Salem Spring Fling is a fun event that we look forward to every year.  Like the ancient Bacchanalia this celebration of spring abounds with wine, women and song. It’s also the largest sanctioned Toga Party around!

Third Annual Salem Spring Fling

The low down on Salem’s Spring Fling

Where: Old Town Hall, Derby Square on Front Street in beautiful Salem MA
When: Saturday, March 27th from 6 – 9 pm
What: Join us for our annual Bacchanalia ! A celebration of spring with culinary delights, fine wine and craft beer, music and art! Food and wine/beer sampling included in ticket. Collectable glass to all attendees.

The Beer: Magic Hat, Ipswich, Stone Cat, Cape Ann Brewing, Harpoon, Dogfish Head, Wachusett, Mayflower, Oscar Blues, Cody Brewing and more!

The Wine: A fine selection of wines from around the world hand picked by the Pamplemousse

The Food: Salem Restaurants such as Capts, Finz, Sixty2 on Wharf, Passage to India, Rockafellas, The Lobster Shanty, AJ King Artisan Bakers, Victoria Station, The Upper Crust Pizzeria and great coffee from Cafe Valverde!

The Music: Local favorite, Machine 475 will be performing live.

Other great stuff: Free chair massages provided by Living Well & Laura Lanes Skincare, readings with Lady June (fee) and lots of great art from local artists such as Jeff Bowie, Chris Dowgin, Sue Grillo, Sarah Ashodian, John Viens, Elise
Mankes, Ken Goldstrom, Dirty Witch Soaps, Jack Walsh, & Scott Lanes.

Meet familiar characters from myth and legend and enjoy the goddesses and nymphs that wander the “Garden of Earthly Delights“. Seek out The Oracle of Delphi to hear your fortune. Roman attire is encouraged! Great costumes available at Samantha’s just one block from the event!

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door and are available at Pamplemousse, threiverboston.com, pmousse.com, localwineevents.com or by calling 978-745-2900.

Legal Disclaimer: First and foremost have fun and stay safe.  I know we talk about going out and having cocktails all the time but that’s because Salem is such a great city to walk, that we don’t ever find ourselves behind the wheel.  When throwing a NYE party unless all of your guests will be walking or staying over, make sure someone is responsible so everyone can start 2009 off right.

Now on to the good stuff.  When you are 21 years old, New Year’s Eve is nothing more than an excuse to get hammered out of your mind. I used to have a ritual where I’d meet up with about 20 friends for Chinese food and scorpion bowls early in the evening then we’d go off to parties and drink champagne and eat cherries soaked in grain alcohol.  Sometimes I wonder how I still have a liver but I digress…

There comes a time when spending big bucks on a night out isn’t worth the couple of hundred you will drop.  And, if you are reading this then getting Chinese food and nodding off before Dick Clark’s robot proclaims the new year is probably not an option either.  So let’s call some friends and have a house party.

Your party should be a marathon not a sprint, that means invite your friends over at 8 and leave it open ended.  Since you will be serving some adult beverages, serve some adult food.

Fellow blogger and soon-to-be Salem resident The Hungry Mouse offers some great tips on tasty treats for your party.  Her blog should be on your RSS feed since it features Adventures in food and cooking.  Fresh content. Every day.

I love New Year’s Eve. From the champagne to the funny hats to the kissing at midnight. Call me a sucker, but I can’t help myself. Here are a few recipes that are short on prep time and long on flavor–so you can spend more time where you belong this holiday season. With your friends.

This Spicy Chipotle Lime Ketchup goes really well with a platter of my
Crispy Sesame Chicken Nibbles.

If you have a houseful of carnivores, my Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Beef Spare Ribs have all the flavor of holiday roast beast, with almost no effort. If your guests swing the other way, this Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is warm, filling–and totally vegetarian if you make it with veggie broth instead of chicken stock.

Round out the evening with a plate of Walnut Butter Ball Cookies, which look like mini snowballs and are fast, easy, and festive.

Hungry Mouse spread

Libations

Our resident Cocktologist, err…Mixologist has some New Year’s Eve bar tending suggestions.

Your guests will most likely bring over a wine, beer or in this case champagne so while I always have some on hand I don’t put my efforts into that.  I like to have a seasonal offering so depending on my expected crowd that means a specialty drink or shot. You can’t go wrong with a mulled wine, hot cider or cool egg nog.  All of which can be prepared before company comes over and put out in a crock pot or punch bowl, allowing your guests to consume at their leisure.

My cider always comes complete with some Sailor Jerry spiced rum.  Sailor is easy on the wallet and since it’s served hot in cider, you don’t need to waste the good stuff.  Since grain alcohol is no longer legal in Massachusetts I’ll share with you my holiday Uncle Foroct’s Olde Tyme Apple Pie Shot™ recipe.

50% Apple Juice or a fresh apple cider
40% good quality vodka
10% good quality spiced rum
4 cinnamon sticks
Mix all ingredients.  In a non metallic container (think milk jug), store in fridge for a minimum of 12 hours stirring occasionally. Remove the cinnamon sticks, shake and serve in shot glass with a dollop of whipped cream and dash of cinnamon.

