Salem for Lunch's Best Restaurants [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed a total of 15 restaurants in Salem, I am confident in my ability to provide you with the top-notch recommendations. From cozy cafes to trendy bistros, this comprehensive list covers all the culinary gems that Salem has to offer.

Whether you are a food connoisseur or simply looking for a satisfying midday meal, this guide will lead you to the most delectable lunch spots in town. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the flavors and ambiance that make these restaurants truly stand out.

Let's dive into the vibrant dining scene of Salem and discover your new favorite lunchtime destination!

Ledger Restaurant

Highlights
Great location
Excellent service
Outstanding flavors
Culinary excellence
Unforgettable desserts

I must say, the location of Ledger Restaurant is truly a gem. Situated in the heart of Salem, the restaurant offers a charming atmosphere that perfectly embodies the spirit of the city. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and friendly staff, setting the tone for an exceptional dining experience.

Ledger Restaurant truly excels in providing excellent service. The staff attentively catered to my every need, ensuring that my lunch was nothing short of perfection. Their knowledge of the menu and recommendations were spot on, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

But let's talk about the most important aspect – the food! Ledger Restaurant takes pride in its outstanding flavors and it certainly lives up to its reputation. The culinary excellence displayed in their lunch menu is truly remarkable. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the freshest ingredients and the creativity of the talented chefs.

As a dessert enthusiast, I was in awe of the unforgettable desserts offered at Ledger Restaurant. From decadent chocolate creations to delicate fruit tarts, every bite was a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more.

Overall, Ledger Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in search of a remarkable lunch experience in Salem. With its great location, excellent service, outstanding flavors, and unforgettable desserts, it is undeniably one of the best restaurants in town. Trust me, a visit to Ledger Restaurant will leave you with a satisfied palate and a smile on your face.

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Sea Level Oyster Bar

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious lobster roll
Amazing drinks
Fresh and tasty oysters
Out of this world clam chowder

Oh, what a delightful experience I had at Sea Level Oyster Bar in Salem for Lunch! From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with excellent service that made me feel like a VIP. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Now, let's get to the food! The moment I took a bite of their delicious lobster roll, I was transported to seafood heaven. The combination of tender lobster meat, perfectly toasted bun, and a hint of lemon zest created a harmonious symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

And let's not forget about the drinks! Sea Level Oyster Bar truly knows how to craft amazing cocktails. The bartender's creations were not only visually stunning but also packed a flavorful punch that perfectly complemented the seafood dishes.

Speaking of seafood, the oysters at Sea Level Oyster Bar were absolutely fresh and tasty. Each bite was a burst of briny goodness that left me craving for more. And oh, their clam chowder! It was out of this world. Creamy, hearty, and filled with tender clams, it was a warm hug on a chilly day.

Sea Level Oyster Bar is definitely a must-visit spot in Salem for Lunch. Their excellent service, delicious lobster roll, amazing drinks, fresh and tasty oysters, and out of this world clam chowder make it a standout option for seafood lovers. Take my word for it, you won't be disappointed!

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Red's Sandwich Shop

Highlights
Delicious pot pie
Extraordinary fries
Attentive service
Bustling diner atmosphere
Must try Ruben sandwich

When it comes to finding the best lunch spots in Salem, Red's Sandwich Shop is a standout. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a bustling diner atmosphere that immediately put me in the mood for a hearty meal.

My taste buds were in for a treat as I dug into their famous pot pie. The flavors were delicious, and each bite was filled with tender chunks of meat and perfectly cooked vegetables. It was comfort food at its finest. Another highlight of the meal were the extraordinary fries, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they were the perfect accompaniment to my pot pie.

The service at Red's Sandwich Shop was attentive and friendly. The staff made me feel right at home, ensuring that my glass was never empty and my needs were promptly attended to.

But the shining star of my lunch experience was undoubtedly the must try Ruben sandwich. It was a mouthwatering masterpiece, with perfectly cooked corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all sandwiched between two slices of toasted rye bread. Each bite was a flavor explosion that left me wanting more.

