5 Underrated Salem, Oregon Restaurants that Are Absolutely Worth Trying

As Oregon’s state capital, Salem is often overshadowed by the culinary juggernaut of Portland to the north.

But those who take the time to explore the city will find a thriving and independent food scene that prizes quality, community, and creativity. Salem’s best restaurants aren’t about hype; they’re about serving fantastic food to their neighbors.

If you’re ready to see why Salem is a destination in its own right, skip the chains and head straight for the local favorites.

Here are five underrated restaurants that prove Oregon’s capital has a flavor all its own.

1. Epilogue Kitchen and Cocktails

This unique spot is a love letter to books and good food. Part bookstore, part restaurant, Epilogue offers a cozy, literary-themed escape with a menu of elevated comfort food that is as creative as it is delicious.

From their signature “Dragon Stew” to imaginative burgers and expertly crafted cocktails, it’s a place where you can feed your body and your mind.

2. Marco Polo Global Restaurant

For the adventurous eater, Marco Polo offers a culinary passport to flavors from across Asia and beyond.

This unassuming restaurant features a sprawling menu that authentically represents a variety of cuisines, from Chinese and Vietnamese to Thai and Indian. Whether you’re craving a fiery green curry, savory pad thai, or a comforting bowl of pho, Marco Polo delivers with surprising authenticity and skill.

3. Valiant the Sandwich

Elevating the humble sandwich to an art form, Valiant is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-quality ingredients and thoughtful combinations.

This small but mighty shop focuses on doing one thing perfectly. Using locally sourced bread and top-tier meats and cheeses, they build sandwiches that are bursting with flavor, from their classic Italian sub to inventive daily specials.

4. Noble Wave

Bringing a slice of island life to the Willamette Valley, Noble Wave serves up delicious and authentic Hawaiian-style plate lunches.

The vibe is relaxed and casual, but the food is seriously good.

The star of the show is the tender, smoky Kalua Pig, served traditionally with two scoops of rice and a scoop of macaroni salad. It’s a soulful, satisfying, and unique taste of aloha in the heart of Salem.

5. La Margarita Express

Known to nearly every local simply as “The Ram,” this drive-thru and walk-up window is a Salem institution.

Don’t let the fast-food format fool you; this family-owned spot serves some of the most beloved Mexican food in the city. It’s famous for being fast, affordable, and consistently delicious. The “Ram-borito” is the stuff of local legend, and it’s a perfect example of an underrated gem that has been hiding in plain sight for years.