Taking a drive to Salem from Rochester, NY for a long weekend with the wife. Any stops along the way that aren't to be missed? Was trying to avoid the Boston area (no offense... time constraints). I am already planning to hit the craft beer cellar. Thanks!
Check out Gulu Gulu cafe in Salem. Great beers on tap, descent prices, awesome cheese plates and a relaxing 'coffee shop' type atmosphere. Salem Beer Works is the only brew pub in the area. It's a descent place, but not going to blow you away. Bogie's on Rt. 62 in Beverly is a small store with a great selection that's worth checking out. Vinnin Sq Liquors on Rt. 1A in Swampscott also has a great selection of beer. I hope you're coming to Salem soon. Once October rolls around the city is a nut house.
I'd definitely take the time to stop off of exit 4 on the Pike to hit Table & Vine. . . Exit 10, Armsby Abbey
Jacks Abbey in Framingham...right on i90. Tastings and growler fills to take to your final destination. They have a fantastic IPL...the best I have ever had.
As a salem resident you should check out the following: Gulu Gulu (probably your best bet for craft beer) Cafe Polonia (next door to Gulu. Great polish food and some decent euro offerings) Old Spot (english dive with a small, but good draft list) Pigs Eye (best bar in salem. drink where the locals drink. cheap gansett cans & notch session ale on draft) Beer Works (it is what it is and it's not all that bad)
Also, Quality Liquors has a great craft selection and is usually a lot cheaper than other stores. Don't let the outside clientele fool you...sure they sell a shit ton of nips, but they have a great bottle selection.
If you want food, stop a little ways from Springfield to Sunderland, MA and stop at Bub's BBQ. Amazing stuff, very low key. An absolute fave.
Quality is my go to store in town. They keep squeezing more and more craft in. I was amused when they shifted the Carlo Rossi jugs to add more craft shelf space. tt0027, how was your trip?
