Salem, MA: A Foodie’s Paradise 

If you’re someone who eats food not just out of hunger but as a hobby, Salem, Massachusetts, should be your next tasting destination. From American comfort foods to global cuisine, Salem has an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, bakeries and sweet treat shops to choose from. Delight your taste buds as you explore the spicy, tangy, and sweet side of Salem. 

Foodies rejoice as you discover one amazing dish after another in the Witch City! Ardent food lovers may have difficulty deciding where to start their food-lalapalooza, so we have broken it down for you into cuisine categories. Bon appétit!

Seafood Delight

Salem may be known for its early colonial and maritime history as well as the connection to the Salem Witch Trials, but it is also well known for its exceptional seafood. Fresh Lobster Rolls, New England Clam Chowder, Shrimp Scampi, Glazed Salmon, and a multitude of seafood options at the raw bar are just a few of the dishes you could experience at Salem’s seafood dining establishments. 

In Salem, fresh seafood often comes with spectacular views of the harbor. Visit FINZ Seafood at 86 Wharf Street and enjoy the lively waterfront scenery while dining on items from the raw bar, including the freshest local oysters, clams, chilled lobster, colossal crab, and shrimp. Right across the way, Sea Level Oyster Bar at 94 Wharf Street is also a phenomenal choice as it provides spectacular harbor scenery and an equally delicious fresh seafood menu. Known for having the best lobster roll around, Longboards at 76 Wharf Street is another option for foodies who enjoy their meal straight from the ocean. 

If you are downtown exploring the museums and shops, stop by Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall. This historic tavern offers a comprehensive menu, including the catch of the day. (And word has it, the building may be haunted!) 

Comfort Foods

Are you looking for dishes that remind you of a positive time or fill you with good feelings? Salem has many restaurants to visit if you want the comforts of home, served with a smile. From burgers to pizza and buttery mashed potatoes to cheesy pasta meals, you will want to bring your appetite as you explore the expansive list of dining establishments that offer these popular comfort foods. 

Depending on your current craving, here are a few places that will most certainly hit the spot. Enjoy some of the best pizza around at Essex NY Pizza and Deli. Want some fun with your burger and fries? Check out the Bit Bar in Salem, where you can play classic video games while you dine on a juicy burger. Or get some home cooking at Red’s Sandwich Shop, which serves breakfast and lunch specials to locals and tourists alike. 

International Cuisine

In Salem, you can taste foods from around the globe as you travel through the historic downtown area or along the waterfront. If you are craving Mexican food, try The Roof, which serves modern Mexican dishes and cocktails and offers a sweet view of Salem from its rooftop location. 

Want something with an Asian influence? No problem! Salem’s options include Ginger Cajun, Thai Place, and Koto Asian Grill, all of which offer comprehensive menus and unique takes on Asian cuisine. 

If Italian dishes are more your style, Salem’s Adriatic Restaurant, Trattoria Bella Verona, or Flying Saucer Pizza may satisfy your desire for Mediterranean dishes. 

Sweet Treats 

Want to end the night with a sweet treat or make it your entire dining experience? Salem will keep you coming back for more. Curly Girl Candy Shop with its classic candies, Holy Cow Ice Cream with its comprehensive flavor list, or Harbor Sweets with its handcrafted chocolates will have you squealing with delight! 

Foodies flock to Salem to explore the impressive options that are sure to satisfy whatever their latest craving may be. Be sure to stop by Real Pirates Salem as you explore our historic and scrumptious city.