Top 10 Restaurants in Salem Oregon
Welcome to my personal guide to the top 10 restaurants in Salem, Oregon – a city known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and delicious food. As a Salem native and food enthusiast, I have tried and tested the best restaurants in town, and I’m excited to share my findings with you. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover the best places to eat in Salem. So, let’s get started!
The Top 10 Restaurants in Salem Oregon
- The Crooked House Bistro
- Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro
- The Wild Pear
- Rafns’ Restaurant
- Annette’s Westgate Cafe
- Venti’s Cafe + Taphouse
- La Capitale Brasserie
- Manna Japanese Comfort Food
- DaVinci Ristorante
- Marco Polo Global Restaurant
Each of these restaurants has its unique flavor and atmosphere, but they all have one thing in common – exceptional food. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these restaurants stand out from the rest.
The Crooked House Bistro
I have to admit, I’m biased when it comes to The Crooked House Bistro – it’s my favorite restaurant in Salem. This cozy bistro is located in a charming historic house and serves up delicious French-inspired cuisine. The menu changes frequently, but the steak frites and croque-monsieur are always on point. The Crooked House Bistro also has an excellent wine selection, and the service is top-notch.
Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro
If you’re looking for a classic American breakfast or brunch, look no further than Word of Mouth. This restaurant is always packed, and for a good reason – the food is fantastic. The portions are generous, and the ingredients are fresh and locally sourced. Don’t miss their famous biscuits and gravy or the French toast – they’re worth the wait.
The Wild Pear
The Wild Pear is a lovely restaurant that offers an extensive menu of American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The food is beautifully presented, and the flavors are out of this world. I recommend trying the lamb chops or the crab cakes – they’re both delicious. The Wild Pear also has an excellent selection of desserts, so make sure to save room.
Rafns’ Restaurant
Rafns’ is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in Pacific Northwest cuisine. The menu changes with the seasons, and the chefs use only the freshest ingredients available. The wine list is impressive, and the service is impeccable. The standout dish, in my opinion, is the seared scallops – they’re perfectly cooked and served with a flavorful sauce. Rafns’ is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Annette’s Westgate Cafe
Annette’s is a classic diner that serves up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the service is friendly. The menu has all your favorite diner classics, but I recommend trying the biscuits and gravy or the chicken-fried steak. Annette’s also has a bakery that offers fresh pastries and cakes.
Venti’s Cafe + Taphouse
Venti’s is a casual restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. The menu has something for everyone, from wood-fired pizzas to tacos and burritos. The beer selection is impressive, and the atmosphere is laid-back. Venti’s also hosts live music and events, so check their calendar for upcoming shows.
La Capitale Brasserie
La Capitale is a French-inspired brasserie that offers an extensive menu of classic bistro dishes. The restaurant has a beautiful interior with a cozy fireplace and a bar. The food is excellent, and the service is impeccable. The standout dish, in my opinion, is the steak tartare – it’s perfectly seasoned and served with crispy fries.
Manna Japanese Comfort Food
If you’re craving Japanese comfort food, look no further than Manna. This restaurant offers an extensive menu of sushi, ramen, and other Japanese specialties. The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous. I recommend trying the tonkotsu ramen or the spicy tuna roll – they’re both delicious.
DaVinci Ristorante
DaVinci is an Italian restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. The menu has all your favorite Italian classics, from pasta to pizza. The standout dish, in my opinion, is the lasagna – it’s made with homemade pasta and a rich meat sauce. DaVinci also has an excellent wine selection, so make sure to pair your meal with a glass of wine.
Marco Polo Global Restaurant
Marco Polo is a global restaurant that offers an eclectic menu of dishes from around the world. The food is flavorful and beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. I recommend trying the lamb shank or the chicken tikka masala – they’re both delicious. Marco Polo also has an excellent selection of cocktails, so make sure to try one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best restaurant in Salem?
It’s hard to pick just one, but if I had to choose, I would say The Crooked House Bistro is the best restaurant in Salem. The food is always exceptional, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
What is the most popular restaurant in Salem?
Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro is the most popular restaurant in Salem, and for a good reason – the food is fantastic, and the portions are generous. Be prepared to wait for a table, though – the restaurant is always packed.
What type of cuisine is popular in Salem?
Salem has a diverse culinary scene, but some of the most popular cuisines are American, Italian, and Japanese. You can find excellent restaurants that specialize in these cuisines throughout the city.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Salem?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Salem. The Wild Pear and Marco Polo Global Restaurant both offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
Do these restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Yes, all of the restaurants on this list offer takeout or delivery options. Check their websites or call ahead to place your order.
Do these restaurants take reservations?
Some of the restaurants on this list take reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check their websites or call ahead to find out their policy.
That’s it for my guide to the top 10 restaurants in Salem, Oregon. I hope you found it helpful and informative. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great place to eat, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. Bon appétit!