that after this. All around a wonderful evening and I can't wait to go back soon!
(5)Jason B.
I've never gone to a restaraunt and had any of its employees come up to me, fall on their knees and say "please write a bad review of our establishment." But my experience at the Exchange Street Bistro comes the closest yet. Food: One word: Yuck. The burger was dry, NOT cooked the way it was ordered, and very suspicious-tasting. I've been a poor college and post-college student, and I know what borderline hamburger meat tastes like when it's cooked. This was it. In a way I'm thankful that they didn't cook it medium rare as I asked; I might be writing this review from the emergency room on my blackberry. The fries were cold but crispy enough. Remember before when I talked about the staff begging for a bad review? Here it is - the omelet: we were informed by the waitstaff that no, they did not have egg beaters, and no, the chef would not seperate eggs to make an egg white omelet. The reason? They had a large party in the back and were too busy. Too busy. Translation: We're taking care of the big group and your measly little two-top doesn't merit anything special, so go perform anatomically unlikely operations on yourself. Hash browns? cold, soggy, and suspiciously redolent of having been cooked in a pan that was used for something else before hand. The rolls were good, though, I'll give them that. Service: One word - yuck. Maybe we got him on a bad day, maybe he was worried about rolling the keg over to his frat party, but our waiter was terrible. Made us feel like we were inconveniencing both him and the kitchen staff whenever we asked for anything - more coffee, screw you. No we don't have equal, skim, or lowfat milk. Mimosa? That's weird but I'll see if they'll make one for you. This guy really made me say it: "I don't think Buddy Holly is much of a waiter." The busgirl tried to remove food we were actually eating - we had to reach back onto her tray to take a ramikin of ketchup away that she REALLY wanted to remove - "I'm not done with that yet" didn't seem to do it. Decor: This is nice. They really went out of their way to make the place look like it belongs in Cambridge or the South End. Backlit translucent colored glass, marble tabletops, hardwood floors, signed original artwork on the walls, very classy. Too bad the place sucks as bad as it does. Crowd: Odd Malden people. Families. Old people. Us. Random people who like to stare at you while you're eating. The usual. A negative experience that made me feel bad for being a restaurant patron. Maybe we caught them on a bad day, and we should give them another try...but little about this experience was positive.
(2)Charles G.
excellent food. have eaten there a few times. great sauces. great ambience, if you r in the malden area this restaurant is well worth trying. and oh yes, good prices to boot.
(4)Mark W.
We've been here a few times. It's becoming more of a bar hang out for locals then what it's trying to be which is a fine dinning establishment. Our meals have always been ok so hasn't the service. Reasonably priced.
(3)Danielle F.
We decided to have a date night close to home and wound up at Exchange Street Bistro at the end of the evening for dessert and cocktails. The relaxed and upscale atmosphere was a total, and pleasant, surprise for the area. The staff was very friendly and attentive and helped us to secure a seat at the bar which, for a good part of our visit, was rather rowdy. Our bartender, Kat, was pleasant, helpful and provided speedy service as well as super strong martinis. The drinks were excellent, but the dessert was a little lacking. We shared the bread pudding with cinnamon ice cream, and while it was tasty, it wasn't great. So, overall, excellent service, strong and delicious martinis, chill atmosphere and dessert that hits the spot but isn't a showstopper.
(3)Amy B.
I've been for dinner probably 6 or 8 times, and this summer co-hosted my friend's bridal shower there. The food is always tasty, although I don't have a favorite dish. I've tried a lot of different things and have been satisfied each time. The service is usually nice and friendly - just one time was the exception, when the waitress seemed so stiff and like she was reciting a script that we joked she'd be at home in the Hall of Presidents at Disney World. I liked hosting an event there as well. The maid of honor mostly dealt with them during the planning, and she had no problems. On the day of, we were able to get in early to set everything up, and they were very accommodating about the room setup. We didn't use the function room in the back - we were in the front portion of the restaurant, and they moved all the tables/booths around for a great setup. Food on the function menu was basic but good - we went with a buffet including salad and assorted sandwiches. The price was really great - I think it ended up being around $15/person, maybe even less. Definitely try the martinis - I felt like a lush drinking a watermelon martini before noon at the shower, but I couldn't resist. In fact, I had two!
(4)Ju L.
Went there on Sunday for brunch and had the French Toast Brioche and Monte Cristo. Both were surprisingly quite good. The French Toast Brioche was supposed to come with caramelized bananas and berries -- it did come with them, though there was only 1 strawberry. Decor is tasteful and somewhat trendy. Service was good, and overall food prices were quite modest. I'd definitely come again. Best still, they provide free validated parking at the nearby parking garage.
(4)Lauren W.
I was very confused by this restaurant. It seems misplaced. The food was delicious. The service was good. The prices are high. The ambiance reminded me of a Mediterranean restaurant I went to in Greece but a cheap version of it. If I'm craving expensive food while in Malden I'll definitely come back here.
(3)Andrea F.
First of all, I'd like to say I have been here numerous times, and the wait for food has always been long, but usually worth it....but not this time. My Saturday night was a meal from hell. We walk in 8 minutes late for our reservation's hostess tells us they can only hold our table for 10 minutes...so you would think everything would be ok...but I guess her clock is fast. So she didn't hold our table and said they don't have a table available even if we came on time.. So, she made us wait for 30 minutes. We luckily found a cocktail table in the bar, ordered drinks..but they never came. So we get seated..order food and the wait begins. 45 minutes to get "OK" apps...and then another 30 minutes until dinner arrived. We were a party of 3, and only 2 meals came out.. after another 5 minutes, my friends scollop's come out stone cold raw. We send them back, the manager says she'll take care of it. So at this point we were ok, mistakes happen. But it gets worse......So instead of making a fresh plate, they reheat her original scallops that she cut into. They come back dry as the desert. So the OWNER comes over and is very abrubt/abrasive. He was interrogating my friend and telling her the story of "sushi grade scallops" We are all in the medical field and we all know YOU CAN NOT EAT RAW SCALLOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He then proceeded to stare at my friends Ta-Ta's while trying to make her feel like an idiot for sending back her raw scallop's. Being the out spoken friend that I am, I found myself trying to help her talk to this jack ass and he has the nerve to put his hand up to my face and said "this is between her and I" And to top it all off, they didn't even take them off the bill. The owner did nothing to rectify the situation. He made things worse. The waitress brought us over a round on "Her" Bottom line, if you treat your paying customers like crap...we will not be back no matter what you try to give us. In a tough economy, people are selective when they go out, and I hope this review will make you choose otherwise.
(1)Stacey B.
I love, love, love this place... Great Martini's, Food and atmosphere. The Bartenders Christine and Rob are the best!!!
(5)Mike H.
I swear it's wicked good! Amid the dumpy streets, rubbish and abandoned shopping carts of malden is this fabulous gem of a restaurant that serves amazing steak, chops, lobster ravioli and a brunch that makes it worth getting out of bed on sunday. They've got a wonderful, friendly staff who are cool and pleasant without being smarmy and obnoxious. And the bartender knows how to make a good mixed drink, even if they call everything a martini instead of a cocktail. So it's almost perfect, oh well.
(5)Zane G.
This is a great hidden secret of Malden. The food and the drinks are simply wonderful. The bartenders, Rob and Alicia in particular are great people and know what they are doing. Their calamari is fabulous, FABULOUS! My favorite place to be on Thursday nights, full of regulars, the best kind bar.
(5)Yuko I.
Food was mediocre, the place was too loud. I hardly could enjoy my conversation.
(2)Paulette B.
I moved to Malden recently and was afraid that I was moving into a town of average ehh restaurants. As I moved in to the neighborhood a new restaurant was opening, Exchange Street Bistro. It's located in the center of Malden so parking was very easy. The food was awesome. My friend compared the Lobster Ravioli to making love where your partner spends an hour on you doing what you like most. I want to know where she finds these lovers. I know some of the guys she dated. I don't know if she was saying the Ravioli were better than any sex she has ever had. Anyway the Ravioli were very good. We also shared had the Eggplant Napoleon. Another home run. Very yummy. If I would have had this by myself I would have had enough to take some home for lunch today. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of the food. I have paid more for food that wasn't as good. The wait staff and everyone was so friendly and nice. They also have some very good martini's. Loved the olive in the pear martini. This is one place I can bring friends to without having to say well it's good for Malden...it's just good for any where.
(5)N C.
I've been to this place a couple of times after my review and I think it needs a little updating. I would give the place between 2.5-3 stars. I order meat each time I've been there and there's a waitress that gives me grief each time I order steak medium-well, claiming the kitchen doesn't cook meat medium-well. I basically have to insist that that's how I wanted it cooked, period. Second, the food is insanely salty. Wow. I've ordered the steak frittes a couple of times and between the sauce on the steak and the dressing on the arugula, wow, I needed like 6 glasses of water. They need to lighten up on the salt.
(3)Ken L.
3.5 stars - but closer to 4 than 3. positives: Food is pretty good. Service is as well. Went there for dinner with another couple. My buddy and I got the steak - I thought it was pretty good. My wife got some shrimp dish and she said it was "o.k.". My buddy's wife got the eggplant dish and liked it. The ice cream sandwich desert is a bit misleading. It's cookie sandwiches. None of us liked it (it was huge and enough for 4, too bad it kinda sucks). Everything else was good. Martinis were all a hit - they're the bigger martinis no the joke tiny things that some places try and sell you. I had a dirty martini which was really good and another pepper and olive with blue cheese martini. I didn't love that one. Wife got a cosmo kind of martini and loved it. Buddy and wife were having the pineapple infused ones - she loved, he said it was a girl martini (then why'd you get two, bro??). Lol check it out - prices are pretty good, food is pretty good, drinks are solid, overall a fun atmosphere...
(4)Joe D.
First time, food was good... every time after, it was bland and not worth it.
(3)Ricky B.
Went there recently on a Wednesday evening and had a wonderful dining experience. Friendly, attentive staff and the food was great! I had a 10 oz. Prime Rib that came with a side of Lobster/Shrimp Ricotta pie...I have never had it and never even thought about the combo but damn! It was DEEE-licious! Higly recommend ESB!!!
(4)Lisa E.
Ok where do I start? I usually love this place! They have the tequilla I drink and their food is out of this world, such a hidden gem for malden, but last night I felt almost broken up with. As a bartender employed in a pretty well known resteraunt I realize it may be easy to be a little overly critical, but I usually take that into account because I understand the inner workings of the industry and know how some nights can be. Last night was a complete bust...with everything. First off I ordered my go to drink, milagro anejo straight up..now any other seasoned server that I know that gets an order for a straight up drink knows the drink should either be in a martini glass or snifter...maybe even scotch glass..I received it in a shot glass. Tequilla doesn't mean shot all of the time. Some people enjoy tequilla as they do wine, ports, scotch, or some other cordial. I hate to be difficult because I know how it feels but only when its unjustified..this was COMPLETELY justified..sooo I asked very politely if I could change it to a snifter. In between the time I asked him that and the time I got it again it was chilled..which I specifically told him I didn't want. I know that sometimes servers don't have the alcohol knowledge of their bartender counterparts so I understood when he replied,"but that's what u asked for" after I had my first sip and politely said mmmm Yah this doesn't taste like what I asked for, slightly cold and verrrrrry diluted, usually the result of a shaken drink. At this point, I feel like I have to prove myself, opting to go to a sister bartender to explain my desires. Oh he said chilled she replied...but almost like she was annoyed that I had challenged her..I'm sorry honey but I work in a tequilla bar where I know the notes, ages and even barrels each tequilla is born in..I'm not challenging you to be a jerk...I just want what I want...which is USUALLY why I come there, even recommend it to MY customers.. even though the bartenders' drinks haven't been that consistent...maybe high turnover..not sure. Drinks aside, when I get people talking at my bar about the food we don't offer I push them towards Exchange. Hoping whatever new guy they have back there can really pull it together for them..or maybe it was just an off night. Coconut rum shrimp and gorgonzola and steak (hangar) with warm bacon vinigrette complete hit, on target as usual...but short rib risotto big F. Way tooooo salty..almost not palettable..risotto was soupy. So for now putting my recommendations on pause and hoping they pull it together for a big win because I usually really love this place. Manager comped prior chilled drinks, but I was going in there with mad money to spend and really didn't want that. Just wanted some nice tequilla and great dinner. Apparently they're out of that bottle now anyway..here's to hoping the bartender wasn't shaking it like that to save what she had. :P feel jipped and dumped..hoping things are better next time..
(3)D P.
I have been going to Exchange Street Bistro since they opened up in Malden. Positive: Great Ambience. Stylish, clean, modern. Drinks are great. Why 2 stars? Well, this place has a newer chef and the food is just not the same. For years, I would have given 5 stars because the food was so good. Having gone a lot of times, I have tried all varieties of food and I used to agree with their advertisement --'back bay experience with neighborhood prices'. Last two time I went back, I realized how the quality of food has detoriated ,so I am going to stay away from it for a while.
(2)samantha m.
I had seen ads for this place a lot and was excited I found a restaurant.com deal. My boyfriend and I went there later on a Tuesday, thought the menu looked great. The dining experience went downhill from then on. Service was lax at best, no menu knowledge, forgot to bring items we asked for multiple times. To top it off on one of the meals ordered we had asked for no mushrooms, to be told after waiting 30 min the Steak Wellington had mushrooms cooked into it. We decided to just pick them out as we were tired of waiting only to realize as the waitress took her time figuring out the entree screw up the entrees had been sitting in the window and the sides were cold and very disappointing for how small the steak was and how much it was. After sending them back we finished the rest and when they finally came back they were a more raw form of their disappointing selves. The manager was nice but didn't really offer anything other than a complimentary dessert which we decided to take (better than nothing though after 15 minutes of waiting we just wanted to leave) only to find out when we got home that it was pathetic in size and about as good as the sides (the teaspoon of ice cream that accompanied the minisule apple crisp fit in a plastic ramikin.... Hoping this was an isolated experience, but sadly we won't be back.
(1)s b.
nice meeting spot, for drinks, just apps, or a full meal. it's nice to have such a place that's local and with pretty easy parking. i've enjoyed the food a lot, especially the broccoli rabe and asiago eggroll things. some items can be [unexpectedly/inexplicably] pricey -- i nearly fell off my seat when we got our bill and found out our app sampler cost $21.
(4)Jason D.
This is a really cool place that's definitely not what you expect to find in Malden. It's a very hip, well-decorated restaurant with a slightly higher end menu (lots of wines, a big martini menu, higher end food) that's more in line with what you'd expect to find in Boston. We went for brunch and each thing we tried was excellent (Cobb Salad, Stuffed French Toast, and Western Omelette) and the presentation was as impressive as the decor. It was quiet (and not very busy) when we went. Service was good. I'd definitely go back and would recommend it to anyone living in the northern suburbs who is looking for a "downtown" type place in our neighborhood.
(5)Wayne M.
First off it's a beautiful place and I've always had very friendly and wonderful waitpersons there. Even when there's a problem they clear it up. At one point I had to wait about 15 minutes just to order a drink. The waitress came up, apologized profusely and gave me my first drink free of charge cause of the wait! The tables are good-sized, the atmosphere is OK and the food is OK. Nothing great but OK. On the other hand--the tables in the back are scary. Badly lit and quite dark. They have about three TVs on blaring loudly at times. The martini bar can get LOUD! One night there was so much screaming and laughing I could barely think. Also the food is over priced. Yes it's good but not THAT good! It's best for groups too. I go out to eat alone. They've always immediately cleared a whole table for me but I feel kind of funny. So it IS good but over priced and a little too loud.
(2)BonBon H.
Awesome place! The happy hour specials are great from 4-7! There are dollar oysters and appetizers. Although the portions are small, they taste fantastic and go wonderfully with any of their five dollar martinis, four dollar wine, or three dollar beers! The oysters were fresh and juicy and the appetizers were quite flavorfull! The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing, especially after a long day at work. I would go back everyday just for the martinis and oysters! The people are so friendly as well. My boyfriend went there for the first time and ordered a regular specialty martini mistaking it for five dollars and when the check came and he told the bartender, he just changed the price of the drink to five bucks! The customer service is pretty great. The only thing I found a little disappointing was the portions of the appetizers because it was one crab cake for a dollar or one eggroll for a dollar. But the taste was good.
(4)Kristen L.
I have only been here once and I was really surprised at the atmosphere once I had walked in. within the area of Malden it is not exactly your upscale side of town, but once you go beyond the other side of the cool little wooden door that blends into the restaurant, you feel as tho your in another world away from Malden. somewhere really quaint and comfortable . the lighting is very low and intimate you can really enjoy the company of others here.drinks are good and the food portions are very nice and tasty as well. so if you feel like you wanna get away but do not want to go too far, come here and for me I was in another place once i sat down at the Exchange Street Bistro.
(5)Michael C.
We just ate at Exchange Street Bistro for the first time. Our impression is that it's okay, but there's no compelling reason to return. Appetizers: The hog wings (pork shanks) were actually quite good--quite possibly the highlight of the meal. The "jumbo" shrimp cocktail was anything but. For the $12 price tag, we'd recommend skipping it. Entrees: The baked haddock could have been very good, but the temperature of the dish was a little too cool. The steak frites was decent, but one piece of meat was terribly undercooked and the frites were a little bit soggy. (I think serving the beef on top of the fries was a bad call.) Overall, adequate. But there are too many better places to spend money on a second meal here.
(2)Najely S.
I've been here a few times for dinner and brunch, loved it! The food and decor are great. It certainly doesn't feel like you are in Malden once you step inside. It's beautiful and comfortable and always hopping with people.
(4)Sarah A.
Since moving up north of Boston, this has been a frequent haunt for us (myself and my husband). It was recommended by my sister's boyfriend, and has never once disappointed us. Their Elderflower martini is out of this world, they rotate the menu, their state is friendly, service is good, and best of all---they are a short walk from the Malden Center T stop on the orange line. That means an extra martini since driving is not a concern (though there is validated parking available, and some street parking if you're lucky). A true neighborhood gem.
(4)Cee D.
Really 3.5 stars. This restaurant has an interesting layout and decor. I liked that the bar did not have a TV right in front of it. Might be nice for a drink with friends. We had dinner. Seated immediately and water poured as we sat down, which was nice. Tried the calamari and the onion soup. Onion soup was nice. Calamari was cooked well and tasty, but overdressed with the tartar style sauce. Entrees were pan seared scallops over lobster ravioli and the rack of lamb. Wife said scallops were cooked perfectly but a little salty, and she likes salt. The rack of lamb was overseasoned on the rosemary, and a little fatty, but were also cooked perfectly. So, it seems that everything is cooked well but overseasoned. A less heavy handed chef might pull another star. The only real complaint was the goat cheese whipped potatoes that came with the lamb. I would never pair these two foods. Overall good service. We were too full for dessert. Worth a try if you are in the downtown Malden area.
(3)David C.
First time here and was impressed all around at the friendliness of the staff, the quality of the drinks and the quality of the food. For a place that focuses on Martinis they have a great beer and wine selection. The awesome bartenders crank out Martinis like its nobody's business, if you sit a t the bar its entertaining. I had the burger which was cooked to perfection and very tasty. The fries were awesome as well. Good place for a swanky feel in the Malden area.
(4)Danielle C.
I've been a huge fan and fairly regular patron of ESB, but I just hosted my first event there yesterday and was extremely impressed! From start to finish, the process was easy and painless, which makes a big difference. Initially working with John and Mark by phone, all my questions were answered, any calls returned promptly and I never felt I was being mislead or like any upselling was being forced on me. The day of the event, Johanna and Emily were our servers and they were wonderful-- always available and never in the way, which was ideal for a large bridal shower. And when the check came, there were no surprises-- how rare is that for a 60+ person event?! Also want to give a shout out to the best bartender, Pia! Would recommend strongly that you consider ESB for any event as their food and drinks are delicious, the prices are fair, and their staff is superior to most. Thanks for everything, guys!
(5)Carlos F.
Expensive and food is decent. Drinks are good but definitely over priced for Malden. I tried the lobster sandwich and ended up throwing most of it out. Parking is easy and great location.
(3)Damien S.
If you're big on ambience, or as the French say, ambiance, Exchange Street Bistro might not be your bag. It's very Malden, in that there's a TV for every five heads, the cocktail list is a cornucopia of (FILLINTHEBLANK)tinis, and the furniture could have been pulled from the higher end of a dormitory catalogue. I did say the higher end! But I didn't come here to eat the seats, or watch the game. I came to grub. And the food is delicious. Calamari has a thicker, cornmeal coating which wasn't greasy, and the cephs were cooked tender. She liked the lemony tartar; I stuck with the pomodoro sauce for a dipper and the whole shebang is bountiful, almost killing our entree appetite. Or as the French say, entrée appétit. Opted for a sausage flatbread ($14), which proved itself to be a multi-mealer, especially following the squid. Pretty sure I saw signs of a bready, toasted crust under the veritable mountain of house made crumbled sausage and ricotta, but maybe that was the plate. Don't know, don't care - if it was the flatware, then I ate a plate. And I liked it. The scene? Not my bag. The food? My bag. A strong 3.5 with a round up for value!
(4)Careen P.
Best dinner ever. So we came in for oyster. That was fantastic. Our server (Amanda)was amazing. So we moved on to the 3 course pre fixed menu. We had the risotto and beef stew (soup of the day). Our server (Amanda) recommended that we do that. So we can try both. Was a great idea. Then dinner came and we were full but it was so good we love that too. The sirloin and the seafood scampi. Pictures below. Great price too.
(5)Brittney T.
Exchange street is my go to restaurant. The food is excellent, I haven't found anything on the menu I don't like. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. I've been to a couple of family events catered here(birthday parties a and graduation parties) and had a great time and good food. They're drinks are amazing, I favor their sangria (both the red and the white). I'm also a huge fan of their bistro wings. I definitely recommend exchange street bistro.
(5)Davy K.
An unexpected gem in Malden! Great food at a great price. Fun ambiance. They also do private events at the location at a reasonable and competitive rate. I've been here for brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and a couple baby showers. They don't disappoint!
(4)K Z.
I love love love this bistro! I have dined here several times over about the last year with friends, family, with kids in tow and on date night. The drinks are tasty and the food is ALWAYS on point! I can't wait to see what new dishes the fall brings. The food is plated artfully but more importantly tastes even better with fun flavor combinations. Don't get me wrong, it's not overly pretentious or stuffy and still offers comfort foods. The servers are usually attentive enough to our table too.
(5)Cole M.
You can't go wrong when visiting Exchange St. Their drink menu will satisfy any thirst. The tapas and apps are all so tasty you may not need to actually order a meal! Their entrees are spot on as well. A bit pricey for the Malden area but worth it to get quality drinks and food in a great comfortable, clean, spacious place.
(4)Andreina O.
Phenomenal food and staff is always curteous and polite. I have lived in malden for many years this is truly a gem! I always recommend this place it is awesome!
(5)Amola S.
Cool ambience. Good for couples. Went as a double date ( 2 couples) plus a two year old. They had a high chair and a kid's menu. My lobster mac and cheese was tasty with big chunks of lobster. The calamari app was well done. Good wine list to pair with dishes.
(4)Jae J.
Popped in here for Sunday brunch yesterday, and I'm definitely a fan! We had reservations 'cause we didn't want to wait a while (as that's definitely the norm for other brunch places we've been to). However, that wasn't needed at all since it wasn't too crowded. Food-wise, loved it. I got the lobster omelette, and was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster actually in it. I expected shredded lobster sprinkled in here and there, but there were actually huge chunks of lobster with the claw and everything. My boyfriend got the crab cake benedict, and while that was good as well, the portion size was much smaller than my omelette. He wolfed down his food in a matter of minutes and ate half of my omelette as well because he was still pretty hungry. Loved the atmosphere of the place with soft jazz in the background, and the waitress (Michelle) was the sweetest and really helpful. I overheard a table near us expressing concerns of a gluten allergy for someone in their party, and their waitress was more than happy to accommodate them/ask the chef about food specifics. Bonus points for awesome service. Overall, definitely will be back soon!
(4)Ahnauncia S.
Got the lobster mac and cheese and it was amazing!i sat at the bar and got the tapas size which was plenty. I will definitely return!
(5)Steve X.
This is a Bistro where you will Exchange some good fun if you go. It is located on Exchange st. (hence the name) and has some very good food. But let's talk about the bar, what a nice setting and extremely nice and grandiose. If you are a classy person and prefer to treat someone to something nice, this is where you should go for dinner or late night.
(4)Amanda C.
the deco is good is good not to many places to park. and the food is good my mom had a burger she liked it. I gave the sandwhich with tomato soup with steak and chese I call it wasn't bad I liked it. my dad got mussels and fish he liked his meal. so all and all we are fans.
(4)kristen s.
My girlfriends and I went to exchange street tonight and one of us couldn't get a babysitter. She brought her adorable son and unfortunately no matter what we did he wouldn't eat his mac n cheese. A waitress noticed our attempts and came over and saved the day! The service from her was incredible and above and beyond. He told my friend's son Superman made the Mac and cheese just for him! (He is 3.) she brought him "super man cheese and his own super plate and fork. Her name was Trisha and we LOVE her! He ate so much dinner and we couldn't have done it with out her! She was amazing, we will absolutely come back to a place that has people like her. Thanks so much Trisha! a desperate mom and her friends!
(5)Ev D.
Excellent drinks and staff. Trish is amazing - ask for her when you go! Very attentive, fun and excellent service. They have a good food menu but somewhat limited--look for specials daily. Burger is fantastic and I'm not a burger person. Drinks done very well with lot of specials. Bar very nice although can get busy at night. Definitely a great place to enjoy a nice meal and even meet up at the bar.
(5)L M.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Everything was great! Nice decor, food was cooked perfectly (white pizza, grilled salmon, stuffed portabellas) and our waitstaff, Howard, was such a nice guy! Will definitely be back!
(5)Susan T.
I've been here multiple times for dinner, night out, wedding shower and even had a baby shower here. Each time I come I am wowed by how friendly and attentive the staff from the bartenders to the waitstaff are! The Martinis are amazing, the lychee is my favorite! The food is delicious, I've tried the bar menu, brunch and dinner. The margerita pizza and any of their flatbreads are really good, along with calamari. JoAnna is really nice! It's very trendy place and convenient With parking on street or lot so it beats heading into city. A must try!!
(5)Derek W.
Checked into this place on a Tuesday night for something light and easy. The bar here is real nice, and decor is as well. Parking is awful pretty much anywhere in Malden square and this place is no exception. In a town that has way too much asian food to offer, I'm happy the exchange street bistro is a choice. On this night they had Tapas all over the menu and they were on average about $5. They were hearty and delicious....
(4)Sarah D.
ESB is the highlight of Malden. The martinis are perfectly on point (my personal fav if banana nut bread), the appetizers are larger than life (I'd eat their baked bree any day of the week for any meal), and their entrees are so flavorful that every bite feels like a full coarse meal (haddock, hands down is the best). Oh wait! How silly of me! How could I forget the desserts! Banana bread pudding and chocolate marquise (aka chocolate meatloaf) are seriously the hands down the greatest I've ever tasted. Service is usually perfect. The prices are worth the quality and dedication to each menu item. The atmosphere is edgy and classy. I'd come here every day if I could!!
(5)Jenna W.
I stopped in here for dinner last week with my family, and it was a pretty darned tasty experience. My mom and I split the hummus platter ($8) as an appetizer, and it was delish. The hummus portion was super generous, and I felt half-full by the time I was done. My mom ordered some sort of gin and cucumber drink, which I thought was disgusting, but she loved it, so rock on mom. As a main course, I split the margherita pizza ($12) with my dad. It was thin crust, and the sauce was fairly sweet. Very yummy. I'm typically solidly in the "blue cheese hater" camp, but I'll make an exception for the blue cheese mashed potatoes I stole off my sisters plate. The flavor was pretty mild, and they were ah-ma-zing. On to dessert....order the ice cream waffle sandwich ($7). Seriously. Do it. I don't even remember what the other people in my family ordered, because I was blinded by the towering mass of waffles, vanilla ice cream, sea salt caramel and chocolate. It was so, so good, and there's more than enough to share. Our waitress was also very fun and helpful!
(4)Nicole R.
Stopped in for dinner with my bestie... (yeah i'm old, but i'm still going to use the term bestie...) We got Patricia as our server and she was super funny, had lots of suggestions, and definitely made for a fun dining experience. We loved her. The food was pretty good. I got the white pizza which was good but would have been better if there was a little more cheese on it. The martinis... they were great. I went for a cucumber martini and the cookie martini. They both exceeded my expectations. I think if i were to come back i'd probably just do apps and drinks and go for dinner elsewhere. There weren't a ton of options and most were either steak or seafood. I'm a salad/boneless chicken kind of girl. Also... i'd prefer no garnish on my drink if the only other option is a decaying piece of fruit/veg... which i did experience when ordering...
(4)Paolino P.
I took 1 star for the amount of choices on the menu as far as steak goes.. Your a bistro your name sets off alarms in my head that say mmmmmm meat! Problem is choices are slim. I will say the 2 times I dined at Exchange St. The food was great. The bar is big and lively. Bar Tenders are great. And the ambiance is nice. I would just like to see more options on the menu.
(3)Vincent R.
5 stars. We've started asking for our favorite waitstaff (Pia). They're always friendly and very accommodating. Apparently, they recently got a new chef and I love the food. The husband is partial to the drinks so it's a double win for us. The only downside? It can get a bit noisy, especially if you're near the bar.
(5)Kaajal M.
