10 Must-Try Restaurants in Salem, Massachusetts
Step into Salem, Massachusetts, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with a vibrant, modern culinary scene. This enchanting city, famous for its witch trials and maritime past, now casts a spell on food lovers with its diverse array of mouthwatering offerings.
From fresh-caught seafood served in 19th-century buildings to artisanal pizzas baked in wood-fired ovens, Salem's restaurants offer a feast for both the palate and the senses. Whether you're craving authentic Italian pasta, Asian-inspired street food, or farm-to-table delights, you'll find it all in this charming New England town. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through Salem's top dining destinations, where each meal comes with a side of history and a dash of local flavor.
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure through these 10 must-try restaurants that showcase the very best of Salem's culinary magic.
01 Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall
Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall offers a captivating blend of history and culinary excellence. Housed in the former Lyceum Hall, built in 1831, this restaurant at 43 Church Street exudes charm and character. Specializing in fresh, locally sourced seafood, Turner's has become a beacon for seafood lovers in Salem.
Their award-winning New England clam chowder is a must-try, perfectly capturing the essence of coastal cuisine. The lobster rolls, bursting with succulent meat, are another crowd-pleaser. For those seeking variety, the daily specials board often features innovative dishes like Surf and Turf, combining tender grilled tenderloin with baked Lobster Pie.
The restaurant's commitment to quality extends beyond its main courses. Unique sides like Oi Muchim, a traditional Korean cucumber salad, demonstrate Turner's willingness to blend local flavors with international influences. During peak tourist season (September-October), reservations are highly recommended to secure a table in this popular establishment. With its historic ambiance and delectable offerings, Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall promises a dining experience that's both memorable and delicious.
02 Ledger Restaurant & Bar
Ledger Restaurant & Bar offers a truly unique dining experience in Salem's historic downtown. Housed in a 200-year-old former bank building at 125 Washington Street, this establishment seamlessly blends the charm of the past with modern culinary innovation.
The restaurant's focus on wood-fired cooking infuses dishes with rich, smoky flavors. A standout menu item is the 32 oz. bone-in ribeye, perfect for sharing and showcasing the kitchen's mastery of open-flame cooking. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are always at the forefront.
Ledger's bar program is equally impressive, featuring craft cocktails that pay homage to classic recipes while incorporating contemporary twists. The extensive wine list caters to both casual sippers and discerning oenophiles. For the best value, visit during happy hour (Tuesday-Friday, 4-6 PM) for discounted small plates and drinks.
The restaurant's ambiance, with its high ceilings, exposed brick, and remnants of the building's banking past, creates a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a table in this popular Salem hotspot.
03 Bella Verona
Located in the center of historic Salem at 107 Essex Street, Bella Verona provides a genuine Italian dining experience that makes guests feel as though they are in the picturesque streets of Italy. This family-owned restaurant exudes warmth and intimacy, making it perfect for romantic dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
The menu showcases handmade pasta and traditional recipes passed down through generations. A must-try dish is their homemade gnocchi with gorgonzola cream sauce, a perfect balance of pillowy potato dumplings and rich, tangy cheese. Other standout options include the osso buco and the seafood risotto, both prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
Bella Verona's BYOB policy, with a small corkage fee, allows diners to bring their favorite wines to complement their meals. This adds to the restaurant's charm and affordability, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
To fully appreciate the Bella Verona experience, consider making a reservation, especially during peak hours or tourist season. The restaurant's intimate size means tables can fill up quickly. For those seeking a taste of Italy in Salem, Bella Verona delivers authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
04 Finz Seafood & Grill
Finz Seafood & Grill offers a unique dining experience that combines stunning waterfront views with innovative seafood cuisine. Located at 76 Wharf Street, this restaurant provides diners with panoramic vistas of Salem Harbor, creating an unforgettable atmosphere, especially during sunset.
The menu at Finz expertly fuses traditional New England seafood with global flavors, offering something for every palate. Their raw bar and sushi options are particularly popular, featuring the freshest catches of the day. A must-try dish is the Lobster Rangoon, served with a tantalizing sweet chili sauce that perfectly balances the rich, creamy filling.
For those seeking a romantic evening, timing your visit to coincide with sunset is highly recommended. The golden light reflecting off the harbor creates a magical ambiance that enhances the dining experience. To ensure the best views, it's advisable to make a reservation, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Finz also caters to non-seafood lovers with prime cuts of beef and other land-based options. Their extensive wine list and creative cocktail menu complement the diverse food offerings, making it a versatile choice for various dining occasions.
05 Bambolina
Located at 288 Derby Street in a refurbished industrial area, Bambolina offers a taste of Naples in Salem with its genuine Neapolitan-style pizzas. The restaurant's centerpiece is a wood-fired oven imported directly from Italy, ensuring each pizza achieves the perfect crispy-yet-chewy crust characteristic of true Neapolitan pies.
