Why The Roof is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

The Roof, located at 209 Essex St in Salem, MA, is a standout destination for socializing and enjoying modern Mexican cuisine atop a stylish rooftop setting. As Salem's only open-air rooftop bar and restaurant, it offers a unique ambiance with expansive views of the historic city streets and bustling harbor, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends and unwind. The venue features a fashionable vibe complemented by a seasonal outdoor kitchen, where guests can savor expertly crafted cocktails alongside fresh Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, rice bowls, and oysters. The Roof's atmosphere strikes a balance between laid-back and sophisticated, catering to both locals and tourists seeking an elevated dining experience. Its commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the space comfortably. This combination of strong drinks, simple yet flavorful food, and panoramic views creates a memorable social setting that invites guests to relax, celebrate, and enjoy quality time together in Salem.

Here's what people think of The Roof

As of recent, The Roof holds a 3.8-star rating based on 306 reviews.

Reviews for The Roof highlight its unique rooftop setting and the quality of its cocktails and food. Many users praise the restaurant for its stunning panoramic views of Salem, creating a perfect backdrop for social gatherings and nightlife. Positive feedback often mentions the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff, with special recognition for bartenders like Brianna, whose service enhances the overall experience. The modern Mexican dishes, especially the tacos and oysters, receive compliments for their flavor and freshness. On the downside, some negative reviews point to inconsistent food quality and service delays, particularly during busy hours. A few guests have expressed disappointment with the limited menu and occasional pricing concerns relative to portion sizes. Despite these critiques, the majority of patrons appreciate the relaxed yet trendy atmosphere and find the rooftop bar an exceptional spot for evening drinks and casual dining. In conclusion, The Roof garners generally favorable reviews for its ambiance, drinks, and location, while suggesting room for improvement in service consistency and menu options to fully meet customer expectations.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Jemma Henley

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Ate at the roof top bar, will never eat here again. Server was ok, food was advertised as simple but was not up to the prices. Almost 20 dollars for 2 tacos nothing else, the salsa taste like a jar of pace salsa, chips were stale. It took forever to get our food which I did understand because it is the start of the busy season here. Food was not worth our money!

Terence Richardson

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Found this roof top bar during a day trip to Salem. Great spot to grab a drink and snack away from the Salem crowds. Serve was good, and we had nachos with pulled pork, which was really good. There's not much shade when the full sun is out, but it's definitely worth a stop.

Stayc

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Take the elevate to 'The Roof' is located on top of the Salem Hotel with good ariel views of the city. Service and atmosphere are desirable. The food menu is quite small with starters have the most to choose from. The entree menu was mostly burrito options. Large beverage selection. Prices are competitive.

LE A

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This restaurant had been on my "Too do" list, for a few years now. We've been to Salem 5 times/years. As you may or may not know during October no reservations are excepted in restaurant and it's extremely congested with many families looking for a place that take them in for lunch or dinner. Finally visiting this time in November for the first time, we made a restaurant, showed on time and was excited to experience ""the view"" and atmosphere, only to be disappointed. Upon arrival, the white waitress seemed bothered or didn't want to attend us. When arrived to take our drink order, we asked for more time and she quickly took advantage and pivoted us to another server (who happened to be in the minority group). She took our order, messed up the order a few times in different ways, when brought to her attention ran from the table to place the order. Had she waited we would've just left it as is,.as food was being made and waisted. She brought the soup out, when I asked her to bring it out as my meal with the rest of the tables food and to top it up the soup was horrible. They only had two options, chicken tortilla which tasted and looked like a jar salsa dip warmed up, i asked to switch for clam chowder. By this point, hungry and cold I ate most of the soup although it tasted sour. I don't eat seafood often but when is MA, why not. Here's why not.....cause these bagged soups which are just warmed up for the customers go bad. I had explosive diarrhea immediately after and for the remainder of out trip. Mind you, this was the first day of a long extended weekend trip. The waitress seemed bothered however, did remove the error she ordered from the bill. I tipped 15% as I have been a server & bartender before and the horrible food was of no fault of her own. I will say, she does need more training, the food is giving prepackaged frozen food and the atmosphere is overrated. Almost $20 for chicken tenders, insane. Spicy crab dip, sour and tacky. P

Miranda Wilson

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Great atmosphere. The lobster quesadillas are awesome! The wings were bland and the manager was nice enough to remove them from our bill. The drinks are delicious and most can be made as mock-tails which I appreciated as the designated driver.

How to reach The Roof

Rallying at The Roof with your friends offers an unbeatable blend of vibrant atmosphere, stunning views, and delicious modern Mexican cuisine that makes any gathering special. Located atop Hotel Salem at 209 Essex Street, The Roof is Salem’s only open-air rooftop bar and restaurant, providing an exclusive setting where you and your friends can enjoy the fresh New England air alongside panoramic views of Salem’s charming streets and harbor. This fashionable venue combines casual sophistication with a sense of fun, making it the ideal place to catch up, celebrate, or simply relax together. The space is seasonally open, ensuring you get the best experience during mild, comfortable weather, perfect for sipping expertly crafted cocktails and sharing flavorful dishes like tacos, rice bowls, and oysters. With a rating of 3.8 from over 300 reviews, many speak highly of the atmosphere and attentive service. The Roof invites both locals and tourists to enjoy a laid-back yet stylish experience that is tailor-made for socializing, making it a natural choice for a memorable night out with friends or family[1][2][4][5].

What makes The Roof perfect for group meetups and social gatherings?