My friends and I went to dinner here on Wednesday night and despite the lack of patrons, the service was slow. Our waitress wasn't attentive and would disappear for long periods of time. We were sat at 6:30 and ordered at 7! She also really pushed the specials and drinks and said we couldn't order tapas without also ordering entrees. The whole experience really turned me off. Our food and drinks were delicious though and I will definitely visit again and sit at the bar (bartenders were awesome).
(3)Vicki S.
First time here - this place is a keeper! Beautiful bar - outstanding drink and wine list. Now let's talk small plates- do not miss the homemade meatballs - the real deal. Homemade chips and Mac n cheese are perfect, it's a bit of a drive for me to get here- well worth the drive. GO
(4)Court S.
We came here for an event last weekend and decided to sit at the bar for an hour because we was early as usual. We ordered butter cookie and s'more martini's and lobster mac n cheese. Everything was absolutely delicious and service at the bar was outstanding. The food items on the menu looked very tasty and the martini menu is extensive with fruity and dessert like combinations. My goal is to try at least 75% of the martini's here. They all sound so delicious. Cheers!
(5)Craig M.
Came here for a graduation party. Took an hour and a half to get just bread. Food was mediocre. Nothing to brag about. Never go here! Only reason I didn't give a one star was because I had a really good martini from one of their 20 martini list. Very disappointing.
(2)Jeff N.
I recently visited here for the first time on a Wednesday evening. Wild here, I had to espresso martinis and three sliders. The drinks were divine, why the food was pretty good. The service was excellent. The bar is very bag and there is also plenty of room in the restaurant itself. Also, the restrooms were clean. The martinis were $12 each which is a little bit high but I guess they think they are actually in downtown Boston. Nonetheless, I will definitely be back in the future for more socializing and drinks here.
(4)Dawn H.
Wonderful experience! Looked a little sketchy walking up to it, but open the doors and you will be excited at what you see. Cozy seating. Great cocktails. Best fried oysters we ever had :-). Will definitely find our way back there.
(4)Janelle G.
Went to exchange street bistro for a large event. The food was good but not great. Good location for a function but may not return to this restaurant on my own.
(3)Cecile M.
Very good! The Bacon and Hashbrown Quesadilla was awesome. He Lemon Drop Martini was delicious!
(4)Edward B.
We have been eating here for years, the food is always top notch!!!! The ambiance is so relaxing, drinks are great and the service is the best !!!! If you have an opportunity to request a waitress, ask for Trisha, she is the best of the best!!!!!
(5)Misty S.
Went to Exchange Street Bistro for the first time this weekend, for their Sunday Brunch. It's a little hidden gem tucked away in Malden. I'm not sure how I hadn't been before now! Menu: Limited but solid brunch menu which includes some apps, salads, egg-y dishes, pancake-y dishes, and burgers. The portions are generous and the food is fresh and good. I got the Field greens salad and the hummus. The hummus was homemade and full of garlic. It came with pickles, pickled onions, and crispy homemade pita chips. A+. The salad was small but tasty. My only complaint is that it was advertised as having butternut squash on it. I think there may have been about 4 butternut squash shavings on it, but they didn't taste cooked and I don't frankly even know if it was butternut squash on there. Hubby & Friends all got burgers. They were huge and looked juicy and fresh (and came with a big pickle on top). Atmosphere: Cute place that seems good for a date night. Nice sized bar, and has a function room in the back. Service: Friendly and attentive Drinks: Good wine list and cocktail menu. Specialty brunch cocktails. Small draft list but with a few nice craft beers (Anchor steam, sierra nevada, and clown shoes tramp stamp when we were there). Their website does not do them justice. Honestly, it looks like an old folks early bird special type of place from their website, and the beer list on their website turned me off immediately. Don't judge it by their website!
(4)Brian S.
So the place was nice for Malden .. Great martinis .. Asked for a medium rare burger and got a well done..highly doubt it was Kobe beef for $12 bucks ... Management corrected the problem ASAP ...recommend the daily tapas .. Nice atmosphere ..little pricey but it is a bistro and had nice live music
(3)Sarah B.
I have to write this because I just don't think it deserves to be number 2 on Malden's restaurant list! I've been here several times and just find it marginal. I make better food at home and have twice gotten rotten garnish in a mediocre drink. So many better places to eat in Malden.
(2)Kristine D.
First time coming here and I live about a mile down the road for the last 6 months. Came in with a few girlfriends around 9 on a Friday. No wait, but there were still people at the bar and eating. Great martini list. I had the Bellini martini. Definitely recommend it if you're into fruity/fizzy drinks. Also had the lobster mac... So MF good. Had to have a whole lobster in it. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Humberto B.
Great athmosphere for a night out (bit loud at times). Staff was really generous and the food was good but could improve. We ordered and Haddock and the Salmon and they both looked good back were a bit "meh" in the seasoning department. Definitely going back to try a different dish.
(4)Tony P.
Im a regular here ...very consistent & the drinks very good & are reasonable ... plus the food is with out question, full of flavor... try to go to Boston & see how much you pay for the same quality.
(5)Alyssa W.
Finally got a chance to try this place out. Came in for lunch and I liked that the place wasnt packed. We were able to relax, talk and catch up not feeling like we were being rushed out, like some places during lunch. We ordered the brocolli rabe and provolone spring rolls with mustard sauce. OH MY GAWD. Best idea ever, soo delicious! Friend got a clams and fettucine with white sauce. really tasty. I got the burger with sweet potato fries. portions here are big. so be hungry or not surprised to take food home! staff is friendly and very nice. I took a look around and I like how up front it has a bar/lounge feel. In back, it's a little more private and looks like it'd be nice to have dinner there! Definately will be back, but for dinner :)
(4)Lillie A.
If you want a really good desert come here. The bread pudding is ridiculously amazing !!!!! The food is awesome as well and the staff are really nice.
(4)Diane W.
I really don't want to give this place a bad review because I've been going there for dinner or drinks for so long however dinning there yesterday was just awful. A part of me wants to call in Bar Rescue to help save this place. The service was disgusting. It's very rude to point fingers at people and the waitress wouldn't not stop it. She slammed the food on the table and constantly gave me an attitude for asking for a refill of water. The food itself wasn't that good and I almost felt like we were forced to order more food than what we wanted. When my father asked for the check it took about 15 minutes for it to be brought to the table and another 20 minutes for it to be picked it. It would be one thing if the place was packed and jamming but it was empty. After being a long time customer, I don't think I'll be back there anytime soon. The bar atmosphere is really and the drink list is pretty awesome. However that server, the one with the epic nails, ruined it.
(2)Timmy D.
I have not been here in a couple of years and love what they did to the place. We came in on a sunday Night basically for a couple of martinis and apps and just to sit at the bar. First things fist though Larry at the bar was definitly the deal breaker on why I will return. He made it a great experience from beginning to end. I did not give it 4 stars because of the...... how can I say this nicely.... I cant ! The trashy waitress who banged her cup off the bar yelling orders at Larry, Yes I said banging her cup off the bar, and just yelling across the restaurant what she needed. really professional. Overall the staff was friendly we did get a smile. I did see a guy walking around who I assumed to be the manager who didnt stop to say anything to anyone . another reason for the 4 stars. Mr Manager we come in to your establishment that we love, It isnt to hard to say hello and ask how everything is going... Just saying.. Another reason for the 4 stars. Martinis were awesome and not in a small martini glass, Nice big deep martini glasses, Huge selection of different martinis. For apps we got oysters, perfect. the lobster mac and cheese was probably the best I have ever had. So Larry we will be looking forward to sitting at the bar again thank you for making it a great experience you should pass along your work ethics to those around you.
(4)Robert Q.
The decor and atmosphere is upscale and is probably the high point of the restaurant. To take a business client for lunch, dinner or drinks would be a great idea. I went to exchange street bistro for a family function. Scallops wrapped in bacon is hard to mess up and also hard to make shine. It was as expected. The crab cakes were flavorful with good seasonings but a bit inconsistent with the preparation, as one had a nice crust and was cooked longer there for held together for longer, while another was loose and not crusted and was evidentially not cooked as long. I prefer more crunch but the aioli the used was nice and overall I would buy it as a solid crab cake is hard to find. I had Caesar salad which was solid and pretty standard, ziti in red sauce was ok and maybe slightly over cooked since it was falling apart but it was buffet style so that is some what understandable. The chicken piccata was the biggest disappointment as it was just dry. The capers actually saved it and gave it the salt it needs because it lacked any other real seasoning. Overall it's not bad but it could be pricey and for the money you expect better execution on the food. If however you're looking to have drinks and entertain the atmosphere is very nice and modern.
(3)Trice B.
I was there as a courteous to one of the employees who was gracious enough to invite me, but I can't really speak for the food as I had specially made items. What I can say about the food, is that it was fresh but I could've used a tab bit more seasoning and umph! The drinks were definitely on point, strong, but you can taste all the ingredients in the cocktail. Ambiance was cool, calm and collective... Zen.
(3)Andrea H.
I really liked the decor and atmosphere of this place, but they changed it in the last year and I'm not sure I like it as much. To think, this place used to be an old toy store and then sat vacant for years. I'm glad to see some sophistication come to Malden and actually survive. I have been there several times and think it is a bit pricey for what you get. The best thing about this place is the cocktails. They are well mixed and there is a great variety to pick from on their lengthy martini menu. I've had the Very Berry, Undone Pina Colada, Stoli Doli, and Strawberry Shortcake. They were ALL good. Yikes, drink much? For dinner, I've eaten the margherita pizza (just ok) roasted half chicken and angus burger (pretty good). I have also gone and just got some tapas and appetizers. This was a waste of $$, by the time you order a few of these it costs more than a meal and you only got 2 bites on a plate. If you are having a night with the girls or a first date, come to Exchange Street Bistro and sit at the bar, have a signature cocktails, and chat. Otherwise, save your dinner plans for another place.
(3)Andrea A.
My boyfriend and I end up here probably every other week on a Friday when we just want to relax. We always find a good crowd of people here; it is never a pretentious crowd and it is never a sketchy crowd. Truly a hidden gem. Cocktails are perfectly priced (a competitor in a more affluent town nearby is about $3 more per drink) and the food is always delicious. We have never once been dissatisfied with our drinks, food, or service. The bartenders are all super nice and just attentive enough. They're not up your butt watching you but they're also not completely ignoring you.
(5)Jaclyn S.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro 4-5 times this year and am extremely impressed with the quality of the food, service, and ambience. It is really nice to have a local restaurant have such fine qualities. I had an event in one of the rooms here and it went very well. I would recommend having a function here. Everyone was so easy to work with and I really didn't have to worry about anything. The best menu item was definitely the bananas foster French toast. It may have been the best French toast I've ever ate and is a must for any sweet lovers. Their tomato, basil and mozzarella omelet was really good as well. If you have a function here I would recommend these 2 dishes, as they were a big hit. On Sunday's they have Brunch and you really can't go wrong with any choice. The breakfast burrito, whole farm (eggs, sausage, French toast, home fries) and eggs benedict are my favorite dishes. The lemon ricotta pancakes are also extremely tasty, just on the thin side. I wish there was a way to make them fluffy, but the flavor was definitely good. Splurge and add the candied walnuts and you can thank me later. :) The bloody Mary's are really good and I'd definitely recommend having one. If you want some lunch with your brunch then definitely get the broccoli rabe spring rolls. They are AMAZING. Mondays through Thursday they have a 3 course menu for $28 and it is an absolutely awesome deal. For an appetizer I've selected the hand dipped ricotta and arugula with fig jam and crostini. If you make sure to take a bite of the fig, ricotta and arugula at the same time, it is like an explosion of flavors and it's so good. I was really shocked as to how something so simple can taste so good. For the entrée I had the pork osso bucco with garlic mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and eggplant coponata. The pork fell off the bone and it was delicious. The portion was huge. For dessert I had the cheesecake and it tasted like a ricotta pie. It was really simple but good. You absolutely must get a martini here. They have the biggest martini menu of any restaurant I've ever been to. They have some really creative options and it certainly makes for a fun night. My personal favorite is the Moscow mule (vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime juice). The stoli doli, espresso martini, strawberry basil gimlet and cucumber elixir were also tasty. If you love spicy food then you may want to give the "dirty pepper" a try. The dirty pepper is made with pepper vodka and pepperoncini juice. It is really spicy and so proceed with caution! It is definitely not for people that don't love a bit of heat. Two to 3 years ago I ate here for dinner and the dinner was good and I would have most likely rated the restaurant a 3 at that time. Based on all my experiences this year, I really have to give it a 4 star rating. I hope it keeps on doing a great job, because again it is always nice to have local restaurants do well.
(4)Monica C.
I visited the restaurant for brunch today. Our waitress Michelle was wonderful! She was very helpful offering suggestions on the cocktail menu and appetizers. The food was delicious! The crab cake appetizer is to die for. The lobster omelette with homefries is a must-have. I will definitely visit again!
(4)Alisia P.
I love it here! My girlfriends and I come here for drinks and appetizers. The list of drink options are always fun to choose from too! I love the chicken quesadillas & spinach and artichoke dip!
(4)Lydia D.
I am not sure where to start but I visit Malden once a month to see my employees here and I am sad that I've never been to this place! From the time we walked In with a nice greeting and sat down to waited on hand and foot AND then the food!! Oh my!! Meatballs!! Lobster Mac!! The crabcake!! The wine was sooooo fresh!! So I said all that to say my lunches and dinners going forward will be here when I am in Malden !!!
(5)Jennifer L.
We went here today for our Sales "Top Booker Luncheon." From the moment we walked in, I knew it was going to be a great experience! Howard welcomed us at the door and even took our umbrellas, promising he wouldn't let us forget them later! Howard wound up being our server and he was hilarious and on point the whole meal. This place had great specials and a nice lunch menu. I got the steak tips MR which were cooked perfectly. Came with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Couldn't have asked for a better lunch! (Or leftovers for dinner!) The tips had an awesome sauce on them with just the right kick. You know a place is good when they make sure you water is full at all times which I personally appreciate a lot! Wish we had room for dessert and/or a martini but will definitely have to go back! The place was very clean and stylish and parking out front was a breeze. Thanks Howard and kitchen staff for a great afternoon! See you again real soon!
(5)La H.
I could've sworn I did a review for this before, but alas, here's my review with my update. Last year I went here with friends and I had a Lychee Martini, some amazing food I can't remember, and a chocolate tower of some sorts which was so rich. The service was fast and friendly. My only beef with this place is that I booked it through Open Table and they never confirmed that I went there. It took me three months to get a hold of them maybe three or four times, just get this done. They finally did, but it was super inconvenient. I went here last night with Jess and they had really upped their game. I had some sort of mock-cucumber martini, which was way to strong, but Jess' passionfruit mojito was great. We shared bruschetta and the polenta and honestly I nearly died - when I said we shared, it means I at most of the polenta because it was that orgasmic. For dinner, I had the butternut squash ravioli which was rich and creamy and I can't wait to eat my leftovers. Jess had the lamb dish which she loved - so big she also has leftovers. For dessert we shared (evenly) the vanilla bread pudding which was OMG so amazing. I love this place, I really really do. I think If I ate here all time I would be 500 pounds. Go here, try the lobster mac and cheese, do a review, then die a happy death.
(4)Kevin D.
One of my absolute favorite places to go. Food is always delicious and expertly served while the drink menu is a paradise to get lost in. Best part is that you can come with your friends and enjoy a conversation because even though the bar is always busy and hopping, it stays classy and refined. And did I mention the lobster macc and cheese??? Do yourself a favor and come enjoy one of the very best.
(5)Tim F.
Went here for the first time wing the hubby - had heard good things, and happy to say it was well worth it! Hummus appetizer was tasty and a large serving. Oysters were great. I had the smoked salmon with toasted orzo while CJ had the lamb chops - empty plates for both of us! Carrot cake for dessert was lovely, with a citrusy frosting and a molasses sauce - impressive. Definitely a great time, and won't be our last!
(5)Craig F.
This restaurant used to be good but it's been awhile since I've been back and it will be awhile before I go back. Service was slow, food was not good at all. Steak was over charred on the outside They undercooked my wife's steak.
(2)Adriana T.
Nice place for dinner. My first time here. They have small bites (tapas) if you stay at the bar and full dinner if you stay at the table. The restaurant has 2 rooms so it's a good size restaurant. The food is priced a bit high but if you don't drink and eat a lot the check for 2 people with tip is a little bit under $100. We only had 3 drinks (2 beers and a glass of wine), one full dinner with appetizer and 2 small tapas and the check came to $64+top. I would like to return and try their brunch soon. *A server always has to give you water regardless whether or not you ask for it. I don't like to have to wave down a server and ask for water.. **My fiancé's steak was cooked to perfection so I will forgive them for not giving me water.
(4)K R.
Great atmosphere! The martinis are awesome. The bartenders really take the time to have a martini come out perfect. I understand the saying " you pay for what you get" This place is very expensive, but the portions are unreal! I got the pork chops that were $26-$30 dollars. Tasted great and had left overs for a whole week! My server Emily was amazing! She was so nice and made my experience wonderful. Cant wait to go back and get the best dirty martini ive ever had!
(4)Ellen H.
Call me a sucker, but I love when I get to update a review to add more stars. Exchange Street Bistro, you've had some work done and it looks goooood. Decided to give ESB another shot, so my boyfriend and I came here on a Friday night for dinner and drinks. Made a reservation via Opentable, no issues when we arrived. I specifically asked for a seat in the front (bar) room as to avoid the hypnotic vibe of the booths in the dining room. We were seated in a little booth by the bar and we realized the place had a totally new look! The bar was moved and is now a horseshoe shape, much bigger than before, and a great spot for having a few drinks with friends or a date. The dining room is updated, also -- more open and much more well-decorated than before. Decor is great and all, but food and bev is the moneymaker, and both of those were MUCH improved, also! I got the wedge salad - great - the chicken quesadilla - very good - and the apple cider martini -- faaaabulous! I couldn't even eat the quesadilla because the salad was so filling and delish. The quesadilla was exactly as it should be - chicken and cheese and not a whole lot else, unlike many others that are filleddddd to the brim with grilled veggies (not my thang - if I want a veg quesadilla, I'll ask for one!). Overall, a WAYY better experience than before! Can't wait to come back with friends!
(4)Susan Z.
Yum! Came here with the office for lunch. Everyone liked what they ordered and the servers were friendly. I got the lobster grilled cheese with salad, good amount of lobster and the brioche was delicious. Tried some sweet potato fries, and they were good, too. The pizzas are big individual pizzas - both people who ordered them ate only half, so if you get that there will be enough leftovers for a second meal.
(4)Garet G.
Great food , great staff , and a very nice looking place if you're thinking about taking your date out !!!
(4)Amy R.
The Exchange Street Bistro is a great and much needed addition to the Malden scene. I really like the atmosphere up-front and at the bar (but not so much in the back since it's been redone with uncomfortable seating). The mixed drink menu is fantastic, offering drinks such as Old Fashions and Moscow Mules. The menu is decent, offering a range of tapas and appetizers as well as pub-like and higher end dinner options. While this place is relatively busy, there's rarely a wait making it a great place to go on a Friday or Saturday night.
(4)Karen C.
My mom and I hosted a surprise 65th birthday party for my dad here in August 2014 and we were very happy with how everything turned out. The person who handles the function business, Rich, was easy to work with, very helpful and accommodating to our requests. The servers at our event (Johanna and Emily) were fantastic as well. They were always ready to be of assistance but were not hovering over the party. We had a group of around 50 people in their back room and it was a perfect set up for our party. They let us bring in balloons and some other decorations but you really don't need much in this space as it is already a very attractive room. Having the party at a restaurant and not a standard banquet facility also made it much easier to trick my dad into thinking he was just going out to dinner and that helped keep the surprise! We opted for a buffet and after a lot of research found that Exchange Street was one of the few places that offered a 3rd entree option on a buffet menu without an extra charge per person. This was great for us as we were able to get a beef, fish and a pasta/chicken option. The food was plentiful and very tasty and they packed up the leftovers for us at the end of the night. We were also able to offer beer and wine on consumption at a very reasonable rate. Many of our guests commented on how much they loved the venue and more than one indicated they may host a party of their own here in the future which is always the clearest sign of a great venue!
(4)Tina B.
My husband and I live in Malden and the Exchange Street was our go to place a few years back. The food was delicious. But we stopped going because we were looking at the same menu each time we went (although they do have specials). I'm happy to say that having gone back again, the food is still delicious, the service always good. The menu has changed. They just need to keep that fresh. The lobster/shrimp risotto was amazing. The chef is good with flavors. The quality of food here parallels anything you'll find in Boston.
(4)YY L.
Great food for Sunday Brunch. Hope they also have a ourdoor dinning place.
(4)Mary Beth B.
I live in Boston, a friend who commutes to Oak grove wanted to meet for dinner "somewhere on the orange line". I googled Orange Line and restaurants and found Exchange Street Bistro just a block from the T. What a spectacular gem!! I have never been to Malden but I will be returning to the bistro. Cozy bar, great high top tables, inventive well thought out menu and SPECTACULAR cocktails!! Generous portions and truly something for every type of palate. While there are great places I go to in west roxbury and roslindale I think Exchange Street could find a niche!
(4)J J.
Was here for a reception event. Fish was overdone, chicken was dry and bland, and the pasta screamed high school cafeteria. The best part was the cheese and crackers but that's kind of tough to mess up. Waitress forgot our drinks and couldn't get anyone else's right either. I get that there's a lot of people, but maybe that means you should have more than 2 waitresses for over 50 people. Jesus. Also, very dark inside.
(1)Mrs. M.
Exchange Street is one of me & my husbands favorite date night restaurants. The food deserves a 5 star rating, the location is what makes it 4 star. Inside the restaurant is beautiful, trendy, comfortable, relaxing. The waitresses are energetic, friendly, and not overbearing. They have a good selection of beers on tap and live music some nights. But lets get back to the food! One of the best burgers I've ever eaten, and GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. For the love of God just get them and thank me later. Last time we went I got the teriyaki glazed salmon and I didn't want it to end. My husband got the fried chicken and I could see his eyes gloss over and thought he was about to weep. If you want to enjoy great food in a local environment, definitely give this place a shot.
(4)Natalie T.
Breakfast review: Okay menu, pretty simple breakfast things and some lunch options (fish n chips, eggs and toast) I went with friends. We had this waiter who tried to be funny but kept coming over every 10 minutes to tell us a life story if his. I could tell you his life story now of all those things he told us! and ordered the eggs toast and sausage. It was alright but the sausage wasn't too good. A friend got fish and chips which the waiter said 'they're good until they reach your stomach and blow up'. Well then... Dinner review: nice service. Amazing unique meals and desserts, they change up the menu every now and then which I really love. The lobster Mac n cheese is very good but very rich Breakfast: I don't recommend Dinner: go and have fun!
(3)Guy M.
I was looking online for a place to bring my girlfriend for valentines day and this perticular place came up first in my search results. I gave it a shot. We sat down an instantly loved the atmosphere. The menu wasn't huge but still delicious. Maybe they change it up? Everything was great and prepared well. The martinis were delicious and hard to choose from the long list. If you are looking for a place after work or a date, this is a place to go. The atmosphere is fun but elegant at the same time. I will be returning soon.
(4)Rachael T.
Love the atmosphere of this place. Nice place to go out for dinner. The martini list is very extensive and both that I tried (cucumber and espresso) were great! The lobster mac and cheese was among the best I've had, and I've tried this dish almost everywhere! Tons of great tasting lobster and yummy cheeses. The food presentation is really great also. The prices are a bit high but the quality of the food and drinks makes it worth the price. Went around 4pm and the bartender was serving as the waitress/bartender. It wasn't crowded but for some reason I say there with empty drinks (water and cocktail) for about 15 minutes while I are my meal. This really annoyed me but I didn't even say anything and the bartender said she didn't charge me for the second drink because she had realized how long it had been, so I guess that somewhat makes up for it. I'm still looking forward to coming back again in the near future to try some more of the menu items and martinis. They even have velvet parking available!
(4)Cheryl S.
I was there Saturday afternoon having drinks at the bar. The staff was really busy but the service was awesome!!! The manager was very rude, smelled like an ash tray, and I would go back as long as that manager guy wasn't there!!! The staff worked great as a team, were very very attentive, and were just over all amazing!!!
(1)Nick F.
Nice place for a dinner date. When we were living in Malden we ate here four times and were never disappointed by the food. We've had steak, sea food, flat bread, tapas, and lobster mac n' cheese for app/dinner. Surprisingly the brunch was excellent the one time we tried it (a corn soup special and and omelet). We also liked the large martini selection. We enjoyed many of them, some more than others, and it was fun picking out a new one to try each time.
(5)Ash A.
I have never had a bad experience here. Had an awesome date night with my husband, drinks and dessert, all were great. Service was awesome. Bathrooms are impeccably clean!
(5)Frederick N.
This place is certainly a little diamond in the rough. Inside is beautiful, warm, sexy, everything you want in a dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. The food is excellent! What a wonderful experience. Prices are decent for an upscale dining experience delivered with the finesse that this group offers. I hope this place a successful 100 years in business!
(5)William K.
Good food good service at the table I should give 4 stars than more friend jointed me we move to the bar, female bartender so rude she's not happy at all and we feel so uncomfortable sitting at the bar and it's only 9:45, about 11 people sitting at the bar Monday night 10/21/13 if she's ON I won't coming back any more. Sorry I had to taking back 2 star
(2)Jimmy B.
As an ex employee, I have to admit that its good food done really well. The decor is great and the staff was attentive and good at their jobs. Downside, over priced drinks and entrees. If you have the cash to throw towards a once in a while night out, you couldn't do any better.
(4)Nancy Q.
Keeping it short and sweet... Great atmosphere, bartenders, tapas, and most importantly (LOL) AWESOME DRINKS! Definitely a place to check out!
(5)Jarrett H.
While driving around Malden Center looking for somewhere new to get dinner last night, my boyfriend and I decided on Exchange Street Bistro. We'd both heard some good things about it, so we were excited to give it a try. It wasn't too busy, but a good amount of people in the bar area, and we were seated right away. We were both impressed with the look and feel inside, especially the décor and the stage area. The private room in back looked really nice as well. The martini list was HUGE, as in I had to select 1 from only the top half of the list before looking at the rest because there were too many good choices. I forget the name of the drink, but it was a cucumber gin martini and it was fantastic. I later had the white sangria which was great as well. Johanna was our server and she was really pleasant the entire time. Always attentive, never overbearing and intrusive, she made us feel right at home and never rushed. We both decided to order from the Prix Fixed menu. In my experience, prix fixed menus often don't contain any real stand-out or high quality choices, they cater more to people looking for a deal. When our food began arriving, I could not believe how beautiful the presentation was and the very generous portion sizes offered! We both started with the gulf shrimp appetizer and could not get enough of it! The sauce was spicy & flavorful, the shrimp were perfectly cooked and the corn cakes were some of the best I think I've ever tasted! My boyfriend got the sirloin for his entrée, and we were blown away by how big a cut it was. I had the lemon statler chicken and was equally impressed with that. The mashed potatoes and spinach made the perfect compliments. For dessert he got a chocolate pecan cake and I did a trio of sorbets in one of their giant martini glasses. Neither of us are big dessert people, but we loved everything about our last course. I was so full I could not even finish mine. While everything about the experience was great, the two things that made it perfect were the value and the service. Our tab wasn't even $100 for a complete dining experience, accentuated by the four star service from the entire staff. Ashley the hostess was wonderful and consistently refilled our waters, brought us bread and checked in to make sure we had everything we needed, all while seating other guests, helping the servers bus tables and maintain the dining room. The level of service we received from the whole staff made it such an enjoyable night out. Before we were even finished, we both agreed we couldn't wait to come back. I highly recommend giving them a try if you don't already love Exchange Street!
(5)Christopher P.
Really enjoyed my dinner here, tonight. Started with a delicious martini. Then six oysters, followed by lamb chops and finished with a few bites of Tim's carrot cake. It was exceptional; flavored with orange and molasses. I am looking forward to coming back here again.
(4)Nichole V.
Love it. My husband and I meet friends from Medford here often for drinks and food. Michelle is usually are waitress and she's great!
(5)Megan G.
Really cool dinner atmosphere and delicious drinks and food. My favorite was the fish tacos and bruschetta!
(5)Aaron K.
Exchange Street Bistro is a true diamond in the rough. Located down the street from a police station and across the street from an ugly parking garage and dry cleaner we found the oasis that is Exchange Street Bistro. I bought a Boston deals coupon after perusing the menu online. The menu online sounded delicious, the question was could they execute? The food was a homerun and where the restaurant earns most of it's acclaim from me. Fish tacos were excellent, some of the best I've had (maybe the best). They featured jack cheese along with the usual toppings, may not be authentic but it was damn tasty. An order (9$) came with 2 humongous tacos. My fiance had the lobster mac and cheese (23$) which was out of this world. It featured so much lobster, whole claws, tail meat, I think they may have put a whole lobster in it! The mac and cheese was really good too with a cheese sauce as well as melted cheese and breadcrumbs. The lobster tasted really good with some of that cheese sauce on it. This was the ultimate New England comfort food dish, I would highly recommend it. I had the pan seared scallops (22$) over lobster ravioli. This was a much lighter dish and did not actually fill me. Luckily my girl had plenty leftovers for me to steal. The scallops (3) were large and excellent quality. Pan seared perfectly. Lobster ravioli (3) were stuffed with a lobster mixture and were really tasty. While a plate that was a bit small, I was happy about the quality and understand that the ingredients are expensive. Would be nice if there were a few more asparagus (also 3!) on there to fill me up. For dessert we had the double chocolate mousse martini, perfect end to a great meal. It featured belgian chocolate and was killer. We would eat all of these dishes again and were really surprised with the quality and taste of food here. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere and a lively bar. It must of been built recently as everything looked new. Staff was friendly and accomodating throughout the meal. They were there to refill waters and clear dishes as needed. Minor gripes. They have great big windows, but they overlook a dry cleaner and ugly looming parking garage. Prices are a bit expensive for the area, but the food warrants it. I look forward to coming back and hoping I can get myself to try some of the other food here.
