Let me just say it: if you only have one night in Salem, make a reservation at Settler Salem Restaurant. It’s not just good — it’s one of the top three meals I’ve ever had in my life (and I eat for a living, so that’s saying something). Before or after your meal at Settler, check out my Salem Day Trip from Boston guide for more can’t-miss food and history spots nearby.
The Settler is tucked just far enough off Salem’s busy streets that it feels like you’ve discovered a secret. Make a reservation early — seriously, this place books up — and pick your vibe. The outdoor patio is small and ridiculously charming, with twinkly string lights that basically say, “yes, you are about to have a magical night.” Inside is romantic and moody in the best way, with warm lighting and tables that just beg you to linger over a long meal.
The staff sets the tone from the second you walk in. Our server treated us like old friends, happily walking us through every dish on the menu like we were about to embark on a culinary quest (which, spoiler alert, we were). Even the manager came over, chatted with us for a bit, and shared where they source their farm-fresh ingredients. You can just feel how much the whole team loves working here — and it makes the experience even better.
Our food adventure kicked off with the homemade sourdough bread and oil pairing, and honestly, the first bite was when I knew this night was going to be special.
We went for the Chef’s Meze — a curated selection of small bites that night featuring their crispy herb falafel with mint and harissa aioli, plus two chef-selected surprises. One was homemade chips with a spicy, creamy, crunchy dip that dreams are made of (you know the kind you’re sad to see end). We also added a cucumber pomegranate salad made with cucumbers from a farm just a few towns over — super fresh, bright, and exactly what you want to start a meal like this.
Next came the whipped ricotta with grilled sourdough and vegetable crudité. The chili honey drizzle on top gives it just the right amount of sweetness, and the fact that the carrot and cucumber bowl came out with ice so every bite was crisp and cold? That’s the kind of detail that makes my Type-A heart so happy.
Then came the star of the show: the sumac roasted carrots. I never thought I’d dedicate an entire paragraph to carrots, but here we are. These were crunchy from the hazelnuts, tangy from the pickled golden raisins, balanced with tzatziki, and slightly charred on the edges — they were basically vegetable perfection. If someone had told me I’d be planning my return trip for a plate of carrots, I’d have laughed. And yet.
For mains, I went for the Niman Ranch NY strip cooked medium, served with grilled eggplant, olive vinaigrette, and the silkiest soubise sauce. The steak practically melted in my mouth. Brad ordered the pasta special with fresh lobster and burst tomatoes and immediately started guarding his plate like it was a national treasure — which, to be fair, it kind of was.
We couldn’t leave without ordering the crispy potatoes. Perfectly golden, topped with lemon aioli and finely shredded pecorino Romano, they were the side dish of my dreams.
At this point, I was stuffed, but when the server asked if we wanted dessert, of course I said yes. (Dessert is not optional here.) Get the pistachio gelato. It’s creamy, nutty, and so good I actually slowed down just to make it last longer — which, if you know me, is saying a lot. If you want to level it up, get it as an affogato and pour the espresso over top. That hot-and-cold contrast? Magic. We also had the chocolate torte, which was rich, decadent, and the perfect “I definitely didn’t need this but I have zero regrets” finale.
Settler is that rare unicorn of a restaurant that feels both special and approachable. The menu is elevated but not intimidating, the staff clearly loves what they do, and every plate that comes out feels like it’s been crafted just for you.
It’s the kind of place where you find yourself looking around the room halfway through your meal thinking, “Yep, everyone here is having the best night too.”
Everything about The Settler is dialed in — the food, the atmosphere, the service. Every dish is layered with flavor in a way that surprises you with every bite, and the whole experience feels like a special occasion even if you’re just there on a random Thursday night.
So yes, I’m putting this in writing: Settler isn’t just one of Salem’s best restaurants — it’s one of the best I’ve ever been to, anywhere. Make the reservation, clear some space on your phone for food photos, and prepare to have your taste buds ruined for all other meals. If you’re planning to stay overnight, my Perfect 3-Day Boston and Salem Itinerary includes Settler plus other must-try stops.
Sedona got me again 🌵
This was my second trip, and somehow I liked it even more. Every visit adds another trail, viewpoint, or restaurant to the list, and the list keeps getting longer. This time I stayed near Airport Mesa, with sunsets right outside my door and none of the crowds.
My Substack has everything I’d tell a first-time visitor: the lodge I’ve now stayed at twice, the experiences I’d do first, and the restaurants I’d plan my days around.
Subscribe for free so you don’t miss the next one. Link in bio ✨
YES is always the answer... ✈️
I’m Wendy, and yes, I travel for a living (still pinching myself). After 15 years teaching middle school math, I traded the whiteboard for a passport and never looked back. Knoxville is home base, but Arizona sunsets are on another level, and if it’s been sitting on your list, this is your sign to finally say yes and book it. City guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots are all on the blog. So glad you’re here 🌵☀️
A café, bakery, market, and wine shop all in one Phoenix stop 🍊
At La Grande Orange, order the crepes first, they’re the thing I’d go back for. The chicken salad sandwich is perfect if someone wants lunch while you’re still on breakfast, and the red velvet mini cupcake and a chai latte round it out. The sea salt chocolate chip cookie is heartier than gooey, so it’s best for dunkers. It’s counter service with easy parking, and the market has quirky gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Leave time to browse, because you’ll stay longer than planned.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ☀️
“Outside Terminal 3” is not a pickup location at PHX.
Before your driver pulls in, text them four things: your terminal, north or south side, door number, and inner or outer curb. Grab your bags first, then call them in. Drivers can wait free in the cell phone lot instead of circling. Getting through security is easy; getting picked up is the hard part.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ✈️
Come for the architecture, stay for the view.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross has been built into Sedona’s red rocks since 1956. The outside overlooks get busy, but inside is quiet, with huge windows framing the rocks. It’s free, takes 30-45 minutes, and has a paved, wheelchair-accessible ramp. Make sure to bring water in summer.
Save this for your trip planning!
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
