A Delicious Day in London Town

Inspired by England’s historic train station of the same name, Victoria Station is a festive and fun restaurant found on the harbor’s edge of Salem, Massachusetts. Themes are carried throughout the dining hall and deck, featuring boxcars, a train’s caboose, a classic London phone booth and railroad artifacts. While maintaining a historic aestheticism, this restaurant stays current, recently receiving three of the 2012 Best of the Northshore awards as well as an award from Boston magazine’s “Best of Boston 2012.” But don’t worry, the London décor does not carry through to the menu. The cuisine is authentic New England style, including steakhouse and seafood specialties and an all-you-can-eat salad bar built into the wooden frame of the “boathouse.” Though it’s a bit pricey for the average college budget, it’s a good choice for the occasional splurge or for impressing that “good friend” of your's.  Entrée prices for the dinner menu range from $16 to $29. If that’s too steep for your wallet, a bowl of their amazing New England clam chowder is a fair $6. Lunch options are also more reasonable,ranging from $10 to $14. But if you’re able to spend the cash, the fork-tender Boneless Braised Short Ribs or the Lobster Mac’ and Cheese is worth every penny! The “boat” even has a deck that visitors may dine on during the warm seasons. Tapping into the local Halloween festivities, Victoria Station recently held the2012 Zombie Prom event. On Friday, October 26, visitors were welcomed into the restaurant by costumed hosts and hostesses where they had their prom photos taken before their meal. Giveaways and prizes were awarded as well as the crowning of this year’s King and Queen. Throughout the night, Boston’s local Ross Livermore Band played live music for guests and zombies alike. It can be hard to choose where to dine in downtown Salem. There are so many festive and unique restaurants. Victoria Station is a fun pick for waterfront dining. The nostalgic experience of this restaurant is enjoyable even if you’ve never stepped on London’s original platform.