Bambolina prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and creative toppings to craft unique flavor combinations. A standout is their "Spicy Honey" pizza, featuring soppressata and a drizzle of hot honey that balances sweetness and heat. For those with dietary restrictions, all pizzas can be made with a gluten-free crust option.
The restaurant's industrial-chic decor creates a casual yet stylish atmosphere, perfect for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. To fully appreciate Bambolina's offerings, consider visiting during off-peak hours to watch the skilled pizzaiolos at work. Their open kitchen concept allows diners to observe the artistry behind each pizza's creation.
For the best experience, pair your pizza with one of their locally brewed craft beers or a selection from their curated wine list. Bambolina's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques makes it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts in Salem.
06 Adriatic Restaurant & Bar
Adriatic Restaurant & Bar brings a taste of the Mediterranean to Salem, with a special focus on Croatian cuisine. Located at 155 Washington Street, just steps away from the Peabody Essex Museum, this family-owned establishment offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home.
The menu showcases a variety of Croatian specialties, with the standout dish being Peka - a traditional meal of meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful fare. This unique cooking method captures the essence of Croatian home cooking and is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Adriatic's extensive wine list features an impressive selection of Croatian and Italian wines, perfectly complementing the Mediterranean flavors of the food. Wine enthusiasts should take advantage of their weekly "Wine Wednesday" events, which offer discounted bottles and guided tastings, providing an excellent opportunity to explore lesser-known varietals from the region.
The restaurant's commitment to authenticity extends beyond the menu, with the welcoming staff eager to share stories and insights about Croatian culture and cuisine. This personal touch, combined with the delicious food and carefully curated wine selection, makes Adriatic Restaurant & Bar a unique and memorable dining experience in Salem.
07 Kokeshi
Kokeshi, located at 41 Lafayette Street in a former Subway sandwich shop, brings a vibrant burst of Asian-inspired street food and ramen to Salem's culinary scene. The restaurant's quirky, colorful decor creates a fun and lively atmosphere that perfectly complements its innovative menu.
A must-try dish is the "Godzilla Ramen," featuring a tender pork belly, a soft-boiled egg, and a spicy miso broth that packs a flavorful punch. The menu also offers a variety of creative bao buns, dumplings, and rice bowls, all showcasing a fusion of Asian flavors with a modern twist.
Kokeshi's bar program is equally impressive, offering craft cocktails with an Asian flair. Try their signature "Tiki Typhoon," a rum-based drink infused with tropical flavors and served in a whimsical tiki mug.
Budget-conscious diners should take advantage of Kokeshi's weekday happy hour from 3-5 PM, featuring $5 bao buns and discounted drinks. This is an excellent opportunity to sample a variety of their small plates without breaking the bank.
For the best experience, visit during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the restaurant's unique ambiance and attentive service. Kokeshi's blend of playful decor, innovative cuisine, and craft cocktails makes it a standout destination in Salem's diverse dining landscape.
08 Settler
Settler, located at 2 Lynde Street in a historic building dating back to 1816, offers a truly unique farm-to-table dining experience in Salem. This intimate restaurant, with only 20 seats, showcases the best of New England's seasonal produce and locally-sourced ingredients.
The ever-changing menu at Settler reflects the region's current harvest, ensuring each visit offers a new culinary adventure. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the chefs' artistry firsthand, creating an immersive dining experience. A special dish often features their homemade pasta with mushrooms gathered from the wild and cheese from local sources, perfectly reflecting the local flavors of New England.
To get the full experience at Settler, it's important to book your table early because of the few seats available. For those unable to secure a table, following their Instagram account is highly recommended. They regularly post daily specials and menu updates, giving food enthusiasts a tantalizing glimpse of their current offerings.
Settler's commitment to sustainability extends beyond their menu, with a focus on minimal waste and eco-friendly practices. This dedication to both environmental consciousness and culinary excellence makes Settler a must-visit for those seeking an authentic, locally-inspired dining experience in Salem.
09 Rockafellas
Rockafellas, situated at 231 Essex Street in the heart of Salem, offers a unique dining experience in a historic setting. Housed in the former Salem Savings Bank building, dating back to 1826, this restaurant seamlessly blends American cuisine with local history and modern flair.
The diverse menu at Rockafellas caters to various dietary needs, ensuring there's something for everyone. From classic comfort foods to innovative dishes, the culinary offerings reflect the vibrant spirit of Salem. A must-try is their signature "Salem Witch" cocktail, a local favorite that perfectly captures the essence of the city's infamous past.
Beyond its food and drinks, Rockafellas is known for its lively atmosphere and regular events. Thursday nights are particularly popular, featuring trivia night coupled with dinner specials. It's an excellent opportunity to test your knowledge while enjoying delicious food and drinks.
Live entertainment is another draw, with local musicians and performers often gracing the stage. This combination of good food, historic ambiance, and entertainment makes Rockafellas a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the best of Salem's dining scene.
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