Salem, Massachusetts: Whiskey Teacup Style
- Marlee Hope
- Nov 3, 2020
- 5 min read
This Halloween season, which as many of you know is my favorite, my Mom and I packed our bags and headed to Salem.
We were ready for cooler weather and spookier vibes, which Salem had in abundance. On our adventures through the historic and beautiful town of Salem we came across a ghostie or two along with several amazing food finds. While a good ghost hunt was necessary, we also took time to hit some awesome local spots that we just have to share. We enjoyed so many good eats and good drinks, but below are just a few highlights of our fav spots. Most of our time was spent in Salem checking out Hocus Pocus spots and learning about the Witch Trials, but we also had the opportunity to spend part of a day in Boston and had to share a couple favs while there as well. Come along with us on a little highlight of our journey through Salem.
Mercy Tavern
This was one our first full meals once we arrived, and it was so so good. In the best way possible it exceeded our wary expectations. I had chosen this place on a google maps search whim, and per the good reviews decided to give it a try. It's a quirky little corner bar with lots of old charm, and gothic art adorning the walls for a little extra spookiness. The service was great from the moment we walked in the door. We were efficiently seated upon our arrival (although if there was a wait it would have been worth waiting) and recieved our food and beverages in a timely manner. While in boston it was my mission to get as much seafood as possible, because seafood up North just tastes better. (I will fight anyone til I am blue in the face on this matter). One of my go to's everywhere we went was clam chowder, which was basically available anywhere. I am extremely particular about how I like my clam chowder to taste and I would give Mercy Tavern's a solid 10/10. It was the perfect consistency, and had so much flavor packed inside. For an entree Mom and I shared the pumpkin raviloli (which I'm sure is seasonal). This was also a showstopper !!! The white cream sauce was the star of the show and awards were still given out to best supporting actress, the pumpkin ravioli herself. The sage and luxardo cherries rounded out the richness of the sauce and the pumpkin, and made the flavor profile all around divine. If we ever find oursleves back in Salem this will be a spot we won't forget to hit again. Also I would love to claim the other foods pictured and make you think I am rich enough to order all the food my heart desires, but alas we had others traveling with us so I was fortunate enough to also try all the foods you see pictured that were, as I am sure you have guessed, friggin' delicious.
Kakawa Chocolate House
If you like all things chocolate, then this cute little shop is a must! We stopped in to grab some hot chocolate which they refer to as drinking chocolate. It was so unique and unlike any we have tasted. We decided on a white chocolate flavor that had a little bit of spice on the back end. They also had a large selection of handmade chocolates and truffles with a bunch of unique flavors. This was also a great spot to stop while we were walking around and shopping on Essex street as they had plenty of seating.
Goodnight Fatty
We had the pleasure of stumbling upon this place that was attached to a historic home where we were taking pictures. This cool small business was a food truck that grew into the spot. The inside had a really cool vibe and all the employees working there were fantastic. They answered any questions we had for them about the big beautiful home that was attached. The cookies were moist and bursting with flavor, the Oreo was my favorite. This place is open late, so is perfect for an after dinner or midnight snack.
Allison's House
If you are a fan of Hocus Pocus then you definitely want to make time to see all the filming spots around town. One of those spots is Allison's house which is located right in the downtown area within walking distance if you're exploring Salem. You can't go inside the home, but the back yard area is open to guests and hosts a beautiful large garden. It is fun to explore around the outside of the house as there is lots to see and great picture taking opportunities.
Broad street cemetery
If you like to be creepy and weird and visit old cemeteries for fun like myself, then definitely swing by this one. It is open to the public and within walking distance of downtown Salem. The headstones are all very old, some dating back a few hundred years. It was interesting to walk around and read all the headstones. It was also the perfect place for my birthday photo shoot which was themed as a funeral for my youth. Those photos will be featured next month.
Mike's Pastry
While in Salem we decided to venture out into the Boston, MA area and check out a few recommendations that had been given to us from a friend who used to live there. Being from up North, one of the things we miss the most is old school bakery's. So we had to check this place out and grab couple of delicious Italian pastries. This place is most well known for their cannolis which they offer in a multitude of flavors. They also have an assortment of yummy cakes and pies. This place was very busy with people all wanting what we wanted so not a place to pop into if you want to sit down. It's a leave the gun grab the cannoli type of takeout. Also they only accept cash so be sure to have that on you before make a plan to stop here. Setting all that aside, the cannolis were so amazing!!! You can tell they are as authentic as they get and were made with love from someone's cute Italian granny.
Bova's Bakery
This was another one of the recommendations for us when we were in Boston. This place had it all! It is a perfect pit stop for lunch and a lobster tail. They also had a large assortment of Italian cookies and baked goods. The desserts we got were so amazing, and I very much enjoyed my meatball calzone.
Overall we had an amazing trip with lots of places seen and plenty to eat.
We have added the websites to each spot we recommend. If you are ever in the Salem or Boston, Massachusetts area be sure to hit these spots...we promise you won't be disappointed. Be sure to let us know what you think!
Marlee & Hope
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