Salem, Massachusetts, is a city steeped in history and mystery, attracting millions of visitors each year. From the infamous Salem Witch Trials to the iconic House of the Seven Gables, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming coastal town. But when it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Salem has a lot more to offer than just its famous clam chowder and lobster rolls. From farm-to-table eateries to historic taverns, and from fine dining to casual eats, Salem’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Salem, highlighting the best places to eat in this historic city.
Salem’s Historic Eats
Salem’s historic district is home to some of the city’s oldest and most beloved eateries. The Finz Seafood & Grill, located on the waterfront, is a popular spot for fresh seafood and stunning harbor views. The Lobster Shanty, another historic eatery, serves up classic New England fare like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fish and chips. For a taste of the city’s colonial past, head to the Salem Willows Arcade and Park, which offers a variety of classic arcade games and a snack bar serving up burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream.
The Lobster Shanty
The Lobster Shanty is a Salem institution, serving up fresh seafood in a cozy, nautical-themed setting. The menu features a variety of seafood options, including lobster rolls, fish and chips, and clam chowder. Be sure to try their famous “Lobster Shanty” sandwich, featuring a generous portion of lobster meat served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. With its rich history and delicious food, The Lobster Shanty is a must-visit for any foodie or history buff.
The Finz Seafood & Grill
The Finz Seafood & Grill is another historic Salem eatery, located on the waterfront with stunning views of the harbor. The menu features a variety of seafood options, including fresh fish, lobster, and shellfish. Be sure to try their famous “Finz” burger, featuring a juicy patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. With its upscale atmosphere and delicious food, The Finz Seafood & Grill is a great spot for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Farm-to-Table Eats
Salem is also home to a number of farm-to-table eateries, offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative menu options. The Farm Bar & Grille, located in the heart of Salem, features a menu that changes seasonally, with dishes like roasted beet salad, grilled chicken, and pan-seared salmon. The Whistling Oyster, another farm-to-table eatery, offers a variety of seafood options, including oysters, lobster, and fish and chips. For a taste of the city’s local agriculture, head to the Salem Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday morning from May to November.
The Farm Bar & Grille
The Farm Bar & Grille is a popular spot for farm-to-table cuisine, featuring a menu that changes seasonally. The menu is divided into small plates, sandwiches, and entrees, with dishes like roasted beet salad, grilled chicken, and pan-seared salmon. Be sure to try their famous “Farm Burger,” featuring a juicy patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. With its cozy atmosphere and creative menu options, The Farm Bar & Grille is a great spot for a casual dinner or lunch. (See Also: Where to Eat Steak in Singapore? Ultimate Guide)
The Whistling Oyster
The Whistling Oyster is another farm-to-table eatery, offering a variety of seafood options. The menu features dishes like oysters, lobster, and fish and chips, as well as non-seafood options like burgers and salads. Be sure to try their famous “Oyster Po’ Boy,” featuring a generous portion of oysters served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce. With its upscale atmosphere and delicious seafood options, The Whistling Oyster is a great spot for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Casual Eats
Salem is also home to a number of casual eateries, offering everything from classic burgers and sandwiches to ethnic cuisine. The Salem Diner, located on the city’s main street, is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, featuring dishes like pancakes, waffles, and omelets. The Howling Wolf Taqueria, another casual eatery, offers a variety of Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. For a taste of the city’s international cuisine, head to the Salem International Cafe, featuring dishes like falafel, gyro, and shawarma.
The Salem Diner
The Salem Diner is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, featuring a menu that includes classic dishes like pancakes, waffles, and omelets. Be sure to try their famous “Salem Diner” sandwich, featuring a juicy patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, The Salem Diner is a great spot for a casual meal.
The Howling Wolf Taqueria
The Howling Wolf Taqueria is a popular spot for Mexican cuisine, featuring a menu that includes dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Be sure to try their famous “Howling Wolf” burrito, featuring a generous portion of carne asada, beans, and cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla. With its lively atmosphere and delicious food, The Howling Wolf Taqueria is a great spot for a casual dinner or lunch. (See Also: Where to Eat in London Cheap? Budget Friendly Options)
Recap
Salem, Massachusetts, is a city with a rich history and a diverse culinary scene. From farm-to-table eateries to historic taverns, and from fine dining to casual eats, there’s something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, creative menu options, or classic New England fare, Salem has it all. In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the best places to eat in Salem, from The Finz Seafood & Grill to The Farm Bar & Grille, and from The Salem Diner to The Howling Wolf Taqueria. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a great meal, Salem is a city that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to eat in Salem for seafood?
A: The Finz Seafood & Grill is a popular spot for fresh seafood, featuring a menu that includes dishes like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and clam chowder. The Lobster Shanty is another great option, serving up classic New England fare like lobster rolls and clam chowder.
Q: What is the best place to eat in Salem for farm-to-table cuisine?
A: The Farm Bar & Grille is a popular spot for farm-to-table cuisine, featuring a menu that changes seasonally and includes dishes like roasted beet salad, grilled chicken, and pan-seared salmon. The Whistling Oyster is another great option, offering a variety of seafood options and creative menu options.
Q: What is the best place to eat in Salem for a casual meal?
A: The Salem Diner is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, featuring classic dishes like pancakes, waffles, and omelets. The Howling Wolf Taqueria is another great option, offering a variety of Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
Q: What is the best place to eat in Salem for a special occasion?
A: The Finz Seafood & Grill is a great spot for a special occasion, featuring an upscale atmosphere and delicious seafood options. The Whistling Oyster is another great option, offering a variety of seafood options and creative menu options. (See Also: Where to Eat in Madrid 2024? Foodie Guide)
Q: What is the best place to eat in Salem for a romantic dinner?
A: The Whistling Oyster is a great spot for a romantic dinner, featuring an upscale atmosphere and delicious seafood options. The Finz Seafood & Grill is another great option, offering a variety of seafood options and creative menu options.