The Roof, a lively seasonal bar perched atop the North Shore’s newest accommodations, The Hotel Salem, has opened its doors to the public. Led by Lark Hotels’ Group Executive Chef, Justin Perdue, The Roof offers creative cocktails and a casual menu of Mexican small plates like oysters, ceviche, guacamole and tacos.
Views of downtown Salem and a glimpse of the nearby harbor surround this dynamic, three-season social spot, where guests are invited to mingle over food, drinks and conversation. At The Roof’s 18-seat rectangular bar, the cocktail program includes three rotating, seasonal cocktails on tap, house-made frosé (frozen rosé), sangria, margaritas as well as craft beer and wine by the glass and bottle.
Drinks can be enjoyed under the bar’s retractable roof, at casual high-top tables, or on plush banquette seating along the space’s exterior. Designed for sharing, Chef Perdue’s menu is comprised of traditional and composed oysters, bright and flavorful ceviche, inventive tacos, and a rotating list of guacamole preparations ranging from an updated classic to an over-the-top pork belly variety.
Standout dishes from Perdue’s playful opening menu include:
- Ahi Tuna Cocktail with avocado, cilantro, bliss fish sauce, tomato and preserved lemon
- Local Oysters with cucumber, cilantro and ponzu
- Pork Belly Guacamole with red pepper, queso fresco, chicharrónes and chips
- Braised Pork Tacos with grilled pineapple, queso fresco, salsa rojo and cilantro
- Roasted Eggplant Tacos with red pepper crema, lime and crispy spiced chickpeas
- Marinated Flank Steak Tacos with dates, pickled mushrooms and farmer’s cheese
Centrally located four floors above the city’s bustling Essex Street pedestrian mall, The Roof features wood-paneled exterior walls that create a warm atmosphere in the modern outdoor space. Colorful seating options pop with lime green upholstery, and geometric turquoise tile details and live greenery reflect the space’s bright, energetic vibe.
Glass barricades keep The Roof secure without blocking its 360- degree views, and a retractable awning provides shade in the bar area. Overhead, twinkling lights give the al fresco spot a dim, inviting glow, and a seasonal heating system keeps guests comfortable throughout the city’s busy fall season. The Roof can accommodate 85 guests seated, with standing room and private event capabilities for up to 150 people. For offsite events, The Roof will soon offer a mobile taco cart equipped to serve light bites at parties, meetings and private events.
The Roof is located on the top floor of The Hotel Salem at 209 Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts. Dinner and drinks are available seven days a week from June through October from 2 pm to 10 pm daily, with the bar open until 11 pm.