Apple pie shot

Champagne and other sparkling wines

Now you have some fine recipes and good beverage ideas but New Year’s Eve is all about the champagne toast. This year I want you to skip going to the packie and grabbing a bottle of Asti Spumante like all the other plebeians out there.  Downtown Salem boasts two great shops where you can find your Champagne this year.

Salem Wine Imports

Owner Eric Olson offers a wide variety of champagnes in a wide variety of prices.  If everyone at your party is a connoisseur then Erik suggest a fine 1998 La Grande Dame at a mere $170 a bottle, it comes in a beautiful black lacquer and mahogany, commemorative box with chrome and leather details.  If, on the other hand, you only drink champagne once a year then a La Mandier ($52)  might be more your style.  Since Snoop Dog is on my guest list I might just pick up a bottle of Crystal ($250).

1998 La Grande Dame

Champagnes at Salem Wine Imports

Pamplemousse

If you don’t have the big bucks but still want a nice bottle of bubbly, Catherine made some fun suggestions.  While they do have some good champagnes there like a traditional Moet ($51) they also feature some sparkling wines from nearby the champagne region in France.  Charles de Fere is a nice option as are some of the more economical sparkling wines from around the world.

Sparkling Wines from Pamplemousse

One more thing

This year we are getting a special bonus—a leap second.  That’s right, you get one more second to bask in the glow of 2008. Please, don’t waste this valuable second with shoddy food and crappy champagne.  Live life to the fullest in that second and know as you kiss your sweetie that for one shining moment this year you truly gave it your all.

Drunken Happenings

Drink em up

Using some whimsical adaptations from the official Haunted happenings an avid group of Pub Crawlers brings you Salem’s 4th Annual Drunken Happenings, this Saturday October 18th starting at 3pm.  The crawl involves visiting 7 different bars and drinking the recommended specialty drinks.  Six hours later everyone meets up at O’Neills to swap stories and hi-five your new BFF.

Having organized a few Salem Pub Crawls myself I commend the Drunken Happenings crew for getting the word out about being safe.  They suggest you crawl with a group, set aside time for dinner and remind you NOT TO DRIVE.  They even went the extra mile and included info on the cab company and pedicabs for those who might be in need.

While there was some talk of this event being canceled due to an increased police presence this year, it is still on.  I look forward to sharing a drink with many of you who will be crawling and remember – Be Safe Out There!

Octoberfest

Do you like oom-pah Bands?  What about cute chicks wearing a drindl?  Are you looking for an excuse to dust off the lederhosen in your closet?  Then look no further, Octoberfest is coming to Salem.

Octoberfest

I can’t tell you that all the girls that show up will be this pretty nor can I tell you the mugs will be this large but I can tell you they both should.

Here is the low down.  This great idea was brought to life by Dianne from Pamplemousse (remember Harvestfest) and it looks to be a lot of fun.  A large tent will be set up in the Front Street parking lot on Friday October 24th serving as your Octoberfest headquarters till Sunday the 26th.  Local brewery Ipswich Ale will be providing the suds for your consumption.

Now for the bad news.

You have to buy a $20 ticket to enter the tent, similar to the real Oktoberfest (or Wies’n as it’s called in the motherland) where you need to buy a voucher to get a seat in order to be served, however that $20 ticket only gives you a commemorative Ipswich Ale mug and one beer.  If the festbier (German for beers sold during Oktoberfest) are 1 liter and the server girls are seriously cute then maybe just maybe $20 is worth it.  Keep in mind though if you want  any food (New England type food not Germany type food) or an additional beer you are paying for it out of your own pocket.

Proceeds from the event will go to Destination Salem a city department that markets Salem as a tourist destination.  Organizers are hoping to walk away with $30,000 profit.  While I hope this event is a huge success and they hit their mark something tells me that paying for additional beers of unknown size and price on top of a $20 cover charge might discourage most potential revelers. We will do a follow up to this and let you know how it went.

The Days of Wine and Roses

With all the subtly of a heavy weight MMA fighter, Salem Wine Imports opened up shop almost a year ago.  Even before the first bottle of wine was sold the usual cadre of Salem gum flappers were making quite the hullabaloo.  It would appear that the owner of Salem Wine Imports Eric, (whom I personally like) used to be the salesman who sold to Dianne (whom I also personally like) owner of Pamplemousse another shop in town that sells wine.

You can read all about what transpired and come to your own conclusions but now we have two great shops in Salem that have a good selection of wines. We the consumers win.

As with most businesses that have nearby competitors, each shop tries to promote itself and entice new customers with a variety of techniques.  Pamplemousse (who should learn a thing or three from our Your Website and You posts - their site has been “under construction” for way too long now) hosts wine tastings most Saturdays from 2-4pm while Salem Wine Imports (who needs to realize that if you have a blog you need to update it once in a while) does tastings on Thursday nights from 6-8.  I feel this is a healthy competition which again benefits us the consumers.

The dark side of the cork

We here at TheSalemInsider.com try to keep up on all the events going on around town so you the reader will know whats going on.  As such we often get notices and invitations to events happening around town.  I’ve noticed a disturbing trend lately which makes me think there’s more than meets the eye in the land of corks and casks.

