When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salem with a group of friends or family, consider
All Souls Lounge
Why All Souls Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located at 282 Derby Street in historic Salem, All Souls Lounge combines retro charm with modern comfort food, creating an inviting space for friends to gather. Specializing in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and creative hot dogs, this establishment offers a menu that elevates classic American fare. The La Femme grilled cheese (featuring brie, green apple, and hot honey) and Icelandic Dog (loaded with bacon, fried onions, and remoulade) showcase their flair for inventive twists. Vintage cocktails, craft beers, and a curated selection of vinyl records spinning on an old-school jukebox enhance the laid-back atmosphere. With hours extending until 1 AM daily, it’s an ideal spot for late-night bites or weekend brunch. The eclectic decor—think dim lighting, vinyl booths, and mid-century accents—complements the nostalgic vibe, making it a standout choice for casual meetups or themed nights like Tiki Tuesdays (featuring Spam sliders and tropical cocktails).
Here's what people think of All Souls Lounge
As of recent, All Souls Lounge holds a 4.5-star rating based on 367 reviews.
With a 4.5/5 rating from 367 reviews, All Souls Lounge consistently earns praise for its creative menu and welcoming ambiance. Positive reviews highlight the gourmet grilled cheese varieties, particularly the Banh Mi Melt and Classic options, as well as the late-night availability in a city with limited options post-10 PM. Many visitors commend the friendly staff and unique retro aesthetic, calling it a "hidden gem" for its balance of affordability and quality. A subset of reviews notes occasional menu item unavailability, especially during peak hours or themed events, and a few mention longer wait times when the lounge is crowded. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus emphasizes its reliability for satisfying comfort food in a distinctive setting. Negative feedback is sparse but occasionally cites limited gluten-free or vegan options beyond specified menu items. Overall, the reviews position All Souls as a must-visit for its charm, inventive dishes, and vinyl-spinning vibe.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vigny F.
Can't believe this was my first time trying this place after having been to Salem several times! The menu is very vegetarian and vegan friendly and the cocktail menu is vintage. I had a veggie hot dog. My food and my drink were both really good. I can't wait to go back and try their grilled cheese! Definitely recommend and definitely will be going back.
Holly Bianchi
We visited on Halloween and were happy to find that most items on the menu can be made vegan. My husband had one of their grilled cheese options and I had a Field Roast “dog” and each was really good! The vegan spinach dip appetizer was absolutely amazing with the bread (the chips were too salty). The drinks were delicious, the service quick and everyone was super nice despite the busy Halloween crowds.
Emma Neal
Amazing food, great drinks and service. Love the atmosphere. They clearly care about the things that matter.
Kendra Kristine
Absolutely the best! Would 100% suggest and recommend this place. Super nice staff, great food, delicious drinks, and wonderful atmosphere. This was, by far, my favorite spot in Salem. Just the absolute best
Raha Mehrkish
Great bar with delicious food! Came here with my friend after a full day of exploring Salem, and the food really hit the spot. We started off with some tasty spinach dip. For our main meals, I ordered the santa fe dog, my friend ordered the seattle dog, and we both shared mac and cheese with chili. It was all very delicious. The service was great too. The inside of the bar was intimate with dark, romantic lighting. It felt cozy and was not very loud. We did not try any drinks this time around, but will be sure to try some next time. Definitely recommend this place for grilled cheese and hot dog lovers.
How to reach All Souls Lounge
282 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, USA
Website: http://www.allsoulssalem.com/
Rallying at All Souls Lounge with your friends offers a uniquely vibrant experience that blends cozy ambiance, delicious food, and exceptional drinks into one inviting package. Located at 282 Derby St, Salem, MA, this lounge has quickly become a beloved hotspot for groups looking to unwind in a laid-back yet stylish setting. The charm of All Souls lies in its ability to cater to diverse tastes—whether you're craving gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, creative cocktails, or gluten-free and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. The intimate lighting and vintage vinyl music create a nostalgic vibe that’s perfect for meaningful conversations or lively gatherings alike. Plus, with a commendable 4.5-star rating based on 367 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently enjoy their time there, cherishing both the food quality and the welcoming neighborhood feel[1][2][3]. For groups wanting a memorable meetup spot that balances comfort, taste, and a dash of cool retro flair, All Souls Lounge stands out as an ideal choice.
What makes All Souls Lounge the perfect place for a group meetup?
All Souls Lounge excels as a gathering place because it balances atmosphere, food, and drink perfectly suited for groups. First, the lounge ambiance is thoughtfully curated — dim lighting paired with stylish, vintage furnishings provides a warm, intimate backdrop, encouraging relaxed conversation and connection. It’s not overly loud or crowded, making it easier for groups to chat or celebrate special occasions comfortably[2]. The space feels inviting yet sophisticated, giving your group a sense of exclusivity without any pretension.
Food-wise, All Souls specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and a variety of hot dogs, all of which can be tailored to suit gluten-free and vegan diets. This is a huge plus for groups with diverse dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can find something delicious to enjoy without worry or compromise. Many reviewers praise the gluten-free bread and vegan-friendly ingredients, highlighting the lounge’s dedication to accommodating allergies and dietary restrictions with knowledgeable service staff[3][5]. This attention to inclusive dining elevates group meals from ordinary to exceptional.