(5)Maria R.
Sat at the bar on a Friday night for some drinks and light dinner. Our server/bartender, Christina, was friendly and attentive. This was a welcomed change in scenery from some of the other bars in Malden. Since we didn't really order a full meal, I don't want to rate the food too much, but we had no complaints. I will definitely be back for the dirty pepper martini!
(4)Kevin L.
My favorite place to come to brunch when I actually have the time to do it. The food is pretty standard for a brunch menu but the prices are decent and they have a multitude of different mimosa's! The dishes are a hit or miss and the servers are not the best. They lack consistency but have a lot of potential, probably could use better management in the front of the house. But over all it is hard to find a better place for brunch.
(3)Kerri C.
I've been to Exchange Street a few times and to be honest the only thing I can complain about it that it can get a bit pricey. Their martinis are amazing and they usually have a pretty nice selection of beers on draft. I am in love with their tapas menu, and make sure to try the lobster mac & cheese!
(4)Julio S.
Good food, good service. Had a good date overall; could use one or two more vegetarian options but that's just a preference.
(4)Sharon D.
Yum! This place is great! Beautiful atmosphere, extensive martini and drink menu, eclectic tapas menu, modern dinner menu... A perfect place for a date night, girls night or honestly, any night out! I keep hearing about their Sunday brunch and we'll have to check it out soon! I also hear they are expanding, which is always a good sign!
(4)Chris N.
Good place. Good food and really good drinks. When you walk in you feel like you're in the middle of Boston. The negative is the prices are just as expensive as Boston too. I have a tough time paying $13 for a martini in Malden Sq.
(4)Stephanie A.
The martinis here are phenomenal. I used to come here at least once a week. The last time I was here, unfortunately, the food had gone down a bit. I was disappointed. I am hoping it was a one time thing because the food here has always been delicious!
(3)Phil O.
I went here on New Year's Eve with my girlfriend. We were both satisfied with our appetizers and entrees. I ordered from the special holiday menu and got the stuffed sole which was nicely laid out on top of grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes, with a fitting light Hollandaise-type sauce. It was very delicious. I ordered two martinis, which both met my expectations (nice balance of taste and punch) for only $9.25 apiece. The service was good but a bit slow which was to be expected on NYE. I'd give this place a 4.5 if it were an option. I'd like to come back.
(4)Brendan C.
Came here on a relatively busy Monday night and have to say I was not only pleasantly surprised but very impressed. We started with the bruschetta which was original, with more of a thin crispy bread topped with tomatoes and goat cheese and a bit of balsamic, very tasty. I had the seared tuna, excellent again and presented beautifully. My wife had the salmon and reported good things. Overall a great spot, not very cheap but not overly pricey and worth it.
(4)Larissa A.
As mentioned Exchange Street Bistro is a total hidden gem. I have now been there twice, once for brunch and once for dinner. I DO need to come in and start working my way through the Martini menu. Luckily I work very close by. I have not had the issues that others have had with the service. The staff has always been super nice and accommodating. Quick and responsive. One tip that I noticed is that if you or anyone in your party orders an appetizer, you MAY want to tell them to not wait on the entrees. They don't like to rush you, which is great. But I did see some bar patrons get antsy about this. I look forward to many visits to come
(4)Jennie S.
The rudest waitstaff I have ever encountered. The food is okay, but it takes 20 minutes to get sugar for your tea. Most of the waiters have attitude and management should do a better job hiring people. Don't waste your time coming here for Sunday brunch.
(1)Cristina L.
They are great for functions. I hosted a brunch for a bridal shower. They had the best buffet options than anyone else I had looked in to. The food never ran out and was fresh out of the oven. The ambiance and décor is very nice as well.
(5)Joshua D.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro several times now and am happy to give it four stars. It's got great atmosphere, friendly staff, a varied but not over-the-top menu, fancy enough for a date night out but casual enough for jeans and a day of comfort. It's on the pricey side for Malden, but that's the point--it's good food. Treat yourself and come here for the lobster mac and cheese. You won't regret it. There are cheaper alternatives like the angus burger which is also excellent. Some things to note: * They have a lot of great specials, including $1 tapas that your server will tell you about and seem to change with each visit. * I don't like sitting in the booths in the back room because the fabric is dizzying and the lighting is very unflattering--especially for a date (picture interrogation room lighting above your head) * Avoid the restuaraunt.com gift certs to this place. Way too many conditions. Just go and enjoy yourself. Sometimes they have groupons for it anyways. *They validate parking at the garage directly across the street. But it's also T-accessible from the Malden Center T-stop (about a 5 minute walk).
(4)Kate P.
I dined at ESB last night and was NOT impressed. I got decaying lime on my martini and my boyfriend's alcoholic drink. The bread was like a hockey puck. My roasted haddock could use some taste; it was as bland as could be. And my boyfriend's Bolognese was not good; the noodles could barely be chewed due to their size and texture and there was not enough sauce. My waitress was very good but the staff person that that seated us did so in a manner of slapping down the menus on the table and walking away...
(2)Kathleen H.
I was here for lunch on a Monday. My drink was good- they have an extensive cocktail list - and I thought the food was great. We started with hummus - some of the best I've ever had. Hummus is one of those things that's gotten kind of de riguer and bland at parties and on nosh platters, and normally I pass. But this was very, very good, and served with a mint pesto. The house salad was nothing super special, but fresh and tasty. My Kobe burger was delicious and cooked rare as ordered, and came with perfectly cooked, kosher-salted, totally addictive fries. Is it just me, or are restaurants doing better with fries these days? Quality fries made for gluttonous stuffing. burp. I really shouldn't have finished them all, because we sat there drinking and eating and also ordered dessert. I ordered the house made ice cream sandwiches. So - they overdo this a bit. They are chocolate chip cookies of average size, filled with a ice cream: Some chocolate, some vanilla. They gave me SIX. SIX, seis, 6. Sigh. I ate one, and licked some of the ice cream out of the other ones. Being raised as the menopause baby of Depression Era parents, I had pangs of guilt all the way home for wasting those other chocolate chip cookies. Aside from that, I look forward to coming back again to try the dinner menu.
(4)Stacie R.
Our table of 6 was thoroughly impressed with our dinner. Friends of ours just moved to Malden, and I can't wait to meet up at this place again! We started off sharing Spicy Chicken wings, Bruschetta, and Hummus. It was an awesome start. We had a diverse crowd of diners, including a vegan and vegetarian. They accommodated the vegan particularly well, making her a special dish of delicious vegetables. I had the Minted Pea Ravioli though I also want to try the Capellini, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, the Clams Vongole and the Haddock! Needless to say, I will return with friends in tow! Other dishes that were had by our party: Atlantic Salmon, Half Chicken, Bone In Sirloin, and Eggplant Roulade. Rave reviews!!!!
(5)Jacquil T.
The drinks were yummy! Service was great! Food was good.
(4)Diane H.
i'm judging this place on the bar soley! My friend invited me to check out this place for drinks after dinner, I was always kind of like "ehhh" to this place, a wannabe trying to be all classy in the middle of malden square, seriously? It's probably over priced..and no good. HAPPY HOUR!!!! Tuesday! My friends were at the bar, so I joined, the bartender is very nice! Sparked up a convo with my friend that I ALMOST THOUGHT THEY KNEW EACH OTHER, haaha. $5 martinis!!! well, a couple of them anyways, i got the stoli doli? mmm delicious! my friend has the elder..something, that tasted strong!!!! my other friend had the malibu sunset, it was good. and my other friend was offered water by the bartender when she said she was driving and will not be drinking...nice touch. They have tapas for cheap! I will definitely hit this place up when i'm in town, as i sadly do not live here anymore so i can't come whenever. my friend did come once on a saturday, she said small portions/high prices. Ambience: Very nice! They had a crowd, the front tables were mostly filled, not sure about the back.
(4)Heidi H.
Worst service I've ever gotten. There is not a good variety of things on the menu I had to eat a side salad because there wasn't anything I could or wanted to eat. Horrible.
(2)Susan C.
Exchange Street is a hidden gem in Malden. The food and service are very good, it's basically a trendy Boston type restaurant in the burbs. I've tried their brunch and happy hour, and have yet to be disappointed. Do try their stuffed french toast, and do come for the happy hour. The happy hour is a particular good deal as they have $1 tapas style bar bites and $5 beers on draft. I particularly enjoyed their sliders.
(4)Erin T.
I have eaten at Exchange Street quite a few times since they have been in business. The food has always been good. They pour a very generous glass of wine.. Always left satisfied.
(4)Roberta B.
Don't come here on Sunday before dinner time if you don't want brunch. Everything on the menu had eggs in it and i just didnt feel like it, so I was forced to eat lobster mac and cheese, the only thing without eggs, other than a burger I think, which I also wasnt in the mood for. HOWEVER, the lobster mac and cheese was heavenly, and after I took that first bite, my experience went from bad to wonderful.
(4)Mariel M.
My mom and I decided to host my sister's bridal shower here on a recommendation from someone who was hosting her rehearsal dinner here...and I'm so pleased that we did! We met with the general manager, who put us completely at ease and made it so simple to plan the event that we wanted. We knew that we wanted to have a Friday night shower (who wants to go in the middle of the day and waste a weekend?) and that we wanted it to be cocktails and appetizers. He couldn't have been more accommodating for the amount of people we were planning on having and the event that we wanted to have. The night of the event was great. We had our own private room, with a server that was specifically for our party that would get us drinks from the bar. Our menu consisted of a cheese and fruit platter, beef teriyaki, chicken, feta and grape skewers, pulled pork sliders, margarita pizza, bruschetta and chicken wings. The way that they displayed the food was so nice and classy...no cheesy metal burners here! Everything came out fresh and hot and was gobbled up by everyone. My favorite (or what I got to sneakily eat in between greeting guests) was the beef teriyaki and pulled pork sliders. They were SO yummy and felt like upscale bar food. I can't say enough great things about this place! The parking is so convenient too, if you're hosting a larger group (as we were) since they offer free validation at the garage next door. The martinis are great (very strong!) and the staff is so nice. If you're looking for a classy, fun place to host an event, look no further!
(5)Robert M.
A nice hidden gem in Malden Center! Friday night dinner, around 7 pm and got sat right away (just missed the rush!). Very big and buzzing bar and lounge area with many tv's, separate dining room area if you aren't into sports. Very attentive service all around throughout the night, even after a flat sat section. The menu caters to everyone, price wise and selection, from basic to a bit adventurous. Food came out very timely and was delicious! Fresh ingredients and flavors all around, from fish tacos, mozzarella salad, a pasta dish and a pizza. All winners, plus leftovers for tmrw lunch
(5)Che R.
Good food, bad service (i.e., Thomas). I had a restaurant.com gift cerificate for this place, so I took three of my coworkers to lunch. I read the fine print many times just to be sure that there were no "catches," and it seemed that a lunch where four people were getting entrees would work. We just had to spend at least $35, and we couldn't include drinks in the gift cert amount. So we went in at 12:00 on a rainy Tues. No one was in the place. We were greeted by Thomas who seated us, and right off the bat he had an attitude toward us. I complimented the place saying that it looked great and that they had changed the decor a bit. He said, "It's been like this for a year." I jokingly replied that we should go there more often. He didn't see the humor. Then we got water, looked at the menus, and when Thomas came back, we showed him the gift cert and asked if it was ok to use it. He said, "No, you can only use these with dinner." He hadn't even read it. I told him that I had read the fine print, and that it appeared as though we could use it for lunch since it didn't say "dinner only." He said that we had to order at least $35 worth of entrees. I said that we'd planned on each getting an entree. He said, "No, you have to have at least two entrees that equal at least $35." I then said, "Yes, but your entrees are all around $13. How could two equal at least $35?" He then said rather snippily, "Yeah, that's why you have to use it at dinner." We told him that it really should say that on the gift cert; it's misleading the way it's written. He then sighed and took it. We ordered over $45 worth of food, which was very good: gnocchi, pizza, and a chicken pot pie. Thomas brought our meals, and did not say much nor did he smile. (Really?? Really?? He has to take it out on us? The restaurant was still very empty; there was only one other table in there by this point. Didn't he need our business, I thought to myself.) It was all very sad and a bit annoying. So we finished our meals and paid the bill. We noticed that he had added an 18% gratuity on the bill. I understand that that's something that restaurant.com does since many people don't tip on the original pre-discounted bill but end up only tipping on the reduced amount. So we paid the bill and left. I really don't understand those kinds of things. My husband and I use groupon, living social, and other gift cerificates and coupons to restaurants all over Boston and Cambridge, and we've never had an experience like that. This guy was taking his frustrations out on us. It definitely doesn't make me want to go back there. Malden has a few good restaurants; I will go to those places instead from now on.
(2)Joanna F.
I attended a rehearsal dinner here on Friday night. I was really excited to try this restaurant since I had heard so much about it and I wasn't disappointed. We had a table reserved right in the middle of the restaurant and the service was impeccable. The drink list is spectacular. I opted for wine instead of one of their many martinis, but the martinis were reasonably priced and looked good. The food was amazing. Every morsel I put in my mouth was absolutely delicious. We started with several appetizers including calamari, hummus, grilled pizza and bruschetta. I have nothing bad to say about any of the apps... all of them were spectacular. Now, I'm not sure if I'm biased since I never order pasta or a lot of meat sauces at restaurants, but I was blown away by the Wild Boar Bolognese. It was rich and absolutely delicious and the portion was gigantic. Exchange Street Bistro is everything I like in a restaurant... classy without being stuffy, delicious food without the high prices and spectacular service with a sense of humor. I can't wait to come back.
(5)Amanda Z.
Ok... I've lived in Malden for... over a year now? So, how is it that I had no idea about this place?!? Sure, I'd seen some of the coupons that would pop up on the valupak thing that comes in the mail every once in a while, but I had no idea what a diamond in the rough this place was. People, I think we need to start giving Malden some more credit for the restaurants it has! We were entertaining guests that weekend and were trying to figure out a good place to go for Sunday brunch. The usual was out, and we needed a plan B. Enter yelp to save the day. After mulling over some of the usual suspects, this particular place kept catching my eye. Once I found out people felt there was amazing french toast to be had, I was sold. We promptly trekked over and were shocked. This restaurant is beautiful. Worthy of downtown Boston. And, it's in Malden. Kudos. Everything glistens like its brand new, with a catwalk leading you from the entrance to the hostess station where you'll get a gander of the pretty, green-lit bar. We arrived around noon, and were seated immediately. Soon after that, our party ordered the breakfast burrito, an omelette, the eggs benedict, and the french toast. Oh... and we sort of got our morning drink on, too. (The chambord mimosa is where its at.) Everyone was stuffed and no one was able to finish. The only downside was the wait between putting in our order and getting our food, but it was certainly well worth the wait.
(4)Traci K.
I walk by Exchange Street Bistro every day on my way home from the T. It's pretty hopping and the menu looked tasty enough so a friend and I decided to check it out for lunch. We both got salads, cobb and nicoise. The cobb was OK. It had lots of stuff in it and the dressing was good, but it wasn't anything really phenomenal. My friend enjoyed her nicoise and didn't have any complaints. The service was decent. The server was polite and quick and readily available. Atmosphere wise, Exchange Street confuses me. It seems really upscale, but the food isn't upscale. I felt under dressed, but it was lunch. I'm not sure how I feel about it.
(3)Jen R.
I had tried this restaurant over a year ago and wasn't super impressed with the food then. But they renovated the interior and they must have changed chef/ menu since because I was pleasantly surprised at quality and taste of each dish. They have a great , inexpensive tapas bar menu. I tried the calamari, spinach dip and wedge salad at around $5 each and they were nicely presented and delicious. But what I recommend most is the natural chicken pizza. Easily 1 of top 3 pizzas I have EVER had!! It was an amazing thin crust with unusual but perfectly matched toppings, and I would order it every time. To top it off the vanilla bread pudding for dessert was awesome. One of the best I have ever had and it was large enough to share. I would highly recommend this place if you live nearby. But it is also only a 5 minute walk from Malden T.
(5)Jane S.
LOVE this place as it never disappoints. Truly a "hidden gem" in the heart of Malden - Exchange Street Bistro has saved us many times from driving into Boston in order to find comparable quality and service (and parking is easy). Today I ordered the lunch tapas special which was their best yet - AMAZING - so I just had to rave about it! The food is creative and fresh and their specials are exceptional. Great value, great service, great food and a great local bar/night life. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah, love the new look and live music! BTW's, I rarely write reviews - only when the place is really worth it!
(4)Adam G.
I can't give an in depth review since I did not try any of the food but I definitely get the sense that Exchange Street Bistro is a cut above most of the restaurants in Malden Square. The bartender was absolutely friendly and helpful in making a recommendation. The tap selection leaves a little to be desired but with Blue Moon available, that can be forgiven.
(4)Debra B.
I so want to give it 4 stars BUT, the mussels (tasty, plentiful) cost hubby the next day of work. He ate 9/10th of them. I had just 2 or 3 so only a very slight morning surprise for me. He got the whole wrecked-day. Service was very good & cocktails - great. The other food items (calamari, spring roll) generous & well prepared. But should I blame the place for the mussels? Honest, I'm not sure it's anyone's "fault" but it's hard not to blame the kitchen. It just may take a while for the memory of the one bad meal to fade. Maybe the basil gin cocktail will help with that?
(3)Frances K.
Love their unique food presentation--a delight to the eye and the tongue. Enjoy bringing my [grown] daughter here.
(4)Kimberly L.
Exchange Street is a classy little gem in the heart of sketchy Malden center. Don't let the exterior surroundings fool you, inside it is well decorated, has wonderful staff, dim but not too dim lighting, & a martini list that will knock your socks off. As a vegetarian, they offer a fair amount of veg options, which is also definitely appreciated. Overall, definitely worth a visit if you're up for venturing out to Malden!
(4)Liudmila G.
Exchange street Bistro is tucked away in the most unattractive part of Malden! but it truly is the highlight of the area! I have been here on numerous occasions both for lunch and dinner and have always had pleasant service and delicious food. the menu is classic but offers an inspiring modern twist on some of the most traditional dishes. their wine and martini list is a stand out on it's own. Trish that usually works lunch time is very friendly and professional, i have always received best service from her.
(4)L L.
Great spot with a really good menu and fantastic bar! Love the bartenders (especially Rob) and the wait staff are always friendly. The space is chic without being pretentious. We go here often and will continue to do so.
(4)Christina O.
I could not be happier with this place! Their portion sizes are huge, prices are fair, martinis are delicious, and service is greaT! Their tomato basil soup is UNBELIEVABLE- you need to go in and try it immediately! I love the goat cheese thin crust pizza with arugala, and I have ordered their salmon and it was delicious. Unfortunately they discontinued their butternut squash raviolis, which were amazing as well! This place has a downtown-Boston feel without the prices or crowds. Everyone is nice, and you will not be dissapointed!
(5)rex w.
Pleasant atmosphere, and a menu that seems promising. But the food is not all that great, and mostly a disappointment. Been there twice and both times found the food to be blah. One bright spot: deserts are great.
(2)Justine D.
Well, I think the fact that there's a legitimately classy place for quality martinis in Malden is a miracle. And this place is it. Malden is the town I live in and I think it's basically pretty divy, but at least Exchange Street doesn't disappoint. You can get a lovely, pretty sugar-rimmed martini, or a more manly type of beverage, with friendly service. And the clientele seem pretty decent, too. Also conveniently located by the Malden Center T. My only gripe is that it is a bit pricey, esp. being in Malden...
(4)Tracey F.
The food at Exchange Street is consistly good. We have eaten there several times and the food and drinks have always been great.
(5)Julie E.
Exchange Street is the first of two really fantastic Malden restaurants, the other being All Seasons. While rather expensive, the quality of food is excellent and they serve a Sunday brunch that is worth checking out. Their cocktails are well made and they have a lively bar crowd. The decor is simply beautiful. Service has been mixed during the many times I've eaten here. Definitely worth driving to!
(4)Welton B.
The menu here is great, and they get points for trying. The presentation is also fantastic. The food, however, was somehow mildly disappointing. You certainly get what you pay for--the portions are much larger than I expected, considering the type of food. But I thought it was all somewhat bland. I had the Jumbo Crab Cake, and it was very good, accompanied by lemon aioli and a mild marinara sauce, both of which were adequate. Then I had the Pan-Seared Scallop over Lobster Ravioli. The raviolis had more lobster meat and flavor than I had expected, and the scallops were very well-prepared, but they were missing some kind of sizzle. I just wanted to be more excited about the meal--there was something lacking. More seasoning would have helped. I'm no chef, that's why I pay to go to places like this. It was all presented beautifully, and skillfully prepared, but it needed some kind of spark. As for the ambience, I found it a bit noisy. Why do all these new restaurants discard any attempt at intimacy? It has the look of a converted warehouse with fancy trimming pasted over the walls, and the lights turned down so you can't see the imperfections. All in all, I'd recommend it to try, but I probably won't be going again.
(3)Nathan M.
Exchange street has continued to improve since first opening up this summer. As a new Maldenite, we've tried ESB several times and it is always worth going to. For the quality of food, the price cannot be beat and though not an extensive wine list, the selections are all very good. There newest tapas plate is always good; blue cheese butter covered NY strip is excellent; duck confit pizza is also excellent. Definitely worth a try if you venture to Malden.
(5)Rafael S.
great service, food is really good too, and a great option for malden, i highly recommend it!!!!!!
(4)Nichan S.
Stopped by the restaurant on a Sunday around 3 p.m. which ended up being between their lunch and dinner menu so only appetizers, burgers and salads were available which was mentioned by the host and our waitress. We started with the Korean BBQ Spare Ribs and while the flavor of the was fantastic the ribs were forgettable as they were tough and did not have much meat on them. My companion and I both ordered the American Kobe burger and we both enjoyed it, the burger was prepared perfectly and the accompanying french fries were superb. We opted to split a dessert and chose the Almond Crunch Tiramisu which had a nice presentation and was delicious. I had ordered a cappuccino to go along with the dessert and was disappointed, it was watery and barely warm. The host had stopped by and asked how things were between the appetizer and the burger and I did mention our disappointment with the ribs. The response was they were sorry to hear that. I would expect an offer to remove them from the bill or a suggestion to try a dessert on the restaurant. The gesture itself would convince me to give the restaurant another shot. They advertise heavily and have some great specials but need to take service up a bit. As for the restaurant itself it is modern and has a nice bar area and is handicap accessible with a ramp that leads into the dining area from the street.
(3)Brooke L.
LOVE THE FOOD, LOVE THE DRINKS, LOVE THE STAFF! I'm from Malden and I'm not going to go into how this is "good for Malden" crap that has been the consensus for the entire page of reviews. Truth is its just good! I've gone multiple times with friends, my brother and ex's :) and each time it has been nothing but the best. Whoever designed the place was genius because if you have ever worked in the restaurant business you are familiar with those haunting words..."oh, can we have a booth?" The front of the restaurant is all booths so its difficult to be disappointed. As far as food goes its all excellent. Definitely try the broccoli rabe and provolone app, and if they have a buffalo entree special, get it! The bar is always packed and they play upbeat music. Drinks are VERY tasty and I am absolutely in love with the staff! I probably go once or twice a month and every time they see my face they light up with a smile and ask how I've been.
(5)bella c.
dont bother, food is bland and lame!
(1)chris j.
this place is great. little pricey but worth the trip. considering its in malden it does great always busy and great people at the bar. food has an ethnic touch. not a big meat eater so the seafood tapas are always great and the tuna was seared to perfection. check it out
(4)David C.
First time here and was impressed all around at the friendliness of the staff, the quality of the drinks and the quality of the food. For a place that focuses on Martinis they have a great beer and wine selection. The awesome bartenders crank out Martinis like its nobody's business, if you sit a t the bar its entertaining. I had the burger which was cooked to perfection and very tasty. The fries were awesome as well. Good place for a swanky feel in the Malden area.
(4)Danielle C.
I've been a huge fan and fairly regular patron of ESB, but I just hosted my first event there yesterday and was extremely impressed! From start to finish, the process was easy and painless, which makes a big difference. Initially working with John and Mark by phone, all my questions were answered, any calls returned promptly and I never felt I was being mislead or like any upselling was being forced on me. The day of the event, Johanna and Emily were our servers and they were wonderful-- always available and never in the way, which was ideal for a large bridal shower. And when the check came, there were no surprises-- how rare is that for a 60+ person event?! Also want to give a shout out to the best bartender, Pia! Would recommend strongly that you consider ESB for any event as their food and drinks are delicious, the prices are fair, and their staff is superior to most. Thanks for everything, guys!
(5)Carlos F.
Expensive and food is decent. Drinks are good but definitely over priced for Malden. I tried the lobster sandwich and ended up throwing most of it out. Parking is easy and great location.
(3)Damien S.
If you're big on ambience, or as the French say, ambiance, Exchange Street Bistro might not be your bag. It's very Malden, in that there's a TV for every five heads, the cocktail list is a cornucopia of (FILLINTHEBLANK)tinis, and the furniture could have been pulled from the higher end of a dormitory catalogue. I did say the higher end! But I didn't come here to eat the seats, or watch the game. I came to grub. And the food is delicious. Calamari has a thicker, cornmeal coating which wasn't greasy, and the cephs were cooked tender. She liked the lemony tartar; I stuck with the pomodoro sauce for a dipper and the whole shebang is bountiful, almost killing our entree appetite. Or as the French say, entrée appétit. Opted for a sausage flatbread ($14), which proved itself to be a multi-mealer, especially following the squid. Pretty sure I saw signs of a bready, toasted crust under the veritable mountain of house made crumbled sausage and ricotta, but maybe that was the plate. Don't know, don't care - if it was the flatware, then I ate a plate. And I liked it. The scene? Not my bag. The food? My bag. A strong 3.5 with a round up for value!
(4)Careen P.
Best dinner ever. So we came in for oyster. That was fantastic. Our server (Amanda)was amazing. So we moved on to the 3 course pre fixed menu. We had the risotto and beef stew (soup of the day). Our server (Amanda) recommended that we do that. So we can try both. Was a great idea. Then dinner came and we were full but it was so good we love that too. The sirloin and the seafood scampi. Pictures below. Great price too.
(5)Brittney T.
Exchange street is my go to restaurant. The food is excellent, I haven't found anything on the menu I don't like. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. I've been to a couple of family events catered here(birthday parties a and graduation parties) and had a great time and good food. They're drinks are amazing, I favor their sangria (both the red and the white). I'm also a huge fan of their bistro wings. I definitely recommend exchange street bistro.
(5)Davy K.
An unexpected gem in Malden! Great food at a great price. Fun ambiance. They also do private events at the location at a reasonable and competitive rate. I've been here for brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and a couple baby showers. They don't disappoint!
(4)K Z.
I love love love this bistro! I have dined here several times over about the last year with friends, family, with kids in tow and on date night. The drinks are tasty and the food is ALWAYS on point! I can't wait to see what new dishes the fall brings. The food is plated artfully but more importantly tastes even better with fun flavor combinations. Don't get me wrong, it's not overly pretentious or stuffy and still offers comfort foods. The servers are usually attentive enough to our table too.
(5)Cole M.
You can't go wrong when visiting Exchange St. Their drink menu will satisfy any thirst. The tapas and apps are all so tasty you may not need to actually order a meal! Their entrees are spot on as well. A bit pricey for the Malden area but worth it to get quality drinks and food in a great comfortable, clean, spacious place.
(4)Andreina O.
Phenomenal food and staff is always curteous and polite. I have lived in malden for many years this is truly a gem! I always recommend this place it is awesome!
(5)Amola S.
Cool ambience. Good for couples. Went as a double date ( 2 couples) plus a two year old. They had a high chair and a kid's menu. My lobster mac and cheese was tasty with big chunks of lobster. The calamari app was well done. Good wine list to pair with dishes.
(4)Jae J.
Popped in here for Sunday brunch yesterday, and I'm definitely a fan! We had reservations 'cause we didn't want to wait a while (as that's definitely the norm for other brunch places we've been to). However, that wasn't needed at all since it wasn't too crowded. Food-wise, loved it. I got the lobster omelette, and was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster actually in it. I expected shredded lobster sprinkled in here and there, but there were actually huge chunks of lobster with the claw and everything. My boyfriend got the crab cake benedict, and while that was good as well, the portion size was much smaller than my omelette. He wolfed down his food in a matter of minutes and ate half of my omelette as well because he was still pretty hungry. Loved the atmosphere of the place with soft jazz in the background, and the waitress (Michelle) was the sweetest and really helpful. I overheard a table near us expressing concerns of a gluten allergy for someone in their party, and their waitress was more than happy to accommodate them/ask the chef about food specifics. Bonus points for awesome service. Overall, definitely will be back soon!
(4)Ahnauncia S.
Got the lobster mac and cheese and it was amazing!i sat at the bar and got the tapas size which was plenty. I will definitely return!
(5)Steve X.