Take for instance the night of September 25th.  The Lyceum hosted Salem’s first Wine Expo.  This event  presented by Salem Wine Imports, The Salem Athenaeum and Historic New England was announced way back in July.

A few weeks back in my in-box I received notice of another wine event, Women & Wine Tasting.  The event  held at Laura Lanes Skin Care on September 25th,  featured wines specially selected from Pamplemousse.  Coincidence?  I think not.

This is not the first time a clash of the tannins has occurred.  Thankfully neither of these proprietors has sunk to the level of public nuisance or disturbance like our ice cream combatants.

Enough sour grapes, uncork the future and tell me what’s in store.

There are some great beverage related on goings in Salem in the next couple of weeks.  What better place to talk about the Salem Harvest Fest than this wine related article.

Salem Harvest Fest

If you like wine, mead or artisnal beers then this is an event for you.  For $20 in advance or $25 at the door you will be able to sample over 60 different libations from all around the world over a 2 1/2 hour period.   This Saturday October 18th, from either 2:00-4:30 or 5:30-8:00 Pamplemousse along with Magic Hat Brewing Company, The Upper Crust and Rockafellas offer up some great selections at a great location – The Gathering, at 217 Essex Street Salem.

If you DONT like wine, mead or artisnal beers then check in with us tomorrow as we tell you about two other festive events that you’ll need a designated driver for.

Jocelyn Callahan Benefit - This Friday night The Gulu-Gulu Café in Salem is hosting a fundraiser to help the Callahan family deal with their tragic loss.  Machine 475 will be heading the evening. Donations of any kind are welcome (we will be hosting a live auction that evening).  Cover charge will be $10 and all proceeds from the evening will be given to the family.

Music

Friday August 29th

• Suzanne Perel (jazz 6-9) Mamadou (rock 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Starlight Grey (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica, pop, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Dave Retros (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Ted Solovicos (blues 8pm) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• The Hangovers (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Elle Gallow Band @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday August 30th

• Karen Cameron (jazz 6-9) Speakeasy (10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Wicked Hawt Magazine CD Release party (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Acoustic Jam (2-5) Ross Livermore (acoustic 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Lee Harvey @ The Lobster Shanty
• Ted Solovicos (8pm)  @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Wildfire (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• Dis n’ Dat @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Sunday August 31st

• Jazz Jam (jazz 6-10)  @ Bangkok Paradise
• Big Shoes to Phil (jazz) @ Dodge Street
• Eric Reardon & Sarah Seminski (3pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Wildfire Labor Day Party (dance, rock, pop, 80’s 9:30pm) @ Rockafellas
• BAND-Lee Hawkins @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

The Longshots (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at  11:45 AM, 2:10, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:30

Pineapple Express (R)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 12:15, 2:35, 5:00, 7:30 and 9:45

Star Wars; The Clone Wars (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 11:15, 1:30, 3:45,  6:45 and 9:15

Insider Picks

Friday night whether you knew Jocelyn or not, swing by the Gulu and put your $10 toward something worth while,  you will gain mucho karma points.  Saturday get out there and party party party let DJ Cee Block kick your weekend into high gear with some fine beats over at O’Neills.  Remember that you have Monday off so keep the weekend rolling on Sunday, I’m going to make my annual pilgramige to the Rockmore for some day drinks then check out a set with Big Shoes to Phil at Dodge Street followed up by a little Labor Day party with Wildfire over at Rockafellas.   Monday you can find me In a Pigs Eye for a little hair of the dog with one of the best Bloody Marys around.

Keep up with us on Twitter!

Are you kidding me? It’s the beginning of summer.

Music

Friday May 23rd

• Alanna Manning (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Speakeasys (rock, punk 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Neurological Damage (alternative, metal, funk) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica, pop, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (classic rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Tony Gallo (jazz, r&b, pop 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Search Party (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Close to Home @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Saturday May 24th

• Sandi Bedrosian (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Terri Lee ( world 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Fair Warning (Van Halen Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• HAPPY SPRINGALLOWEEN!!(blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo (folk rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Wildfire (dance, rock, pop, R&B) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Wishful Thinking @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Sunday May 25th

• Jazz Jam! (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Big Shoes 2 Phil (Jazz) @ Dodge Street
• Gulu Sunday Morning Brunch featuring Eric Doucette (acoustic guitar 11am-2pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (4-7pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• High Tide Party @ (2-6pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25, 7:15 and 9:50
Sunday & Monday Memorial Day at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25 and 7:15

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35, 7:20 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35 and 7:20

Prince Caspian (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00

Insider Picks

The cute weather girl on TV tells me its going to be a stellar weekend so lets plan on some out door fun.