Overall, Red's Sandwich Shop in Salem is a hidden gem for lunch lovers. With its delicious pot pie, extraordinary fries, attentive service, and bustling diner ambiance, it's a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable lunch experience.

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DOTTY & RAYS - SALEM'S OLDEST DINER

Highlights
Great service
Delicious food
Cheap tequila shots
Knowledgeable staff
Old school diner

Let me start by saying that this place has a vintage charm that you just can't miss. As soon as you walk through the door, the atmosphere takes you back in time, with its retro decor and old-school vibe. It's like stepping into a time machine and discovering the essence of classic American diners.

But it's not just the ambiance that makes this place stand out; it's the excellent service that truly makes a difference. The staff at Dotty & Rays are incredibly knowledgeable about their menu and go above and beyond to ensure your lunch experience is nothing short of delightful. They are always ready to offer recommendations and cater to any dietary needs or preferences.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my, the food! The delicious dishes served here are a treat for your taste buds. From their juicy hamburgers to their crispy golden fries, every bite is a mouthwatering delight. And let's not forget about their cheap tequila shots, perfect if you're looking to add a little spice to your lunch.

In conclusion, Dotty & Rays is a true gem among Salem's lunch spots. Its great service, delicious food, and affordable prices make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. So, if you're in the mood for some classic comfort food served with a side of nostalgia, head on over to this timeless diner and savor every moment.

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Ugly Mug Diner

Highlights
Super friendly staff
Awesome breakfast options
Great coffee
Excellent home fries

Let's just say, the staff at Ugly Mug Diner made me feel like I was part of their food-loving family. From the moment I walked through the door, their super friendly demeanor and warm welcome set the tone for an enjoyable lunch experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was I in for a treat! Ugly Mug Diner is known for their awesome breakfast options, and let me tell you, they do not disappoint during lunchtime either. The menu offers a delightful selection of dishes, from classic greasy spoons to more inventive takes on comfort food classics.

But what really stole the show for me were the home fries. My taste buds were dancing with joy as I bit into each crispy and perfectly seasoned morsel. The combination of the crunch on the outside and the fluffy interior was simply divine. I could have easily made an entire meal out of those addictive potatoes alone!

And let's not forget about the coffee. As a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, my caffeine-loving heart was satisfied with each sip. The steaming cup of Joe was robust and flavorful, providing the necessary fuel to power through the rest of the day.

Overall, Ugly Mug Diner is a must-visit spot for delicious lunch options in Salem. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast plate or innovative comfort food, this place has you covered. The super friendly staff, awesome breakfast options, great coffee, and excellent home fries make it a top contender for Salem's best lunch spots. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for choosing Ugly Mug Diner.

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Life Alive Organic Cafe Salem

Highlights
Delicious smoothies
Vegan options
Excellent service
Amazing lattes

If there's one word that could perfectly sum up my visit to Life Alive Organic Cafe Salem, it would be delicious. From start to finish, everything about this place exceeded my expectations.

First, let me talk about the smoothies. Oh, the smoothies! These fruity concoctions were like a burst of flavor in my mouth. Each sip was a delightful dance of sweetness and freshness that left me craving for more. Whether you prefer a classic strawberry-banana blend or a more adventurous mango-kale combination, Life Alive knows how to make a smoothie that hits the spot.

Now, for all my fellow herbivores out there, this place is a vegan haven. The options are endless, with fresh salads, hearty bowls, and inventive wraps that will make even the most devoted meat-eater question their choices. The creativity and care put into each dish was evident from the very first bite. I must say, the flavors were so rich and satisfying that I didn't even miss the meat!

I couldn't help but be impressed by the excellent service at Life Alive. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to make recommendations and ensure that I had the best dining experience possible. It's rare to find such exceptional service, and it truly added to the overall enjoyment of my lunch.