This is a Bistro where you will Exchange some good fun if you go. It is located on Exchange st. (hence the name) and has some very good food. But let's talk about the bar, what a nice setting and extremely nice and grandiose. If you are a classy person and prefer to treat someone to something nice, this is where you should go for dinner or late night.
(4)Amanda C.
the deco is good is good not to many places to park. and the food is good my mom had a burger she liked it. I gave the sandwhich with tomato soup with steak and chese I call it wasn't bad I liked it. my dad got mussels and fish he liked his meal. so all and all we are fans.
(4)kristen s.
My girlfriends and I went to exchange street tonight and one of us couldn't get a babysitter. She brought her adorable son and unfortunately no matter what we did he wouldn't eat his mac n cheese. A waitress noticed our attempts and came over and saved the day! The service from her was incredible and above and beyond. He told my friend's son Superman made the Mac and cheese just for him! (He is 3.) she brought him "super man cheese and his own super plate and fork. Her name was Trisha and we LOVE her! He ate so much dinner and we couldn't have done it with out her! She was amazing, we will absolutely come back to a place that has people like her. Thanks so much Trisha! a desperate mom and her friends!
(5)Ev D.
Excellent drinks and staff. Trish is amazing - ask for her when you go! Very attentive, fun and excellent service. They have a good food menu but somewhat limited--look for specials daily. Burger is fantastic and I'm not a burger person. Drinks done very well with lot of specials. Bar very nice although can get busy at night. Definitely a great place to enjoy a nice meal and even meet up at the bar.
(5)L M.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Everything was great! Nice decor, food was cooked perfectly (white pizza, grilled salmon, stuffed portabellas) and our waitstaff, Howard, was such a nice guy! Will definitely be back!
(5)Susan T.
I've been here multiple times for dinner, night out, wedding shower and even had a baby shower here. Each time I come I am wowed by how friendly and attentive the staff from the bartenders to the waitstaff are! The Martinis are amazing, the lychee is my favorite! The food is delicious, I've tried the bar menu, brunch and dinner. The margerita pizza and any of their flatbreads are really good, along with calamari. JoAnna is really nice! It's very trendy place and convenient With parking on street or lot so it beats heading into city. A must try!!
(5)Derek W.
Checked into this place on a Tuesday night for something light and easy. The bar here is real nice, and decor is as well. Parking is awful pretty much anywhere in Malden square and this place is no exception. In a town that has way too much asian food to offer, I'm happy the exchange street bistro is a choice. On this night they had Tapas all over the menu and they were on average about $5. They were hearty and delicious....
(4)Sarah D.
ESB is the highlight of Malden. The martinis are perfectly on point (my personal fav if banana nut bread), the appetizers are larger than life (I'd eat their baked bree any day of the week for any meal), and their entrees are so flavorful that every bite feels like a full coarse meal (haddock, hands down is the best). Oh wait! How silly of me! How could I forget the desserts! Banana bread pudding and chocolate marquise (aka chocolate meatloaf) are seriously the hands down the greatest I've ever tasted. Service is usually perfect. The prices are worth the quality and dedication to each menu item. The atmosphere is edgy and classy. I'd come here every day if I could!!
(5)Vicki S.
First time here - this place is a keeper! Beautiful bar - outstanding drink and wine list. Now let's talk small plates- do not miss the homemade meatballs - the real deal. Homemade chips and Mac n cheese are perfect, it's a bit of a drive for me to get here- well worth the drive. GO
(4)Court S.
We came here for an event last weekend and decided to sit at the bar for an hour because we was early as usual. We ordered butter cookie and s'more martini's and lobster mac n cheese. Everything was absolutely delicious and service at the bar was outstanding. The food items on the menu looked very tasty and the martini menu is extensive with fruity and dessert like combinations. My goal is to try at least 75% of the martini's here. They all sound so delicious. Cheers!
(5)Jenna W.
I stopped in here for dinner last week with my family, and it was a pretty darned tasty experience. My mom and I split the hummus platter ($8) as an appetizer, and it was delish. The hummus portion was super generous, and I felt half-full by the time I was done. My mom ordered some sort of gin and cucumber drink, which I thought was disgusting, but she loved it, so rock on mom. As a main course, I split the margherita pizza ($12) with my dad. It was thin crust, and the sauce was fairly sweet. Very yummy. I'm typically solidly in the "blue cheese hater" camp, but I'll make an exception for the blue cheese mashed potatoes I stole off my sisters plate. The flavor was pretty mild, and they were ah-ma-zing. On to dessert....order the ice cream waffle sandwich ($7). Seriously. Do it. I don't even remember what the other people in my family ordered, because I was blinded by the towering mass of waffles, vanilla ice cream, sea salt caramel and chocolate. It was so, so good, and there's more than enough to share. Our waitress was also very fun and helpful!
(4)Nicole R.
Stopped in for dinner with my bestie... (yeah i'm old, but i'm still going to use the term bestie...) We got Patricia as our server and she was super funny, had lots of suggestions, and definitely made for a fun dining experience. We loved her. The food was pretty good. I got the white pizza which was good but would have been better if there was a little more cheese on it. The martinis... they were great. I went for a cucumber martini and the cookie martini. They both exceeded my expectations. I think if i were to come back i'd probably just do apps and drinks and go for dinner elsewhere. There weren't a ton of options and most were either steak or seafood. I'm a salad/boneless chicken kind of girl. Also... i'd prefer no garnish on my drink if the only other option is a decaying piece of fruit/veg... which i did experience when ordering...
(4)Paolino P.
I took 1 star for the amount of choices on the menu as far as steak goes.. Your a bistro your name sets off alarms in my head that say mmmmmm meat! Problem is choices are slim. I will say the 2 times I dined at Exchange St. The food was great. The bar is big and lively. Bar Tenders are great. And the ambiance is nice. I would just like to see more options on the menu.
(3)Vincent R.
5 stars. We've started asking for our favorite waitstaff (Pia). They're always friendly and very accommodating. Apparently, they recently got a new chef and I love the food. The husband is partial to the drinks so it's a double win for us. The only downside? It can get a bit noisy, especially if you're near the bar.
(5)Kaajal M.
My friends and I went to dinner here on Wednesday night and despite the lack of patrons, the service was slow. Our waitress wasn't attentive and would disappear for long periods of time. We were sat at 6:30 and ordered at 7! She also really pushed the specials and drinks and said we couldn't order tapas without also ordering entrees. The whole experience really turned me off. Our food and drinks were delicious though and I will definitely visit again and sit at the bar (bartenders were awesome).
(3)Craig M.
Came here for a graduation party. Took an hour and a half to get just bread. Food was mediocre. Nothing to brag about. Never go here! Only reason I didn't give a one star was because I had a really good martini from one of their 20 martini list. Very disappointing.
(2)Jeff N.
I recently visited here for the first time on a Wednesday evening. Wild here, I had to espresso martinis and three sliders. The drinks were divine, why the food was pretty good. The service was excellent. The bar is very bag and there is also plenty of room in the restaurant itself. Also, the restrooms were clean. The martinis were $12 each which is a little bit high but I guess they think they are actually in downtown Boston. Nonetheless, I will definitely be back in the future for more socializing and drinks here.
(4)Dawn H.
Wonderful experience! Looked a little sketchy walking up to it, but open the doors and you will be excited at what you see. Cozy seating. Great cocktails. Best fried oysters we ever had :-). Will definitely find our way back there.
(4)Janelle G.
Went to exchange street bistro for a large event. The food was good but not great. Good location for a function but may not return to this restaurant on my own.
(3)Cecile M.
Very good! The Bacon and Hashbrown Quesadilla was awesome. He Lemon Drop Martini was delicious!
(4)Edward B.
We have been eating here for years, the food is always top notch!!!! The ambiance is so relaxing, drinks are great and the service is the best !!!! If you have an opportunity to request a waitress, ask for Trisha, she is the best of the best!!!!!
(5)Misty S.
Went to Exchange Street Bistro for the first time this weekend, for their Sunday Brunch. It's a little hidden gem tucked away in Malden. I'm not sure how I hadn't been before now! Menu: Limited but solid brunch menu which includes some apps, salads, egg-y dishes, pancake-y dishes, and burgers. The portions are generous and the food is fresh and good. I got the Field greens salad and the hummus. The hummus was homemade and full of garlic. It came with pickles, pickled onions, and crispy homemade pita chips. A+. The salad was small but tasty. My only complaint is that it was advertised as having butternut squash on it. I think there may have been about 4 butternut squash shavings on it, but they didn't taste cooked and I don't frankly even know if it was butternut squash on there. Hubby & Friends all got burgers. They were huge and looked juicy and fresh (and came with a big pickle on top). Atmosphere: Cute place that seems good for a date night. Nice sized bar, and has a function room in the back. Service: Friendly and attentive Drinks: Good wine list and cocktail menu. Specialty brunch cocktails. Small draft list but with a few nice craft beers (Anchor steam, sierra nevada, and clown shoes tramp stamp when we were there). Their website does not do them justice. Honestly, it looks like an old folks early bird special type of place from their website, and the beer list on their website turned me off immediately. Don't judge it by their website!
(4)Brian S.
So the place was nice for Malden .. Great martinis .. Asked for a medium rare burger and got a well done..highly doubt it was Kobe beef for $12 bucks ... Management corrected the problem ASAP ...recommend the daily tapas .. Nice atmosphere ..little pricey but it is a bistro and had nice live music
(3)Sarah B.
I have to write this because I just don't think it deserves to be number 2 on Malden's restaurant list! I've been here several times and just find it marginal. I make better food at home and have twice gotten rotten garnish in a mediocre drink. So many better places to eat in Malden.
(2)Kristine D.
First time coming here and I live about a mile down the road for the last 6 months. Came in with a few girlfriends around 9 on a Friday. No wait, but there were still people at the bar and eating. Great martini list. I had the Bellini martini. Definitely recommend it if you're into fruity/fizzy drinks. Also had the lobster mac... So MF good. Had to have a whole lobster in it. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Humberto B.
Great athmosphere for a night out (bit loud at times). Staff was really generous and the food was good but could improve. We ordered and Haddock and the Salmon and they both looked good back were a bit "meh" in the seasoning department. Definitely going back to try a different dish.
(4)Tony P.
Im a regular here ...very consistent & the drinks very good & are reasonable ... plus the food is with out question, full of flavor... try to go to Boston & see how much you pay for the same quality.
(5)Alyssa W.
Finally got a chance to try this place out. Came in for lunch and I liked that the place wasnt packed. We were able to relax, talk and catch up not feeling like we were being rushed out, like some places during lunch. We ordered the brocolli rabe and provolone spring rolls with mustard sauce. OH MY GAWD. Best idea ever, soo delicious! Friend got a clams and fettucine with white sauce. really tasty. I got the burger with sweet potato fries. portions here are big. so be hungry or not surprised to take food home! staff is friendly and very nice. I took a look around and I like how up front it has a bar/lounge feel. In back, it's a little more private and looks like it'd be nice to have dinner there! Definately will be back, but for dinner :)
(4)Lillie A.
If you want a really good desert come here. The bread pudding is ridiculously amazing !!!!! The food is awesome as well and the staff are really nice.
(4)Diane W.
I really don't want to give this place a bad review because I've been going there for dinner or drinks for so long however dinning there yesterday was just awful. A part of me wants to call in Bar Rescue to help save this place. The service was disgusting. It's very rude to point fingers at people and the waitress wouldn't not stop it. She slammed the food on the table and constantly gave me an attitude for asking for a refill of water. The food itself wasn't that good and I almost felt like we were forced to order more food than what we wanted. When my father asked for the check it took about 15 minutes for it to be brought to the table and another 20 minutes for it to be picked it. It would be one thing if the place was packed and jamming but it was empty. After being a long time customer, I don't think I'll be back there anytime soon. The bar atmosphere is really and the drink list is pretty awesome. However that server, the one with the epic nails, ruined it.
(2)Timmy D.
I have not been here in a couple of years and love what they did to the place. We came in on a sunday Night basically for a couple of martinis and apps and just to sit at the bar. First things fist though Larry at the bar was definitly the deal breaker on why I will return. He made it a great experience from beginning to end. I did not give it 4 stars because of the...... how can I say this nicely.... I cant ! The trashy waitress who banged her cup off the bar yelling orders at Larry, Yes I said banging her cup off the bar, and just yelling across the restaurant what she needed. really professional. Overall the staff was friendly we did get a smile. I did see a guy walking around who I assumed to be the manager who didnt stop to say anything to anyone . another reason for the 4 stars. Mr Manager we come in to your establishment that we love, It isnt to hard to say hello and ask how everything is going... Just saying.. Another reason for the 4 stars. Martinis were awesome and not in a small martini glass, Nice big deep martini glasses, Huge selection of different martinis. For apps we got oysters, perfect. the lobster mac and cheese was probably the best I have ever had. So Larry we will be looking forward to sitting at the bar again thank you for making it a great experience you should pass along your work ethics to those around you.
(4)Robert Q.
The decor and atmosphere is upscale and is probably the high point of the restaurant. To take a business client for lunch, dinner or drinks would be a great idea. I went to exchange street bistro for a family function. Scallops wrapped in bacon is hard to mess up and also hard to make shine. It was as expected. The crab cakes were flavorful with good seasonings but a bit inconsistent with the preparation, as one had a nice crust and was cooked longer there for held together for longer, while another was loose and not crusted and was evidentially not cooked as long. I prefer more crunch but the aioli the used was nice and overall I would buy it as a solid crab cake is hard to find. I had Caesar salad which was solid and pretty standard, ziti in red sauce was ok and maybe slightly over cooked since it was falling apart but it was buffet style so that is some what understandable. The chicken piccata was the biggest disappointment as it was just dry. The capers actually saved it and gave it the salt it needs because it lacked any other real seasoning. Overall it's not bad but it could be pricey and for the money you expect better execution on the food. If however you're looking to have drinks and entertain the atmosphere is very nice and modern.
(3)Trice B.
I was there as a courteous to one of the employees who was gracious enough to invite me, but I can't really speak for the food as I had specially made items. What I can say about the food, is that it was fresh but I could've used a tab bit more seasoning and umph! The drinks were definitely on point, strong, but you can taste all the ingredients in the cocktail. Ambiance was cool, calm and collective... Zen.
(3)Andrea H.
I really liked the decor and atmosphere of this place, but they changed it in the last year and I'm not sure I like it as much. To think, this place used to be an old toy store and then sat vacant for years. I'm glad to see some sophistication come to Malden and actually survive. I have been there several times and think it is a bit pricey for what you get. The best thing about this place is the cocktails. They are well mixed and there is a great variety to pick from on their lengthy martini menu. I've had the Very Berry, Undone Pina Colada, Stoli Doli, and Strawberry Shortcake. They were ALL good. Yikes, drink much? For dinner, I've eaten the margherita pizza (just ok) roasted half chicken and angus burger (pretty good). I have also gone and just got some tapas and appetizers. This was a waste of $$, by the time you order a few of these it costs more than a meal and you only got 2 bites on a plate. If you are having a night with the girls or a first date, come to Exchange Street Bistro and sit at the bar, have a signature cocktails, and chat. Otherwise, save your dinner plans for another place.
(3)Andrea A.
My boyfriend and I end up here probably every other week on a Friday when we just want to relax. We always find a good crowd of people here; it is never a pretentious crowd and it is never a sketchy crowd. Truly a hidden gem. Cocktails are perfectly priced (a competitor in a more affluent town nearby is about $3 more per drink) and the food is always delicious. We have never once been dissatisfied with our drinks, food, or service. The bartenders are all super nice and just attentive enough. They're not up your butt watching you but they're also not completely ignoring you.
(5)Alisia P.
I love it here! My girlfriends and I come here for drinks and appetizers. The list of drink options are always fun to choose from too! I love the chicken quesadillas & spinach and artichoke dip!
(4)Lydia D.
I am not sure where to start but I visit Malden once a month to see my employees here and I am sad that I've never been to this place! From the time we walked In with a nice greeting and sat down to waited on hand and foot AND then the food!! Oh my!! Meatballs!! Lobster Mac!! The crabcake!! The wine was sooooo fresh!! So I said all that to say my lunches and dinners going forward will be here when I am in Malden !!!
(5)Jaclyn S.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro 4-5 times this year and am extremely impressed with the quality of the food, service, and ambience. It is really nice to have a local restaurant have such fine qualities. I had an event in one of the rooms here and it went very well. I would recommend having a function here. Everyone was so easy to work with and I really didn't have to worry about anything. The best menu item was definitely the bananas foster French toast. It may have been the best French toast I've ever ate and is a must for any sweet lovers. Their tomato, basil and mozzarella omelet was really good as well. If you have a function here I would recommend these 2 dishes, as they were a big hit. On Sunday's they have Brunch and you really can't go wrong with any choice. The breakfast burrito, whole farm (eggs, sausage, French toast, home fries) and eggs benedict are my favorite dishes. The lemon ricotta pancakes are also extremely tasty, just on the thin side. I wish there was a way to make them fluffy, but the flavor was definitely good. Splurge and add the candied walnuts and you can thank me later. :) The bloody Mary's are really good and I'd definitely recommend having one. If you want some lunch with your brunch then definitely get the broccoli rabe spring rolls. They are AMAZING. Mondays through Thursday they have a 3 course menu for $28 and it is an absolutely awesome deal. For an appetizer I've selected the hand dipped ricotta and arugula with fig jam and crostini. If you make sure to take a bite of the fig, ricotta and arugula at the same time, it is like an explosion of flavors and it's so good. I was really shocked as to how something so simple can taste so good. For the entrée I had the pork osso bucco with garlic mashed potatoes, broccoli rabe and eggplant coponata. The pork fell off the bone and it was delicious. The portion was huge. For dessert I had the cheesecake and it tasted like a ricotta pie. It was really simple but good. You absolutely must get a martini here. They have the biggest martini menu of any restaurant I've ever been to. They have some really creative options and it certainly makes for a fun night. My personal favorite is the Moscow mule (vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime juice). The stoli doli, espresso martini, strawberry basil gimlet and cucumber elixir were also tasty. If you love spicy food then you may want to give the "dirty pepper" a try. The dirty pepper is made with pepper vodka and pepperoncini juice. It is really spicy and so proceed with caution! It is definitely not for people that don't love a bit of heat. Two to 3 years ago I ate here for dinner and the dinner was good and I would have most likely rated the restaurant a 3 at that time. Based on all my experiences this year, I really have to give it a 4 star rating. I hope it keeps on doing a great job, because again it is always nice to have local restaurants do well.
(4)Monica C.
I visited the restaurant for brunch today. Our waitress Michelle was wonderful! She was very helpful offering suggestions on the cocktail menu and appetizers. The food was delicious! The crab cake appetizer is to die for. The lobster omelette with homefries is a must-have. I will definitely visit again!
(4)Jennifer L.
We went here today for our Sales "Top Booker Luncheon." From the moment we walked in, I knew it was going to be a great experience! Howard welcomed us at the door and even took our umbrellas, promising he wouldn't let us forget them later! Howard wound up being our server and he was hilarious and on point the whole meal. This place had great specials and a nice lunch menu. I got the steak tips MR which were cooked perfectly. Came with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Couldn't have asked for a better lunch! (Or leftovers for dinner!) The tips had an awesome sauce on them with just the right kick. You know a place is good when they make sure you water is full at all times which I personally appreciate a lot! Wish we had room for dessert and/or a martini but will definitely have to go back! The place was very clean and stylish and parking out front was a breeze. Thanks Howard and kitchen staff for a great afternoon! See you again real soon!
(5)La H.
I could've sworn I did a review for this before, but alas, here's my review with my update. Last year I went here with friends and I had a Lychee Martini, some amazing food I can't remember, and a chocolate tower of some sorts which was so rich. The service was fast and friendly. My only beef with this place is that I booked it through Open Table and they never confirmed that I went there. It took me three months to get a hold of them maybe three or four times, just get this done. They finally did, but it was super inconvenient. I went here last night with Jess and they had really upped their game. I had some sort of mock-cucumber martini, which was way to strong, but Jess' passionfruit mojito was great. We shared bruschetta and the polenta and honestly I nearly died - when I said we shared, it means I at most of the polenta because it was that orgasmic. For dinner, I had the butternut squash ravioli which was rich and creamy and I can't wait to eat my leftovers. Jess had the lamb dish which she loved - so big she also has leftovers. For dessert we shared (evenly) the vanilla bread pudding which was OMG so amazing. I love this place, I really really do. I think If I ate here all time I would be 500 pounds. Go here, try the lobster mac and cheese, do a review, then die a happy death.
(4)Kevin D.
One of my absolute favorite places to go. Food is always delicious and expertly served while the drink menu is a paradise to get lost in. Best part is that you can come with your friends and enjoy a conversation because even though the bar is always busy and hopping, it stays classy and refined. And did I mention the lobster macc and cheese??? Do yourself a favor and come enjoy one of the very best.
(5)Tim F.
Went here for the first time wing the hubby - had heard good things, and happy to say it was well worth it! Hummus appetizer was tasty and a large serving. Oysters were great. I had the smoked salmon with toasted orzo while CJ had the lamb chops - empty plates for both of us! Carrot cake for dessert was lovely, with a citrusy frosting and a molasses sauce - impressive. Definitely a great time, and won't be our last!
(5)Craig F.
This restaurant used to be good but it's been awhile since I've been back and it will be awhile before I go back. Service was slow, food was not good at all. Steak was over charred on the outside They undercooked my wife's steak.
(2)Adriana T.
Nice place for dinner. My first time here. They have small bites (tapas) if you stay at the bar and full dinner if you stay at the table. The restaurant has 2 rooms so it's a good size restaurant. The food is priced a bit high but if you don't drink and eat a lot the check for 2 people with tip is a little bit under $100. We only had 3 drinks (2 beers and a glass of wine), one full dinner with appetizer and 2 small tapas and the check came to $64+top. I would like to return and try their brunch soon. *A server always has to give you water regardless whether or not you ask for it. I don't like to have to wave down a server and ask for water.. **My fiancé's steak was cooked to perfection so I will forgive them for not giving me water.
(4)K R.
Great atmosphere! The martinis are awesome. The bartenders really take the time to have a martini come out perfect. I understand the saying " you pay for what you get" This place is very expensive, but the portions are unreal! I got the pork chops that were $26-$30 dollars. Tasted great and had left overs for a whole week! My server Emily was amazing! She was so nice and made my experience wonderful. Cant wait to go back and get the best dirty martini ive ever had!
(4)Ellen H.
Call me a sucker, but I love when I get to update a review to add more stars. Exchange Street Bistro, you've had some work done and it looks goooood. Decided to give ESB another shot, so my boyfriend and I came here on a Friday night for dinner and drinks. Made a reservation via Opentable, no issues when we arrived. I specifically asked for a seat in the front (bar) room as to avoid the hypnotic vibe of the booths in the dining room. We were seated in a little booth by the bar and we realized the place had a totally new look! The bar was moved and is now a horseshoe shape, much bigger than before, and a great spot for having a few drinks with friends or a date. The dining room is updated, also -- more open and much more well-decorated than before. Decor is great and all, but food and bev is the moneymaker, and both of those were MUCH improved, also! I got the wedge salad - great - the chicken quesadilla - very good - and the apple cider martini -- faaaabulous! I couldn't even eat the quesadilla because the salad was so filling and delish. The quesadilla was exactly as it should be - chicken and cheese and not a whole lot else, unlike many others that are filleddddd to the brim with grilled veggies (not my thang - if I want a veg quesadilla, I'll ask for one!). Overall, a WAYY better experience than before! Can't wait to come back with friends!
(4)Susan Z.
Yum! Came here with the office for lunch. Everyone liked what they ordered and the servers were friendly. I got the lobster grilled cheese with salad, good amount of lobster and the brioche was delicious. Tried some sweet potato fries, and they were good, too. The pizzas are big individual pizzas - both people who ordered them ate only half, so if you get that there will be enough leftovers for a second meal.
(4)Garet G.
Great food , great staff , and a very nice looking place if you're thinking about taking your date out !!!
(4)Amy R.
The Exchange Street Bistro is a great and much needed addition to the Malden scene. I really like the atmosphere up-front and at the bar (but not so much in the back since it's been redone with uncomfortable seating). The mixed drink menu is fantastic, offering drinks such as Old Fashions and Moscow Mules. The menu is decent, offering a range of tapas and appetizers as well as pub-like and higher end dinner options. While this place is relatively busy, there's rarely a wait making it a great place to go on a Friday or Saturday night.
(4)Karen C.
My mom and I hosted a surprise 65th birthday party for my dad here in August 2014 and we were very happy with how everything turned out. The person who handles the function business, Rich, was easy to work with, very helpful and accommodating to our requests. The servers at our event (Johanna and Emily) were fantastic as well. They were always ready to be of assistance but were not hovering over the party. We had a group of around 50 people in their back room and it was a perfect set up for our party. They let us bring in balloons and some other decorations but you really don't need much in this space as it is already a very attractive room. Having the party at a restaurant and not a standard banquet facility also made it much easier to trick my dad into thinking he was just going out to dinner and that helped keep the surprise! We opted for a buffet and after a lot of research found that Exchange Street was one of the few places that offered a 3rd entree option on a buffet menu without an extra charge per person. This was great for us as we were able to get a beef, fish and a pasta/chicken option. The food was plentiful and very tasty and they packed up the leftovers for us at the end of the night. We were also able to offer beer and wine on consumption at a very reasonable rate. Many of our guests commented on how much they loved the venue and more than one indicated they may host a party of their own here in the future which is always the clearest sign of a great venue!
(4)Tina B.
My husband and I live in Malden and the Exchange Street was our go to place a few years back. The food was delicious. But we stopped going because we were looking at the same menu each time we went (although they do have specials). I'm happy to say that having gone back again, the food is still delicious, the service always good. The menu has changed. They just need to keep that fresh. The lobster/shrimp risotto was amazing. The chef is good with flavors. The quality of food here parallels anything you'll find in Boston.
(4)YY L.
Great food for Sunday Brunch. Hope they also have a ourdoor dinning place.
(4)Mary Beth B.
I live in Boston, a friend who commutes to Oak grove wanted to meet for dinner "somewhere on the orange line". I googled Orange Line and restaurants and found Exchange Street Bistro just a block from the T. What a spectacular gem!! I have never been to Malden but I will be returning to the bistro. Cozy bar, great high top tables, inventive well thought out menu and SPECTACULAR cocktails!! Generous portions and truly something for every type of palate. While there are great places I go to in west roxbury and roslindale I think Exchange Street could find a niche!
(4)J J.
Was here for a reception event. Fish was overdone, chicken was dry and bland, and the pasta screamed high school cafeteria. The best part was the cheese and crackers but that's kind of tough to mess up. Waitress forgot our drinks and couldn't get anyone else's right either. I get that there's a lot of people, but maybe that means you should have more than 2 waitresses for over 50 people. Jesus. Also, very dark inside.
(1)Mrs. M.
Exchange Street is one of me & my husbands favorite date night restaurants. The food deserves a 5 star rating, the location is what makes it 4 star. Inside the restaurant is beautiful, trendy, comfortable, relaxing. The waitresses are energetic, friendly, and not overbearing. They have a good selection of beers on tap and live music some nights. But lets get back to the food! One of the best burgers I've ever eaten, and GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. For the love of God just get them and thank me later. Last time we went I got the teriyaki glazed salmon and I didn't want it to end. My husband got the fried chicken and I could see his eyes gloss over and thought he was about to weep. If you want to enjoy great food in a local environment, definitely give this place a shot.
(4)Natalie T.
Breakfast review: Okay menu, pretty simple breakfast things and some lunch options (fish n chips, eggs and toast) I went with friends. We had this waiter who tried to be funny but kept coming over every 10 minutes to tell us a life story if his. I could tell you his life story now of all those things he told us! and ordered the eggs toast and sausage. It was alright but the sausage wasn't too good. A friend got fish and chips which the waiter said 'they're good until they reach your stomach and blow up'. Well then... Dinner review: nice service. Amazing unique meals and desserts, they change up the menu every now and then which I really love. The lobster Mac n cheese is very good but very rich Breakfast: I don't recommend Dinner: go and have fun!
(3)Rachael T.
Love the atmosphere of this place. Nice place to go out for dinner. The martini list is very extensive and both that I tried (cucumber and espresso) were great! The lobster mac and cheese was among the best I've had, and I've tried this dish almost everywhere! Tons of great tasting lobster and yummy cheeses. The food presentation is really great also. The prices are a bit high but the quality of the food and drinks makes it worth the price. Went around 4pm and the bartender was serving as the waitress/bartender. It wasn't crowded but for some reason I say there with empty drinks (water and cocktail) for about 15 minutes while I are my meal. This really annoyed me but I didn't even say anything and the bartender said she didn't charge me for the second drink because she had realized how long it had been, so I guess that somewhat makes up for it. I'm still looking forward to coming back again in the near future to try some more of the menu items and martinis. They even have velvet parking available!
(4)Cheryl S.
I was there Saturday afternoon having drinks at the bar. The staff was really busy but the service was awesome!!! The manager was very rude, smelled like an ash tray, and I would go back as long as that manager guy wasn't there!!! The staff worked great as a team, were very very attentive, and were just over all amazing!!!
(1)Nick F.
Nice place for a dinner date. When we were living in Malden we ate here four times and were never disappointed by the food. We've had steak, sea food, flat bread, tapas, and lobster mac n' cheese for app/dinner. Surprisingly the brunch was excellent the one time we tried it (a corn soup special and and omelet). We also liked the large martini selection. We enjoyed many of them, some more than others, and it was fun picking out a new one to try each time.
