So you’re hard pressed to find someone in Adelaide who hasn’t heard of Burger Theory. Believe me, they do exist and I’ve met a few of them, but they’re a pretty rare species. You might be more likely to find someone who hasn’t heard of Pearl’s Diner. Funnily enough they’re both the work of the brilliant boys Dan & Rob from Burger Theory, but at Pearl’s Diner they join forces with the equally brilliant Aurélie from La Waffle.
The result is a small suburban diner in the unlikely spot of Felixstow, and most days and nights that it’s open it’s filled to the brim.
I’ve been twice now, and I have to admit, I’m a little in love. The menu is pretty basic, much like on the Burger Theory truck, and while the new additions are pretty simple each has it’s purpose. There are those that visit with an undying loyalty to the Burger, but trust me it’s worth branching out and trying it all.
The chili is warm and hearty, perfect for winter, the burgers are as tasty as always and the chips have improved ten-fold. The buttermilk fried chicken is also the best fried chicken I’ve ever tried. It’s not greasy and it’s nice and crispy, if you order a full serve you get some slaw as well but the wing pictured is just a side.
There is one menu item that has stolen my heart, run away with it, and buried it underground in a secret lair – the pork bun with 14hour smoked Berkshire pork.
Seriously it’s hard to resist buying up 100 of these and attempting my own sole-contender pork bun eating contest. From the bun to the pork, it all just melts away in your mouth. Soft, juicy, barbequey, and all round deliciously moreish.
Finally the waffles. La Waffle waffles are the best I’ve ever tasted, and they’re in their full glory here. It’s a lot easier to appreciate a waffle in a diner than it is trying to balance a paper plate on your knee. My only comment is that I think there should be two to a serve, although after 100 pork buns I think I’d have difficulty squeezing in two waffles.
If you head along expect crowds, but also expect delicious comfort food from two of Adelaide’s favourite street food vendors.
Want more convincing? I’ve rounded up a few other reviews just to make you wish you were there now.
Travelling in Mary Janes
D Bites
Weekend Notes (by Hannah)
The Lonely Plate
Liz Bakes Cakes
The Thousands