Before I conclude, let me not forget to mention the amazing lattes that Life Alive offers. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or a fan of herbal blends, their lattes are a treat for the senses. The creamy texture, the carefully crafted foam art, and the aromatic flavors create a beverage that is not only beautiful to look at but also a pleasure to sip on.

All in all, Life Alive Organic Cafe Salem is a standout choice for lunch in Salem. With its delicious smoothies, diverse vegan options, excellent service, and amazing lattes, this place is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. So, what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a flavorful and fulfilling lunch at Life Alive Organic Cafe Salem. You won't be disappointed!

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Bambolina

Highlights
Tastiest pizza
Fast service
Incredible flavors

Let me start off by saying that if you're looking for the tastiest pizza in Salem, look no further than Bambolina. This place knows how to make a mean pie that will leave you craving for more.

Upon walking into the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff who provided fast service with a smile. They made me feel right at home and ensured that I had a pleasant dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the incredible flavors that Bambolina offers. From their classic margherita pizza to their unique and creative combinations, every bite was bursting with deliciousness. The ingredients were fresh, the cheese was perfectly melted, and the crust had just the right amount of crispiness.

One standout dish was their prosciutto and arugula pizza. The combination of salty prosciutto, peppery arugula, and creamy cheese was simply divine. It was a fantastic mix of flavors that danced in my mouth, leaving me wanting to savor every last bite.

In addition to their fantastic pizza, Bambolina also offers a variety of other lunch options, including sandwiches and salads. Their menu has something for everyone, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something to enjoy.

Overall, Bambolina is a must-visit restaurant in Salem for lunch. With their tastiest pizza, fast service, and incredible flavors, you simply can't go wrong. So, grab a friend, head to Bambolina, and indulge in a pizza feast that will leave your taste buds singing.

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The Derby Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Great customer service
Excellent food and drink selection
Friendly and knowledgeable bartenders
Lively atmosphere

Let me just start by saying that The Derby truly exceeded my expectations in every way. From the moment I walked in, the great customer service was evident. The staff was attentive, friendly, and incredibly helpful with any questions I had about their menu.

Speaking of the menu, the excellent food and drink selection at The Derby is absolutely worth raving about. They offer a diverse range of options, from classic comfort foods to unique and innovative dishes that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy burger, flavorful tacos, or a refreshing salad, The Derby has got you covered.

What really made my visit memorable was the friendly and knowledgeable bartenders who were more than happy to create delicious cocktails to perfectly complement my meal. Their expertise and passion for mixology were evident with each sip I took.

As for the atmosphere, The Derby boasts a lively vibe that is both energetic and welcoming. It's the perfect place to gather with friends or even enjoy a solo lunch. The decor is stylish yet cozy, creating a comfortable environment to unwind and savor your meal.

All in all, The Derby Restaurant & Bar is a standout choice when it comes to the best restaurants in Salem for Lunch. With their top-notch customer service, superb food and drink selection, and lively atmosphere, you can't go wrong with a visit to The Derby. So, why not treat yourself and experience it for yourself?

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Rockafellas Restaurant

Highlights
Conveniently located
Oozing with hospitality
Best crab cakes
Sweet and salty flatbread
Lovely server
Delicious food
Fantastic meal
Super fun tee shirt

Let me start by saying that Rockafellas is conveniently located in the heart of Salem, making it a prime spot for a midday meal. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted with oozing hospitality. The staff was warm, friendly, and attentive, making me feel right at home.

Now, let me get to the highlight of my meal - the crab cakes. Oh boy, these crab cakes were something else. The delicate yet flavorful blend of crabmeat was cooked to perfection, leaving me craving for more. Pair that with their sweet and salty flatbread, and I was in foodie heaven.

Not only was the food extraordinary, but the service was top-notch. Our server was an absolute delight, going above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. Their knowledge of the menu and recommendations were spot-on, making for a truly delightful dining experience.

Overall, Rockafellas provided me with a delicious and fantastic meal that exceeded my expectations. From the first bite to the last, every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. Oh, and let's not forget the cherry on top - the super fun tee shirt I received as a memento of my visit.

