MUST-DO: EAT + DRINK
Ledger Dine on classic New England fare, updated with modern ingredients and sensibilities in a repurposed bank— check out the vault door and safety deposit boxes incorporated into the design. 125 Washington St., 978-5941908, ledgersalem.com
Goodnight Fatty
These lusciously thick cookies in a shifting lineup of unique flavors are served only on weekends, but they’re completely worth the wait. 1 Washington Sq., goodnightfatty.com
Harbor Sweets Indulge your sweet tooth at one of the region’s most acclaimed chocolatiers. Don’t skip the Sweet Sloops—chocolate covered buttercrunch sailboats that were the company’s original offering. 85 Leavitt
St., 978-745-7648, harborsweets.com
Settler The simple, approachable Mediterranean cuisine is made with ingredients from local farms and fishermen for maximum freshness and flavor. 2 Lynde St., 978-744-2094, settlersalem.com
Bambolina/kokeshi Two sister restaurants under one roof means diners can choose handcrafted, wood-fired pizza or Asian street food and noodles, all in one charming restaurant. 288 Derby St., 978-594-4197, bambolinarestaurant.com, kokeshirestaurant.com
Gulu Gulu Café Fun, casual food, an extensive beer list, and a lineup of live music and drag brunches make this café one of the city’s most welcoming spots.
247 Essex St., 978-7408882, gulugulucafe.com
Turner’s Seafood With ownership that also operates fish markets, Turner’s serves up the freshest possible seafood in a historic (and possibly haunted) setting. 43 Church St., 978-745-7665, turnersseafood.com/salem-ma