(5)Ash A.
I have never had a bad experience here. Had an awesome date night with my husband, drinks and dessert, all were great. Service was awesome. Bathrooms are impeccably clean!
(5)Frederick N.
This place is certainly a little diamond in the rough. Inside is beautiful, warm, sexy, everything you want in a dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. The food is excellent! What a wonderful experience. Prices are decent for an upscale dining experience delivered with the finesse that this group offers. I hope this place a successful 100 years in business!
(5)William K.
Good food good service at the table I should give 4 stars than more friend jointed me we move to the bar, female bartender so rude she's not happy at all and we feel so uncomfortable sitting at the bar and it's only 9:45, about 11 people sitting at the bar Monday night 10/21/13 if she's ON I won't coming back any more. Sorry I had to taking back 2 star
(2)Guy M.
I was looking online for a place to bring my girlfriend for valentines day and this perticular place came up first in my search results. I gave it a shot. We sat down an instantly loved the atmosphere. The menu wasn't huge but still delicious. Maybe they change it up? Everything was great and prepared well. The martinis were delicious and hard to choose from the long list. If you are looking for a place after work or a date, this is a place to go. The atmosphere is fun but elegant at the same time. I will be returning soon.
(4)Jimmy B.
As an ex employee, I have to admit that its good food done really well. The decor is great and the staff was attentive and good at their jobs. Downside, over priced drinks and entrees. If you have the cash to throw towards a once in a while night out, you couldn't do any better.
(4)Nancy Q.
Keeping it short and sweet... Great atmosphere, bartenders, tapas, and most importantly (LOL) AWESOME DRINKS! Definitely a place to check out!
(5)Jarrett H.
While driving around Malden Center looking for somewhere new to get dinner last night, my boyfriend and I decided on Exchange Street Bistro. We'd both heard some good things about it, so we were excited to give it a try. It wasn't too busy, but a good amount of people in the bar area, and we were seated right away. We were both impressed with the look and feel inside, especially the décor and the stage area. The private room in back looked really nice as well. The martini list was HUGE, as in I had to select 1 from only the top half of the list before looking at the rest because there were too many good choices. I forget the name of the drink, but it was a cucumber gin martini and it was fantastic. I later had the white sangria which was great as well. Johanna was our server and she was really pleasant the entire time. Always attentive, never overbearing and intrusive, she made us feel right at home and never rushed. We both decided to order from the Prix Fixed menu. In my experience, prix fixed menus often don't contain any real stand-out or high quality choices, they cater more to people looking for a deal. When our food began arriving, I could not believe how beautiful the presentation was and the very generous portion sizes offered! We both started with the gulf shrimp appetizer and could not get enough of it! The sauce was spicy & flavorful, the shrimp were perfectly cooked and the corn cakes were some of the best I think I've ever tasted! My boyfriend got the sirloin for his entrée, and we were blown away by how big a cut it was. I had the lemon statler chicken and was equally impressed with that. The mashed potatoes and spinach made the perfect compliments. For dessert he got a chocolate pecan cake and I did a trio of sorbets in one of their giant martini glasses. Neither of us are big dessert people, but we loved everything about our last course. I was so full I could not even finish mine. While everything about the experience was great, the two things that made it perfect were the value and the service. Our tab wasn't even $100 for a complete dining experience, accentuated by the four star service from the entire staff. Ashley the hostess was wonderful and consistently refilled our waters, brought us bread and checked in to make sure we had everything we needed, all while seating other guests, helping the servers bus tables and maintain the dining room. The level of service we received from the whole staff made it such an enjoyable night out. Before we were even finished, we both agreed we couldn't wait to come back. I highly recommend giving them a try if you don't already love Exchange Street!
(5)Christopher P.
Really enjoyed my dinner here, tonight. Started with a delicious martini. Then six oysters, followed by lamb chops and finished with a few bites of Tim's carrot cake. It was exceptional; flavored with orange and molasses. I am looking forward to coming back here again.
(4)Nichole V.
Love it. My husband and I meet friends from Medford here often for drinks and food. Michelle is usually are waitress and she's great!
(5)Megan G.
Really cool dinner atmosphere and delicious drinks and food. My favorite was the fish tacos and bruschetta!
(5)Aaron K.
Exchange Street Bistro is a true diamond in the rough. Located down the street from a police station and across the street from an ugly parking garage and dry cleaner we found the oasis that is Exchange Street Bistro. I bought a Boston deals coupon after perusing the menu online. The menu online sounded delicious, the question was could they execute? The food was a homerun and where the restaurant earns most of it's acclaim from me. Fish tacos were excellent, some of the best I've had (maybe the best). They featured jack cheese along with the usual toppings, may not be authentic but it was damn tasty. An order (9$) came with 2 humongous tacos. My fiance had the lobster mac and cheese (23$) which was out of this world. It featured so much lobster, whole claws, tail meat, I think they may have put a whole lobster in it! The mac and cheese was really good too with a cheese sauce as well as melted cheese and breadcrumbs. The lobster tasted really good with some of that cheese sauce on it. This was the ultimate New England comfort food dish, I would highly recommend it. I had the pan seared scallops (22$) over lobster ravioli. This was a much lighter dish and did not actually fill me. Luckily my girl had plenty leftovers for me to steal. The scallops (3) were large and excellent quality. Pan seared perfectly. Lobster ravioli (3) were stuffed with a lobster mixture and were really tasty. While a plate that was a bit small, I was happy about the quality and understand that the ingredients are expensive. Would be nice if there were a few more asparagus (also 3!) on there to fill me up. For dessert we had the double chocolate mousse martini, perfect end to a great meal. It featured belgian chocolate and was killer. We would eat all of these dishes again and were really surprised with the quality and taste of food here. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere and a lively bar. It must of been built recently as everything looked new. Staff was friendly and accomodating throughout the meal. They were there to refill waters and clear dishes as needed. Minor gripes. They have great big windows, but they overlook a dry cleaner and ugly looming parking garage. Prices are a bit expensive for the area, but the food warrants it. I look forward to coming back and hoping I can get myself to try some of the other food here.
(5)Maria R.
Sat at the bar on a Friday night for some drinks and light dinner. Our server/bartender, Christina, was friendly and attentive. This was a welcomed change in scenery from some of the other bars in Malden. Since we didn't really order a full meal, I don't want to rate the food too much, but we had no complaints. I will definitely be back for the dirty pepper martini!
(4)Kevin L.
My favorite place to come to brunch when I actually have the time to do it. The food is pretty standard for a brunch menu but the prices are decent and they have a multitude of different mimosa's! The dishes are a hit or miss and the servers are not the best. They lack consistency but have a lot of potential, probably could use better management in the front of the house. But over all it is hard to find a better place for brunch.
(3)Kerri C.
I've been to Exchange Street a few times and to be honest the only thing I can complain about it that it can get a bit pricey. Their martinis are amazing and they usually have a pretty nice selection of beers on draft. I am in love with their tapas menu, and make sure to try the lobster mac & cheese!
(4)Julio S.
Good food, good service. Had a good date overall; could use one or two more vegetarian options but that's just a preference.
(4)Sharon D.
Yum! This place is great! Beautiful atmosphere, extensive martini and drink menu, eclectic tapas menu, modern dinner menu... A perfect place for a date night, girls night or honestly, any night out! I keep hearing about their Sunday brunch and we'll have to check it out soon! I also hear they are expanding, which is always a good sign!
(4)Chris N.
Good place. Good food and really good drinks. When you walk in you feel like you're in the middle of Boston. The negative is the prices are just as expensive as Boston too. I have a tough time paying $13 for a martini in Malden Sq.
(4)Stephanie A.
The martinis here are phenomenal. I used to come here at least once a week. The last time I was here, unfortunately, the food had gone down a bit. I was disappointed. I am hoping it was a one time thing because the food here has always been delicious!
(3)Phil O.
I went here on New Year's Eve with my girlfriend. We were both satisfied with our appetizers and entrees. I ordered from the special holiday menu and got the stuffed sole which was nicely laid out on top of grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes, with a fitting light Hollandaise-type sauce. It was very delicious. I ordered two martinis, which both met my expectations (nice balance of taste and punch) for only $9.25 apiece. The service was good but a bit slow which was to be expected on NYE. I'd give this place a 4.5 if it were an option. I'd like to come back.
(4)Brendan C.
Came here on a relatively busy Monday night and have to say I was not only pleasantly surprised but very impressed. We started with the bruschetta which was original, with more of a thin crispy bread topped with tomatoes and goat cheese and a bit of balsamic, very tasty. I had the seared tuna, excellent again and presented beautifully. My wife had the salmon and reported good things. Overall a great spot, not very cheap but not overly pricey and worth it.
(4)Larissa A.
As mentioned Exchange Street Bistro is a total hidden gem. I have now been there twice, once for brunch and once for dinner. I DO need to come in and start working my way through the Martini menu. Luckily I work very close by. I have not had the issues that others have had with the service. The staff has always been super nice and accommodating. Quick and responsive. One tip that I noticed is that if you or anyone in your party orders an appetizer, you MAY want to tell them to not wait on the entrees. They don't like to rush you, which is great. But I did see some bar patrons get antsy about this. I look forward to many visits to come
(4)Jennie S.
The rudest waitstaff I have ever encountered. The food is okay, but it takes 20 minutes to get sugar for your tea. Most of the waiters have attitude and management should do a better job hiring people. Don't waste your time coming here for Sunday brunch.
(1)Cristina L.
They are great for functions. I hosted a brunch for a bridal shower. They had the best buffet options than anyone else I had looked in to. The food never ran out and was fresh out of the oven. The ambiance and décor is very nice as well.
(5)Joshua D.
I've been to Exchange Street Bistro several times now and am happy to give it four stars. It's got great atmosphere, friendly staff, a varied but not over-the-top menu, fancy enough for a date night out but casual enough for jeans and a day of comfort. It's on the pricey side for Malden, but that's the point--it's good food. Treat yourself and come here for the lobster mac and cheese. You won't regret it. There are cheaper alternatives like the angus burger which is also excellent. Some things to note: * They have a lot of great specials, including $1 tapas that your server will tell you about and seem to change with each visit. * I don't like sitting in the booths in the back room because the fabric is dizzying and the lighting is very unflattering--especially for a date (picture interrogation room lighting above your head) * Avoid the restuaraunt.com gift certs to this place. Way too many conditions. Just go and enjoy yourself. Sometimes they have groupons for it anyways. *They validate parking at the garage directly across the street. But it's also T-accessible from the Malden Center T-stop (about a 5 minute walk).
(4)Kate P.
I dined at ESB last night and was NOT impressed. I got decaying lime on my martini and my boyfriend's alcoholic drink. The bread was like a hockey puck. My roasted haddock could use some taste; it was as bland as could be. And my boyfriend's Bolognese was not good; the noodles could barely be chewed due to their size and texture and there was not enough sauce. My waitress was very good but the staff person that that seated us did so in a manner of slapping down the menus on the table and walking away...
(2)Kathleen H.
I was here for lunch on a Monday. My drink was good- they have an extensive cocktail list - and I thought the food was great. We started with hummus - some of the best I've ever had. Hummus is one of those things that's gotten kind of de riguer and bland at parties and on nosh platters, and normally I pass. But this was very, very good, and served with a mint pesto. The house salad was nothing super special, but fresh and tasty. My Kobe burger was delicious and cooked rare as ordered, and came with perfectly cooked, kosher-salted, totally addictive fries. Is it just me, or are restaurants doing better with fries these days? Quality fries made for gluttonous stuffing. burp. I really shouldn't have finished them all, because we sat there drinking and eating and also ordered dessert. I ordered the house made ice cream sandwiches. So - they overdo this a bit. They are chocolate chip cookies of average size, filled with a ice cream: Some chocolate, some vanilla. They gave me SIX. SIX, seis, 6. Sigh. I ate one, and licked some of the ice cream out of the other ones. Being raised as the menopause baby of Depression Era parents, I had pangs of guilt all the way home for wasting those other chocolate chip cookies. Aside from that, I look forward to coming back again to try the dinner menu.
(4)Stacie R.
Our table of 6 was thoroughly impressed with our dinner. Friends of ours just moved to Malden, and I can't wait to meet up at this place again! We started off sharing Spicy Chicken wings, Bruschetta, and Hummus. It was an awesome start. We had a diverse crowd of diners, including a vegan and vegetarian. They accommodated the vegan particularly well, making her a special dish of delicious vegetables. I had the Minted Pea Ravioli though I also want to try the Capellini, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, the Clams Vongole and the Haddock! Needless to say, I will return with friends in tow! Other dishes that were had by our party: Atlantic Salmon, Half Chicken, Bone In Sirloin, and Eggplant Roulade. Rave reviews!!!!
(5)Jacquil T.
The drinks were yummy! Service was great! Food was good.
(4)Diane H.
i'm judging this place on the bar soley! My friend invited me to check out this place for drinks after dinner, I was always kind of like "ehhh" to this place, a wannabe trying to be all classy in the middle of malden square, seriously? It's probably over priced..and no good. HAPPY HOUR!!!! Tuesday! My friends were at the bar, so I joined, the bartender is very nice! Sparked up a convo with my friend that I ALMOST THOUGHT THEY KNEW EACH OTHER, haaha. $5 martinis!!! well, a couple of them anyways, i got the stoli doli? mmm delicious! my friend has the elder..something, that tasted strong!!!! my other friend had the malibu sunset, it was good. and my other friend was offered water by the bartender when she said she was driving and will not be drinking...nice touch. They have tapas for cheap! I will definitely hit this place up when i'm in town, as i sadly do not live here anymore so i can't come whenever. my friend did come once on a saturday, she said small portions/high prices. Ambience: Very nice! They had a crowd, the front tables were mostly filled, not sure about the back.
(4)Heidi H.
Worst service I've ever gotten. There is not a good variety of things on the menu I had to eat a side salad because there wasn't anything I could or wanted to eat. Horrible.
(2)Susan C.
Exchange Street is a hidden gem in Malden. The food and service are very good, it's basically a trendy Boston type restaurant in the burbs. I've tried their brunch and happy hour, and have yet to be disappointed. Do try their stuffed french toast, and do come for the happy hour. The happy hour is a particular good deal as they have $1 tapas style bar bites and $5 beers on draft. I particularly enjoyed their sliders.
(4)Erin T.
I have eaten at Exchange Street quite a few times since they have been in business. The food has always been good. They pour a very generous glass of wine.. Always left satisfied.
(4)Roberta B.
Don't come here on Sunday before dinner time if you don't want brunch. Everything on the menu had eggs in it and i just didnt feel like it, so I was forced to eat lobster mac and cheese, the only thing without eggs, other than a burger I think, which I also wasnt in the mood for. HOWEVER, the lobster mac and cheese was heavenly, and after I took that first bite, my experience went from bad to wonderful.
(4)Mariel M.
My mom and I decided to host my sister's bridal shower here on a recommendation from someone who was hosting her rehearsal dinner here...and I'm so pleased that we did! We met with the general manager, who put us completely at ease and made it so simple to plan the event that we wanted. We knew that we wanted to have a Friday night shower (who wants to go in the middle of the day and waste a weekend?) and that we wanted it to be cocktails and appetizers. He couldn't have been more accommodating for the amount of people we were planning on having and the event that we wanted to have. The night of the event was great. We had our own private room, with a server that was specifically for our party that would get us drinks from the bar. Our menu consisted of a cheese and fruit platter, beef teriyaki, chicken, feta and grape skewers, pulled pork sliders, margarita pizza, bruschetta and chicken wings. The way that they displayed the food was so nice and classy...no cheesy metal burners here! Everything came out fresh and hot and was gobbled up by everyone. My favorite (or what I got to sneakily eat in between greeting guests) was the beef teriyaki and pulled pork sliders. They were SO yummy and felt like upscale bar food. I can't say enough great things about this place! The parking is so convenient too, if you're hosting a larger group (as we were) since they offer free validation at the garage next door. The martinis are great (very strong!) and the staff is so nice. If you're looking for a classy, fun place to host an event, look no further!
(5)Robert M.
A nice hidden gem in Malden Center! Friday night dinner, around 7 pm and got sat right away (just missed the rush!). Very big and buzzing bar and lounge area with many tv's, separate dining room area if you aren't into sports. Very attentive service all around throughout the night, even after a flat sat section. The menu caters to everyone, price wise and selection, from basic to a bit adventurous. Food came out very timely and was delicious! Fresh ingredients and flavors all around, from fish tacos, mozzarella salad, a pasta dish and a pizza. All winners, plus leftovers for tmrw lunch
(5)Jane S.
LOVE this place as it never disappoints. Truly a "hidden gem" in the heart of Malden - Exchange Street Bistro has saved us many times from driving into Boston in order to find comparable quality and service (and parking is easy). Today I ordered the lunch tapas special which was their best yet - AMAZING - so I just had to rave about it! The food is creative and fresh and their specials are exceptional. Great value, great service, great food and a great local bar/night life. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah, love the new look and live music! BTW's, I rarely write reviews - only when the place is really worth it!
(4)Adam G.
I can't give an in depth review since I did not try any of the food but I definitely get the sense that Exchange Street Bistro is a cut above most of the restaurants in Malden Square. The bartender was absolutely friendly and helpful in making a recommendation. The tap selection leaves a little to be desired but with Blue Moon available, that can be forgiven.
(4)Che R.
Good food, bad service (i.e., Thomas). I had a restaurant.com gift cerificate for this place, so I took three of my coworkers to lunch. I read the fine print many times just to be sure that there were no "catches," and it seemed that a lunch where four people were getting entrees would work. We just had to spend at least $35, and we couldn't include drinks in the gift cert amount. So we went in at 12:00 on a rainy Tues. No one was in the place. We were greeted by Thomas who seated us, and right off the bat he had an attitude toward us. I complimented the place saying that it looked great and that they had changed the decor a bit. He said, "It's been like this for a year." I jokingly replied that we should go there more often. He didn't see the humor. Then we got water, looked at the menus, and when Thomas came back, we showed him the gift cert and asked if it was ok to use it. He said, "No, you can only use these with dinner." He hadn't even read it. I told him that I had read the fine print, and that it appeared as though we could use it for lunch since it didn't say "dinner only." He said that we had to order at least $35 worth of entrees. I said that we'd planned on each getting an entree. He said, "No, you have to have at least two entrees that equal at least $35." I then said, "Yes, but your entrees are all around $13. How could two equal at least $35?" He then said rather snippily, "Yeah, that's why you have to use it at dinner." We told him that it really should say that on the gift cert; it's misleading the way it's written. He then sighed and took it. We ordered over $45 worth of food, which was very good: gnocchi, pizza, and a chicken pot pie. Thomas brought our meals, and did not say much nor did he smile. (Really?? Really?? He has to take it out on us? The restaurant was still very empty; there was only one other table in there by this point. Didn't he need our business, I thought to myself.) It was all very sad and a bit annoying. So we finished our meals and paid the bill. We noticed that he had added an 18% gratuity on the bill. I understand that that's something that restaurant.com does since many people don't tip on the original pre-discounted bill but end up only tipping on the reduced amount. So we paid the bill and left. I really don't understand those kinds of things. My husband and I use groupon, living social, and other gift cerificates and coupons to restaurants all over Boston and Cambridge, and we've never had an experience like that. This guy was taking his frustrations out on us. It definitely doesn't make me want to go back there. Malden has a few good restaurants; I will go to those places instead from now on.
(2)Joanna F.
I attended a rehearsal dinner here on Friday night. I was really excited to try this restaurant since I had heard so much about it and I wasn't disappointed. We had a table reserved right in the middle of the restaurant and the service was impeccable. The drink list is spectacular. I opted for wine instead of one of their many martinis, but the martinis were reasonably priced and looked good. The food was amazing. Every morsel I put in my mouth was absolutely delicious. We started with several appetizers including calamari, hummus, grilled pizza and bruschetta. I have nothing bad to say about any of the apps... all of them were spectacular. Now, I'm not sure if I'm biased since I never order pasta or a lot of meat sauces at restaurants, but I was blown away by the Wild Boar Bolognese. It was rich and absolutely delicious and the portion was gigantic. Exchange Street Bistro is everything I like in a restaurant... classy without being stuffy, delicious food without the high prices and spectacular service with a sense of humor. I can't wait to come back.
(5)Amanda Z.
Ok... I've lived in Malden for... over a year now? So, how is it that I had no idea about this place?!? Sure, I'd seen some of the coupons that would pop up on the valupak thing that comes in the mail every once in a while, but I had no idea what a diamond in the rough this place was. People, I think we need to start giving Malden some more credit for the restaurants it has! We were entertaining guests that weekend and were trying to figure out a good place to go for Sunday brunch. The usual was out, and we needed a plan B. Enter yelp to save the day. After mulling over some of the usual suspects, this particular place kept catching my eye. Once I found out people felt there was amazing french toast to be had, I was sold. We promptly trekked over and were shocked. This restaurant is beautiful. Worthy of downtown Boston. And, it's in Malden. Kudos. Everything glistens like its brand new, with a catwalk leading you from the entrance to the hostess station where you'll get a gander of the pretty, green-lit bar. We arrived around noon, and were seated immediately. Soon after that, our party ordered the breakfast burrito, an omelette, the eggs benedict, and the french toast. Oh... and we sort of got our morning drink on, too. (The chambord mimosa is where its at.) Everyone was stuffed and no one was able to finish. The only downside was the wait between putting in our order and getting our food, but it was certainly well worth the wait.
(4)Traci K.
I walk by Exchange Street Bistro every day on my way home from the T. It's pretty hopping and the menu looked tasty enough so a friend and I decided to check it out for lunch. We both got salads, cobb and nicoise. The cobb was OK. It had lots of stuff in it and the dressing was good, but it wasn't anything really phenomenal. My friend enjoyed her nicoise and didn't have any complaints. The service was decent. The server was polite and quick and readily available. Atmosphere wise, Exchange Street confuses me. It seems really upscale, but the food isn't upscale. I felt under dressed, but it was lunch. I'm not sure how I feel about it.
(3)Jen R.
I had tried this restaurant over a year ago and wasn't super impressed with the food then. But they renovated the interior and they must have changed chef/ menu since because I was pleasantly surprised at quality and taste of each dish. They have a great , inexpensive tapas bar menu. I tried the calamari, spinach dip and wedge salad at around $5 each and they were nicely presented and delicious. But what I recommend most is the natural chicken pizza. Easily 1 of top 3 pizzas I have EVER had!! It was an amazing thin crust with unusual but perfectly matched toppings, and I would order it every time. To top it off the vanilla bread pudding for dessert was awesome. One of the best I have ever had and it was large enough to share. I would highly recommend this place if you live nearby. But it is also only a 5 minute walk from Malden T.
(5)Debra B.
I so want to give it 4 stars BUT, the mussels (tasty, plentiful) cost hubby the next day of work. He ate 9/10th of them. I had just 2 or 3 so only a very slight morning surprise for me. He got the whole wrecked-day. Service was very good & cocktails - great. The other food items (calamari, spring roll) generous & well prepared. But should I blame the place for the mussels? Honest, I'm not sure it's anyone's "fault" but it's hard not to blame the kitchen. It just may take a while for the memory of the one bad meal to fade. Maybe the basil gin cocktail will help with that?
(3)Frances K.
Love their unique food presentation--a delight to the eye and the tongue. Enjoy bringing my [grown] daughter here.
(4)Kimberly L.
Exchange Street is a classy little gem in the heart of sketchy Malden center. Don't let the exterior surroundings fool you, inside it is well decorated, has wonderful staff, dim but not too dim lighting, & a martini list that will knock your socks off. As a vegetarian, they offer a fair amount of veg options, which is also definitely appreciated. Overall, definitely worth a visit if you're up for venturing out to Malden!
(4)Liudmila G.
Exchange street Bistro is tucked away in the most unattractive part of Malden! but it truly is the highlight of the area! I have been here on numerous occasions both for lunch and dinner and have always had pleasant service and delicious food. the menu is classic but offers an inspiring modern twist on some of the most traditional dishes. their wine and martini list is a stand out on it's own. Trish that usually works lunch time is very friendly and professional, i have always received best service from her.
(4)L L.
Great spot with a really good menu and fantastic bar! Love the bartenders (especially Rob) and the wait staff are always friendly. The space is chic without being pretentious. We go here often and will continue to do so.
(4)Nastassja G.
I tried this place out on a Tuesday and went back by Saturday -- it was that good! The martini list is amazing (and they make a great lemon drop martini). Every thing I have had there is great. The staff are so nice. They even validate parking! I can't wait to return for brunch.
(5)Thomas S.
Tapas was great, we sampled everything. My favorite was the cheese and spinach that were fried (I though they were meatballs at first) with a nice sauce on top. Calamari was delicate and not chewy at all. Martini was good but not excellent probably because it wasn't allowed to chill long enough for my liking, but the olives saved the day, a meal in themselves. We only had drinks and the tapas but I'd like to try this place for dinner, what a diamond in the rough!
(4)Liz L.
Ugh. I want to write a great review for this place, but... ugh. We went to Exchange Street Bistro for a celebration birthday dinner last night and had a great time - until we got our entrees. But, I'll start with all the good. The decor is great. Very chic and intimate. There are tables in the front and back of the restaurant - back of the restaurant has booths that create the feeling of having a private dining experience. The front of the restaurant, even though the tables are somewhat close together, still has that intimate private feel. The waitstaff was fabulous. From the hostess to the waitress to the owner (or manager, I didn't ask), everyone is attentive and friendly. A+ customer service. The selection of wine is pretty decent, especially considering the restaurant is known for their martinis. We got a bottle of Shiraz that was delicious. And the martinis? Mmmm! We saved our martinis for after dinner - I had an Espresso Martini that was to die for. My dining partner got an Iced Pumpkin Latte Martini that was unbelievable. We savored every sip. Delicious. Ok. Now onto the food - my reason for the low review. We ordered a whole bunch of food and none of it was particularly great. Considering the prices, I was expecting much better food. To start, we got a caesar salad and the coconut shrimp. The caesar was just ok and the coconut shrimp was pretty good - nothing fancy, even though it was presented as a fancy dish. For entrees we ordered the special - a hanger steak with scallops, twice baked potato, and asparagus, and the filet mignon with scalloped potatoes and asparagus. The filet had some sort of demi-glaze, but I've forgotten what it was. And this is where the disappointment starts. I have never sent back a dish or even considered doing so, but when I saw my steak I was super bummed out. If it wasn't a Monday night and I had more time for dinner, I would have sent it back. I was expecting a filet and the cut of meat I got may have been a filet... but it was definitely a terrible cut of meat. I asked for medium and my meat was gray inside. Definitely overdone. The scalloped potatoes were ok. The asparagus was the best part of my meal. As for the special? The twice baked potato was delicious, but the scallops were way overcooked. The hanger steak was cooked poorly, medium rare in some places, well done in others. Ugh. I would suggest going to Exchange Street for drinks and atmosphere, but avoid the food. Overpriced, overcooked, and a total disappointment. What a bummer - I realllllly wanted to love this place!
(2)Joi T.
I have since fallen in love with this place and come here often alone or with a buddy. They do change their tapas menu often so if you fall in love with something it may be gone in a few months. They also changed their tapas time frame which I LOVE!!!!! It's now from 4 pm till close still at bar & lounge. They do not have any drink specials though but it's fine because the food choices make up for it. I did have dinner with some friends not too long ago. I ordered beef wellington from the prix fixe menu. I have never had it before so I had no idea what to expect and have no comparison. It was good very tasty and the pastry was nice and flakey. It is something I will order again.
(4)Leah P.
Had dinner there recently, Food was SO good! I had the black pepper fettuccine (I think that's what it was called), it was so delicious! Appetizer and soup were great too. Our server Michelle was great as well as the hostsess/busser. The place also has a great ambiance, casual and cool. Will definitely be back the next time We're in Malden.
(5)EricaLynn J.
Suffering from what seems to be an identity crisis, the Exchange Street Bistro is a 'see and be seen' establishment nestled smack in the midst of one of the busiest areas of Malden, right down the street from the Malden Center T stop and next to a bunch of closed businesses and a bargain hair salon. Signs for valet parking seem quite out of place, though certainly adds to the mystery surrounding the beautifully designed storefront. Once inside, customers simply walk down the long, narrow path and their dining adventures will soon begin. It's hard not to notice the amount of activity surrounding the bar that's in the middle of the entire place. And there you have the Best of Malden - and yes, I do mean the cougars too - all placed around that bar drinking their days away with the charming (but expensive!) drink and specialty martini menu. And while much of the place seems to partake in its own battle of the bands (jazz music blasting from one end, televisions blaring with sports games at another end), your ears will be most attuned to the people at the bar, as with anywhere: as they get drunker, they get louder. With all the hustle and bustle and bizarre eye candy, I almost forgot that I was there to eat - though in a way, I wish I had. The "tapas" appetizer tasted fantastic and came out rather quickly (which may, of course, have been the first indication that something was not quite right) and for $20, it's a steal for two people looking to share all sorts of goodies from teriyaki chicken to mussles to spring rolls. And the regular dinner menu and specials all were pretty mouthwatering at first glance. Lobster mac and cheese, seared scallops with vegetables, and baked penne with sausage with a pomodoro sauce all stood out to me as potentials, and I went with the penne and sausage. My first question to any server when it comes to an entree that can go either way is if the sauce or the meat are spicy. I can't stomach spicy food - what is just reasonably spicy to some will pretty much put me out for the count. So seeing the words 'sausage' and 'pomodoro sauce', I had to ask. I was told that it was absolutely not spicy and I did not give it another thought. My penne and sausage looked absolutely delectable and I was thrilled that I chose that over the lobster mac and cheese, though I certainly tasted quite a bit of it across the table. A few bites in, though, I realized that the sauce was a little bit spicy. I got about a third of the way through and I felt like I had eaten five times as much. My stomach began alerting me to the fact that things were definitely not OK. And to make things worse, fruit flies were rummaging around the table and trying to make friends with my food. I am sure you can probably see where this is going. Poor me, I know. You're playing the tiniest violin for me and I do appreciate it. But my experience with Exchange Street Bistro certainly was more than just the unfortunate incident with the spicy or the undercooked stuff. My general blahs towards this place is based primarily around the fact that it's a really weird restaurant and I got the impression that they're a little too eager to make the place chic and frou-frou that they forget the basics: good, honest service, clean surroundings, and fresh tasty food will get you far.
