I want to start by saying the food here is absolutely amazing. Always fresh, tasty, coffee is good and everyone is friendly including the permanent fixtures (the regulars). This review doesn’t reflect the food at all just the experience.
I think this place is usually 5 stars in my book it really is. But this is a no star/1 star experience. I just would hate to bring down the rating of a good place. But I do want to be heard on this.
Today I walked in and was greeted, and asked if I needed a seat or if I would be ordering takeout. I let her know takeout. She asked if I needed a minute and I did. She continued on her way and told me to let her know. A second waitress let me know about the takeout window outside. (I had come in the other door and had no clue about it) and sent me outside to order. Mind you it’s 48 degrees this morning. I waited for about 5/6 minutes behind someone else. And then the waitress who sent me outside took my order I handed her my card and paid. 10.70 and I tipped $2.
She said it’d be right out, so I sat next to the window mind you you can see their bench from the window and she knows I’m outside waiting. 8:19 I ordered and paid. 8:49 I am still waiting. Another women came up to the window said she just ordered and knew it would be a minute. But lo and behold hers was right there ready to go.
The waitress who rang her out (different from who took my order) asked my name and said my order was ready. 8:51 that is 32 minutes for a bacon egg and cheese on an English and some home fries. She bagged it handed me the check and I let her know I already paid. I grabbed the bag and walked to my car. Now I was already in somewhat of a rush because at this point I’m going to be late for work.
The waitress who bagged my order is coming out the restaurant looking for me. Telling me I haven’t paid. Good thing I took the receipt for once. I hand her the receipt and let her know she can keep it. She saw I was upset and asked me the issue as I am trying to leave.
I gave her the gist of it. Being told to go outside when it’s cold waiting over 30 minutes for a quick sandwich and then being chased down and accused of not paying. It’s demeaning and embarrassing and for someone who is already having an awful day it just was the icing on the cake.
I know the owner looks at these so I just want to apologize ahead of time to the waitress who came out to me I did not mean to curse in speaking with you but it wasn’t at you and it was rude of me. She did mention the owner would want to talk but being late to work and all that was just enough.
I really won’t ever come back to here which is a disappointment because their food is great. But just a demeaning and embarrassing situation I’d never like to...
Read moreI've been looking for a new breakfast place in the South Shore for a while. Google Maps sent me to Mal's and now I understand why it gets such great reviews! This is going to be my family's regular spot.
The pancakes are TO DIE FOR -- buttery but not greasy, with pillowy centers and perfectly crispy edges. I got mine with bananas & chocolate chips. Loved them so much that I forgot to add maple syrup (that never happens). Also had a delicious yogurt parfait with very fresh and sweet fruit. My husband had the biscuits with gravy and eggs Benedict -- said they were fantastic!
Let me tell you what else sets this place apart from most restaurants:
They're quick with their service. We ordered our food and got it so quickly we were surprised. Every table did. I looked around and as busy as the place was, the kitchen and waiters were on top of everything.
The place is very clean. They even have a small silver bowl on each table where you can throw out your trash as you eat. I've never seen that. Appreciate it.
The owner Mal is a sweetheart. She came to our table to greet us and made sure to say bye. She was authentically friendly. Her staff -- all of the folks -- were super nice and helpful (they help each other with all the tables). You can tell that everyone there is a hard worker. They're exceptional at customer service.
When we paid the bill, they added a little business card to the receipt. The card was about ways to show kindness to other people. I loved this little touch because it just added to the calm, happy, and relaxing vibe of the restaurant.
Do yourself a favor and go to Mal's. And make sure you get...
Read moreToday was our second time at Mal’s Kitchen and honestly, what I’m about to say doesn’t make enough justice to the place. Mal, I work in the industry and I’m conscious about how much service and food quality has decay lately, so, it’s been such a good surprise to me finding this cozy small place that offers way too much. First, all the small details that you have all around the place makes me feel how important it is to you and to all the people that work there. Second, the staff, WOW, you know you’re lucky, right?! Those ladies are non-stop!!! Caring, mindful, courteous! I really feel cared when I’m having my breakfast. Third, the food, WOW! I cannot believe it you only have one cook and she does it ALL! My recognition to her, she’s always smiling and taking care of each plate to satisfy all the customers! And last but not least, you. You make me feel like home and we’re grateful for that. I have nothing but the best wishes to you and your Kitchen! More years to come, I won’t stop visiting!!! PS: I’m Gluten Free and they have PLENTY options for me, for those who were wondering!...
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