SALEM IS MOPO CULINARY culinary experiences Elevated pork chilaquiles? Check. Family pizza and local craft beer? You betcha. Vegan brunch and Louisiana-style chicken biscuits? Of course! No matter what you’re craving, the Salem area has creative eateries to satisfy the most discerning in your crew. CRAVING COMFORT For hearty Italian classics, head to Gamberetti’s in Salem, where dishes include creamy lasagna and carbonara with crisp pancetta. North Third Bar & Restaurant in historic Stayton serves up shareable pub plates such as steak frites and stuffed mushrooms. In the Bavarian-inspired town of Mt. Angel, Lou’s Kitchen offers rich prime-rib stroganoff and fried-shrimp baskets. VEGGIE AND VEGAN BITES Veg-forward pot stickers and spicy stir-fry dishes shine at Silk Thai Cuisine in Independence. Set in a historic building in downtown Salem, Wild Pear has scratch-made soups and savory sandwiches with cozy interiors — the white truffled sweet potato fries are divine. Also in Salem, Taproot Lounge & Cafe nails gourmet vegetarian fare with its veggie Benedict and hashes. DATE-NIGHT PICKS Bentley’s sets a romantic mood with candlelit jazz inside The Grand Hotel in Salem. Enjoy truffle puffs, braised short rib with gnocchi and an impressive wine list. DaVinci Ristorante in downtown Salem charms with live piano music, global wines and luxe bites such as lobster risotto. In Silverton Magnolia Grill woos with seasonal scallops topped with caviar and lovely cocktails. HAPPY-HOUR HITS The Cozy Taberna in Salem kicks off happy hour with small plates and cocktails from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Pair local wines Masonry Grill Joshua Rainey TravelSalem.com 26
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