Ropes Mansion Garden Said to be one of Salem’s most haunted houses, this stately home of the Ropes family was built in 1727 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The surrounding gardens, open to the public, are among the city’s most picturesque. 318 Essex Street.
Avalanche Company Store The family-owned outdoor apparel company unveiled its first flagship store last fall. Set in a rustic, brick-walled space, the shop is adorned with the brand’s signature sporty fleece pullovers and vibrantly colored jackets, as well as handcrafted gifts and accessories displayed on refurbished antique furniture (also for sale). 24 Front Street, 978-594-8301, avalanchewear.com.
Jean-Louis Pasta Shop Salem foodies are abuzz about this noteworthy new specialty shop, where pasta is handmade on site by co-owner and one-time chef Jean-Louis Faber. Browse 30 variations of fresh ravioli, as well as dried pastas, a house line of signature olive oils, wine-infused sauces, and more. 84 Derby Street, 978-594-1088, facebook.com/JeanLouisPastaShop.
The Old Spot When it’s time for a pint, cozy up to the bar at this classic English pub, set just across the street from the Hawthorne Hotel in Salem’s historic downtown district. The English ale-battered fish ‘n’ chips are a must-try, too. 121 Essex Street, 978-745-5656, theoldspot.com.
Gulu-Gulu Cafe Named for a cafe in Prague where the owners met and fell in love, the bohemian Gulu-Gulu Cafe is a treasured coffee shop, wine bar, and eatery among locals who gather here to relish everything from early-morning breakfast crepes to Wednesday evening open mic sessions. Local artists’ works are also on display. 247 Essex Street, 978-740-8882, gulugulucafe.com.
Laura Lanes Skincare This soothing salon is the place for all your skincare needs, say the many Salem sophisticates who swear by the expert eyebrow shaping, facial treatments, body waxing, massage therapy, and nail services offered here. 242 Essex Street, 978-741-8777, lauralanes.com.
Antonio Bettencourt of 62 Restaurant & Wine Bar
The Barking Cat Pet Emporium Want only the best for Fido or Fluffy? If so, grab your pet’s leash and stroll to this stylish, upscale pet mecca, where four-legged friends are welcome inside. Amiable owner Jeff McKee can expertly guide you through varieties of organic pet food, supplements, unique chew toys, cute collars, and more. 266 Essex Street, 978-745-BARK, thebarkingcat.us.
62 Restaurant & Wine Bar Tucked away in Salem’s historic harborside marketplace, Pickering Wharf, this posh bistro is a perfect pick for oenophiles who enjoy rustic flavors of the Italian, Spanish, and French countryside. Don’t miss chef Antonio Bettencourt’s Garganelli (red wine-braised duck with cocoa, dried cherries, and pine nuts). Patrons can’t go wrong with any selection from 62’s well-curated wine list. 62 Wharf Street, 978-744-0062, 62restaurant.com.
Scratch Kitchen Foodies flock here for sandwiches, soups, and salads, all freshly made each day from locally sourced ingredients. Drop in for the popular Sunday brunch, and try the Green Eggs and Ham with herb pesto and Valley View goat cheese and a side of griddled cornbread. 245 Derby Street, 978-741-2442, scratchkitchensalem.com.