The eternal question…how to decide where to eat in Salem, MA. I draw a lot of inspiration for content from repeat questions I see over in my Facebook group. One of the top three most commonly asked is about food, where to eat, best places to eat, etc. So today on the blog I wanted to offer some insight into how to decide where to eat in the witch city. Keep in mind this is just my two cents on the matter.
It’s actually kind of hard to go wrong
In my experience, it’s kind of hard to go wrong. The food in Salem varies so wildly and pulls influence from so many different styles…I honestly have never sat down somewhere and had a meal where I thought “wow that was awful”. I mean that truly with my entire heart. There are so many options it makes it easy to find things you’ll probably like.
If you follow a specific diet or have dietary restrictions
If you’re gluten free, there are options here for that. If you’re on a diet and looking for healthy options, there are restaurants here for that. If you have issues with dairy or are vegan and need a restaurant that is flexible…yup. Salem has options for everyone. Some google research will help you out as will the following links.
Related:
Vegetarian or vegan options in Salem, MA
Healthy food ideas in Salem, MA
Price points vary
If you’re with a large group or family and need budget friendly options, you can eat affordably. If you have no budget and want to go fancy, you can do that too. Salem has restaurants that will fit whatever your wallet needs.
Speaking of family friendly
If you’re bringing the kiddos and need restaurants that are cool with that, you’re all set. Most restaurants are fine with kids, however the following link will help you with kid friendly activities, food and more.
Related:
Blog post roundup: Kid friendly Salem, MA
New restaurants move into Salem often
Salem welcomes new businesses and restaurants into the city quite often. Keep your ear to the ground (or your eyes on my blog) and you’ll see new announcements popping up all the time.
Related:
Welcome to Salem (search result)
If you’re visiting in October
I have mentioned this before in other posts but if you’re visiting in October, please, please, please have extra patience with the businesses and restaurants you visit. Your server is likely running around like crazy, there will be lines and wait times to get a table and it’s going to be generally crowded. Have patience, tip appropriately and understand this is the busiest time of year in Salem.
Related:
On visiting Salem, MA (especially during October)
10 Quick food options in Salem, MA
My personal favorites
Okay so….drum roll please. The following is a list of my personal favorites in Salem. These foods are consistently a go-to for me and I have ordered them all many times.
- Burgers from Brodie’s Seaport
- Iced coffee from Brew Box
- Harvest Moon latte from Jaho
- Egg white and veggie scramble from Ugly Mug
- Cheese omelette and bacon from Fountain Place
- Salmon from Turner’s Seafood
- Shrimp Cesar salad from Brodie’s Seaport
- Fish and chips from O’neills
- Cookies from Goodnight Fatty
Related:
My five must visit restaurants in Salem, MA – Update #5
I hope this helped!! Comment below with your own favorites around Salem, I’d love to read them. Enjoy!! <3
Recommended reading | You might also like…
- Food in Salem, MA — A chat with William Legault of the Salem Digest
- Things to do in Salem — The guide