Good vibes only
Enjoy The Derby Restaurant & Bar
Welcome to The Derby Restaurant & Bar, an inviting culinary haven located in the heart of Salem, MA. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this establishment seamlessly blends exceptional food with lively entertainment. Guests rave about their delightful brunches, featuring standout dishes like prime rib Benedict and rich harvest salads. The attentive staff, including friendly servers and knowledgeable bartenders, enhance the experience with personalized service and cocktail recommendations. With signature items like the Derby burger and tantalizing nachos, The Derby has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Join us for a meal that promises creativity, flavor, and unforgettable moments.
Chef’s Selections
Savor hand-crafted dishes and drinks
PUMPKIN WHIPPED FETA
TOMATO MOZZARELLA MELT
CRINKLE FRIES
WHIPPED POTATOES
Story & Atmosphere
The Derby Restaurant & Bar
Welcome to The Derby Restaurant & Bar, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Salem, Massachusetts, at 189 Washington St. This vibrant establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience—a haven for food lovers and those looking to unwind with great drinks and lively entertainment.
Stepping inside The Derby, you’re greeted by a warm ambiance that sets the stage for memorable meals. The menu is diverse, offering everything from standout brunch items to dinner favorites. The prime rib on a Benedict is tender and perfectly executed, a delight that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many patrons. One customer raved about this dish while also praising the perfectly poached eggs that accompany it.
Brunch at The Derby is a particular highlight, renowned for its fun Drag Brunch—an event that combines fabulous performances with top-notch food and cocktails. Guests are entertained while enjoying dishes that range from savory chicken and waffles to the ever-popular Derby Burger, making it a vibrant weekend destination.
The attention to detail doesn’t stop at the food. The cocktails are not only creative and delicious but also reflect the bartenders' expertise. Diners have mentioned how knowledgeable the staff are, providing insightful background on the drinks and expertly shaking the perfect martini. The playful and unique cocktail offerings add a delightful twist to the dining experience.
Service at The Derby stands out, with attentive wait staff who manage to keep pace even during busy brunches. Friendly servers like Dakota and Mikayla have left a positive impression, enhancing the overall dining experience with their recommendations and warmth.
For those seeking a quick yet satisfying lunch, The Derby’s harvest salad has been noted for its fantastic blend of flavors, a testament to the thoughtfulness behind their menu. The nachos are massive and bursting with flavor, often described as “to die for” and a must-try item for any first-time visitor. Whether you’re indulging in comfort food classics like chicken tenders or savoring more refined dishes like seared Ahi tuna, each plate is crafted with care.
In essence, The Derby Restaurant & Bar is a top contender in Salem’s dining scene, where great food, refreshing cocktails, and engaging entertainment come together seamlessly. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to add The Derby to your dining itinerary—you won’t be disappointed.
If you're planning a visit or want to know more, feel free to contact them at (978) 740-2337 and prepare for a delightful culinary journey!
Voices & Impressions
Guestbook
“ Drag Brunch at the Derby was amazing fun - and the food and drinks were phenomenal, completely aside from the entertainment. Despite a crowd of 160 people, the wait staff was attentive, and everything arrived quickly and tasted great. The prime rib on my Benedict was tender, the eggs were perfectly poached. And of course, drinks were great! ”
“ My cousin and I came in for brunch today and Dakota was our server. The food was amazing and Dakota was very warm and friendly. He also gave fanatic recommendations. When we come back to Salem, this is somewhere we will definitely return for cocktails and delicious food! Highly recommend. ”
“ We went to The Derby for lunch and it was fantastic! The harvest salad was amazing with such a nice blend of flavors. The cocktails were cute, creative, and delicious. Our server, Mikayla, was super friendly and made the experience even better. Highly recommend! ”
“ Bartender is very attentive and knowledgeable! Had a dirty martini myself (which was perfectly shaken and had great brine to to vodka ratio…I lean less dirty on mine). My partner ordered different beers and with each, the bartender gave some nice background info to let us know more about it. Food was great, nachos are huge!!!, and the chicken tendies are soooo unassuming but surprisingly delicious! ”
“ Food was delicious. I've been coming to salem for 4 year this is the only dining place I come. The nachos are to die for, I got the chicken on it. Superb. The derby burger as great, chicken and waffles and my other friend got the chicken mac and cheese with a side of fries.. we will be back next year.. ”