Salem, Massachusetts, is known for its colonial history, maritime trade, and witch trial legacy, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Located at 231 Essex Street in the center of downtown Salem, Rockefellas Restaurant allows visitors to experience many of the Witch City’s best attractions all in one place: great food, live entertainment, and a building with history.
The restaurant is set in the Daniel Low Building, serving many purposes throughout its history. The building was built in 1844 as a universalist church and later became the home of Dani Low & Co., a famous jewelry store. The jewelry store became known nationwide for introducing the first souvenir spoon in America, the Salem Witch Spoon, which helped spark the souvenir spoon trend of the late 1800s.
Today, Rockafellas has made this historic place its own, creating a welcoming spot where both locals and visitors gather to eat, enjoy live music, and even hear ghost stories. Salem draws travelers year-round, but October is by far the busiest season, as the city celebrates its connection to the 1692 Salem Witch Trials with festivals, tours, and events.
Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly restaurant, a place to listen to live music, or a way to connect with Salem’s historic charm, Rockafellas is a top destination. And if you’re curious about ghost stories, you may even experience some paranormal activity here, making it an exciting stop for anyone interested in Salem’s haunted reputation.
The History of Rockafellas and the Daniel Low Building
Rockafellas is located in the Daniel Low Building, which was built in 1844. The Building first served as a church for the First Universalist Society. After the church moved, the space was taken over by Daniel Low & co., a popular jewelry store in 1867.
Daniel Low’s shop became famous across the country for creating the first souvenir spoon in the United States, called the Salem Witch Spoon. Souvenir spoons became very popular in the late 1800s, and people loved collecting them when they traveled. Daniel Low & Co. stayed in business for more than 125 years, until it closed in the 1990s.
in 2003, Rockafellas opened in this historic building, keeping many of its original features, like arched windows and beautiful stained glass. These touches give the restaurant a mix of old-world charm and modern style, making it a fun spot for visitors who enjoy history.
What It’s Like Inside Rockafellas
Rockafellas has several dining areas, so there’s a place for everyone. whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch or a fun night out, you’ll find a spot that fits your mood.
Main Dinning Room: This area feels warm and cozy with exposed brick walls and big windows. it’s perfect for families or groups.
The Lounge: A more laid back area with a bar where you can enjoy drinks and chat with friends.
The Vault: This private dining room was once a bank vault! Now, it’s used for special events like small parties.
Outdoor Patio: In the warmer months, you can sit outside and watch the busy street life along Essex Street.
The mix of spaces makes Rockafellas a good fit whether you want a quiet meal or a lively evening.
The Menu, Lots of Options for Everyone
Rockafellas serves American food with local flavors. The menu offers a variety of dishes, so there is something for everyone, including seafood, burgers, steaks, and vegetarian choices. Here are some of the popular items.
- Appetizers:
- Lobster Rangoon
- New England Clam Chowder
- Crispy Calamari
- Main Dishes:
- Grilled Salmon with a citrus glaze
- Lobster Mac and Cheese
- New York Strip Steak
- Salads and Sandwiches:
- Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad
- Classic Lobster Roll
- Rockafellas Burger with bacon and cheddar
There are also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, so everyone can find something they like. Families with kids will appreciate the children’s menu, which offers classics like mac and cheese and chicken tenders.
For desserts. The Molten Lava Cake is a crowd favorite, and the restaurant also serves ice cream from Richardson’s Dairy, a popular local brand.
Events and Entertainment at Rockafellas
Rockafellas isn’t just about good food, it’s also a fun place for live entertainment. Many evenings feature local musicians, DJs. or trivia nights. Here are some events you might catch during your visit.
Live Music: Local bands and singers often perform here, creating a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Trivia Night: On certain weeknights, guests can join trivia competitions to test their knowledge and win prizes.
Sunday Brunch: Rockafellas brunch menu includes delicious options like lobster benedict and stuffed French toast.
Rockafellas also hosts weddings and private parties. With its historic building and flexible event spaces, it’s a popular spot for special celebrations.
Is Rockafellas Really Haunted?
Salem is known for its ghost stories, and Rockafellas has a few of its own. Over the years, visitors and staff have reported strange things, like:
Flickering lights for no clear reason
Objects moving on their own
Guests feeling chills or cold spots in certain areas
The most famous story involves Margarita Muñiz, a woman from Brazil who lived in Salem in the 1980s. Tragically, she died after falling from a window in the building. Some believe her spirit still haunts the restaurant.