The Roof’s rooftop setting is the first compelling reason it is perfect for group meetups. A rooftop bar offers a spacious, scenic environment that naturally fosters conversation and relaxation away from the noise of busy streets. At The Roof, you have ample outdoor seating that accommodates groups comfortably while providing stunning views that enhance the ambiance. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or just a casual get-together, the open-air vibe and stylish design create an inviting atmosphere. The seasonal nature means you can enjoy the fresh air during Salem’s pleasant months, which adds an element of freshness and freedom to your gathering.

Another important feature is the menu and drinks. The Roof specializes in modern Mexican dishes, including tacos and rice bowls, which are perfect for sharing among friends. The food is described as simple but expertly prepared, ideal for casual dining that doesn’t require formal settings. Sharing plates are a great way to foster interaction and make meal times communal. Additionally, The Roof is known for its strong and well-crafted cocktails, including distinctive margaritas and other favorites that complement the dining experience. This combination of food and drink ensures there’s something for everyone in your group to enjoy. The emphasis on quality drinks also creates a celebratory mood perfect for marking special occasions or just unwinding together.

Service and accessibility also elevate the group experience. The Roof prides itself on attentive staff and good service, with reviews noting excellent attention from bartenders and waitstaff—essential when managing larger groups. Moreover, the venue is committed to accessibility, working on enhancements so individuals with disabilities can enjoy the same smooth experience, which is an important factor when planning a meetup for diverse groups. Whether you want table service, takeout, or just a casual spot to have drinks outdoors, The Roof provides flexibility to accommodate different preferences, making it a versatile choice.

What activities can groups enjoy at The Roof?

Primarily, The Roof excels as a social dining and drinking destination. Groups can enjoy sharing a variety of flavorful Mexican dishes and unique cocktails while soaking in the views. The menu’s focus on simple, quality food makes it easy for groups to choose items to share, promoting a communal and lively dining experience. This is ideal for friends catching up after work or families enjoying a night out. Beyond dining, the rooftop setting invites casual socializing and photo opportunities—capturing Salem’s scenic backdrop adds to the fun and creates lasting memories.

The Roof is also a great spot for seasonal celebrations and events. Because it is open-air and has a trendy vibe, it can be an excellent venue for celebrations like birthdays, engagement parties, or casual reunions. Its location atop Hotel Salem means you have easy access to the rest of Salem, perfect for combining a night at The Roof with other activities like visiting museums or taking night tours of the city. The restaurant’s cocktail program means groups can try a variety of drinks, experiment with flavors, and enjoy a lively bar atmosphere that stimulates conversation and enjoyment.

For those interested in a more relaxed vibe, The Roof’s sophisticated yet laid-back ambiance works well for unwinding post-work or on weekends, allowing groups to decompress in a stylish setting. The outdoor kitchen and open-air bar create a casual yet upscale environment that fits a wide range of social occasions. Additionally, given its location in Salem’s historic district, The Roof can serve as a launch point for exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings before or after your meal and drinks.

How does The Roof accommodate diverse group needs?

The Roof shows commitment to accessibility, which is crucial when hosting groups of varying needs. They are actively improving their facilities and website to provide better access for people with disabilities, ensuring everyone in your group can participate fully and comfortably. This inclusiveness makes The Roof an inviting choice for all kinds of gatherings, from family reunions involving elders to groups with members who require special accommodations.

The restaurant’s table service and outdoor seating options also make it adaptable to different group dynamics. Whether your meetup is a large party or a smaller group seeking a cozy spot, the seating arrangements can be adjusted accordingly. The staff’s attentiveness is frequently praised in reviews, highlighting how the team at The Roof manages group needs efficiently, whether it’s handling food allergies, drink preferences, or special requests.

Its location on Essex Street places The Roof near many other Salem attractions and restaurants, so groups can easily plan a full day or evening itinerary around the visit. This convenience means you can combine a relaxed rooftop gathering with other group-friendly activities, making it a strategic hub for social outings.

Why choose The Roof for a stylish yet casual dining experience?

If your group values a trendy yet approachable dining experience, The Roof hits the mark perfectly. The design and atmosphere are modern and fashionable without feeling pretentious, blending comfort with an elevated aesthetic. The open-air rooftop bar concept is unique in Salem, making it a standout option for those wanting something different from typical restaurants or pubs.

The food is straightforward but thoughtfully crafted, focusing on the essentials like tacos and rice bowls paired with standout cocktails. This balance appeals to guests who want quality without fuss, making group ordering easy and enjoyable. The cocktails are particularly noted for being strong and well-made, providing a highlight that can elevate the overall experience and offer a taste of something special.

Moreover, the expansive views of Salem’s harbor and cobblestone streets create a scenic backdrop that adds a visual flair to the meal, enhancing the sense of occasion. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a starry night, the rooftop ambiance at The Roof makes every meetup feel like a small celebration.

In summary, The Roof at 209 Essex Street in Salem, MA, represents an excellent choice for hosting meetups and social gatherings with friends or family. From its unique rooftop setting and scenic views to the modern Mexican menu and excellent cocktails, it offers an inviting blend of style, comfort, and fun. Its commitment to accessibility and attentive service further ensures that groups of all sizes and needs can enjoy a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special event or just want a laid-back venue to relax and reconnect, The Roof’s vibrant atmosphere and quality offerings make it an ideal location to rally your group and make lasting memories[1][2][4][5].

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the The Roof

• https://www.theroofsalem.com
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60954-d14204965-Reviews-The_Roof-Salem_Massachusetts.html
• https://www.opentable.com/r/hotel-salem-the-roof-salem
• https://www.salem.org/listing/the-roof-at-hotel-salem/
• https://northofboston.org/weddings/restaurants/the-roof-at-the-hotel-salem/