There was a time when Salem’s downtown dining scene was pretty stifled, catering almost entirely to the needs of state workers on hurried lunch breaks, a ghost town once dusk began to fall. In recent years, however, that’s changed, in the city center and extending out into Salem’s farthest corners: Wander through downtown Salem and nearly every block is full of dining options. Breweries that once outsourced food service now offer menus of their own designed to accompany their beers. A robust food truck scene incubates new businesses. And Salem overall — and specifically the thoroughfares of Portland Road and Lancaster Drive Northeast — is an absolute destination for Mexican cuisine. Haven’t been to Salem in a minute? Here’s where to eat when you go.
The latest CDC guidance for vaccinated diners during the COVID-19 outbreak is here; dining out still carries serious risks for unvaccinated diners and workers. Please be aware of changing local rules, and check individual restaurant websites for any additional restrictions such as mask requirements. Find a local vaccination site here.
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