Because of these ghostly rumors, Rockafellas is a stop on many of Salem’s haunted tours, adding an extra bit of excitement for visitors who love spooky stories. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these tales add to the fun of visiting the restaurant.
How to get to Rockafellas
Rockafellas is located right in downtown Salem at 231 Essex Street. This part of the city is easy to explore by foot, and there are several ways to get there:
By Car: Metered parking is available on the surrounding streets, and public parking garages are nearby.
By Train: Salem is on the MBTA Commuter Rail line, and the restaurant is about a 10-minute walk from the train station.
By Ferry: During the summer, you can take the Salem Ferry from Boston, which docks near the downtown area, just a short walk from Rockafellas.
What to Do Nearby
After enjoying a meal at Rockafellas, there’s plenty to do within walking distance. Here are some attractions to check out:
Salem Witch Trials Memorial: A quiet outdoor memorial that honors the victims of the 1692 witch trials.
Peabody Essex Museum: A large museum filled with exhibits on art, history, and Salem’s maritime past.
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall: A fun shopping area with unique boutiques, bookstores, and souvenir shops.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site: Learn about Salem’s role in early American trade and shipping.
Tips for Visiting Rockafellas
Make a Reservation: Rockafellas can get busy, especially in October when Salem is packed with tourists. Book your table ahead of time if you’re visiting during peak season.
Check the Event Calendar: If you want to catch live music or trivia, check their website for the latest schedule.
Ask About the Ghost Stories: Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the ghostly tales—many of them have stories to share!
Dress Comfortably: Salem is a walking city, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore before or after your meal.
Final Thoughts, A Fun and Tasty Stop in Salem
Rockafellas is a great place to experience Salem’s history, food, and entertainment all in one spot. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a lively night out with music, or a chance to hear some spooky stories, Rockafellas has something for everyone. With its historic building, friendly atmosphere, and central location, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Salem.
Reviews of Rockafellas
“Plenty of tables inside & out. Great food & service. Cool atmosphere. Food was reasonably priced. Nice for family or date night”
“Great environment, and location, we were staying at a hotel nearby so it was very convenient for us, I had the fish and chips and the plate was enormous, my husband has an allergy and they made us feel safe and taken care of when ordering.”
“Our server was great and the restaurant has a good vibe classic and modern at the same time. The food was AMAZING. 10/10, would recommend.”
“The best meal we had in Salem! Nice atmosphere, current and mellow playlist, great menu selection, large portions, and delicious food. We went at 6:00 on a Tuesday night and were seated right away. Sabrina was our server, and she was friendly, knowledgeable and quick. Everything we ordered was amazing: the spinach dip was the BEST we have ever had, the wings were meaty and so tasty, and all 3 meals were delicious. (Crab cake sandwich, the Angus burger, and the Macaroni and cheese) We were still talking about the meal the next day! Be sure to make time for a meal here and don’t skip the appetizers. Unfortunately, we were too full to get dessert. If we are ever in Salem again, we will be sure to go back and try more menu items.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rockafellas accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. Rockafellas is accessible to individuals with disabilities. The restaurant has ramp access, an accessible entrance, and wheelchair-friendly restrooms to ensure all guests can enjoy their experience comfortably. Additionally, the outdoor patio offers an accessible space for dining in warmer months.
Does Rockafellas offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?
Yes. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Examples include salads with plant-based options, grilled vegetables, and gluten-free versions of select menu items. Guests with dietary needs are encouraged to inform their server to ensure their meal meets their preferences.
Is Rockafellas family-friendly?
Yes. Rockafellas welcomes families and offers a kids’ menu with items like chicken tenders, pasta, and mac and cheese. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere in the main dining room and outdoor patio makes it a suitable spot for families visiting downtown Salem.
Can I make reservations at Rockafellas?
Yes. Reservations are recommended, especially during October and weekends, when Salem experiences high tourist traffic. Guests can make reservations via the restaurant’s website or by calling directly. Walk-ins are also accepted, but availability may vary during peak hours.
Does Rockafellas offer parking?
Rockafellas does not have on-site parking, but there are public parking garages and metered street parking nearby. The Museum Place Garage at 1 New Liberty Street is a convenient option, just a short walk from the restaurant. Be mindful of time limits for metered parking, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Photos of Rockafellas in Salem, Massachusetts
References
Salem Historical Society. “Daniel Low Building.”
Rockafellas Restaurant. Official Website.
Discover New England. “Salem Travel Guide.”