Insiders know that when the weather gets good we all gather at the Shanty. You can meet all sorts of Salemites there and everybody is usually friendly. Kick off the long weekend with a true Salem fixture Grateful Ted. Cheap food, warm beer, lousy waitresses and classic rock older than you are. Saturday the HAPPY SPRINGALLOWEEN!! event is going on at Gulu-Gulu Dan Blakeslee as Dr. GASP, Orange Nichole, and our personal friend Monster Reusch (why he doesn’t live in Salem I don’t know) will all be preforming in a kooky ode to Halloween party. Newcomer to our musical offerings is Strombergs, this Sunday they will be having a High Tide Party and if it’s as good as their previous events you are in store for some fun, grab your fiends and head on over. Monday looks to be the best day yet weather wise so where better to spend your time than on the water. Since you probably wont be going to Bakers Island – do the next best thing and take a ride out to the newly opened (noon today) Rockmore. And for you slackers who want to take it easy, Salem Cinema has the new Indiana Jones flick (we saw it last night) its well worth your $6.

Cilantro
282 Derby Street
978.745.9436

Take your existing notion of what a Mexican restaurant is and pitch it out the window. Cilantro is a great dining experience in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Upon walking in to this Derby St. eaterie, you are usually greeted either by a friendly hostess or the owner. There isn’t a bad seat in the house and usually if you are a party of 2 you will be seated by the large windows overlooking the street. If your party is larger the tables in the main dining area along the brick wall is where you will find yourself. There is a small bar area which is perfect for single diners or couples.

The menu here has so many great choices it’s hard to make up your mind. Don’t waste your time with typical cheezy Mexican food you can get elseware, go for the real deal here.

Insiders know the home made sangria is fantastic. Cilantro also boasts quite a tequila selection. The Margarita de la Casa or “house margarita” is fine for the uninitiated but those with a refined pallet opt for the Cabo Wabo or Patron.

Many regulars have multiple favorite entrees, it’s tough to nail down their best dish. Meat lovers will love the selection with, Filete Miñón con Salsa de Chipotle y Chorizo and Cilantro de Invierno Al Chipotle being my personal favorites. You can’t go wrong with Chile Relleno or the Sea Bass al Naranjo.

Deserts are also scrumptious. I try to get whatever is seasonal although the churros and flan are always tempting.

Atmosphere: B
Portions: B
Service: A
Food: A
Price: B
Overall: A-

No ladies, this post isn’t about that guy you dated last summer, it has much more depth and style.

Since 1875 on the first Saturday of May the masses gather in sleepy Louisville Kentucky to wear big hats, drink Mint Juleps and watch a little horse race at Churchill Downs – The Kentucky Derby .

Known as the most exciting two minutes in sports, this 1 1/4 mile race for 3 year old pure breed horses is a spectacle to behold. The grandstands are chock full of A listers from the sports, entertainment, business and political worlds. Last year Gene Simmons of KISS with long time girlfriend and baby momma Shannon Tweed placed a $100,000 bet. Sitting close by and with a considerably less wager was the Queen of England.

The rest of us plebeians spend a cool $25 to make it on to the infield where the real party is. No dress code here, just a collection of unique liquor smuggling techniques. It’s one of the largest tailgating events ever.

If you can’t make the trip down south you can enjoy the Derby right here in Salem. There are a few things you will need to know that will greatly enhance your Derby experience. First, while you can watch the Derby at home alone on your couch, the Derby is all about celebrating with others. So, we need to get out and socialize.

The Kentucky Derby is steeped in tradition. Be the envy of all your friends by knowing those Traditions.

My Old Kentucky Home. In 1853 Stephen Foster penned the states official song which is sung at the begining of the Derby.

My Old Kentucky Home

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home,
‘Tis summer, the darkies are gay;
The corn-top’s ripe and the meadow’s in the bloom,
While the birds make music all the day.

The young folks roll on the little cabin floor,
All merry, all happy and bright;
By ‘n’ by Hard Times comes a-knocking at the door,
Then my old Kentucky home, goodnight.

Chorus
Weep no more my lady
Oh! weep no more today!
We will sing one song for the old Kentucky home,
For the Old Kentucky Home far away.

Verse 2
They hunt no more for the possum and the coon,
On meadow, the hill and the shore,
They sing no more by the glimmer of the moon,
On the bench by the old cabin door.

The day goes by like a shadow o’er the heart,
With sorrow, where all was delight,
The time has come when the darkies have to part,
Then my old Kentucky home, goodnight.

Chorus

Verse 3
The head must bow and the back will have to bend,
Wherever the darky may go;
A few more days, and the trouble all will end,
In the field where the sugar-canes grow;

A few more days for to tote the weary load,
No matter, ’twill never be light;
A few more days till we totter on the road,
Then my old Kentucky home, goodnight.

Chorus

Now that you know the music it’s time to get the beverage down. The Early Times Mint Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. I’ve investigated every bar in Salem and none of them feature Early Times Kentucky Whiskey. So I tend to use Makers Mark but your favorite Kentucky whiskey or bourbon will do fine.

Mint Julep

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
• 32 fluid ounces Kentucky bourbon
• 8 sprigs fresh mint leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Combine water, sugar and chopped mint leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow syrup to cool, approximately 1 hour. Pour syrup through a strainer to remove mint leaves
2. Fill eight cups or frozen goblets with crushed ice and pour 4 ounces of bourbon and 1/4 cup mint syrup in each. (Proportions can be adjusted depending on each person’s sweet tooth). Top each cup with a mint sprig and a straw. Trim straws to just barely protrude from the top of the cups. Serve juleps on a silver platter.

