In Oregon’s capital, a city surrounded by fertile farmland and imbued with the Pacific Northwest’s craft-focused ethos, the french fry is more than just an afterthought.
Salem’s best fries are a showcase for local potatoes, cooked with precision and often served alongside a pint of exceptional Oregon-brewed beer.
The search for the perfect fry leads from bustling downtown brewpubs to cozy neighborhood cafes where quality ingredients are king.
A great Salem fry is crispy, tastes distinctly of potato, and is often accompanied by an array of creative, house-made aiolis and dipping sauces.
Here are five restaurants in Salem that are frying up the best potatoes in the city.
1. The Ram Restaurant & Brewery
This popular brewery and restaurant knows that nothing pairs better with a craft beer than a basket of hot, salty fries.
Their signature waffle fries are a local favorite, offering a unique texture with countless nooks and crannies for catching seasoning and ketchup.
They are always fried to a perfect, even golden brown, ensuring they are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
Order them with a side of their Ram-a-kin sauce for the full, delicious experience.
2. Venti’s Cafe + Basement Bar
A Salem institution with two locations, Venti’s is beloved for its diverse menu and its fantastic “Slammin’ Fries.”
These aren’t just fries; they’re a meal. A heaping portion of crispy fries is topped with a spicy cheese sauce, bacon, green onions, and a choice of protein.
Even their standard fries are a cut above, perfectly seasoned and served with a variety of house-made dipping sauces.
It’s the go-to spot for a satisfying and flavorful fry fix.
3. Best Goose
This trendy spot is known for its excellent burgers and its unwavering commitment to the quality of its side dishes.
The fries at Best Goose are hand-cut from high-quality potatoes, resulting in a beautifully rustic and flavorful fry.
They are double-fried for maximum crispiness and seasoned with just the right amount of salt to enhance the potato’s natural flavor.
Paired with one of their gourmet dipping sauces, like chipotle aioli, they are simply sublime.
4. Noble Wave
This downtown gastropub brings a taste of Louisiana to Salem, and that includes a unique and delicious take on fries.
Their Cajun fries are tossed in a zesty blend of spices that provides a pleasant kick without being overwhelming.
The fries themselves are medium-cut and perfectly crispy, an ideal canvas for the bold seasoning.
They are the perfect accompaniment to the pub’s Southern-inspired menu and extensive beer list.
5. The Half Penny
This cozy, traditional pub offers a classic and comforting fry experience that has won over locals for years.
Their “chips” are thick-cut, hearty, and fried to a deep golden brown.
They have a satisfyingly crisp exterior and a dense, steamy potato interior that is incredibly satisfying.
Served with a side of malt vinegar, they are a perfect, no-frills example oOf course, Kalyn. I understand you want longer, more detailed articles for the new topic.
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