With sunshine, comes patio season here in Salem, MA. Local eateries across town set up their tables and chairs and fling open their windows to allow the salty coastal summer breeze to roll through and wash over patrons as they enjoy their meals. Whether it be tacos and margaritas at Barrios Tacos, fresh oysters and cocktails at Sea Level Oyster Bar, or an aperol spritz with a fresh salad at Rockafellas, Spring and Summer are undoubtedly the season of culinary excellence here in Salem, MA. Check out our list of outdoor dining options below for inspiration on your next visit to Salem, MA.
Mexican
Image by Kathryn Horrigan of Casa Tequila
There are few things as satisfying as an iced cold margarita on a hot summer day. Here in Salem, MA we have a great selection of Mexican fare with bespoke taco options at Barrio Tacos, or uniquely mixed margaritas like the fan favorite Chamoyada Margarita at Casa Tequila. Sit back and relax with a bowl of sharable guacamole and chips for an afternoon of food, drinks, and fun with your friends.
Americana
Image by Kathryn Horrigan of Rockafellas
A quintessential staple of the Americana food options that we have a plethora of around town is the go to burger and fries order. This meal transports you to summer days by the grill, and with our outdoor patios in full swing you can truly get the full experience. Sit outside at Rockafellas patio and enjoy the weather while digging into their Angus Burger that is topped with lettuce, onion, and tomato, served on a brioche roll. If a burger isn’t your style stop by Fountain Place for one of their delicious lunch time grilled chicken paninis.
- Bit Bar
- Brodie’s Seaport
- Fountain Place
- Gulu-Gulu Cafe
- Ledger
- Regatta Pub
- Rockafellas
- Village Tavern
- Olde Main Street Pub
Seafood
Image of and by Sea Level Oyster Bar
It wouldn’t be Spring in Salem without our famous seafood! Lobster rolls, fisherman platers, oysters on the halfshell, and fish and chips are all on the menu this season. The patio at Turner’s Seafood offers a quiet respite in a historic and picturesque location for you to enjoy your evening meal. Start off with their mussels appetizer steamed in white wine and scampi butter to share, and then finish out the evening with Fish N Chips with fries and slaw. If you are looking for a waterfront view with your outdoor patio dining, Sea Level Oyster Bar offers wonderful panoramic vistas of Salem’s Harbor and the Friendship of Salem. A local favorite is their pure local and shucked to order oysters that comes with a homemade roasted red pepper cocktail sauce. Start your season off the right way with an order of their market priced studded lobster. A lobster dinner is a must each patio season.
Italian / Pizza
Image of and by Adriatic Restaurant
Picture yourself on the Italian riviera enjoying an Aperol Spritz while you sink your teeth into a delicious margarita pizza. While Salem can’t offer you the bustling waterways of Venice Italy, we can provide you with classic cobblestone streets and delicious Italian style culinary delights. The marble tabletops that guild the outdoor patio of Adriatic Restaurant set the scene for an evening of luxury. Order yourself a glass of their Castello Di Bossi from Tuscany Italy with a plate of their eggplant parm. American Flatbread & Derby Lanes has a great selection of outdoor seating abutting the North River here on Derby Street in Salem. Sip on a Pellegrino Sparkling Water and share one of their delicious flatbreads with friends while soaking up the summertime rays.
Breweries
Image of and by Notch Brewing Salem
Top off your evening with a visit to one of Salem’s many local breweries. East Regiment Beer Company has a wonderful patio space that hosts live musical performances every Friday evening. Try a flight of their house made brews while enjoying the refreshing summer breeze in their outdoor space. If you are looking to stay by the water, Notch on Derby Street has a wonderful outdoor Biergarten with family style seating. Grab some friends, some freshly brewed pints, and a deck of cards for a guaranteed good time.
For a full list of breweries click HERE
Tags: Drink, food, Outdoor Dining, outdoors, Patio