Where to Eat in Salem, Massachusetts: 6 of the Best Restaurants Worth a Trip

Looking for where to eat in Salem? As a local and fellow foodie traveler, I’m here to guide you to all the best spots.

After all, there’s no room for anything but delicious food on your trip to Salem!

As a charming coastal town steeped in history and charm, Salem has plenty to offer when it comes to the culinary scene.

Ranging from fresh seafood & traditional New England fare to Mediterranean-inspired meals, you are sure to find something that satisfies your taste.

Now, grab your fork, and let’s dive into where to eat in Salem and cover some of its best restaurants.

Ledger Restaurant & Bar

When I get wind of anyone taking a trip to Salem, this is my number one recommendation.

With a farm-to-table concept, Ledger offers innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

And you really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

For the best wine in Salem, Ledger is the place to go. Between their extensive wine list, in-house sommelier, and gorgeous bar, you’ll be impressed before you even look at the food menu.

Start your meal off with fresh oysters, complete with the typical mignonette, smoked cocktail sauce, and lemon.

There are always a few pasta dishes on the menu where their in-house pasta steal the show, like in the Mushroom Campanelle with nettle pistachio pesto, spinach, leeks, and parmesan cream.

The menu changes a few times each season, but if you time it right (usually around July) get the lobster spaghetti. This dish lands on my list as one of the best meals I’ve ever had.

Ledger also serves up an incredible Sunday Brunch. From dishes like salmon and avocado toast and bananas foster waffles, you’ll want to come hungry.

As for my favorite brunch dish, you can’t go wrong with the Brandt Beef Sirloin and Eggs.

Served with sunny-side-up eggs, breakfast potatoes, farm greens, and salsa verde. The flavor combination is a 10/10.

Are reservations needed? YES! Ledger is one of the best restaurants in Salem and draws a crowd. I’d recommend making a reservation for dinner, and definitely one for their popular Sunday Brunch.

Howling Wolf Taqueria

Where to eat in Salem, MA for Mexican food? Howling Wolf is the place to be!

Between the burritos, fajitas, chimichangas, and tacos that fill the menu, you’ll have a hard time choosing just one.

The queso is my all-time favorite item on their menu and makes for a great starter, along with the chips for any meal.

Their tacos, especially the beef ones, come piled high with the toppings of your choice such as lettuce, Pico de Gallo, cheese, beans, and sour cream.

Wash it all down with one of their delicious margaritas (the coconut one is the best!), and you’ll be well-fueled to explore downtown Salem.

Mercy Tavern

For the cozy neighborhood pub, head to Mercy Tavern. Their eclectic menu showcases traditional New England fare with a mix of globally inspired flavors.

The nachos topped with shredded chicken are by far my favorite item on their menu.

Try the Tzaikiki Fries with roasted garlic, feta, and tzatziki sauce for a unique spin on a poutine-type dish.

The clam chowder, house wings, or grilled halloumi salad with pickles onions, and a savory sesame vinaigrette all make for perfect starters.

As for main dishes, the Mercy burger is topped with bacon onion jam, and garlic aioli. Need I say more?

There is also a great selection of rotating daily specials which live up to the main stay menu items incredibly.

Wash your meal down with one of their expertly curated cocktails, many of which are available non-alcoholic as you enjoy the live music featured every weekend.

Reds Sandwich Shop

Looking for a side of history with your breakfast? Head to Red’s Sandwich Shop located in the historic London Coffee House, circa 1698.

The London Coffee House was the meeting place of the Patriots before the American Revolution, and where, since 1945 has been serving its customers with one of the best breakfasts in Salem

Go with their classic breakfast of one egg, served with crispy home fries, buttered toast, and bacon for the true diner experience.

Their menu is complete with the quintessential cafe food you may expect: fluffy pancakes pile high, omelets overflowing with various veggies, meats, and cheeses, and simple sandwiches like a BLT or tuna melt.

Red’s is located in the heart of downtown Salem. So once you’re done with your meal, one step out the door and you have the rest of historical Salem right at your feet.

Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall

For the absolute best seafood in Salem, go to Turner’s.

Take a seat at their bar, and you can see a live demo of oysters being shucked and ready to serve up, plus the kitchen churning out mouthwatering dishes of all kinds.

The fish and chips are heavenly with a light as air batter. Or, for a pasta dish, give the lemon-infused clams & linguine a try.

Their Seafood comes fresh from their own market, located just 16 miles away in Gloucester, Massachusetts. This means you are getting the best quality seafood in everything that’s served up.

Antique Table

Do lobster ravioli, calamari, and chicken piccata sound good to you? Antique table serves up traditional Italian food in Salem.

The chicken parmesan is by my favorite dish on their menu, best paired with one of their homemade pastas, like the linguini or fettuccine.

Or try the lobster ravioli served in a delicious cream sauce.

For a sweet end to your meal, go with a traditional Italian dessert and opt for the tiramisu.

Tiramisu is made of ladyfinger cookies dipped in coffee, layered with a whipped mixture of eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder.

Did you know that tiramisu in Italian means “cheer me up”? If that’s not the most fitting name for a coffee infused dessert, I don’t know what is.

Tips for Visiting Salem

Now that we’ve covered the best restaurants in Salem, here are a few tips so you can make the most out of your time in this enchanting city:

Always make reservations. Salem is a small city with an impressive dining scene. As you can imagine during peak times in the Summer and Fall, these best restaurants are busy.

Were comfortable walking shoes. Although compact, you’ll do a fair amount of walking as you eat your way around the city.

Keep in mind that many of the sidewalks are covered with brick and much of the main downtown area is comprised of cobblestone sections of the road. So you’ll want to wear your most comfortable walking shoes.

Short on time? Try these food spots: If you’d prefer not to make a reservation, there are plenty of dining options for you. Here are some of my favorite spots that often do not have a long wait (with the exception of October)

Engine House Pizza- A casual spot with delicious and budget-friendly pizza.

The Thai cafe- Located in the Witch City Mall (same building as Salem Cinema) this humble Thai restaurant serves up traditional dishes filled with flavor.

Gulu Gulu cafe- Great for coffee, sandwiches, and light bites.

For more foodie picks, check out these 4 food & drink spots in Salem, MA that locals love

The wrap-up: Where to Eat in Salem, MA

As you can see, there is plenty of variety when it comes to the best restaurants & where to eat in Salem, MA

From classic New England seafood to traditional Mexican or Italian dishes, you’ll be well-fed as you make your way around this charming city.

Which restaurant do you want to try first? Comment below with your pick & any other places in Salem you love when it comes to food!