On the drink front, All Souls offers a robust menu of vintage-style cocktails crafted with care and quality ingredients. The cocktail selection pairs beautifully with the comfort food menu, providing an elevated drinking experience. Reviews often mention the “quality old school style drinks” that complement the cozy vibe perfectly[1]. Whether your group prefers classic concoctions or creative takes, the bar’s drink offerings are bound to please.
What activities and experiences can groups enjoy at All Souls Lounge?
Groups visiting All Souls Lounge can expect much more than just a meal; the entire experience is designed to foster warmth and enjoyment. One key activity is immersing yourselves in the music. The lounge features an old-school juke and a curated vinyl selection, which creates a nostalgic soundtrack that many guests find enhances the overall ambiance[4]. Friends can bond over favorite tunes while enjoying their drinks and food, making the meetup feel both relaxed and special.
Another activity is enjoying the variety of comfort food options that encourage sharing and sampling. The grilled cheese sandwiches come in several gourmet variations, perfect for splitting and tasting different flavors as a group. Similarly, the hot dogs lineup offers creative toppings and can be made vegan or gluten-free, providing another layer of fun food discovery for everyone. This emphasis on communal eating adds to the social vibe that makes All Souls a standout meetup spot[3][5].
The lounge’s late-night hours also make it a great destination for groups looking to extend their night out with a cozy environment for winding down. Unlike many places that close early, All Souls is open until 1:00 AM on weekends, allowing for those memorable “last stop” visits after other venues have shuttered. This makes it ideal for groups who want to cap their evening with quality food and drinks in a relaxed setting[1].
How is All Souls Lounge accommodating for dietary restrictions and diverse tastes?
One of All Souls Lounge’s greatest strengths is its thoughtful approach to dietary needs. Many venues struggle to cater well to gluten-free or vegan diets, but All Souls goes the extra mile. Their menu is flexible, allowing nearly every hot dog and grilled cheese option to be made gluten-free or vegan without sacrificing taste or quality[3][5]. Careful attention is paid to cross-contamination risks, and staff are described as knowledgeable and attentive when it comes to allergies.
The result is a welcoming environment where groups don’t have to split up to find suitable dining options. Whether someone avoids gluten due to celiac disease or simply prefers a plant-based lifestyle, they can enjoy gourmet comfort food alongside their friends. The inclusive menu choices enhance the group meetup experience by ensuring no one feels left out due to dietary restrictions.
Furthermore, the food prices are considered reasonable, making it accessible for groups on a budget who still want a quality dining experience. This combination of culinary accommodation, excellent service, and affordability positions All Souls Lounge as a rare gem for groups with diverse preferences[3][5].
Why do guests rave about the vibes and service at All Souls Lounge?
Visitors consistently highlight the cozy yet lively vibe as one of the best reasons to choose All Souls Lounge for a group meetup. The lounge strikes a balance between a neighborhood hangout and a sophisticated nightspot. Comfortable seating, intimate lighting, and vintage decor create an atmosphere that is at once nostalgic and modern. This vibe encourages guests to relax and linger over drinks and conversation, making it a natural choice for friend groups or family gatherings[1][2].
Service at All Souls Lounge also draws praise. Guests describe staff as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being overbearing. For groups, this means excellent recommendations for drinks, accommodating dietary needs, and smooth service that lets everyone focus on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about details[1][3][5]. Friendly bartenders and waitstaff contribute heavily to the welcoming atmosphere that makes repeat visits a common theme in reviews.
Whether you’re meeting for a casual catch-up, a birthday celebration, or just a night out, the lounge’s vibe and attentive service ensure that your group feels valued and comfortable. This combination is often hard to find but is a big part of why All Souls Lounge maintains high customer satisfaction and a solid 4.5-star rating across hundreds of reviews[1].
What makes All Souls Lounge stand out in Salem’s nightlife and dining scene?
Salem, Massachusetts, is known for its rich history and eclectic dining options, but All Souls Lounge distinguishes itself through its unique combination of vintage charm, high-quality comfort food, and inclusive menu choices. Unlike many nightlife spots that prioritize loud music or standard bar fare, All Souls offers a place where groups can truly connect over expertly crafted grilled cheese sandwiches and specialty cocktails in an intimate setting.
The lounge’s commitment to accommodating gluten-free and vegan diners sets it apart in a region where such options can be limited or overlooked. This progressive approach to dietary inclusivity, combined with vintage cocktails and a curated music experience, creates a distinctive niche. It’s where old-school Americana meets modern sensibilities, making it perfect for any group seeking a memorable, hassle-free outing.
Moreover, All Souls’ late hours provide a valuable option for night owls wanting a quality late-night bite and drink in Salem, filling a gap that few other places address. The blend of comfort, style, and thoughtful service makes it a holistic destination that appeals to both locals and visitors[1][2][3][4].
Whether gathering with close friends or family, All Souls Lounge offers an inviting, accommodating, and memorable setting. Its vintage atmosphere, inclusive menu, and excellent drink selection create a compelling case for making it your go-to meetup spot in Salem. From casual lunches to late-night hangouts, this lounge has all the ingredients for a perfect group experience.