Okay, you’re on your way to being a Derby insider. Now ladies, regardless of if you are sitting in the grandstand, the infield or a fine Salem establishment, one tradition you get to enjoy is wearing a BIG hat.

(c) taylorcraft75

You now have the knowledge, so where should you go?

Finding a location in Salem that has large screen HDTV’s, and a mint julep that you and your friends can enjoy is pretty easy. Here are my top choices.

• Rockafellas
• Lyceum
• Spirits
• Salem Beer Works

Once everything is in place the race is fast and furious so don’t blink. Oh and be sure to check out the wreath of roses the winning horse gets, it’s worth more than the trophy!

Enjoy watching the Run for the Roses with your new found Derby knowledge and don’t for get to tip your hat to the Colonel.

Salem Signature Cocktail Competition
We blogged about this event last week. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. Complimentary shuttle service provided by Salem Trolley in case you get a little tipsy when trying all the delicious concoctions. Partial event proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem.

Music

Friday May 2nd

• Christy Bluhm (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Sad Marvin (rock, blues, soul 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Starlight Grey (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• RSVP ( alternative/ experimental / electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• 1201 Blues Band (Chicago blues 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Moonglow (dance / pop / 80′s / rock) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday May 3rd

• Suzanne Perel (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Playing with Fire ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cocaine Tonung (GNR Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• Catfish Lucy (blues / funk / r&b 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Big Blue Octopus (rock / psychedelic / freestyle 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo (folk rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Open Bar Band (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Gary Shane @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:15, 7:00 and 9:45
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:15 and 7:00.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (R)
Friday & Saturday at 11:25AM 2:00, 4:45, 7:30 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:25AM 2:00, 4:45 and 7:30

Baby Mama (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday 11:15, 1:50, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:3
Sunday 11:15, 1:50, 4:30 and 7:15

Insider Picks

With Cinco de Mayo almost here and good weather around the corner, weekends in Salem transition from a sprint to a marathon. Friday Salem regulars RSVP get their groove on over at Gulu-Gulu. Saturday shake your rump to the bass thump of DJ Cee Block at O’Neill’s. Sleep in late on Sunday becuse were taking the weekend out with a bang. Join TheSalemInsider.com crew for the Salem Signature Cocktail Competition. We’re starting at Rockafellas and making the three hour crawl to Finz. Buy your ticket early and save some green. Monday head over to Cilantro for your annual margarita, you can call in sick Tuesday!

Here is the scoop: on Sunday, May 4th from 5-8pm for a nominal $20 ($30 at the door) you get to walk on a mini pub crawl and taste the best cocktails that some of our restaurants have to offer. A cut of the jingle goes to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem. Pseudo-celeb Billy Costa will be at Finz for voting (why they didn’t ask our own Mr. Salem is still a mystery).

Here are the full details:

What: Complimentary cocktail tasting.
When: Sunday May 4, 5-8 p.m.
Where: Ten downtown restaurants all within walking distance.
Why: Spring is the perfect time to explore Salem’s burgeoning restaurant scene and find out why this city still bewitches.

Restaurants competing for the Best Signature Cocktail of Salem are: The Regatta at the Salem Waterfront Hotel, The Grapevine, Cilantro, Spirits, Strega, Passage To India, Edgewater Cafe, Rockafellas, Fresh Taste Of Asia and Finz Seafood and Grill.

Join TV Diner’s Billy Costa at 8 p.m. at Finz for a wrap party and to vote for Salem’s Best Signature Cocktail. Walk away with celeb-inspired swag, like souvenir shot glasses.

“We wanted to expand our signature cocktail event in the North Shore area, as it is unique from the standard wine tastings and bar crawls” Comments Lisa Knight, of Drinkwater Productions “ This event has the vibe of a big city event without having to drive to a city like Boston”. Drinkwater Productions is the event and promotions company hosting the event.

Tickets are $20 in advance/$30 at door and can be purchased at www.salemcocktail.com or at the Trolley Depot in Salem. Complimentary shuttle service provided by Salem Trolley.Partial event proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem.

The 1st Annual (?) Salem Save Our Schools/ Birthday Bash staring DJ Ondrej!
Tickets are available at the door for $10. All proceeds benefit the Salem Education Fund. The 1st 100 people will get their very own birthday cupcake! The 1st 25 people get a FREE t-shirt! Raffle prizes have been donated from some Salem businesses! Come dance with the world famous DJ Ondrej! The wild and crazy guy from Czech Republic returns to cruise and swing successfully in his tight slacks!

Music

Friday April 18th

• Steve Wark(jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The Speakeasys (rock, blues, soul 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Brake for Moose (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Ondrej! ( Techno / Minimalist / Electro 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Brian Maes Band (rock 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Love Dogs (dance, rock, swing) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s

Saturday April 19th

• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The River Rock ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• 3 Ply (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Centripitalforce (Electronica / Drum & Bass / Breakbeat 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Jackknife Valentines @ The Lobster Shanty
• Brian Maes @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Big Time (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Preacher Jack @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby (formerly Roosevelt’s)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

The Forbidden Kingdom (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:20, 7:00 and 9:30
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:20 and 7:00.

