7 Best Beer & Cocktail Spots In Salem, MA

We all know how much pirates enjoy their drinks – especially rum! If visiting Real Pirates has you thirsting for a few adult beverages, we don’t blame you. Below, you’ll find a few key spots in Salem within walking distance to grab a few drinks with your friends and family (those 21+, of course!).

1. Notch Brewing

Address: 283R Derby Street

Notch Brewing is a local favorite here in Salem. The brewery offers large pours of their session-style, European-inspired craft beers. Notch is also a quick walk from Real Pirates and their patio offers fantastic views of the Salem Harbor. A couple of pints on the waterfront? Who could ask for more?

2. The Roof

Address: 209 Essex Street

The Roof is another local favorite, especially when it comes to grabbing a few drinks and taking in a beautiful view. The rooftop bar offers a great selection of craft cocktails, local beer on tap and cans, and wine selection. Come for the drinks, stay for the view.

3. Olde Main Street Pub

Address: 121 Essex Street

Another local favorite is the Olde Main Street Pub. Here, you’ll find the traditional pub experience with a Salem, MA twist. The pub offers a wide selection of craft beers on tap and bottles and cans. The pub also creates fantastic witch-inspired cocktails, such as the Poison Apple and the Witching Hour, among classic favorites. You will also find a great selection of wines, whiskey, and scotch.

4. Rockafellas

Address: 231 Essex Street

Rockafellas is also a fantastic local spot to grab a few pints and libations (and the food is pretty great as well). Cocktails include a Strawberry Negroni, Honey Lavender Lemondrop Martini, the Salem Witch, The Essex, and the Mango Habanero Paloma. And if you’re brave enough, you might even dare to take on the infamous Helltini.

5. O’Neills Pub & Restaurant

Address: 120 Washington Street

O’Neills Pub & Restaurant is everything you love about a traditional Irish pub and more! The pub’s draft beer menu is extensive, featuring over 20 beers on tap – yes, that includes Guinness, of course. Local craft beer lovers can also find brews from Nightshift Brewing, Lord Hobo, and even O’Neill’s House Brew. The pub also offers a great selection of cocktails, martinis, and wines.

6. Opus

Address: 87 Washington Street

If craft cocktails are your style, then Opus is the spot for you. Opus has a diverse selection of handmade cocktails ready to order. These include items such as the Forest River BBQ, made with roasted jalapeno mezcal, lemon, blackberry, angostura, and tajin. And the Waikiwi Freeze, made with 3 star rum (a pirate’s favorite), opus oak reserve, lime, kiwi, dry curacao, and orgeat. Opus also features a comprehensive wine and draft beer menu. 

7. Bit Bar Salem

Address: 278 Derby Street

At the Bit Bar, you can enjoy cold drinks while playing the best classic arcade games. The barcade’s extensive games list include favorites, such as air hockey, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Pac-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Donkey Kong, Crazy Taxi, and many more. For adult beverages, you’ll find a great craft beer selection, video game and popular culture-themed cocktails (butterbeer, anyone?), and various wines. Accompanied minors (under 21) are welcome before 8 pm.