Prince Edward Island (PEI) offers a unique dining experience with its train station restaurants. These establishments blend historical charm with modern culinary delights, providing visitors with a taste of the island’s rich railway heritage and local flavors. Two notable train station restaurants in PEI are the Island Stone Pub in Kensington and the Cardigan Station, each offering distinct menus and atmospheres that reflect the island’s culture and cuisine.
What Are the Must-Visit Train Station Restaurants in PEI?
Island Stone Pub
Located in the historic Kensington Train Station, the Island Stone Pub is a culinary gem that shouldn’t be missed. Here’s what you need to know:
- Address: 62 Broadway Street, Kensington, PEI
- Seating Capacity: 55 seats
- Kitchen Hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
Menu Highlights:
- Locally sourced ingredients, including PEI potatoes
- Hand-dipped beer-battered fish
- Burgers and pub fare
- Specialty fries made from local Island potatoes
- Seafood chowder
- Fish and chips
- House-made fry dips
- Garlic-parm wings
The Island Stone Pub also caters to various dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Cardigan Station
Situated in the old train station in Cardigan, about 40 minutes from Charlottetown, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience:
- Location: Old train station in Cardigan
- Menu: Vegetarian-friendly, changes weekly
- Atmosphere: Multiple dining areas, including indoor and outdoor seating, and a separate pub space
Menu Highlights:
- Savoury carrot hummus
- Tofu and cheese veggie sandwiches
- Peanut sauce over soba noodles
- Variety of beverages, including patio beers
Cardigan Station emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients, focusing on vegetarian options.
What Makes These Train Station Restaurants Unique?
Historical Significance
Both restaurants are housed in restored train stations, offering diners a glimpse into PEI’s railway history. The Island Stone Pub, located in the Kensington Train Station, and Cardigan Station, set in the old Cardigan train depot, provide a nostalgic atmosphere that complements the dining experience.
Local Flavors and Ingredients
These establishments pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients:
- Island Stone Pub:
- PEI potatoes for their famous fries
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Fresh seafood for chowder and fish dishes
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Cardigan Station:
- Seasonal, locally-sourced produce
- Emphasis on vegetarian and plant-based options
Ambiance and Setting
| Restaurant | Setting | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Island Stone Pub | Historic Kensington Train Station | Cozy 55-seat dining area |
| Cardigan Station | Old Cardigan train depot | Multiple dining areas, including outdoor seating and a separate pub space |
How Do Customer Reviews Rate These Train Station Restaurants?
Island Stone Pub
Customer reviews for the Island Stone Pub are generally positive:
- Food Quality: High praise for seafood dishes, especially chowder and fish and chips
- Service: Described as friendly and attentive
- Atmosphere: Appreciated for its historic charm
Some reviewers noted:
– Fresh and well-constructed salads
– Prompt and friendly service
– Occasional mixed reviews on certain menu items
Cardigan Station
Cardigan Station has received positive feedback from diners:
- Menu Variety: Appreciated for its diverse vegetarian-friendly options
- Food Quality: High satisfaction with menu items, particularly vegetarian dishes
- Service: Welcoming staff with careful attention to customers
- Setting: Praised for its unique atmosphere in a restored train station
What Amenities and Facilities Do These Train Station Restaurants Offer?
Island Stone Pub
- Parking: Available (specifics not detailed)
- Accessibility: Located in a historic building, which may present challenges for some mobility devices
- Beverages: Complementary wine list and changing local beers on draught
Cardigan Station
- Parking: Available, with a ramp from one parking area for partial accessibility
- Accessibility: Partly-accessible with a ramp, but old building doorways may challenge some mobility devices
- Dining Areas: Multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, including a separate pub area
- Events: Offers special events and drink suggestions
How Do These Restaurants Contribute to PEI’s Culinary Scene?
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Preservation of History: By repurposing historic train stations, these restaurants help preserve PEI’s railway heritage.
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Showcase of Local Ingredients: Both establishments highlight PEI’s local produce and seafood, supporting local farmers and fisheries.
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Diverse Culinary Offerings:
- Island Stone Pub focuses on traditional pub fare with a local twist
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Cardigan Station offers innovative vegetarian options
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Year-round Dining: Cardigan Station’s commitment to remain open through December provides off-season dining options for locals and visitors.
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Tourist Attractions: These unique dining experiences attract food enthusiasts and history buffs alike, contributing to PEI’s tourism industry.
By combining historical settings with modern culinary trends, train station restaurants in PEI offer a unique dining experience that celebrates the island’s past while embracing its present. Whether you’re craving traditional pub fare or seeking vegetarian delights, these establishments provide a taste of PEI’s rich culinary landscape in unforgettable settings.
References:
1. Island Stone Pub Official Website
2. Tripadvisor Review – Island Stone Pub
3. Cardigan Station Review