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Located in the Historic Downtown District of Salem, MA off of Essex and Washington Street sits the building that houses Rockafellas Restaurant. This year marks the restaurant’s 20th Anniversary, after opening in 2003. Before the iconic building was Rockafellas, it was the Daniel Low & Company Building where jewelry and other fine goods were sold. This robust history of the building can still be felt when spending an evening dining at the elegant Rockafellas establishment. Passing the marble bar that sweeps across the left side of the restaurant you will find yourself walking towards a large metal vault which is an original piece that remains from the Daniel Low era. The history of this space is fascinating and could be discussed at length, but the true pull that consistently draws individuals to Rockafellas is their culinary excellence and outstanding hospitality.
Image by Destination Salem Staff
The menu at Rockafellas reflects the restaurant’s outlook on food service, which is exceptional food and attention to detail. Each dish packs its own swath of unique flavors, but the real core of what makes this establishment stand out is their roots in family. Founded by Terrance Marchino, Kevin Marchino, and David McKillop, the owners and staff treat each patron as if they were a member of their own family. Sitting down for a meal at Rockafellas is experiencing the intersection of high end dining and authentic and genuine service.
Image by Destination Salem Staff
To celebrate their 20th anniversary Rockafellas has partnered with Privateer Rum, a local rum distillery based out of Ipswich, MA to showcase their innovative take on a classic Old Fashioned cocktail. The beverage is named the Cheers to 20 Years and is garnished with a fresh slice of orange and cherry. The private label rum that is specially made for Rockafellas boasts a bourbon whisky taste with a smooth finish. The earthy notes come from the oak barrels that the rum is aged in during the distilling process which lends itself to that familiar whisky-like flavor. Pull up a seat for yourself at their newly renovated bar while sipping on the gorgeous amber drink and taking in the sweeping views of Downtown Salem, MA.
Image by Destination Salem Staff
Start off your culinary journey at Rockafellas with a round of appetizers and drinks for you and your loved ones. The eclectic selection that the Rockafellas team has curated left no stone unturned when it comes to flavor profiles. Freshly caught and prepared octopus garnished with a variety of vegetables and greens pairs beautifully with their summer spicy watermelon margarita. The bold and refreshing jalapeno margarita highlights the subtle and slightly sweet undertones of the newly added octopus dish. If you are looking for a more classic culinary route, the wings and crab cake burger are a great foundation for your meal. Paired with a locally sourced Notch beer from their tap, this classic staple will quench your thirst in this New England summer heat. When the weather is nice, grab a seat on their patio in the heart of downtown.
Image by Destination Salem Staff
At the height of service each night, steaming and enticing entrees can be seen leaving the kitchen as they make their way to their respective tables. The only downside that comes with dining at Rockafellas is having to decide which dish you are going to choose for your main course. Whether it be their delectable marinated steak tips, their oven roasted chicken with velvety mashed potatoes, or pan seared salmon with fresh greens you are sure to leave satisfied and full. What is a complete meal without a beverage to pair with it? This season at Rockafellas comes with an array of brightly crafted botanical based beverages. Top your meal off with their Sparkling Spring, or Birds and the Bees cocktail. These refreshing drinks were made with hot summer nights in mind, and their crisp refreshing finish is a great way to wind down after a day packed with adventures. No trip to Rockafellas would be complete without trying their signature drink The Lady in Blue. This fun cocktail is a play on the restaurant’s ghost in residence. The folklore describes an apparition that appears in a navy blue dress and frequents the areas. This is the restaurant’s way to pay homage to the local lore in their own inventive way.
Image by Destination Salem Staff
Dining at Rockafellas promises an elegant and delicious experience. The family run and owned business looks to make every patron that walks through their doors feel at home. An important factor to note is that the Colonial Hall event space above the Rockafellas restaurant is available for rental. Weddings and events are offered at Colonial Hall year round and range in size from 40 guests to 300 guests. Each event is customized and includes catering, service and equipment. For more information click HERE.
Tags: Anniversary, Cocktails, Cullinary, Downtown Salem, Eat, Foodie, Rockafellas