Leatherheads (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 7:15 and 9:40
Sunday at 7:15

Horton Hears a Who (G)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 12:15, 2:30, 4:45

Nim’s Island (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 12Noon, 2:10, 4:30, 7:30

Spoken Word

Witch City Poetry Series – Continues all month long Sunday from 5-8pm @ Gulu-Gulu

Insider Picks

Friday night offers up some interesting choices. Salem’s New Business of the Year Gulu-Gulu Cafeis hosting a birthday bash / Salem schools fund raiser. I’d love to support G2C on their first birthday but cant bring myself to throw more money at the education fund debaucle. Good thing our friends The Love Dogs are playing over at Rockafellas, they always deliver a good time. Saturday with the good weather supposedly hitting us a trip to the Shanty for cheap beers and Jackknife Valentines is in order. Outside under the stars with friends, thats how Salem insiders spend Saturday night.

Stupidity and being lackadaisical when operating a bar, club or restaurant will always come back to bite you in the ass. In the Salem newspaper the other day and all over the television today is a story about local restaurant Bangkok Paradise getting busted for underage drinking.

There are two tirades I feel need to be let loose. First, if you are an underage kid and are drinking at a legit restaurant DO NOT blab about it on your myspace or facebook accounts. Police, as well parents, actually read what you post. You are telling them that you are involved in a criminal enterprise and where you will be doing said illegal activity so they can come and catch you.

Secondly, if you own or manage an establishment that sells alcohol it is your responsibility to enforce the law. This country has a mandatory drinking age of 21, whether you agree with that or not it is the law and you need to abide by it. Your staff must check IDs. And your staff should be trained to spot fake IDs, warned not to over-serve and keep an eye on other problem situations. Everyone who works in the bar, club, restaurant industry needs to be vigilant because when they fail to do their jobs they are risking the livelihood of their co-workers.

At TheSalemInsider.com our contributors and I am always talking about where to go to hear a good band or find a great drink. Safety and respect are paramount in your decision to party in Salem. I wrote a lengthy article the other day discussing Night Life in Salem. These recent public transgressions specifically go against what I was talking about. I enjoy the Bangkok Paradise for their thai food, live jazz and good cocktails, but one bad apple in the bunch will have impact on other businesses.

Why the proliferation of underage drinking at the Bangkok?

When I first started going to the ‘kok it was slam-packed with a line out the door on Friday and Saturday nights. They did a great jazz night from 7 to 11 or later. Since I lived over by the Witch House I would walk up Essex, cut into the parking lot by the YMCA and slip in the back door. Like a scene from Goodfellas or Swingers, I’d make my way by the kitchen pop into the dining room where there wasn’t a seat to be found. With the music be-bopping away I’d slice through the crowd till I came to rest at the bar. Don, the fabulously flamboyant and wonderfully knowledgeable bartender, knew everybody in the house and introduced me too many of Salem’s known characters. We would chat and enjoy the music till the kicked us out at 12:30. At that time there were few people under 25 who patronized the ‘kok.

Last year sometime Don left Salem to see where life would take him and the owner felt she could squeeze a few more pennies out of Salem by reducing the jazz music and adding rock, hip-hop and jam bands that would appeal to a younger crowd. Now at 10pm when the jazz used to kick in to high gear, a new band would take the stage. The existing crowd would leave and youngsters would show up. Rarely is there a doorman and hardly ever do the servers or bartenders check IDs. The number of people coming in late night fluctuates wildly and I can only imagine that the service personnel are trying to make ends meet by overlooking some minors once in a while. Everyone has to make the rent but this is no way to run a business.

Bangkok Paradise is loosing their liquor license for 3 days April 28th to April 30th and all employees must undergo the TIPS program. Does this restaurant deserve to loose their license? You bet it does. Will this “teach them a lesson”? Only time will tell. I would like to see this bring about a positive change and perhaps make them take a look at their current strategy.

Why is Salem a hot spot for nightlife?

Last year and beyond if you were looking for live music your choices were somewhat limited. Dodge Street offered up Rock music in a dive bar atmosphere, Rockafellas offered dance music in a bit more upscale atmosphere, Bangkok Paradise offered Jazz in a weird atmosphere (for jazz) and occasionally Edgewater, O’Neills and The Old Spot (formerly McSwiggins) would have live music. Sitting just outside the down town area, Bay Bridge was a staple of the Salem nightclub scene with local and national bands, karaoke and DJ’s playing almost every night. Let’s not forget the Lobster Shanty in the nice weather months.

© Danielle Blue

Competition raises the bar.

As a reader of TheSalemInsider.com you probably know that due to a combination of sprinkler system legislation and non-payment of taxes the Bay Bridge is closed. There has been no movement on this property so it looks like it’s gone for a long while. On the flip side, new establishments in Salem have made others stand up and take notice.