If you're looking for a memorable lunch in Salem, Rockafellas is the place to go. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Finz Salem

Highlights
New England clam chowder
Loaded lobster roll
Great service
Interactive experience with kids
Fresh & tasty food
Good care for large parties

When I stepped into Finz Salem, I immediately knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, with a hint of casual elegance. I scanned the menu and was thrilled to see some fantastic options for lunch.

First off, I couldn't resist ordering their New England clam chowder. Let me tell you, it was a game-changer. The creamy, flavorful broth was loaded with tender clams and perfectly seasoned. It was a comforting dish that warmed both my belly and my soul.

Next up, I had to try their famous loaded lobster roll. And boy, was it worth the hype! The generous portion of succulent lobster meat was nestled in a perfectly buttered roll, topped with crispy bacon and creamy mayo. Each bite was an explosion of flavors and textures that left me craving for more.

Aside from the incredible food, the service at Finz Salem was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. I truly felt like a valued guest.

One aspect that stood out to me was how Finz Salem offered an interactive experience for families with kids. From their kid-friendly menu options to the fun and engaging atmosphere, they made sure that everyone, young or old, had a great time.

I was also impressed by their ability to accommodate large parties with care and efficiency. Whether it was a business lunch or a gathering of friends, Finz Salem had ample space and a welcoming ambiance that made every occasion special.

Overall, Finz Salem exceeded my expectations for a lunch spot in Salem. With their fresh and tasty food, attentive service, and a focus on providing a memorable dining experience, it's no wonder they're one of the best restaurants in town for lunch. Don't miss the chance to savor their delectable New England clam chowder and loaded lobster roll. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Howling Wolf Taqueria

Highlights
Great food
Awesome service
Delicious steak
Clean environment
Cheesy curly fries

Let me start by saying that Howling Wolf Taqueria is a hidden gem when it comes to lunch options in Salem. From the moment I stepped into this vibrant eatery, I was greeted with the warmest smiles and a lively atmosphere.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the food. Oh boy, the food at Howling Wolf Taqueria is nothing short of extraordinary. Every bite was a flavor explosion in my mouth. The steak in particular was divine, perfectly cooked to a juicy and tender perfection. It was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

Not only does the food speak for itself, but the service at Howling Wolf Taqueria is top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations.

Another aspect that stood out to me was the cleanliness of the environment. I must say, I appreciate a restaurant that takes pride in its appearance and hygiene. Howling Wolf Taqueria exceeded my expectations in this regard.

Now, let's talk about the cheesy curly fries that were served as a side. These little delights were a delightful surprise. The perfect combination of crispy and cheesy, they were the ultimate comfort food that I couldn't get enough of.

In conclusion, if you're craving a memorable lunch experience in Salem, look no further than Howling Wolf Taqueria. With its great food, awesome service, delicious steak, clean environment, and those addictive cheesy curly fries, this restaurant is definitely a must-visit.

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Longboards Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Delicious lobster grill cheese
Great atmosphere with water view
Unique French fries
Attentive and knowledgeable server
Delicious Sausage Ricotta Flatbread

Longboards Restaurant & Bar in Salem is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the perfect lunch spot. As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately drawn to the great atmosphere and the stunning water view. It was the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.

One highlight that I must mention is their delicious lobster grill cheese. This mouthwatering dish was a delightful twist on a classic sandwich. The combination of creamy lobster and melted cheese was a culinary masterpiece. Trust me when I say that every bite was pure bliss.

Another standout feature of Longboards is their unique French fries. Forget your standard fries, because these ones are on a whole new level. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries are seasoned to perfection. A perfect accompaniment to any meal.

What truly elevated my experience at Longboards was the attentive and knowledgeable server. They went above and beyond to ensure that I had everything I needed and provided valuable recommendations. Their expertise in both the menu and the general dining experience added an extra touch of excellence.

If you're looking for something a little different, I highly recommend trying their delicious Sausage Ricotta Flatbread. The combination of savory sausage and creamy ricotta cheese was a match made in heaven. Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me wanting more.