(2)Nancy Z.
For the love of PEPPERONCINI MARTINIS! Man. I like wine, and I sure as hell like my beer- but hot damn. Their martinis make me want to pop in a whole season of Sex and the City! All of a sudden, I feel an urge to go into chick-overdrive mode when I hold a martini glass. Is that weird? Do most girls feel like that? Anyways... if you enjoy Dirty Martinis, this will absolutely make your night. Actually, all their drinks will, they have an enormously great selection. It is also one of the best places to meet up with friends. The decor and music is very trendy and the bar and crowd are always lively at night. Malden has come a long way since I grew up here! One of the best dishes I've had there was the livers that's sauteed with onions and other scrumptious and savory ingredients. It's served on sweet, dense pieces of brown bread. I think there's even some cinnamon in it (clever, you). The flavors work together so well. Note that there is also happy hour here, I think from 4-6ish that includes $1 oysters. The service has been great every time. During Friday and Saturday nights, it gets pretty crowded, so there may be a wait if you come in late. You could always be safe and make a reservation as well. Two sets of two words: Pepperoncini Martini Do it.
(4)Ribblet N.
Tastes pretty darn good tonight. May be all the beers? Had the steak bits and sweet potato fries and a Cesar salad. Spicy chicken wings for appetizer and mussels, front window seating, was great.
(5)Jennifer R.
The problem: The front of the house is doing their kitchen a huge disservice. We go for dinner. The food is terrific. All of it. Why two stars? Let's start with a strong chemical odor that hits us as we come through the door and never lets up. Follow that with Nurse Ratched approaching our table. We recoil. We order a bottle of wine. She brings the wrong vintage. We point out the error. The vintage offered is unavailable. (The wine list has never been updated.) We order a different wine. Meanwhile, we get an edgy visit from Schlubby the Manager. He's dressed like he's just come from the gym. "It's all the same juice", he argues. This is going down in a place decked out to look swanky and advertised to be fab. (The interior is cool...in a cookie-cutter sort of way. Pussy willow branches, the usual mod "teak" dividers, lots of booths, a back-lit bar.) All the while, GREAT food lands on our table, though we cringe every time Ms. Brassy Breeches delivers it. Otherwise? The martinis are good. Oh, and you can giggle over the misspellings in the menu as you inhale chemicals and are assaulted by the staff. If I worked in that kitchen, I'd be furious.
(2)Robert B.
Amazing bread pudding and awesome service!!!!
(5)Kelly C.
For Malden, this is top notch. We stopped in for brunch, and although VERY noisey (2 different bridal showers going on) it was great! The food was really good - I had the Monte Cristo and it and the fries along with it were some of the best I've had. Hubby had the eggs benedict, that came with greens and fruit salad. We also had the fried calamari (we try it everywhere we go) and it wasn't crispy enough for me, but the pepper sauce they put on it was a unique taste that I enjoyed. The portions were large, our waitress was very attentive, and the atmosphere was upscale. We liked it a lot and will definitely be back!
(5)Lou P.
Upscale atmosphere Great martini selection Good for quiet dates While I used to love the dive bar crowd in college and for a short time thereafter, I ooccasionally find myself tending toward a more refined (read: quiet) experience now. The evening lounge at Exchange Street is right up my alley in that regard. The atmosphere is muted and quiet. It's as if you're in the private back area of a larger, busier club and the music is wafting through the doorway. I've been here twice now, once for a private party, and once for drinks. I'm not sure the food at the party, delicious as it was, is indicative of the overall quality, so I will refrain from comment on that. I would recommend the place for a quiet evening, however, especially if you're in the mood for a martini. We arrived around 10:30 on a Saturday night, and got a seat right at the bar. It wasn't crowded by any means, and the bartender was right over to take our order. The drinks are a bit expensive at around $10.50 for a martini. The ladyfriend had a Lemon Drop, which I sampled. It wasn't too sweet, and not overly sour either. I had a Nucumber (Hendricks and muddled cucumber.) It's a strange taste, but I would recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the Gimlet looking to switch it up. The evening crows is a bit older, so you're best served going there with a date or friends rather than looking for company.
(3)Michael T.
We went on opening night after the remodel and enjoyed the new layout. The food is always very tasty and portions are good considering it's a bistro. Drinks are amazing. A great time with friends. Hands down the best restaurant in Malden.
(5)Julia C.
The interior decoration suffers from identity crisis (read: gilded Italian plaster molding + edgy, modern furniture + middle-ages-esque tapestries), but this can only add to your dinner conversation. I came here for a coworker's going-away lunch get-together. The lunch menu is your typical Americana fare, things like burgers, club sandwiches, green salads, etc. The lone chicken pad thai that somehow found its way onto the menu always makes me laugh. Our waitress was a friendly yet excessively bubbly gal who was very willing to please, but came by way too many times (every 10 minutes or so for the hour that we were there, checking for water, making sure that everyone's dish was okay and that we didn't need anything else) for my comfort level. The food portions are HUGE. Almost everyone took a doggie bag home. I've had bites of the club sandwich and ordered the lobster mac and cheese, which were both tasty, but nothing special. I didn't feel comfortable asking for bites of the aforementioned random pad thai, but if anyone has tried it, please let me know how it is! I do not remember any entree item being over $15, mostly in the $10-13 range.
(3)Mike D.
I have been to the Exchange Bistro a couple times; both times the service was quite bad and food was also terrible. The restaurant is located in wonderful downtown Malden and tries to pretend to be like Boston. It is a bit pricey for the location and area. I would say take the 10 minute drive into downtown Boston and get a much better meal and experience for the same price.
(2)Joe S.
Jesus Christmas, the Wellington neighborhood is boring! Strip malls and half-assed chain restaurants will give you some bang for your buck, but when all is said and done, the experience feels like you've stood in line at the supermarket. Blase, sir! Blah Say. A brother wants to be in walking distance of good neighborhood eats and the Wellington neighborhood is not that. So my girlfriend and I decided to venture out to Malden Center for some local culture and cuisine. It's not quite walking distance, but the T can trick a man into thinking the ride was part of his stroll. We invited 2 friends, investigated Yelp for places to go, decided on Exchange Street Bistro and off we went. Our friends drove and found ample parking in front of the restaurant at 6pm on a Saturday. We almost passed the front door as it looked like part of the exterior wall. "Better to keep away the riff-raff" I thought. Inside, the restaurant was classier than I had imagined, definitely leaning more to the Bistro side of the name than Exchange Street. High ceilings, deep burgundy walls and some friendly hostesses asking if we had reservations greeted us. We were immediately seated in a booth that made us feel totally separate from the rest of the small crowd and our waitress came by momentarily to make us feel at home. She was sweet, knowledgeable and, most importantly, human. There was nary an R to be heard in any word spoken. Toto, I think we are in Malden. Thank God. We started with drinks. The drinks at Exchange Street Bistro are huge. These bowls that the staff referred to as Martini glasses might hold a quart of liquor. Needless to say, we were big fans right away. My companions chose martinis from the vast drinks menu and I had the Bourbon Manhattan. The Manhattan was standard. I wish I asked for less Vermouth, but then again, I should just start asking for a bowl of chilled Makers Mark with some fruit in it. The apps were good, but not great. To be honest, I hate Broccoli Rabe, so the Broccoli Rabe Spring Rolls hardly tempted me. Interstingly enough, when it is called rapini in the pork chop main dish, I eat it like its being taken away from me. Go figure. The Korean Barbeque Spare Ribs with their sesame glaze tasted like run of the mill Chinese food to me, but I am not a huge fan of Asian cuisine. I think this paragraph describes more the cost I paid to eat where I wanted to than the actual meal. Exchange Street does not offer psychological help on the menu, but I am sure the friendly wait staff would listen. The main courses were much better. I had the Frenched Center Cut Pork Chop with roasted Delicata squash, vinegar peppers and sauteed rapini. The pork chop was succulent, tender and juicy in a rather large portion. The few peppers were delicious, but only made me wish there were more on the plate. The squash and rapini were excellent sides, with the rapini offering a hint of garlic and the tender Delicata offering a nice flavor and change of consistency. Mwah! Delish! My compatriots had no complaints about their meals really. The Ahi Tuna was adequately portioned and disappeared in a matter of moments. The Veal Saltimbocca featured 2 big pieces of veal with cheese over them. It looked good and was boxed up for a highly anticipated breakfast meal. The Eggplant Napoleon was "too cheesy", but very good otherwise. I will go to Exchange Street Bistro again as the $200 price tag was okay for the amount of food we received. Thanks Exchange Street Bistro for making my awful neighborhood a little more acceptable.
(4)Christopher M.
Another peg in the slow but steady gentrification of Malden Center, Exchange Street Bistro sits on Exchange Street (no kidding) between the Hobby Bunker and a run down thrift store. When you gaze out the front windows, you're rewarded with a not-so-stunning view of the backside of the Malden Center MBTA parking garage, but an inward glance into Exchange Street Bistro tells an entirely different story. Exchange Street is modern chic, from the décor to the menu. The seasonal martini menu features funky cocktails like the Goddess Martini (Skyy Raspberry, Stoli Peach, Grenadine, Cranberry, Pineapple and OJ) and the Dirty Pepper Martini (Skyy Vodka, Olive Juice and Pepperoncini Juice). The hip, modern menu features a Daily Tapas selection, Pan Seared Scallops over Lobster Ravioli and Pollo Alicia, a chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto, portobello mushrooms, mozzarella and roasted red peppers. Just reading it is enough to make your mouth water. Unfortunately, Exchange Street Bistro is one of those restaurants that looks better on paper than it does in person. The service is consistently poor, which is a drag on the experience. Every time I've visited they've appeared understaffed, with one server rushing to cover a dozen tables. The wait for service is always long (last time we waited 15 minutes just to place a drink order), and the server's attitude is less than hospitable. The food, while exciting and creative, is not always well executed. Often the daily tapas taste like they just came out of the freezer, and the ingredients in the Pollo Alicia are anything but fresh. On the other hand, the Pan Seared Scallops over Lobster Ravioli are absolutely to die for. My least favorite aspect of Exchange Street Bistro is the atmosphere. There are TVs everywhere (do we really need CSI from six different angles during dinner?) and the music is often so loud it's difficult to carry on a conversation. Unfortunately it's not loud enough to drown out the obnoxious locals patrons who always seem to frequent the restaurant. Loud, vulgar guys dressed in bagged sweatpants with skanky girlfriends seem to perpetually occupy every other booth. I suppose you can put a little sophistication into Malden, but you can't keep Malden out of Exchange Street Bistro.
(3)Marcy M.
The martinis were good, but service and food was not impressive. Also, there are numerous misspelled words on the menu. Overall, the food and service was poor and slow. Not worth the amount of money they charge. I'm surprised because the restaurant was featured on Phantom Gourmet and I've heard so many great things, but it was a big disappointment that ended up costing us a lot of money.
(2)Karla M.
AWESOME food and ambiance!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The leech martini ROCKS! The only downside is depending which night you go, which bartender you get! I've had GREAT service, and no so great service. The only improvement I'd recommend is training/choosing the appropriate bartenders for an upper class restaurant. A+++++
(4)Omeed D.
Well, this place has slipped dramatically. When I moved to Malden 18 months ago, this was one of the restaurants I was most excited about. A couple of early visits were encouraging. The martini list is extensive - which is the only reason I give it two stars instead of one. In the last six months, every visit has been a disappointment. The menu has tended towards the mediocre and every meal I've had has been worse than the previous one. The end came for me today. My fiancee and I were coming back from running errands and decided to check out their happy hour. They advertise an extensive list of cut rate drinks and eats. I wish that were the case. As the bartender explained the deals, it became apparent that the happy hour was limited to just a couple of selections. There were two (mediocre sounding) martinis available. When I asked about cocktails, the bartender told me the martinis counted as cocktails - and then offered to whip up some sort of grape-flavored nightmare as well. The happy hour wines were limited to a chardonnay and their cheapest red wine (and it's not like their wine list is pricey; 337 is 12.99 a bottle at Kappys). We just left. The food selection seemed reasonably priced - but, as I mentioned, I've been disappointed in everything I've eaten there for quite some time. As much as I like to support local businesses, I'm done with this place. If you're looking for good food in the area, I'd recommend my new favorite: Bistro 5 in Medford. Going to write my review for that... right now!
(2)Lizzie S.
I was so surprised to find food this good and atmosphere this wonderful in Malden! We ordered appetizers and entrees, and every bite was incredible. Also, the night we were there had live entertainment of a singer/guitarist. The wait staff was friendly, the food came out fast, and everything was delicious. Conveniently located near the Malden enter T stop, this place is definitely worth a try.
(5)Meredith K.
I'm so sad the old chef left. When we first started to come here - it was SO delicious and the menu seemed to change frequently (which I like). The mussels with julienned veggies and garlic toast was to die for, but alas - it is no more. We have gone back maybe 3 times since the (original or at least last chef) left and all 3 times it's just been ok - pretty boring forgetttable meals. The menu has been the exact same (except specials) all 3 times over a 10 month period and nothing really stands out that much. The mac and cheese - meh I can make it better at home. The steak - I've had better at so many places. the braised short ribs - I've had SO much better elsewhere. It just felt like the quality of food went downhill and so did the flavor (it was bland). I do have to say the drinks are fun and tasty (lots of specialty martinis) and a decent wine list. Also the servers have always been friendly, but occasionally on the slow side to bring dishes/refills.
(2)Ernald N.
I stepped in here for the first time ever for a takeout order so I didn't have the In-House experience. The decor of this place is nice, very stylish and appears to have a great bar. My review is based primarily on the food quality really, I ordered the "Exchange" Steak Frittes dish and while the steak was tasty the meal itself was lacking. For $20 I got 4-5 small pieces of steak which didn't fill me up at all. The sweet potato fries were soaked & soggy instead of crisp since they were topped with watery baby arugula. The arugula was fresh and good but again because of the quantity of food provided I couldn't give a review over 3 stars for my experience. I'll likely come back for drinks but I'm on the fence for having another meal here especially since my appetite is about average.
(3)Mark A.
I receive coupons for this place every once in a while, and have to admit that's usually the only thing that gets me to think of going to this place. I have been here a handful of times though. The food's always been good, though I'd prefer a little more variation in their menu. The drinks are good, and they have a fairly well stocked bar. I've had a couple of "less-than-great" service experiences here, which is probably the reason I don't go here more often. I think they're targeting the "after work drink/dinner" crowd, which is fine, but it does give the place a different vibe than your average "classy" restaurant.
(3)David P.
Excellent food, excellent prices, excellent service! We've had friends from out of town come and this is the first place we thought of to take them! This is truly a gem!
(5)Annette M.
I honestly want to give this restaurant more stars because the food is different and delicious, the drinks are fantastic, and the decor is trendy and fun. Where this place falls is that it is REALLY loud. The volume of the music is always too high, and it is music you would dance to not eat to. You end up having to yell to have a conversation. As the place fills up it only gets worse. Also, I am one of those people who HATE certain food items (mushroom, onions, blue cheese, olives, rare steaks, etc. - clearly foods that impact the flavor of a dish), so I usually ask for my meals to be without these items. I also have to say that I am never rude or demanding with my meal requests. I am never unreasonable, but the waitstaff always seem to be put out when you ask for something simple like no blue cheese in a salad. I have no problem paying the same price for 1 less ingredient. I once asked for a steak to be made medium well, (the way I like it) and the waiter argued with me and insisted that the chef recommended it medium rare. My steak did not come out the way I wanted it but I was so embarrassed by the ordering discussion that I refused to send it back. I LOVE eating out, and I want to enjoy my night out.
(2)tavia m.
I like the Exchange Street Bistro and have had a pleasant experience every time I have come here. The reason they don't get four stars is because sometimes the service isn't at four star level and their food is hit or miss. I like the atmosphere of the ESB, and it's very large and good for groups. The wait staff is accommodating and helpful, but tends to disappear for long periods of time. The martini list is extensive and I have tried several of them from the list, most recently the Creamsicle, which is great. The Malden Martini is a bit too sweet for me. I also sampled the Pear Side Car recently, which is tasty. Overall, the quality of the food at the ESB is good, but overpriced. The menu at the Exchange Street Bistro changes seasonally. There are some staples that are always on the menu, like their lobster mac & cheese, which is pretty tasty but somewhat pricey. Also I have had the pork chop, which was very good and the braised short rib, which was ok. A lot of their food is fine, but unmemorable. Recently, I tried the spring rolls, which had an unpleasant aftertaste. Yuck. Dessert-wise, the ice cream sandwiches are a MUST. You only need one order for a group of four. The portion size is huge. Whenever someone suggests the ESB, I always say yes and I always have a fine time. I would recommend this location if you're looking for American fare.
(3)jerry b.
1st time at exchange st & will be back again. service was very good & as the evening wore on it got better as different workers cleared or asked about refills. Our server was very attentive as well waiting til we were nearly done to ask about the next plate .Bruchetta without mozzarella? Goat cheese instead was really a great choice. tappas plate was excellent. I had the pork chop, juicy, perfectly cooked, I asked for a twice baked potato instead of the veggies, no problem. My wife & a friend split the fettacini & both thought it to be great. The onion soup was perfect. Nice wine list. We wil be back. Oh, they have validated parking across the street.
(4)Emily P.
Had a wonderful dinner at Exchange Street. It was pretty busy for a Wednesday night, and we loved our waitress Linda. We started with the pepper encrusted calamari -- to die for. Husband and I like to think of ourselves as calamari experts, and this was top notch. I was contemplating the cucumber martini but was hesitant about it being made with gin. Linda suggested I try the cucumber martini but with grey goose. I hadn't even mentioned that I was thinking of trying it -- it was like she read my mind! Also had a flirtini which was yum. I had the lobster mac & cheese which was delish. There were large hunks of buttery lobster which made me tres happy. Husband had the steak frittes with mashed instead of sweet potato fries and he loved it. The reason it's getting 4 instead of 5 is because the heavenly rolls we were promised didn't show up until we got our entrees and we had to ask for them. Overall it's a good spot with a city vibe (and free parking!) without having to venture over the Charles.
(4)John B.
Best martinis around! The lobster Mac and cheese is awesome. They have daily tapas that is pretty good...... And! The girl I am with right now wants to " try all of these" martinis on their list... (hopefully I am around to see that)
(5)Ladyjane S.
I came here for brunch this past Sunday and the service was extremely slow. I had to chase down our waitress more than a couple times just to get our check, food wrapped, etc. Also, the food took an extremely long time to come out. The slow pace wouldn't have bothered me but I didn't really want to spend my entire afternoon there, so it got kind of annoying towards the end. We got the waffle, a sausage corn dog, tomato basil soup and the lobster mac and cheese. Waffle was terrible. It was thick and pasty and just...not good. The sausage corn dog had runny batter on the inside but the outside was pretty good and very greasy. The soup was fantastic. They cut up a few pieces of yummy grilled cheese and put it right on top. I really wish they just served a whole grilled cheese with it beacuse I totally would order that next time I come! The lobster mac was good but not great when I ate it at the restaurant but for some reason it was AMAZING the next day when I heated it up in the microwave. Not sure why that is but I ate it for 2 separate meals afterwards so I can't complain. They sure do give you a lot. I don't think I'd come here again for brunch. I think the prices are too high and it just doesn't seem like a brunch place. However, I will come back and try them for dinner. I think the quality is there, just not for breakfast foods.
(3)Tara S.
I'm impressed. I have lived in Malden for a while and have heard about this place from a few people. I always heard good things. Now, I can reccommend it to my people! I very much enjoyed the food and drinks. The calamari is so crispy and the marinara is simple and a perfect compliment. I can't wait to go back.
(4)JEM C.
I didn't have high expectations and thats about where this place landed at the end of the experience. We went there for brunch on a Sunday at 11am and had no wait--nice plus. Its in Malden so the interior and ambiance were nice for the area. The menu sounded good but the flavors are were I felt most let down. I had the french toast (and as an avid bruncher) I can tell you these are amongst my least face ever. If Im doing the calories, I want them to be scrumptious...these just weren't :( The prices were ok, but really I probably wont go back because I love brunch and have MANY better places around for it.
(3)Inna H.
Very nice place. Has a great bar and good martinis. Very pricey though. For the amount of money you are going to spend here on two drinks you can have three in Boston. Way overpriced for Malden.
(3)Aboud Y.
Nice spot. Lively bar. Too bad the food isn't that great. I tried the burger, steak, duck leg, korean spare ribs, and lobster mac and everything was ok. Not bad...but not that great either. Service was good but a bit pushy (esp. with dessert). Anyhow...true litmus test: I doubt I'll be back. 2.5 stars...I'll round up to 3.
(3)A Z.
Went here for "Sunday Brunch". My friend and I shared these two plates: Homemade Belgian Waffles -Topped with caramelized bananas, orange cream & side of bacon. ($8) Stuffed French Toast - Peaches, Blueberry Compote and Mascarpone Cheese. ($10) The belgian "waffles" = just ONE waffle, but it's plenty. The terrible part was, however, that what appears to make this dish is the "carmelized bananas". That's why we chose it. They didn't tell us until they brought it to our table that "oops, we're all out of bananas". So I guess it's just a Belgian Waffle now, isn't it? Would have been nice to know BEFORE so we could have picked something else. And I mean, the place was not busy by any means, where did the bananas go? The stuffed french toast was really good, and the peaches were definitely fresh and not canned. All of it plus the mascarpone was a little too sweet for me though, so I wasn't able to eat too much of it. The womens bathroom was being fixed while we were there, but one of the friendly hosts offered to "keep watch" for me in the Men's bathroom. No complaints there. The bathroom was very clean. Overall, the place looks nice, they use quality ingredients, and the prices are decent (for breakfast at least). There's not a huge selection for Sunday Brunch, in fact, half of the menu is lunch food, but what they have is good enough. Still a little annoyed about the last-minute banana mystery, but otherwise I can't complain.
(4)Ploy K.
I have been to Exchange Street for brunch twice now, and will likely go again. It is a nice little place of the beaten path in Malden, with city food at neighborhood prices. Both times I have spent under $20 and been fairly pleased with my food. The first time I went, I had eggs benedict, which I loved. The second time, I had the BLT omelet, which had Boursin cheese, Lobster, and Truffle oil. Sadly, this dish was NOT worth $14. The cheese was overpowering, the lobster was a bit chewy, and the egg was dry dry dry. I didn't even know there was truffle oil in there. If the ingredients had been mixed together better and the eggs not been overcooked, it might have been delicious. It was, however, disappointing. Despite one bad dish, I do like Exchange Street. The atmosphere is very chic without being pretentious and the staff is very friendly. I arrived 15 minutes before they opened, and while some restaurants might make you wait outside in the freezing cold, those at Exchange Street allowed me to sit quietly at the bar and read. While there wasn't a line at the door, by 11:45am or so, the place had filled up nicely and had a good, friendly vibe. I will go back to the Bistro and try some of their sweeter brunch options. I would also love to try their lunch or dinner.
(3)Sasha B.
I loved Exchange Street Bistro! The martinis are amazing, they have (easily drinkable) chunks of fruit floating in them! We had the strawberry gimlet, which was fab, and the pear sidecar. I was truly impressed with both, some of the best I've had. Disclaimer, I am an extra pulp in my juice kind of person, so I may be biased. I ordered the lobster mac, creamy, big chunks of claw meat, grain mustard, I loved it!! The service was incredibly nice, my water glass was constantly refilled.
(4)Bill Y.
I'm incredibly torn as to what to rate the Exchange Street Bistro. It's a nice-looking place with excellent decor and very good food that severely lacked in service during our recent visit. My girlfriend and I had never been there, so we decided to give it a shot Friday night. After being seated in a large booth, we waited for 10 minutes before anyone acknowledged us; it was someone bringing us rolls but not greeting us. After 15 minutes, a manager apologized and a waitress was over to take our order. But we seriously considered leaving at this point. The manager, however, did comp our drinks, which was something they didn't have to do but was very nice. I ordered the $25 prix fixe dinner, consisting of caesar salad, a t-bone steak (ordered medium rare) and the lemon sorbet, while my girlfriend had the scallops. We split an appetizer of the calamari. While we had to wait about 15 minutes for appetizers after this -- not sure how frying calamari or putting together a simple caesar salad takes this long -- but it wasn't an overly long wait. The big problem happened when my "medium rare" steak showed up. It was cooked between medium well and well-done, and frankly, it was nearly impossible to cut. Although I can't remember ever sending a steak back, I asked the waitress to return it, letting her know it was not medium rare. She questioned me and suggested this was a medium rare steak before I told her it was unacceptable and asked her to return it. For someone in the service industry to question a customer is completely unacceptable -- her job is to make a patron's night, not argue with the guest over the cook times of meat. When the medium-rare steak did come out, however, it was delicious. The calamari from earlier was as well. My girlfriend only received 4 scallops, however; for a $22 entree, I'd expect more. This seemed like a portion size that was exceedingly small. But they were very tasty. But our waitress' extreme lack of hospitality made the meal a downer. It continued on to when my girlfriend, after reviewing the dessert menu, asked for the lemon sorbet, which comes with the prix fixe meal, but isn't listed on the dessert menu. The waitress, rather than agreeing, hemmed and hawed, saying she didn't really think that was possible. I let my girlfriend take my sorbet, and ordered the lava cake -- which was really the best part of the entire evening -- but the fact that a $2 scoop of sorbet would cause such an issue with the server is ridiculous. And while bringing the bill, wouldn't you know it? Our waitress tacked that *free* round of drinks right back onto our bill, even though the manager let us know -- with her there -- that it should be comped. Really disappointing when you deliver bad service and don't follow through on promises. The charges were removed on bringing it to the restaurant's attention. Bottom line is that the food at Exchange Street Bistro is excellent and while the scallops entree is rather small, other portions are good. The prix fixe meal is a good bargain. But we'll never return because of our waitress' horrible attitude and her lack of attention. One person who fouled up a meal from beginning to end really ruined our experience, and while the manager did give out a free round and was extremely apologetic, it wasn't enough to salvage the awful night we had here.
(2)Michelle D.
I got married here a few weeks ago and it was FABULOUS!!!! The whole experience was great; from the original booking of the room, to any questions along the way, to finalizing the menu. The food and servers were tremendous. Thank you Felicia and Joanna! The guests could not stop talking about how wonderful everything was. I cannot thank the staff enough for making our wedding outstanding!
(5)Chrissy H.
We couldn't wait, we had to taste the real food. So another date night spent in Malden. I had a Goddess Martini to start... no offense to the bar tender but "ICK", way too sweet for this sour girls taste buds. I had to switch to a glass of Pinot Grigio to go with my pan seared scallops over Lobster Ravioli with a lobster cream sauce. Very tasty indeed! And the hubby had a veil cutlet special over risotto and three shrimps. I didn't get to taste the shrimp, cause he's greedy, but the veil and risotto were delicious. I liked the small portion sizes too because I didn't leave the restaurant, for once, feeling like a whale. The music was a bit more mellow too, which was nice for dinner time. Just quiet, holiday music in the background. The wait staff was great. Very friendly and efficient. I think we've found a new place for date night.
(5)Sarah A.
Very impressed with the lunch menu! The food was excellent. We started with a selection of tapas that included caprese salad, meatballs, broccoli rabe and shrimp: all very tasty. For an entree I had the daily special of haddock on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with spinach and surrounded with a generous portion of lobster sauce. The sauce was delicious! I even had to clean the last bits off my plate with a dinner roll it was so good. The potatoes were done very nicely, very rich and smooth. The fish was cooked perfectly. To finish up the meal I had a cappucino which was certainly among the best I've enjoyed lately at a restaurant. My only complaint with the meal was that our server was not very attentive to our water glasses. I was left without water for a good portion of the meal. Also, our first round of water was WARM, not just not cold with no ice, WARM. The place is very clean, new and fresh and definitely has a more downtown Boston feel to it. The bar was huge and looked like it would be a great place to come in the evening. The bathrooms are very clean and modern. I will definitely be back! Can't wait to try the bar!
(4)Lindsey C.
I went to the Exchange Street Bistro on Valentine's Day with my fiance (we're considering it for our rehearsal dinner), and it did not disappoint. They offer a very extensive martini list and a romantic, cool, and slightly trendy atmosphere. The food was delicious (I had the lobster mac and cheese - sooo good). I would definitely recommend this restaurant for dinner with friends or a date night.
(5)Whiskey C.
Elderflower. Check. Hot Pepper. Check. Bee's Knees. Check. Not to mention, the specials. Sea bass. Aaaah. Again please.
(5)Jon M.
