23 Best Cocktail Bars near Salem

“My husband and I visited The Capital Grille in Salem for my birthday dinner on November 29, hoping for a special evening. The menu looked impressive, and we loved the calamari appetizer and chicken entrée—they were absolutely awesome, flavorful, and well-prepared. Our waiter also delivered outstanding service, being attentive and making us feel welcome. Unfortunately, the night took a downturn with several issues. A persistent cold draft kept blowing in from the frequently opened door on a chilly evening, making us uncomfortable. The main problem was my well-done steak, which arrived charred and burned on one side—they even tried to hide it by flipping the burned part down. When I discreetly took a photo (just in case, as we were happy with other items and might have shared positives online), a manager approached within minutes in a forceful tone, asking what was wrong. I explained calmly and said I was fine without a replacement, but he pushed aggressively, insisting “If you don't eat it, you'll take it home.” It felt confrontational and over-the-top, completely destroying the vibe of my birthday celebration. He then lingered nearby, chatting with our server where we could clearly see and feel the awkwardness. They offered a gift card and complimentary dessert as a gesture, which was appreciated in theory, but they didn't ask our preferences and brought something I don't eat. Now, we're not sure if we'll give it another chance, even with the gift card—why risk another confrontation? If we're happy with something and want to take a photo to share, or if we have a minor complaint, do we have to go through that kind of aggressive damage control? It's a shame because the positives were there, but one bad item and the manager's handling ruined our evening. Overall, a mixed bag leaning toward disappointment.“

“Had a fantastic birthday celebration for a family member at Dreo! We had an amazing night from the moment we walked in the door to finishing desert. Lisa, our server greeted us promptly, and reviewed the drink and dinner specials with us. The drinks were amazing and we ordered the charcuterie plate for the table. So good! Everyone loved their meals, especially the shrimp linguini dinner special. Everything was cooked perfect. Desert was great including a decadent chocolate cake for the birthday celebration. Service by Lisa was impeccable and we can't wait to go back!“

“Wonderful venue to enjoy great food and drinks, local music and a warm chill vibe. The bar staff and waitstaff are very friendly and attentive to your needs.“

“Tim was awesome made me feel like I didn't have to wait, he anticipated my needs... he offered good suggestions without being pushy, and he made me feel like I was the most important person in the bar. I bet everyone else felt the same way too. World class bartender, hold on to him. Go in on a Tuesday night and say hi.“

“The place to be and I love it. Best ambiance and best place to dance Salsa ❤️🔥“

“BOSA completely blew us away and honestly helped me and my fiancé re ignite our relationship. Odd I know but we can explain. First off food was phenomenal and I would even say that work underplays it. Every dish nails layers of flavor. There’s few places that I go and order different meals as I usually go with what I know but BOSA offers great diversity in their menu and I cant wait to treat my fiancé to dinner again here. Now let’s get to our waitress Nicole! She’s the one who made this night beyond amazing. The initial greet was done with a friendly face and welcoming smile that made us feel right at home. She’s super knowledgeable about the whole menu with great recommendations! One thing I greatly admire and appreciate is she will give you her personal opinions of the food instead if trying to upsell the most expensive. That goes a long long way with me. Nicole is super personable and friendly it felt like we knew her for 10 years! You don’t see this service anymore and I told her I want to personally request her everytime we go from now on. Nicole told us her daughter works with her as well (clearing/cleaning tables, etc); what a dynamic duo I’ll tell ya! Both of them truly amazing! When I say me and my fiancés relationship got re ignited by Nicole and bosa that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Between broken down vehicles and trying to afford a wedding money has caused lots of tension, but money didn’t even phase us tonight. The service we received was worth more than what I had in my pocket. We tipped Nicole well and honestly if I had more cash on me I woulda done more. She didn’t even want to accept the tip but she’s truly amazing. We left feeling refreshed and renewed so thank you Nicole! You changed us for the better and showed us there’s still good people in the world. Thank you once again for an amazing night and we are truly blessed to have met you. Nicole should be the face of the company they would kill it! She’s funny smart knowledgeable and truly knows how to connect and take care of each individual customer. We left feeling like we were friends! Phenomenal night, phenomenal food, even better staff! The entire crew from hostess to Nicole to the manager and general manager came together and made the night special memorable and gave us lots to talk about. We have a network of many “foodies” and we will be sharing our experience with them!“