Gulu-Gulu Cafe brought with it a huge beer menu, interesting live music and a packed house of well-tattooed hipsters. A cascading effect of late night changes shortly ensued. Bangkok Paradise shifted their Friday and Saturday jazz to a 6-9 time slot allowing them to promote “rock” bands (rock, hip-hop, roots, metal and cover bands) in the 10-12 time slot. New comer Fresh Taste of Asia, saw an opening and decided to spin the wax with an ambient hip-hop groove catering to a young urban Asian set.

Established locales aren’t impervious to the phenomenon either. The Lyceum has started a live music series on weekend nights, their acts are targeted to their existing clientèle featuring more mellow music and the occasional 70′s rocker. The Old Spot stepped up their bookings also, with live music 3 to 5 nights a week (unfortunately they still are having a hard time getting the word out - get a website people). O’Neills does the DJ thing and packs in a good college-type crowd.

In the “everything thats old is new again” department, Spirits of 300 Derby (formerly Roosevelt’s of Salem) opened recently and has an entertainment license that allows for up to 5 musicians. We’ve seen some great guitar player/singers and Salem favorite, Preacher Jack. Look for changes to happen over at Spirits soon as they work out their menu and eventually open up the second floor. Dodge Street marches to their own drum beat and has been doing live music well before it got trendy.

It seems like musicians from all around are hip to the new explosion of Salem night life. Musicians contact us through our myspace page asking about gigs or adding us to their guest list just so we can have a listen. Killer Boston bands like The Indefinite Article, Ichabod and the Love Dogs play gigs in Salem all the time. Plenty of local musicians ply their craft here in town also. With all the great venues and opportunities out there I wouldn’t be surprised to see Salem songstress Mary Lou Lord playing out somewhere soon.

If you build it they will come.

Now that restaurants and bars are offering entertainment, where is everyone coming from? Many people are throwing around the phrase “Salem is the new Cambridge” and that just might be true. I personally know a bunch of people that used to live in Cambridge, Boston and Somerville that have recently moved to Salem. Salem offers a city feel, walkability, MBTA access, and rent at half the price of places in Boston and parking is slightly better.

While census stats for this exact information is unavailable it’s a safe bet to say that more young professionals, 20 and 30-somethings have been moving into Salem. You see them walking to the commuter rail in the morning or having a cup of coffee at any one of our coffee shops on the weekend.

An informal poll taken in January by TheSalemInsider.com showed many people are taking advantage of Salem’s night life live North of Boston (from Revere to Gloucester). When asked “why Salem” the answers were varied but revolved around bang for your buck, quality entertainment, safety and less hassle.

What’s next for Salem’s scene?

Any insider can tell you that there is a yearly cycle that Salem goes through. Like many of it’s North Shore neighbors Salem sees a direct influx of people based on the weather. Spring finds more locals that have been hibernating in doors all winter out walking about and making their way to many of our local hang outs. Once June hits and schools close, tourists arrive taking full advantage of our waterfront, the Willows and off shore locations like the Salem Harbor Islands (i.e. Baker’s Island). As the summer draws to a close and fall hits the second wave of tourists hits in full force for the Halloween season.

With spring right around the corner what will the face of Salem nightlife look like? If last year is any indication, outdoor seating will be all the rage. Like Newbury Street in Boston, anyone with a few feet of real estate in front of their place will plop down a table and start serving out side. Last year The Lobster Shanty, Salem Beerworks and Victoria Station had by far the largest patio seating with Rockafellas showing nicely for down town. This year the tide has changed, be on the lookout for Spirits to dominate summer outdoor space. If they book quality live music and are allowed to play outside, they could give the Shanty a run for their money.

Summer finds tourists and locals alike beating a path to Pickering Wharf. Finz and Victoria Station have nice on the water seating but Capt’s open air second floor offers perhaps the best view on the wharf. If you want a more nautical dinner experience than just eating by the water, you can dine on the water at Salem’s floating restaurant the Rockmore which is scheduled to open on May 23rd. The Rock is a perennial party pad pushing a plethora of pleasant pabulum and plenty of potable potions.

Is Salem’s art and music boom sustainable?

Twenty years ago when the Cambridge music and arts scene started to take off people said that venues like TT the Bear’s and the Middle East would never survive across the river from Boston landmarks like the Rathskeller, Narcissus, The Boston T Party and M-80. If you look at the Boston/Cambridge seen today you’ll find that two of the Boston clubs mentioned are now BU condos the other two are now Lyons Group clubs, changed names, had about 50 face lifts and just last month one (now Avalon) was sold to the House of Blues. In Cambridge, TT’s and the Middle East are still packing people in every night of the week.

I don’t think we will see the migration to Salem slow down for quite a while. New condo housing is being built and affordable rentals abound. More 20 and 30-somethings with disposable income, no kids or very young families are still flocking to Salem. With their arrival you find business that cater to them popping up. Prime examples are hip baby shops like Crunchy Granola Baby, hang outs like Front Street Coffee House and Gulu-Gulu Cafe and new businesses like the recently opened Hex and the soon to open Witch City Ink. When independent businesses open up focusing on a college/post college/young professional demographic it makes the city more appealing to that demographic.