Need to come here more often, always enjoy this place. Had family party of 17 a few weeks ago and not one complaint! Was able to order off menu despite size of group. Martinis are by far the best around. Try the Hendricks Gin cucumber one, WOW! Bar was recently done over so have to go back, for drinks/apps.
(4)Mike Z.
We came here for drinks on a Friday night - the experience was enjoyable, but the food and beer selection was lacking. We ordered the pricey, bland, and small-portioned Lobster Pizza - it was probably the worst pizza I've had in a while. The ambiance is very nice and modern, but that's all it's got.
(3)Erin R.
What can I say? The food was absolutely AMAZING! I had the haddock and it was to die for! My fiance had the scallops...also amazing. Our server Linda was super sweet, and had great suggestions! It is a bit loud, other than that, it's fabulous. I can't wait to go back!
(5)Lisa J.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a large group. Our server was really nice, with a great personality. Nice ambiance inside, and strong - and delicious - cosmos. The raw oysters were delish, and my dinner was really good too. However, the best part of the meal (besides the company) was the amazing presentation (and taste) of the ice cream cookie sandwich. Not your typical ice cream sandwich - it was two chocolate chip cookies, stuffed with ice cream, cut into biscotti-shaped pieces, and stacked like a Jenga game. Never seen such a great way to serve this dessert! Very cool. Very jealous of the people who got it. : )
(5)Lin M.
WooHoo! The original chef is back with favorite items on menu. Can you say Scallops and Lobster Ravioli. Delicious. This is my all time favorite eatery. I have never had a bad meal or cocktail. I have been to two parties here and the staff and food were exemplary. Is it pricey? Yes but quality comes at a cost. The martinis are excellent. The sauces used are delectable. I sometimes wish I lived in Malden so I could go more often.
(5)Bill C.
Okay, so here's the deal: four of us went to the place last night and three ordered the prix fixe offering and I ordered a la carte. One of us liked the meal and three didn't. I won. I ordered a meal size portion of the seared Tuna appetizer over soba noodles and fried calamari and I was really happy. The tuna was prepared perfectly and the slices were thick and generous. The sauce wasn't particularly creative but still very tasty. The calamari was not spicy as advertised, but once again really good. As for the prix fixe trio, two ordered the coconut curry squash soup, one of found it inedible, the other just didn't care for it. The third ordered a meager salad with feta and grapes, that looked very unappealing. All three order the cioppino pasta, none finished it, not because of size, but boredom. The Chef Boy Ar Dee inspired pasta was flavorless and very orange looking. The seafood was not particularly interesting and not well prepared (rubbery scallops and small shrimp). Dessert was another disappointment, they had a choice of ice cream (the flavors were red pepper and basil - seriously) and vendor supplied cheesecake that was burnt on top. Our server was a royal pain more interested in schmoozing and interrupting than serving. It was half-way through the dish before he remembered the parmesan cheese that was requested as the dish was served. He was simply annoying and very slow, yet very, very talkative. It's a great looking restaurant, but we won't return.
(2)Brian S.
Exchange Street Bistro is GREAT. It is once of our favorite restaurants in the area. The ambiance is perfect: trendy, but not pretentious. And the fact that there is FREE validated parking in a garage is just another plus. They lose a star because the menu could use a few more items and because sometimes the service can be a bit off. With that said, I've never had *bad* service, and it's usually great, as is the food!
(4)Alice G.
The food was terrible; the fish was not fresh and so covered in breadcrumbs there was barely any fish left. Especially considering the high prices, it was awful. The service was really bad; as soon as the waitress realized we had a Restaurant.com thing, she basically started ignoring us. The only reason it gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the drinks are really tasty and creative. I would go here for drinks but NEVER for food.
(2)Christopher R.
This place is very big, even bigger than it looks from the outside. I only had a Cobb salad, but it was very good. I would love to come back and try the rest of the menu items, as they sound very promising. The salad was huge and stocked with plenty of items. The chicken was grilled to perfection and plentiful. They certainly don't skimp while making these.
(4)Greg A.
I love this place. Wonderful environment, awesome food. It's a little bit pricey. And watch out for the mysterious "limited menu" time between about 2PM-5PM. I've gotten burned by that a few times. Though there are still always great things on the menu.
(5)Ellen S.
So disappointing to finally go somewhere we've had on our running "we should check that place out" list and have such a poor experience. What made it even worse was that after watching people around us who were seated AFTER us get their apps and dinner, we were told that ours would be another 10-15 minutes due to a large function there that evening. We mentioned that this was our first time there and the waiter (who really seemed like he could have cared less - as he brought meals to the other tables that had been seated after us) told us that we really should come in during the week when it is less busy...as if somehow the extended wait for food that was "ok" was somehow our fault. I don't care how many different martini's you have on your drinks menu buddy, I won't be back to try any of the others out.
(2)Matthew A.
I just came in from a business lunch at Exchange st and let me tell you it was very nice, this brand new contemporary large bistro had easy parking, bright colors, and comfy booths. I had the lemon pasta with grilled in season vegetables. We started with the Asian spring rolls. Warm bread, ice tea, and great service. The bar looked very inviting too bad I couldn't have a 2 martini lunch but I might stop by after work for a libation. This kind of place is long overdue in Malden. I will certainly be back.
(5)Jeffrey F.
Good after work spot, with good food and wine options. Always an interesting crowd in there.
(3)Lad D.
I've passed by the Exchange Street Bistro enough times and from the outside it always appeared to have a nice energy about it. So finally last night I decided to take the plunge and bring my mother for an early dinner. Like many of the reviews have said, Malden doesn't have many "trendy" dining establishments, so the fact that it is here is nice. I thought the decor was nice and not over done. From where I was sitting, I didn't realize that there were flatscreens all around and since it was early the patrons at the bar weren't all that rowdy. I was a little bit confused who my server was at first. Someone came to fill our water glasses and then someone else brought us bread. Neither introduced themselves or let us know who our server would be. I think they need to coordinate that better. We ordered the mussels as an appetizer and they were great. I was surprised by how large a portion it was. The entrees, however, were a disappointment. My mother had the steak frittes. The steak came out all chopped up, marinated in a lime/ vinegar sauce and set on top of the fries. The fries as a result were soggy. There's something about ordering a steak and cutting it yourself. I had the short rib and the meat was somewhat dry and lacking in flavor. The sauce that came with it did little to enhance the short rib. It seemed that presentation was more important. Our server was really nice and checked back every so often to see how we were doing, so I guess we were lucky compared to the experiences of some other diners. All in all, I wasn't terribly impressed by the overall experience, but I would give it another try (knowing what not to order). I think it's worth checking out and seeing for yourself. The menu doesn't seem too coordinated and is a bit pricey in my opinion.
(3)Bethany S.
I've always wanted to try the Exchange Street Bistro since it opened 5 years ago, and last weekend I finally made it over there. The decor of the restaurant is hip and modern. I like the fact that it's ot really a "family-style" restaurant in the sense that there are no toddlers walking around between tables of screamig somewhere in a booth nearby. It's a wonderful place to have a relaxing adult conversation. The food is not bad. It's sort of an up-scale twist on classic dishes. (For example, the "pizza" contains lobster, avacado, and brie cheese.) It was actually a lot less expensive than what I would expect in a place like this. Also, this establishment is known for their martini bar. They have a selection of about 15 differant martinis all at $9 each. A bargain compared to other places I've been to. I wanted to give this place a rating of 4 stars, but I deducted a star due to the service... our waitress disappeared for long periods of time and we couldn't figure out where she was or when/if she was coming back. It got to the point that my friend and I were looking so desperate that other waitresses came by to check on us... not good. Maybe at the bar they are more attentive...
(3)Robin S.
Been here twice & have enjoyed both times. Went for a girls night out and ordered a bunch of apps & drinks. Our server Mindy was really friendly & kept checking in on us throughout the night. Will definitely come back!
(4)Anna W.
Fine dining in Malden? Quite an oxymoron!! But honestly, this is one of my new favorite places, and I am so glad it's in Malden! It's closer to my house, there is plenty of parking available, and I don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Boston to have a wonderful meal. They have FREE valet, as well as easily-accessible street parking, and an adjacent garage that is free with validation. Seriously, you can't go wrong! I've been here several times already, and each time, it has far exceeded my expectations. The first time I went here, I had the BEST server experience ever. Our server, Anastaysia, was awesome! She was friendly, warm, and incredibly helpful with explaining items on the menu to us. We started off with their tapas appetizer, which changes daily. My friend had some kind of fish on lobster risotto, and I had the steak. They were both incredibly delicious. The lobster risotto had HUGE chunks of lobster in there! Most of the time, restaurants try to gyp you, especially on lobster, but Exchange Street Bistro didn't. In addition to their regular menu, they also have a fixed-price three-course menu that changes regularly as well. It is only $25, which is about the same price as some of their regular-priced entrees! Their portions are incredibly generous, the ambiance inside is dark and inviting, the service is impeccable, and don't even get me started on how extensive and yummy their martini menu is. The drinks are unique, creative, and won't cost you an arm and a leg. I will certainly be back many more times. I love ESB :-)
(5)Wayne D.
I sort of didn't want to give this place 5 stars but I sort of don't have any reason not to! A friend and I went there for lunch/brunch yesterday and we both loved it!!!! The restaurant is sort of an out-of place gem in Malden Center, much like it's around-the-corner neighbor, All Seasons Table (which I love). As I sat inside the windows I felt like I could look out but nobody else could look in. Of course this is not the case but it's just so nice in this place while the neighborhood doesn't have much at all to brag about. The decor is nice with lots of earthy colors and sort of looks a little asian to me, but not by much. A private dining room out back features a huge mural and a fireplace which is nice. The food was where it was at! I tried the chef's Lobster and Asparagus Omelette and it was amazing. It came with a nice green mesculine salad with the most bang-up dressing I've ever tried. For dessert (of course there is dessert at my table...HA) a honey-mascarpone tiramisu. It was just so rich and amazing and served in a martini glass. Had I known it would be that good I would have asked for two and held the omelette. The cons is that there didn't seem to be much on the menu for brunch, it was mostly all lunch ideas but I'm sure Sunday boasts a better selection.
(5)Inman S.
First time I went here was using a restaurant.com gift certificate. I very surprised by how amazing this place was. The ambiance, staff, and food were all wonderful. I went back a second time to find the same to be true. Its definately one of my new favorite places to go grab dinner at a reasonable (and well worth it) price.
(5)Nicole L.
I love love love this place and with their new renovation it is so fantastic! The servers are great and the drinks are yummy. LOVE the Tuna Tartare!!! The small plates are big plates and SO good!
(4)Michelle P.
Ugh. What a bummer! Went this past Friday for drinks with a couple friends. I have been here before once for dinner and drinks and another time for brunch. Both were decent. Last Friday, however, was not. I decided to try out a new martini. It was disappointing at best. When the waitress came back around an hour later, she commented that I had barely drank anything but never asked if I did not like it or offer to bring something else. To be fair, I would not have expected her to comp my drink as I freely chose it. However, it would have been nice to offer. We then decided to order a pitcher of sangria. I have had it in the past and was pleased and really, how can you screw it up? Well, they did. The carafe the sangria came in, our glasses, and the sangria itself all smelled and tasted like NAIR! Yes, as in the stuff you use to remove hair from your legs. It was truly disgusting. When we paid with three full glasses of sangria, the waitress failed to ask if anything was wrong. This brings me to my next point. We only saw the waitress when she took our initial order, dropped off our drinks, and then gave us the check without offering us another round. We opted to order the sangria despite her bringing the check. She then dropped another check off with the sangria. When we finally approached her asking for change, she provided that and then immediately took the check but still failed to ask why we were leaving three full glasses of sangria. I was very, very disappointed. I will not be back again.
(1)Tina D.
We are always a little apprehensive to walk into upscale restaurants with two kids but it was my birthday so we did it anyway. Upon entering there were two hostesses and when asked how many in our party as if our arrival was welcomed. The other stepped to her computer and asked if we had a reservation as if we couldn't be seated if we didn't. It was a Tuesday and there were 3 tables taken with a handful of people at the bar. By the time we left all the dining room tables were full but there was no one waiting for a table and all the lounge tables were still empty. Once we were seated, the experience was nothing but positive. Our server informed us of the children's menu since they do not have a printed one. We were offered tasters of wine that we asked about. The food was excellent and not over priced. The caeser dressing is made on site and you can tell by how fresh it tastes. I believe they also make their own croutons. I had the lobster mac and cheese and it had huge clumps of lobster in it. My spouse had the prix fixe menu of seafood stuffed shrimp with spinach and baked potato. It was good but mine was better. The dining room is small and intimate and yet somehow each table feels quite private. I'll go back but I might make that reservation just to be safe!
(4)Mike C.
Lobster Mac-n-Cheese. I'll say it again. Lobster Mac-n-Cheese! So good. As a matter of fact, most everything is so good. What I really loved about this place is it's "let's meet at the Bistro and relax" atmosphere. Having dinner there with friends, a bottle of wine and some lobster mac-n-cheese is just awesome. I've always had great wait staff and I feel at home there.
(4)Lucy M.
We have been to Exchange st many times for dinner, a couple times for lunch and brunch as well. I enjoy it every time. I have had spectacular food there and food that was just ok. The antipasto plate is probably the best I have ever had, and the cocktails and bar deals at happy hour are great. We had a spectacular brunch recently and it was probably the best meal there so far. I had the steak and portobello benedict and my bo had the Monte Cristo. We each only ate half of our meals, leftovers yay! My bene was only $14 and came with a nice piece of filet. I always feel like I get a good deal for what I am paying there. Its not what you would call cheap, but a good value. We go there atleast once a month as we live in Malden and its so wonderful to have a great restaurant so close.
(4)MJ T.
Stopped in here for lunch. Somewhat limited menu for lunch choices, but good choices over all. Only three beers on tap, one of which was Bud Light (which barely qualifies as a beer). Really tasty broccoli rabe and mozz spring rolls with a zingy sweet mustard dip. Tomato basil bisque was exceedingly smooth and decadent. I ordered the beets and greens salad w/ lemon dill dressing as my meal and was really pleased. My boyfriend ordered the burger and was a bit disappointed. The burger was WAY to large for the bun (a dinner roll sized ciabatta bread) and tasted like plain old ground beef, no seasonings from what he could tell. His plate was redeemed a bit by the super crisp wedge fries, coleslaw, and homemade tasting mayonnaise.
(3)Kathy Y.
Went here for a Bachelorette Party Dinner. It was okay. Service was a bit slower then anticipated, if we weren't rushing i suppose it wouldn't have been too bad. The Filet - was decent. Good Portion Caramel Apple Martini is to die for! This place is a good place for large parties.
(3)Charlie B.
At lunch our waiter could barely disguise his lack of interest. The coffee was weak and flat, so it's probably good that no refills were offered. A simple question about whether the soup (tomato basil) is vegetarian yielded only a shrug and a look saying, oh, you're one of THOSE types. The pizza was tasty, but the service experience and lousy coffee left a bad taste In our mouths, so to speak. People seem to like the bar scene here, so maybe lunch just isn't their strong suit.
(2)Gina M.
I avoided this place for MONTHS, fearing another, "good...FOR MALDEN" experience. But finally I popped in with friends for just dessert a few weeks ago and have to say we were pleased with everything we ordered. We had a bread pudding and a berry shortcake and both were tremendous (size and flavour). I also really enjoyed my espresso martini--sweet but not cloying. We all did agree however, that a place in Malden has no business charging 10 dollars for drinks. It just doesn't. Not when the best scene and best drinks in Cambridge are available at the B-Side for 7-8 dollars a drink. I will go back for dinner and am hoping beyond hope that the rest of the fare is as good as the desserts we had.
(3)Josie C.
So convenient if you live in Malden. Like All Seasons Table, this place is located right within Malden Center and can come off sketchy due to location, however do not be fooled, it is wonderful! The specialize in their elaborate list of martinis (so good!) but also have a full bar and decently priced, large beers. The food is amazing and very high-end (comparable to the swanky restaurants in Boston), however my siblings say the portions are small (I prefer quality over quantity, though). Just take a look at all the food photos posted here, mmm. *Also a fun fact: Enrique, the head chef/owner, is one of the kindest and funniest guys in town - me and my boyfriend stumbled upon him one late night while we were at the bar in All Seasons Table actually (right around the corner, the owner of that restaurant and Enrique are said long time friends), and he literally bought us about 5 plates of food and a bounty of refills of some spectacular white wine! It was, needless to say, one of the best nights ever.
(4)Elle S.
My friend and I went here for Malden's Restaurant Week. Neither of us is that familiar with the area, but the restaurant is about a five minute walk from Malden Center on the Orange line. Our reservation was for 6:30 on a Friday, but there were hardly any diners. Most of the activity seemed to be around the bar. We were seated in a tall booth that could have easily sat 6 comfortably, or as comfortably as one can sit against a completely flat backed seat. I ordered the toasted ravioli, baked stuffed lobster, and lemon sorbet. The toasted ravioli and sorbet were just okay; it is hard to mess those up. The lobster was almost all breading and there was no detecabke seafood in the stuffing as the menu indicated. The lobster claws and zucchini logs were ice cold. My friend ordered the coconut shrimp, Thai bouillabaisse, and chocolate mousse cake. She liked the shrimp and cake, but said the mussels were overcooked and rubbery. One thing we both noticed was how quickly our courses came. Given that and how cold our food was, I think the food was precooked, refrigerated, and reheated. There were two things that I did like about this restaurant however: the bright, clean restrooms and our server, Felisha. She was incredibly nice and attentive without being overbearing. I will not be returning and do not recommend this restaurant.
(1)Lia M.
Since I have not eaten a meal here, I am going with three stars for now. I had dessert, the chocolate terrine, and it was only alright, not horrible, but probably two stars & I wouldn't waste the calories again. It's a chocolate brownie/fudge piece served with vanilla gelate. The chocolate was very dense, but not a lot of flavor. We sat at the bar. The bartenders were helpful and attentive, but not real friendly. My martini was good and strong (Kahlua, Bailey's, Frangelico, & vodka). The atmosphere was nice, especially in Malden. As others mentioned, it's classy & upscale. It's very big inside. We were there around 10 on a Saturday night and it wasn't busy and we left by 11:30 and it still wasn't busy. They close at 1; food service stops at 11, last call is 12:15. I plan on going back and eating dinner. ***** Update, 3/17/2008 I have eaten dinner here now. I did not like my meal (shrimp scampi). The pasta was undercooked and it had very strong taste that I did not care for. However, my boyfriend's lobster mac and cheese was excellent. I say go here for the drinks though, which I loved. And I did enjoy the warm apple crisp, which was very cinnamon-y, but I liked it.
(3)RoseAnne D.
I too wanted to love this place, as I have recently moved back to Malden and wanted a nice place to hang. I'll go for drinks, but the food.....yuck! 2 entrees, and app, all bad. French Onion soup with a tomato base? I think not. And they used the same rolls for the top as the bread and butter, way too chewy for the soup. My salad tasted...mmm, I don't know, old lettuce? Not sure. Beef Wellington, could have used just a bit of salt on the fillet, but it was tender and cooked well, but the chef ruined it with the sauce. I think he used the tomato onion soup we didn't finish. A nice brown mushroom sauce would have been better. Short Rib Risotto, was okay, but would have liked bigger pieces of meat. Only had shredded pieces. Spinach side was way bitter, and I'm a spinach lover. Service was excellent and attentive, but Chef.....take a lesson!
(2)Linh V.
I give the food a 4 star but the service ehh 2 stars, landing Exchange Street Bistro at a 3 star. The food is pretty good, especially for a restaurant strangely dropped in the middle of Malden. I got the tuna steak which I tricked my friend who hates seafood into trying. She quickly yelped. "this is the BESSSSST meat i've ever eaten!" Little does she know it wasn't exactly farm raised.
(3)Katie A.
We went for our first time for brunch on Sunday, and it was great! Breakfast burrito, Monte Cristo sandwich, and eggs over easy with sausage and home fries all were huge portions of deliciousness. The interior is swanky and I definitely want to try out dinner there. The four stars can easily be bumped up to 5 after one more visit...
(4)Eric B.
Great drinks menu! Dinner menu is limited and a bit pricey. I had the New York Sirloin. It was probably the fattiest sirloin I have ever eaten. I could have gotten a better quality steak at Texas Roadhouse!
(3)Carol J.
We held a bridal shower at the Bistro for my daughter earlier this month. I have to say that the ESB exceeded my expectations. We were set up in the front of the restaurant and had access to the bar and plenty of room to move around. The food was delicious. We had the brunch from the functions menu and there was something for everyone. All our guests enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. The staff was very helpful and made our special day even more special. I would definitely recommend the Exchange Street Bistro for anyone having a small function.
(5)Chere G.
Wow! Seriously, I sometimes have to cringe when I tell people I live in Malden. For me it was a choice of close enough to the city with a sic ass commute for work 30 minutes north. I have the best of both worlds. But honestly, there was never a reason to chilll in Malden on a Friday night because I thougt it didn't have anything to offer. Exchange ST Bistro brings some bling to Malden for sure. If you live in the area you need to peep this place. It's pricey, no doubt. But they can definitely back the price. Ambiance is fantastic - if you didn't know you were parking on a side street in an ehh part of Malden you wouldn't know your were in Malden. Kind of like a time warp. Woooosh...holy crap check this place out, dimly lit, loungey, nice music, attentive staff. Okay, Okay me likey. The waitstaff is so sweet....ahem....and I must admit we did have a hottie for a waiter. I'm just sayin. Dinner - I had the Grill and chill: A freaking 5 star BBQ Ribbs, chicken, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoe salad and a slab of watermelon. Mmmm Mmmmm. Never had a nice BBQ'd chicken that peeled apart and melted in my mouth. Now this is finger lickin gooooooood. Dessert was Creme Brulee - BOO effin Yah! Well poured drinks and standard price. It was such a nice loungey feel to it. I'm very impressed especially since I've been so against chilling in Malden. I also liked te manager takes the time in midst of your dinner and check things out. Very peronable and a nice touch. Probably the first time I'll ever say it's worth driving through the city rather than making it a night in it.
(5)Valerie F.
The most AMAZING creamy tomato and basil soup! The best part....the soup comes with mini grilled cheese croutons...GENIUS! Don't know how I never thought of this myself! Will definitely go back just for this soup! The espresso martini was delish as well. Other appetizers were good too, the white pizza, caesar salad, spring rolls, and quesadilla. Bar service was slow, they only had 1 bartender on and it was rather busy so we waited a long time for drinks, about 20 minutes or so. Our waitress was very apologetic though and super nice. Decor was cool, very modern. Only gave three stars because it was a bit pricey and for the slowness of the drinks.
(3)Craig C.
I went New Years Eve the night of one of the blizzards with no reservation. It was packed and they still took us with a short wait at the awesome bar. Great bar menu w/ funky drinks. Nice quick bartenders. Eclectic and diverse crowd. Special menu 3 courses for 40 bucks FOR TWO!!!!! Food was delicious and can't wait to go back. Upscale city type place with country type prices. Go with friends for dinner and drinks ALSO for Valentines Day they are doing the same deal as New Years. Best food deal around. Go Go Go . Highly reccomended by Senior Me.
(5)C R.
Has the ambience of something chic-enough for Boston's swankier restaurants - in easy-to-get-to Malden. 10 min north of Boston. Plenty of parking, GREAT menu, not too pricey (not cheap though), staff are attentive and know their stuff. I've been here 4 or 5 times now and have always left happy. DEFINITELY a place worth traveling to....whether you're local or live on the north or south shore.
(4)Bernadette S.
I completely agree with the crowd, here. My expectations started low, because it is Malden. But our two gay boyfriends/Malden homeowners, swore by it, so off we went, my expectations now soaring. I agree - the location is odd, but I can get over that. The atmosphere was humming, the lighting nice. I think our server was an idiot, a nice idiot, but still he had a lot to learn. He convinced us to try a Riesling with dinner, and I kept my mouth shut, but it was a sweet Riesling. It was tasty but it was dessert. I ordered the special seafood stew, which was mostly potatoes and a few pieces of calamari. Flavorless. I added salt and pepper. Then I ordered the chicken petto, stuffed with proscuitto and goat cheese, served with garlic mashed, spinach and sundried cream sauce. Not only was the chicken completely dry, but the only flavor on the plate was from the proscuitto and goat cheese, and of course there wasn't enough of it. Until I just looked up the menu online this second, I had forgotten that the cream sauce was sundried tomato, because it was flavorless! Of course, my gay boyfriends loved their dinners and my girlfriend swore her pork was better than what she had at Harvest last week, so what do I know?
(2)Amber H.
THRILLED! This is by far my favorite restaurant, in Malden - maybe even Boston. Its a great restaurant with a beautiful trendy vibe, and gorgeous decor. The martini list alone is worth going for. In fact I went several times just for the martini list, until one night i decided to order dinner and it completely blew my mind! The Big Chopp and the Salmon where unbelievable (my mouth is watering just thinking about it) i have also had the duck, as well as one of the Tapa's chefs specials. Service has always been impeccable. I frequent this bar and I must say, I have NEVER been disappointed. What a fantastic operation, its worth every penny!
(5)Tara V.
I really like this place. All I can say is TRY THE VANILLA BEAN BREAD PUDDING!!! That dessert is orgasmic! The food is pretty darned good too. I took off one star because the drinks suck. Or should I say the bartender(s) suck! I have never been able to get a decent drink at this place.
(4)Whitney K.
Awesome martini list, comfortable bar area and reasonable prices that reflect the Malden location but make you feel like you're in Boston. The food is good...they are adventerous with a modern flair to the menu, but aren't always successful.
(4)Ania Z.
Great food, great prices, great atmosphere and it was really busy when we were there on a Thursday night. We checked to make sure they were serving food till 11 and got there at 10:20 I understand its close to closing time and I knew what I wanted but when I got to the host stand the waitress did not seem like she wanted to seat us until I believe a manager walked over and I asked if they still were serving, then she rushed us to order which was pushy. But the food was awesome I loved the Lobster Pizza and Haddock Dish!
(4)Hilary C.
Went here because I'd seen some good reviews but boy was I disappointed. Where to begin: This was a weekday, on the tail end of the lunch rush and we were the only ones in the restaurant besides a couple at the bar who were as baffled as we were. For supposedly being known for their burgers, the patty I got looked like a frozen one I could have gotten from Market Basket. It was WAY overdone, tasteless and dry. And it cost me $12. I'd have complained to the waitress except I couldn't find her. In fact, after she brought us our meals we didn't see her for the rest of the meal. We eventually got fed up with waiting and had to actually walk back to the kitchen to find someone to pay. We could have looted the bar and probably taken out half the furniture before anybody would have even noticed. It was almost to the point where we wondered why we should pay at all. Total time spent: 2 hours. For a burger. Part of me wants to know what the hype is all about. (Did they have an exceptionally bad day?) The other part thinks that this restaurant doesn't deserve any more of my time or money.
(1)Denise T.
I have eaten there about 3 times before and will definately go back. The Bistro has done renovations with a new menu. Our waitress(Linda) was very pleasant and had great knowledge about the restaurant itself and all the dishes. Rich the manager is also unbelievable. He is very pleasant and cares about all the patrons who enter by greeting them with a smile. I had the Natural Roasted Chicken, which was delicious and the presentation of this dish was remarkable. My guest had the Lobster Mac and Cheese and according to him, was extremely creamy and delicious. This Bistro is worth the trip. The food is delicious and they make the best Martinis in the world. I can't wait to go back again.
(5)Ken M.
Exchange Street Bistro saves the day again. My sister-in-law made a reservation at another establishment for my mother-in-law's 60th birthday and for whatever reason, the reservation was dropped. Exchange Street was available to accommodate us last minute. Fabulous service from Trish. The food was delicious and the drinks took a starring role as usual. Delicious and friendly. Thanks again Exchange Street!
(5)larry m.
I have been here 5 or 6 times and have had a great meal every time. The decor is funky but not over the top and they're constantly playing some sort of electronica/jazzy music. Enough about the atmosphere because it's all about the food here. The menu is small - medium with a lot of Italian influenced dishes. 4 out of 5 of those times I had the pork chop. It's stuffed with fontina, caplicola, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini and served over roasted potatoes. I was sold on the title "Stuffed 19 OZ Pork Chop." My wife's grandmother ate there and was blown away by the risotto....as was I. This is coming from a woman born in Italy. She speaks italian...cooks Italian....and doesn't like food at Italian restaurants. She has been back once or twice since we introduced her to the place. I have had several of the appetizers and all of them were amazing. One standout was the Sicilian Chips. They are nachos but covered in fontina, salami and talian peppers. The absolute best appetizer there was the risotto croquet's. They are not on the menu right now.....but the waitstaff promised me they'd be back. These are basically mini rice balls (or arancini) served with several different dipping sauces. The prices are OK....a little pricey for Malden but definitely the best restaurant in the city. Since moving to the area this has become my "go to" restaurant.
(4)jennifer m.