“Many great years of shows“

“Delicious desserts, lovely atmosphere! I highly recommend Monica’s!“

“Last night, we visited the Foundation Tavern in Derry, NH. The parking lot was small and tight, which may make alternative parking options preferable. Upon entering, the music volume was high; as a hearing aid user, I found the sound sensitivity increased. The hostess confirmed there was live music and accommodated our request to be seated away from it, so we sat in the main dining room.
Our server introduced herself and promptly took our drink order, despite the dining room being busy and her serving alone. Having dined at many restaurants over the years, we were understanding of any minor mistakes. I requested a different bottle of wine after initially ordering the wrong one, and the change was handled without issue.
When she inquired about appetizers, we declined and ordered dinner. My wife chose the burger, while I selected the Bolognese. Our meals arrived quickly; however, my wife's burger was served without a bun. This was due to the assumption that her side salad indicated a low-carb preference instead of fries. Morgan, our server, checked in and corrected the plating promptly. My wife noted that the burger was especially well-prepared, and I found the Bolognese comparable to those of high-end Italian restaurants.
The evening was enjoyable overall. Other customers contributed to a positive atmosphere, including a nearby birthday celebration and a guest complimenting my wife's outfit.
Pricing was about 20% higher than average local restaurants, which we considered justified based on the quality provided.
We will visit again. Probably on a Wednesday night because they offer half price bottle of wine with dinner and we are wind drinkers.“

“Best birria tacos I've ever had and I've had plenty. I got them three times this month. Last time I ordered food for pick up, when I got home, I realized something was missing... no big deal but I called them to let them know if they could just refund me for a single taco because I didn't want to drive 15 min there again and back for a taco but the man I spoke with refunded that whole meal. I tried to talk him out of it but he insisted! Thanks!!“

“Took a chance on this place yesterday and WOW the food was soo good!!! We ended up getting 4 appetizers and 3 meals we loved everything we got, the owner was talking to us for a few he is so nice and welcoming I HIGHLY recommend giving this place a try P.S we came on Monday it was 7$ martinis and half price apps!!!! Drinks were very tasty I will definitely be coming back !!!“

“The menu here is fantastic! We started with apps: the charcuterie “Parlay Board”, and perfectly cooked mussels in garlic/wine sauce, and the street corn dip with chips — all were outstanding. My favorite dish was the poached lobster & chicharrones tacos (unique and delicious!). Our table also ordered the rigatoni bolognese and the chicken cutlet parm — both perfectly prepared and full of flavor.

From food to service to atmosphere, everything was spot-on. Everyone in our party left happy, and we can’t wait to come back!“

“30th birthday dinner celebration for my son and his family. Our waiter was so friendly and warm and attentive. Food and drinks were amazing. We had a 5 pm reservation because we had 2 children. Interior is cozy and lovely. They do have high chairs and changing stations in the bathrooms. Very accommodating staff and we will be back!“

“Outstanding restaurant. Worth trip from anywhere in the Boston area.“

“This place is a hidden gem. Food is so delicious. Drinks are omg amazing and the staff is awesome. Highly recommended“

“So good, my husband and I have been here a few times. The food and drinks are good, the staff is friendly, and you get a beautiful view of the lake.“

“This place is amazing we just celebrated a very important birthday at the catering hall in windham nh and it was great the food was awesome and the staff are very friendly. This was our second experience renting the event room the first was our rehearsal dinner I am confident if you decide to use them you will have a great experience highly highly recommend thanks Red’s Tavern for a great night“

“Came in today after HAVING A DAY!!! I was exhausted and def not myself!!! I was greeted by a friendly bartender and was served rite away ( it was busy ) I was made a delicious spicy marg and had a specialty salad with spin dip! Everything was phenomenal! I 100% recommend this place! The service was 100% thanks Bill for making my day difficult day into a positive experience! You def deserve a raise“

“Quedé encantada con el sabor y la presentación de la comida. Exquisito!“

“Wish I had discovered this restaurant a year ago when i first came to Derry, I'm going to miss it when I go.“

“Great Vibes!! Evening was great, drinks and company!!“

“Went to Fody’s for dinner on a Monday night. Downstairs was closed for a private event. We went up to the bar. You seat yourself. Waitress who seemed like she was also tending bar came over promptly. She was friendly and took our drink orders. Sangria was very good. It was made well, not just wine with a piece of fruit.

Chicken tenders with sweet chili were delicious, we wish there were more. Cheese pizza cooked perfectly with good cheese but sauce needed a bit more flavor. Overall a decent pie. Nashua hot chicken sandwich was tasty only critique is to use a grilled bun instead of bread. It needed a bit more bulky bread to hold it together.

Prices are decent. Place is older but clean. It was comfortable and welcoming. We will be back to try other dishes.“

“Great place to eat and drink. Friendly atmosphere.“