In conclusion, Longboards Restaurant & Bar excels in every aspect when it comes to the best restaurants in Salem for Lunch. From the delicious lobster grill cheese to the unique French fries and attentive service, this place is a must-visit for any food lover. Don't miss out on experiencing the culinary delights that Longboards has to offer.

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Brothers Taverna

Highlights
Friendly staff
Delicious breakfast options
Savory Salmon Eggs Benedict
Clean establishment
Delicious Bloody Mary's

Let me start by saying that Brothers Taverna has an incredibly friendly staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine willingness to make my lunch experience as pleasant as possible.

Now, let's get to the good stuff – the food! Their lunch menu is full of options, but what caught my attention were the delicious breakfast options they offer all day. Who doesn't love a good brunch for lunch?

On the recommendation of the server, I decided to go for their Savory Salmon Eggs Benedict. It was a delightful combination of perfectly poached eggs, smoked salmon, and rich hollandaise sauce served on a toasted English muffin. Each bite was a burst of flavors that danced beautifully together.

One thing that truly stood out to me during my visit was the cleanliness of the establishment. The tables were spotless, and the whole place had a welcoming ambiance.

Of course, I couldn't leave without trying their signature Bloody Mary. Thick and spicy, it was the perfect accompaniment to my meal. It's safe to say that Brothers Taverna knows how to make a good Bloody Mary!

In conclusion, Brothers Taverna is definitely a strong contender in the best restaurants in Salem for Lunch. With their friendly staff, delicious breakfast options, and clean establishment, it's a spot you don't want to miss. So, the next time you're in Salem, make sure to swing by Brothers Taverna – your taste buds will thank you!

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Adriatic Restaurant

Highlights
Knowledgeable staff
Flavorful Italian food
Unique pumpkin ravioli
Fantastic scallops and salmon
Fresh homemade desserts

Adriatic Restaurant proved to be a delightful surprise during my search for the best restaurants in Salem for Lunch. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by a warm and knowledgeable staff, who showed a genuine passion for their work.

But let's get to the real highlight: the food! The flavor-packed Italian dishes served at Adriatic are simply magnifico. One dish that truly caught my taste buds off guard was their unique pumpkin ravioli. The combination of savory pumpkin filling and delicate pasta was a delightful explosion of flavors.

However, the surprises didn't end there. Adriatic's commitment to excellence was evident in their selection of seafood. The scallops were cooked to perfection, with a tender and buttery texture that left me wanting more. And don't even get me started on the perfectly seasoned salmon, with its crispy skin and moist, flaky flesh.

To complete this amazing culinary experience, Adriatic did not disappoint with their homemade desserts. Each bite of their fresh creations was an indulgent treat, leaving me with a satisfied and content palate.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a lunch spot that combines expertly crafted dishes, friendly service, and a comfortable ambiance, Adriatic Restaurant is the place to be. Don't miss the chance to tickle your taste buds and indulge in their flavorful Italian cuisine.

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Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem

Highlights
No wait
Excellent service
Great food
Wonderful experience
Sweet atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem is an absolute gem in Salem for Lunch. As soon as I walked in, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was no wait at all. This made the entire dining experience even more enjoyable, as I didn't have to waste any time waiting around.

The service at Turner's Seafood was simply excellent. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and answer any questions I had. I felt like a valued guest throughout my entire visit.

But let's talk about the real star of the show - the food. Turner's Seafood truly knows how to dish out some amazing flavors. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Every dish was prepared with care and packed with incredible flavors. Whether you're a seafood lover or not, there's something on the menu to suit everyone's taste buds.

Aside from the great food and service, the overall dining experience at Turner's Seafood was quite wonderful. The atmosphere inside the restaurant was warm and inviting, with a sweet ambiance that added to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

If you're looking for a top-notch restaurant in Salem for Lunch, I highly recommend checking out Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem. With no wait, excellent service, great food, and a delightful atmosphere, it's certainly a standout option for a memorable lunch experience.

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