Claire M.

Finz Seafood Restaurant

Finz is one of the better restaurants in Salem. Located on Pickering Wharf, this upscale eatery features mouthwatering dishes like lobster ravioli, wasabi pea crusted tuna, and espresso filet mignon. The wait staff is knowledgeable in what wines pair with the food, so the food experience is brought to the fullest. The restaurant overlooks the harbor and is glasses on three sides, so there is plenty of light. The bar and interior are beautiful.

Barking Crab

The Barking Crab is located just over the bridge on the way to the World Trade Center and the Fleet Pavilion. Its worth the stop in even on a rainy day. The restaurant features a large covered deck with picnic benches that are perfect for large groups. The food is fantastic, if not a bit over priced. But where else can you get a bucket of crab legs in lobster country? They have live entertainment and a fun staff who is attentive. Great for watching the sun go down then heading to a show.

Salty Dog Seafood Grille & Bar

The Salty Dog is one of my favorite places in Boston to grab seafood and a beer. Located in Fanuil Hall, the Dog has outdoor seating in the summer, but is equally enjoyable in the winter--if not downright cozy! Try their lobster bisque and fried clams. Try everything on the menu! You won't be disappointed. There is cafe seating and bar seating too. If you sit at the bar you can watch the oysters being shucked, and chat with a few natives. Definitly worth the experience.

PROS: food, location, staff
CONS: small

Roggie's Brew & Grille

Roggie's can be a student haven, but don't let that scare you away. Their menu is more upscale than you think for a bar, but the prices are great. The atmosphere reflects its location between the C and B lines on the T, which gives it access to all trends of people. The staff is friendly and service is fast. Check this place out if you are in the area.

Rustic Kitchen

This Rustic Kitchen is located in Porter Square, and features sidewalk dining during the summer. The portions are average size, but the menu is boring. Nothing jumps off and begs to be tried. Their bread is wonderful, and served with a chickpea oil, but I recommend filling up on the bread and having one of their wines instead of lingering for dinner. If you do stay, try their pizza. They have a good oven (visible from the seating area), but the bad news is you can watch your food get cold on the counter... A nice place to meet before going out as the restaurant is quiet and elegant.

PROS: nice bar
CONS: service

Summer Shack

Jasper Whites Summer Shack is a fun place to grab fresh seafood. This fun restaurant is good for parties large and small. Their menu consists of 4 or 5 catches of the day, but have yummy ways of being cooked up. A health conscious place, the restaurant recommends heart healthy plates, however there is also the good ole fried plates available. They have crab nights, and offer lobsters daily. Try their selection of oysters, or order a tower of shellfish. Have someone who doesnt like seafood? They wont be left out as there are non-sea products too. The service is spotty--on a recent visit my apps came out after my dinner and the water never showed, but then on another visit everything was timed perfectly and our waiter was very entertaining. You can eat at one of their two bars as well if you are there alone.

PROS: parking, T
CONS: spotty service

Prose

Prose is a great place to eat, especially if you are picky about where your food comes from. The owners buy from local markets, so if its not in season it probably will not be on your plate. But do not let that keep you away! The cook at Prose creates delectable plates that will make your mouth water. The dcor is nothing to write about, because here it is all about the food. They are also open for breakfasts on Saturdays, but keep night hours during the week.

PROS:
CONS: limited hours

Fire & Ice

The dining experience at Fire and Ice is fun and fresh. Located just behind Harvard Sq., this unique restaurant allows you to mix and match everything. You pick the fixings and they cook it exactly how you want it. And you can go back for more! Try their flavored tequilas in a mixed drink. I love this place. There is also a location in the Back Bay, but has a less casual feel to it.

Unas

This store is fun to wander through. Although it's small, the owners keep it neat and organized so each unique piece jumps out. The staff will not hassle you while you browse, and you may become lost in all the cute clothes you wish you could afford. There are some good deals, but as this is quality, there is a price to pay.

H & M

H & M are known around the world, but this Downtown Crossing location is not one of the better ones. Prices are good, but the clothes will fall apart by next season. The lines are very long to get into the dressing rooms and at the cashier, but move quickly. The store is bigger than it looks, but you still have to fight your way through. Cute clothes.