Ugh. My boyfriend and I went here after hearing good things about the food and atmosphere. The atmosphere was good... it's got nice decor, and it was relatively quiet, which is what we were looking for. We were promptly seated, and the waitress came over almost immediately to take our drink order. However, when asked about the beer selection, she wouldn't/didn't tell us what they had available in a bottle. She would rattle off a few (bud, bud light, gross, etc.), and then say "and others.." and my boyfriend would say "what others?", and then she'd get through a couple more and say, "and others". Finally, he asked her if they had Sam Adams, and ordered that. She left, but returned shortly afterwards, and put someone else's empty Budweiser bottle on our table while admitting she forgot to tell us the specials. She told us, and then left. When she came back with our drinks and to take our order, I asked her what "Banana Ketchup" is, and her response was to look at me dumbly and say, "It's self-explanatory." And I said, "Uhh... if it was, I wouldnt be asking." It turns out it's bananas pureed in ketchup, which is certainly LITERAL, but the thought of that is just too gross for me to believe, hence that whole disbelief over the "self-explanatory" bit. So instead of The Big Chop, I ordered the Filet Mignon, medium. My boyfriend's burger was fine, but nothing fantastic. My filet came out WELL DONE, and then some. It's really a shame to ruin a piece of meat like that. The rest of the food was fairly bland and uninspired, and certainly not worth my entree's $26 price tag. We won't be returning. If we want to spend that kind of money, we'll drive into the city.
(1)The New Mrs. U.
I recently went to exchange street for brunch. I was looking for a local place to take my out of town family for brunch. I was a bit hesitant due to the mixed reviews, but I am happy I went. I was pleasantly surprised. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. They serve corn bread with the brunch , which for me is a big plus! The menu was not a book and had items that were simple and not trying to be too fancy. I did read one reviewer who complained about the booth seats print. Yes, it is a bit busy but it was not that bad! Clearly if you have good food, good company, a mimosa, and free corn bread, anything can be overlooked. Definitely a good neighborhood restaurant for the area. I will definitely go back.
(4)Josh S.
My partner and I met some friends here for brunch this morning, and we all had a good time. The service was excellent while not being overwhelming, i.e. we got coffee/water refills when needed, but didn't have people interrupting us all the time or hovering. Three of the 4 of us had a form of eggs benedict, and we all loved our plates. The fourth person had an omelet, and she was also impressed. The coffee was also much better than most places where I have brunch. We would all recommend this place for brunch.
(4)Riem K.
Decor was great, although the restaurant seemed a little out of place. Your view at the dining area is the local dry cleaner and the parking lot of Super Fitness. Food was unexciting and nothing to rave about. The oyster Rockefeller- it's just a green soppy mess and they could of at least shuck the oysters all the way out of the shell. We had to scrape the sauce off and then use our knife to try to pry the oyster meat off. The sirloin and the filet- Meat was tough and a little chewy, however the filet was drowned in a sauce that I wish it wasn't. Price, I thought was a little steep for what you were getting. I could of paid the same amount at the Great Bay and got a better view with a better meal. Alcohol- martini list was very good. I would return for drinks and not dinner. Overall, I would come back just for drinks at the bar and not for dinner. That was disappointing after all the hype I kept on hearing about this place.
(2)Andrew M.
Its like a South End Bistro got lost, and landed in Malden. OK, so lets be honest--this ain't your typical Malden restaurant. If you're looking for cheap, low-class dining, the Exchange Street is the wrong place (try the Dockside). The food & drinks at Exchange Street are delicious. In fact, the food is as good as you would expect in Boston, and the prices are slightly better. The worst thing about this place is that its too nice for the neighborhood. I see lots of people complaining about price in other reviews. I'll admit that Exchange Street is more expensive than other dining options in Malden--but thats because its better than other places in Malden. And its still cheaper and easier than going into Boston for a nice dinner out.
(5)Kate S.
I have only been here twice, and the first time was back in July for their 1 year anniversary party, which was amazing. They provided tons and tons of free food, beer and wine for 5 hours! They served right up to the end of the party and we were trashed. The people there were all great and it was really a good time. That was the only time I have had their food, I know people that enjoy eating there. However, if you want to read a scathing review by the globe have a look boston.com/ae/food/resta… I have never read a worse restaurant review, well actually it's pretty funny. Anyhow, the Exchange Street Bistro is primarily known as a martini bar and everyone raves about this one bartender that's there on wednesday and thursday nights. I ordered a manhattan, but I wanted whiskey not bourbon and asked for just well. He didn't want to give me well whiskey so he suggested Jack. Puzzled, I restated whiskey not bourbon and foolishly asked for well whiskey again. He served me the manhattan in a martini glass, not a rocks, and it tasted horrible. I learned that he used Dewars, which on the label says blended scotch whiskey but I consider it a bourbon because it's spicy and north american. I don't know maybe I am wrong about the Dewars but I am not wrong that this was a super gross drink. I ended up giving it back to him because I just couldn't drink it. The only reason I gave Exchange Street 3 stars is because of the fabulous and generous anniversary party they threw. Otherwise, I think I have to side with the Globe.
(3)Ashley P.
This place has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. It is like an amazing Boston restaurant without the Boston prices. The location is good and you can usually find street parking, but if not they offer free validated parking across the street. The food was out of this world! I also love the the menu changes with the seasons (read = fresh ingredients!) which is something you don't normally get outside of a big city. My friend and I started with martinis and two apps, the white pizza and the fig bruschetta which were both outstanding. We then all had the fillet mignon, which was so perfectly tender and delicious. And, on top of everything, the steak came with amazing mushroom risotto...mmmm!! We also had a bottle of wine and the amazing homemade ice cream sandwiches. It is an amazing place and I will be back very often!
(5)Tom D.
Still one of my favorite restaurants several years later. I celebrated my upcoming birthday here last night. We were a large party of what we thought was 16, but turned into 18 at the last minute. The folks at Exchange St were more than accomdating and in no time had set up an area for us in the lounge. We had one server, Trish, for our party and she was fantastic. Never frazzled by the number of people, efficient, just wonderful all around. She really made the evening great. The food as always was outstanding. I had the braised lamb shank for the first time and it's a new favorite. The lamb was tender and moist, and the accompanying minted risotto was the perfect side dish. I'm usually not crazy about mint with meat, but I have to rethink my position on that after this. All around a wonderful evening and I can't wait to go back soon!
(5)Jason B.
I've never gone to a restaraunt and had any of its employees come up to me, fall on their knees and say "please write a bad review of our establishment." But my experience at the Exchange Street Bistro comes the closest yet. Food: One word: Yuck. The burger was dry, NOT cooked the way it was ordered, and very suspicious-tasting. I've been a poor college and post-college student, and I know what borderline hamburger meat tastes like when it's cooked. This was it. In a way I'm thankful that they didn't cook it medium rare as I asked; I might be writing this review from the emergency room on my blackberry. The fries were cold but crispy enough. Remember before when I talked about the staff begging for a bad review? Here it is - the omelet: we were informed by the waitstaff that no, they did not have egg beaters, and no, the chef would not seperate eggs to make an egg white omelet. The reason? They had a large party in the back and were too busy. Too busy. Translation: We're taking care of the big group and your measly little two-top doesn't merit anything special, so go perform anatomically unlikely operations on yourself. Hash browns? cold, soggy, and suspiciously redolent of having been cooked in a pan that was used for something else before hand. The rolls were good, though, I'll give them that. Service: One word - yuck. Maybe we got him on a bad day, maybe he was worried about rolling the keg over to his frat party, but our waiter was terrible. Made us feel like we were inconveniencing both him and the kitchen staff whenever we asked for anything - more coffee, screw you. No we don't have equal, skim, or lowfat milk. Mimosa? That's weird but I'll see if they'll make one for you. This guy really made me say it: "I don't think Buddy Holly is much of a waiter." The busgirl tried to remove food we were actually eating - we had to reach back onto her tray to take a ramikin of ketchup away that she REALLY wanted to remove - "I'm not done with that yet" didn't seem to do it. Decor: This is nice. They really went out of their way to make the place look like it belongs in Cambridge or the South End. Backlit translucent colored glass, marble tabletops, hardwood floors, signed original artwork on the walls, very classy. Too bad the place sucks as bad as it does. Crowd: Odd Malden people. Families. Old people. Us. Random people who like to stare at you while you're eating. The usual. A negative experience that made me feel bad for being a restaurant patron. Maybe we caught them on a bad day, and we should give them another try...but little about this experience was positive.
(2)Charles G.
excellent food. have eaten there a few times. great sauces. great ambience, if you r in the malden area this restaurant is well worth trying. and oh yes, good prices to boot.
(4)Mark W.
We've been here a few times. It's becoming more of a bar hang out for locals then what it's trying to be which is a fine dinning establishment. Our meals have always been ok so hasn't the service. Reasonably priced.
(3)Danielle F.
We decided to have a date night close to home and wound up at Exchange Street Bistro at the end of the evening for dessert and cocktails. The relaxed and upscale atmosphere was a total, and pleasant, surprise for the area. The staff was very friendly and attentive and helped us to secure a seat at the bar which, for a good part of our visit, was rather rowdy. Our bartender, Kat, was pleasant, helpful and provided speedy service as well as super strong martinis. The drinks were excellent, but the dessert was a little lacking. We shared the bread pudding with cinnamon ice cream, and while it was tasty, it wasn't great. So, overall, excellent service, strong and delicious martinis, chill atmosphere and dessert that hits the spot but isn't a showstopper.
(3)Amy B.
I've been for dinner probably 6 or 8 times, and this summer co-hosted my friend's bridal shower there. The food is always tasty, although I don't have a favorite dish. I've tried a lot of different things and have been satisfied each time. The service is usually nice and friendly - just one time was the exception, when the waitress seemed so stiff and like she was reciting a script that we joked she'd be at home in the Hall of Presidents at Disney World. I liked hosting an event there as well. The maid of honor mostly dealt with them during the planning, and she had no problems. On the day of, we were able to get in early to set everything up, and they were very accommodating about the room setup. We didn't use the function room in the back - we were in the front portion of the restaurant, and they moved all the tables/booths around for a great setup. Food on the function menu was basic but good - we went with a buffet including salad and assorted sandwiches. The price was really great - I think it ended up being around $15/person, maybe even less. Definitely try the martinis - I felt like a lush drinking a watermelon martini before noon at the shower, but I couldn't resist. In fact, I had two!
(4)Ju L.
Went there on Sunday for brunch and had the French Toast Brioche and Monte Cristo. Both were surprisingly quite good. The French Toast Brioche was supposed to come with caramelized bananas and berries -- it did come with them, though there was only 1 strawberry. Decor is tasteful and somewhat trendy. Service was good, and overall food prices were quite modest. I'd definitely come again. Best still, they provide free validated parking at the nearby parking garage.
(4)N C.
I've been to this place a couple of times after my review and I think it needs a little updating. I would give the place between 2.5-3 stars. I order meat each time I've been there and there's a waitress that gives me grief each time I order steak medium-well, claiming the kitchen doesn't cook meat medium-well. I basically have to insist that that's how I wanted it cooked, period. Second, the food is insanely salty. Wow. I've ordered the steak frittes a couple of times and between the sauce on the steak and the dressing on the arugula, wow, I needed like 6 glasses of water. They need to lighten up on the salt.
(3)Andrea F.
First of all, I'd like to say I have been here numerous times, and the wait for food has always been long, but usually worth it....but not this time. My Saturday night was a meal from hell. We walk in 8 minutes late for our reservation's hostess tells us they can only hold our table for 10 minutes...so you would think everything would be ok...but I guess her clock is fast. So she didn't hold our table and said they don't have a table available even if we came on time.. So, she made us wait for 30 minutes. We luckily found a cocktail table in the bar, ordered drinks..but they never came. So we get seated..order food and the wait begins. 45 minutes to get "OK" apps...and then another 30 minutes until dinner arrived. We were a party of 3, and only 2 meals came out.. after another 5 minutes, my friends scollop's come out stone cold raw. We send them back, the manager says she'll take care of it. So at this point we were ok, mistakes happen. But it gets worse......So instead of making a fresh plate, they reheat her original scallops that she cut into. They come back dry as the desert. So the OWNER comes over and is very abrubt/abrasive. He was interrogating my friend and telling her the story of "sushi grade scallops" We are all in the medical field and we all know YOU CAN NOT EAT RAW SCALLOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He then proceeded to stare at my friends Ta-Ta's while trying to make her feel like an idiot for sending back her raw scallop's. Being the out spoken friend that I am, I found myself trying to help her talk to this jack ass and he has the nerve to put his hand up to my face and said "this is between her and I" And to top it all off, they didn't even take them off the bill. The owner did nothing to rectify the situation. He made things worse. The waitress brought us over a round on "Her" Bottom line, if you treat your paying customers like crap...we will not be back no matter what you try to give us. In a tough economy, people are selective when they go out, and I hope this review will make you choose otherwise.
(1)Stacey B.
I love, love, love this place... Great Martini's, Food and atmosphere. The Bartenders Christine and Rob are the best!!!
(5)Mike H.
I swear it's wicked good! Amid the dumpy streets, rubbish and abandoned shopping carts of malden is this fabulous gem of a restaurant that serves amazing steak, chops, lobster ravioli and a brunch that makes it worth getting out of bed on sunday. They've got a wonderful, friendly staff who are cool and pleasant without being smarmy and obnoxious. And the bartender knows how to make a good mixed drink, even if they call everything a martini instead of a cocktail. So it's almost perfect, oh well.
(5)Zane G.
This is a great hidden secret of Malden. The food and the drinks are simply wonderful. The bartenders, Rob and Alicia in particular are great people and know what they are doing. Their calamari is fabulous, FABULOUS! My favorite place to be on Thursday nights, full of regulars, the best kind bar.
(5)Yuko I.
Food was mediocre, the place was too loud. I hardly could enjoy my conversation.
(2)Paulette B.
I moved to Malden recently and was afraid that I was moving into a town of average ehh restaurants. As I moved in to the neighborhood a new restaurant was opening, Exchange Street Bistro. It's located in the center of Malden so parking was very easy. The food was awesome. My friend compared the Lobster Ravioli to making love where your partner spends an hour on you doing what you like most. I want to know where she finds these lovers. I know some of the guys she dated. I don't know if she was saying the Ravioli were better than any sex she has ever had. Anyway the Ravioli were very good. We also shared had the Eggplant Napoleon. Another home run. Very yummy. If I would have had this by myself I would have had enough to take some home for lunch today. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of the food. I have paid more for food that wasn't as good. The wait staff and everyone was so friendly and nice. They also have some very good martini's. Loved the olive in the pear martini. This is one place I can bring friends to without having to say well it's good for Malden...it's just good for any where.
(5)Ken L.
3.5 stars - but closer to 4 than 3. positives: Food is pretty good. Service is as well. Went there for dinner with another couple. My buddy and I got the steak - I thought it was pretty good. My wife got some shrimp dish and she said it was "o.k.". My buddy's wife got the eggplant dish and liked it. The ice cream sandwich desert is a bit misleading. It's cookie sandwiches. None of us liked it (it was huge and enough for 4, too bad it kinda sucks). Everything else was good. Martinis were all a hit - they're the bigger martinis no the joke tiny things that some places try and sell you. I had a dirty martini which was really good and another pepper and olive with blue cheese martini. I didn't love that one. Wife got a cosmo kind of martini and loved it. Buddy and wife were having the pineapple infused ones - she loved, he said it was a girl martini (then why'd you get two, bro??). Lol check it out - prices are pretty good, food is pretty good, drinks are solid, overall a fun atmosphere...
(4)Joe D.
First time, food was good... every time after, it was bland and not worth it.
(3)Ricky B.
Went there recently on a Wednesday evening and had a wonderful dining experience. Friendly, attentive staff and the food was great! I had a 10 oz. Prime Rib that came with a side of Lobster/Shrimp Ricotta pie...I have never had it and never even thought about the combo but damn! It was DEEE-licious! Higly recommend ESB!!!
(4)Lauren W.
I was very confused by this restaurant. It seems misplaced. The food was delicious. The service was good. The prices are high. The ambiance reminded me of a Mediterranean restaurant I went to in Greece but a cheap version of it. If I'm craving expensive food while in Malden I'll definitely come back here.
(3)Lisa E.
Ok where do I start? I usually love this place! They have the tequilla I drink and their food is out of this world, such a hidden gem for malden, but last night I felt almost broken up with. As a bartender employed in a pretty well known resteraunt I realize it may be easy to be a little overly critical, but I usually take that into account because I understand the inner workings of the industry and know how some nights can be. Last night was a complete bust...with everything. First off I ordered my go to drink, milagro anejo straight up..now any other seasoned server that I know that gets an order for a straight up drink knows the drink should either be in a martini glass or snifter...maybe even scotch glass..I received it in a shot glass. Tequilla doesn't mean shot all of the time. Some people enjoy tequilla as they do wine, ports, scotch, or some other cordial. I hate to be difficult because I know how it feels but only when its unjustified..this was COMPLETELY justified..sooo I asked very politely if I could change it to a snifter. In between the time I asked him that and the time I got it again it was chilled..which I specifically told him I didn't want. I know that sometimes servers don't have the alcohol knowledge of their bartender counterparts so I understood when he replied,"but that's what u asked for" after I had my first sip and politely said mmmm Yah this doesn't taste like what I asked for, slightly cold and verrrrrry diluted, usually the result of a shaken drink. At this point, I feel like I have to prove myself, opting to go to a sister bartender to explain my desires. Oh he said chilled she replied...but almost like she was annoyed that I had challenged her..I'm sorry honey but I work in a tequilla bar where I know the notes, ages and even barrels each tequilla is born in..I'm not challenging you to be a jerk...I just want what I want...which is USUALLY why I come there, even recommend it to MY customers.. even though the bartenders' drinks haven't been that consistent...maybe high turnover..not sure. Drinks aside, when I get people talking at my bar about the food we don't offer I push them towards Exchange. Hoping whatever new guy they have back there can really pull it together for them..or maybe it was just an off night. Coconut rum shrimp and gorgonzola and steak (hangar) with warm bacon vinigrette complete hit, on target as usual...but short rib risotto big F. Way tooooo salty..almost not palettable..risotto was soupy. So for now putting my recommendations on pause and hoping they pull it together for a big win because I usually really love this place. Manager comped prior chilled drinks, but I was going in there with mad money to spend and really didn't want that. Just wanted some nice tequilla and great dinner. Apparently they're out of that bottle now anyway..here's to hoping the bartender wasn't shaking it like that to save what she had. :P feel jipped and dumped..hoping things are better next time..
(3)D P.
I have been going to Exchange Street Bistro since they opened up in Malden. Positive: Great Ambience. Stylish, clean, modern. Drinks are great. Why 2 stars? Well, this place has a newer chef and the food is just not the same. For years, I would have given 5 stars because the food was so good. Having gone a lot of times, I have tried all varieties of food and I used to agree with their advertisement --'back bay experience with neighborhood prices'. Last two time I went back, I realized how the quality of food has detoriated ,so I am going to stay away from it for a while.
(2)samantha m.
I had seen ads for this place a lot and was excited I found a restaurant.com deal. My boyfriend and I went there later on a Tuesday, thought the menu looked great. The dining experience went downhill from then on. Service was lax at best, no menu knowledge, forgot to bring items we asked for multiple times. To top it off on one of the meals ordered we had asked for no mushrooms, to be told after waiting 30 min the Steak Wellington had mushrooms cooked into it. We decided to just pick them out as we were tired of waiting only to realize as the waitress took her time figuring out the entree screw up the entrees had been sitting in the window and the sides were cold and very disappointing for how small the steak was and how much it was. After sending them back we finished the rest and when they finally came back they were a more raw form of their disappointing selves. The manager was nice but didn't really offer anything other than a complimentary dessert which we decided to take (better than nothing though after 15 minutes of waiting we just wanted to leave) only to find out when we got home that it was pathetic in size and about as good as the sides (the teaspoon of ice cream that accompanied the minisule apple crisp fit in a plastic ramikin.... Hoping this was an isolated experience, but sadly we won't be back.
(1)s b.
nice meeting spot, for drinks, just apps, or a full meal. it's nice to have such a place that's local and with pretty easy parking. i've enjoyed the food a lot, especially the broccoli rabe and asiago eggroll things. some items can be [unexpectedly/inexplicably] pricey -- i nearly fell off my seat when we got our bill and found out our app sampler cost $21.
(4)Jason D.
This is a really cool place that's definitely not what you expect to find in Malden. It's a very hip, well-decorated restaurant with a slightly higher end menu (lots of wines, a big martini menu, higher end food) that's more in line with what you'd expect to find in Boston. We went for brunch and each thing we tried was excellent (Cobb Salad, Stuffed French Toast, and Western Omelette) and the presentation was as impressive as the decor. It was quiet (and not very busy) when we went. Service was good. I'd definitely go back and would recommend it to anyone living in the northern suburbs who is looking for a "downtown" type place in our neighborhood.
(5)Wayne M.
First off it's a beautiful place and I've always had very friendly and wonderful waitpersons there. Even when there's a problem they clear it up. At one point I had to wait about 15 minutes just to order a drink. The waitress came up, apologized profusely and gave me my first drink free of charge cause of the wait! The tables are good-sized, the atmosphere is OK and the food is OK. Nothing great but OK. On the other hand--the tables in the back are scary. Badly lit and quite dark. They have about three TVs on blaring loudly at times. The martini bar can get LOUD! One night there was so much screaming and laughing I could barely think. Also the food is over priced. Yes it's good but not THAT good! It's best for groups too. I go out to eat alone. They've always immediately cleared a whole table for me but I feel kind of funny. So it IS good but over priced and a little too loud.
(2)BonBon H.
Awesome place! The happy hour specials are great from 4-7! There are dollar oysters and appetizers. Although the portions are small, they taste fantastic and go wonderfully with any of their five dollar martinis, four dollar wine, or three dollar beers! The oysters were fresh and juicy and the appetizers were quite flavorfull! The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing, especially after a long day at work. I would go back everyday just for the martinis and oysters! The people are so friendly as well. My boyfriend went there for the first time and ordered a regular specialty martini mistaking it for five dollars and when the check came and he told the bartender, he just changed the price of the drink to five bucks! The customer service is pretty great. The only thing I found a little disappointing was the portions of the appetizers because it was one crab cake for a dollar or one eggroll for a dollar. But the taste was good.
(4)Kristen L.
I have only been here once and I was really surprised at the atmosphere once I had walked in. within the area of Malden it is not exactly your upscale side of town, but once you go beyond the other side of the cool little wooden door that blends into the restaurant, you feel as tho your in another world away from Malden. somewhere really quaint and comfortable . the lighting is very low and intimate you can really enjoy the company of others here.drinks are good and the food portions are very nice and tasty as well. so if you feel like you wanna get away but do not want to go too far, come here and for me I was in another place once i sat down at the Exchange Street Bistro.
(5)Michael C.
We just ate at Exchange Street Bistro for the first time. Our impression is that it's okay, but there's no compelling reason to return. Appetizers: The hog wings (pork shanks) were actually quite good--quite possibly the highlight of the meal. The "jumbo" shrimp cocktail was anything but. For the $12 price tag, we'd recommend skipping it. Entrees: The baked haddock could have been very good, but the temperature of the dish was a little too cool. The steak frites was decent, but one piece of meat was terribly undercooked and the frites were a little bit soggy. (I think serving the beef on top of the fries was a bad call.) Overall, adequate. But there are too many better places to spend money on a second meal here.
(2)Najely S.
I've been here a few times for dinner and brunch, loved it! The food and decor are great. It certainly doesn't feel like you are in Malden once you step inside. It's beautiful and comfortable and always hopping with people.
(4)Sarah A.
Since moving up north of Boston, this has been a frequent haunt for us (myself and my husband). It was recommended by my sister's boyfriend, and has never once disappointed us. Their Elderflower martini is out of this world, they rotate the menu, their state is friendly, service is good, and best of all---they are a short walk from the Malden Center T stop on the orange line. That means an extra martini since driving is not a concern (though there is validated parking available, and some street parking if you're lucky). A true neighborhood gem.
(4)Cee D.
Really 3.5 stars. This restaurant has an interesting layout and decor. I liked that the bar did not have a TV right in front of it. Might be nice for a drink with friends. We had dinner. Seated immediately and water poured as we sat down, which was nice. Tried the calamari and the onion soup. Onion soup was nice. Calamari was cooked well and tasty, but overdressed with the tartar style sauce. Entrees were pan seared scallops over lobster ravioli and the rack of lamb. Wife said scallops were cooked perfectly but a little salty, and she likes salt. The rack of lamb was overseasoned on the rosemary, and a little fatty, but were also cooked perfectly. So, it seems that everything is cooked well but overseasoned. A less heavy handed chef might pull another star. The only real complaint was the goat cheese whipped potatoes that came with the lamb. I would never pair these two foods. Overall good service. We were too full for dessert. Worth a try if you are in the downtown Malden area.
(3)Christina O.
I could not be happier with this place! Their portion sizes are huge, prices are fair, martinis are delicious, and service is greaT! Their tomato basil soup is UNBELIEVABLE- you need to go in and try it immediately! I love the goat cheese thin crust pizza with arugala, and I have ordered their salmon and it was delicious. Unfortunately they discontinued their butternut squash raviolis, which were amazing as well! This place has a downtown-Boston feel without the prices or crowds. Everyone is nice, and you will not be dissapointed!
(5)rex w.
Pleasant atmosphere, and a menu that seems promising. But the food is not all that great, and mostly a disappointment. Been there twice and both times found the food to be blah. One bright spot: deserts are great.
(2)Justine D.
Well, I think the fact that there's a legitimately classy place for quality martinis in Malden is a miracle. And this place is it. Malden is the town I live in and I think it's basically pretty divy, but at least Exchange Street doesn't disappoint. You can get a lovely, pretty sugar-rimmed martini, or a more manly type of beverage, with friendly service. And the clientele seem pretty decent, too. Also conveniently located by the Malden Center T. My only gripe is that it is a bit pricey, esp. being in Malden...
(4)Tracey F.
The food at Exchange Street is consistly good. We have eaten there several times and the food and drinks have always been great.
(5)Julie E.
Exchange Street is the first of two really fantastic Malden restaurants, the other being All Seasons. While rather expensive, the quality of food is excellent and they serve a Sunday brunch that is worth checking out. Their cocktails are well made and they have a lively bar crowd. The decor is simply beautiful. Service has been mixed during the many times I've eaten here. Definitely worth driving to!
(4)Welton B.
The menu here is great, and they get points for trying. The presentation is also fantastic. The food, however, was somehow mildly disappointing. You certainly get what you pay for--the portions are much larger than I expected, considering the type of food. But I thought it was all somewhat bland. I had the Jumbo Crab Cake, and it was very good, accompanied by lemon aioli and a mild marinara sauce, both of which were adequate. Then I had the Pan-Seared Scallop over Lobster Ravioli. The raviolis had more lobster meat and flavor than I had expected, and the scallops were very well-prepared, but they were missing some kind of sizzle. I just wanted to be more excited about the meal--there was something lacking. More seasoning would have helped. I'm no chef, that's why I pay to go to places like this. It was all presented beautifully, and skillfully prepared, but it needed some kind of spark. As for the ambience, I found it a bit noisy. Why do all these new restaurants discard any attempt at intimacy? It has the look of a converted warehouse with fancy trimming pasted over the walls, and the lights turned down so you can't see the imperfections. All in all, I'd recommend it to try, but I probably won't be going again.
(3)Nathan M.
Exchange street has continued to improve since first opening up this summer. As a new Maldenite, we've tried ESB several times and it is always worth going to. For the quality of food, the price cannot be beat and though not an extensive wine list, the selections are all very good. There newest tapas plate is always good; blue cheese butter covered NY strip is excellent; duck confit pizza is also excellent. Definitely worth a try if you venture to Malden.
(5)Rafael S.
great service, food is really good too, and a great option for malden, i highly recommend it!!!!!!
(4)Nichan S.
Stopped by the restaurant on a Sunday around 3 p.m. which ended up being between their lunch and dinner menu so only appetizers, burgers and salads were available which was mentioned by the host and our waitress. We started with the Korean BBQ Spare Ribs and while the flavor of the was fantastic the ribs were forgettable as they were tough and did not have much meat on them. My companion and I both ordered the American Kobe burger and we both enjoyed it, the burger was prepared perfectly and the accompanying french fries were superb. We opted to split a dessert and chose the Almond Crunch Tiramisu which had a nice presentation and was delicious. I had ordered a cappuccino to go along with the dessert and was disappointed, it was watery and barely warm. The host had stopped by and asked how things were between the appetizer and the burger and I did mention our disappointment with the ribs. The response was they were sorry to hear that. I would expect an offer to remove them from the bill or a suggestion to try a dessert on the restaurant. The gesture itself would convince me to give the restaurant another shot. They advertise heavily and have some great specials but need to take service up a bit. As for the restaurant itself it is modern and has a nice bar area and is handicap accessible with a ramp that leads into the dining area from the street.
(3)Brooke L.
LOVE THE FOOD, LOVE THE DRINKS, LOVE THE STAFF! I'm from Malden and I'm not going to go into how this is "good for Malden" crap that has been the consensus for the entire page of reviews. Truth is its just good! I've gone multiple times with friends, my brother and ex's :) and each time it has been nothing but the best. Whoever designed the place was genius because if you have ever worked in the restaurant business you are familiar with those haunting words..."oh, can we have a booth?" The front of the restaurant is all booths so its difficult to be disappointed. As far as food goes its all excellent. Definitely try the broccoli rabe and provolone app, and if they have a buffalo entree special, get it! The bar is always packed and they play upbeat music. Drinks are VERY tasty and I am absolutely in love with the staff! I probably go once or twice a month and every time they see my face they light up with a smile and ask how I've been.
(5)bella c.
dont bother, food is bland and lame!
(1)chris j.
this place is great. little pricey but worth the trip. considering its in malden it does great always busy and great people at the bar. food has an ethnic touch. not a big meat eater so the seafood tapas are always great and the tuna was seared to perfection. check it out
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