With available retail space, new space coming shortly (Old Salem News building, and Courthouse area redevelopment) there is no question the night life scene in Salem can grow. One fear many people have is corporate establishments encroaching on down town. Salem’s unique charm is in part due to it’s independent businesses. When local pizza chain The Upper Crust moved into Salem last year there was plenty of talk regarding their “corporate” status. Will future restaurant/bar/nightclub owners in Salem keep an independent spirit alive? That remains to be seen.

What is missing from Salem’s scene?

One aspect lacking in Salem is a true “night club”, one with great sound and lights that focuses on entertainment every night. While this type of place can’t realistically exist in down town Salem, there are plenty of locations that would work.

Where is the Salem Art scene? In the summer, Klopp Alley is full of artists, sculptures, jewelry makers and musicians. Through out the year The Salem Art Association throws a few events promoting art and their artists in particular. The Art Corner, Front Street Coffeehouse and Gulu-Gulu Cafe always have something on exhibit but is this enough for our city? Often during Halloween season the old Newmark Gallery on Essex Street is taken over by locals and puts on quite a show. This year that wont happen as it will house the Lizzie Borden Museum (why? I didn’t know she was from Salem). There are plenty of local artists and the only galleries to be found in Salem are devoted to miniature ships and maritime paintings. With all the talent in our own backyard it’s too bad there is no daily way to showcase it.

Salem could also benefit from a “local only” night. In some smaller cities you will find venues that promote from within, by featuring only local musicians and artists on a particular night (every Thursday for instance). Given the number of bands and artists that call Salem home this could be a successful concept for a mid-week night.

Last Call

As more people come to Salem for their night out the venues need to keep up their great offerings while simultaneously ensuring client safety. By keeping patrons safe from harm (usually due to fisticuffs and/or over imbibing) the city licensing boards and police will allow a greater expansion of this city’s night life. When people come to Salem and have fun, everybody wins.

Right now is a great time to live in Salem, Massachusetts. Night time fun is in style and choices are abundant. If you want to have a quiet bottle of wine with friends, see live rock music, dance to a hip-hop DJ, or sit in on a jazz set – Salem has it all. And it’s only getting better. With the proliferation of patrons, establishments are seeing a bump in their bottom line which means they are more willing to offer you what you’re looking for, a good time on a night out.

The Lobster Shanty

Is back in action. Starting today warm beer, lousy food, rude bartenders, surly waitresses, cranky cooks and rowdy regulars have their summer home back. Look for cheap beer, live music and Salem friends new and old to be hanging out on Artists Row.

Gulu- Gulu Cafe

Our friends over at G2C are back in full force with a brand spanking new liquor license and fun new hours. Open till 10pm Sunday – Wednesday and till 1am Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Bring on the beers!

No, this is not an April fools post. It’s the real deal baby.

Looking for a good night out in Salem every month but you aren’t a member of any fine civic organizations in town? The Salem Witches Pub Crawl is a fun night out and you don’t have to be a witch, or from Salem nor do you have to crawl or even drink at a pub. Here is the official word.

There are many fine organizations and groups in Salem and beyond that are dedicated to finding solutions to the serious issues that face the Witch and Pagan community …

The Salem Witches’ Pub Crawl is NOT such a group!

While we honor the work that others do, we also know that Witches just want to have fun once in awhile! So let’s get out, meet one another, and enjoy one another’s company! Our group is disorganized. We don’t have leaders. We don’t do public circles. We’re not battling for civil rights. And, we’re not interested in whether you have three degrees or for that fact three degrees of separation from someone somebody else doesn’t like. Nobody cares! Let’s live life to the fullest and enjoy ourselves!

Yeah, we meet in pubs but not every one of us drinks and we’re ok if you want to come and just relax. We feel this is a great way to build community and get to know one another and we’re excited to have you take part!

How It Works
Once a month, we pick a night that’s easy for a broad range of people and we pick a location in Salem and descend upon it like a flock of crows. You don’t have to be a Witch to participate. You just have to have an open mind. Best Witches!

Pub Crawl Tonight

So tonight is the night. Put on your cape, hop on your broom and fly down to Capt’s on the wharf at 7pm.

Oh and if you like Pub Crawls be sure to let us know, TheSalemInsider.com does a killer all day- all night crawl every September.

Most years I go to the Southie Parade then spend the day pub crawling through Southie and Dorchester. Once night falls my crew makes its way to see the Dropkick Murphys then end the night at JJ Foleys. The past few years I’ve spent a good chunk of my St. Paddys day in Salem. This year things are a bit different so I’ll be your guide to making the most of your time in Salem on this fun holiday.

First things first, you need to have a plan.

In my days of massive pub crawls its the planning that separates the men from the frat boys. By focusing that you are in it for the long haul (10am to 2am) you prepare for a marathon rather than a sprint. Its not drinking your face off, its about socializing, having fun and keeping your head. Drinking water during your pub crawl and eating something at every other stop assures that you will be more prepared to handle a long night of meeting new people and being thrust into different situations.

Salem doesn’t offer an endless string of Irish bars, and while there are a few great pub crawls (TheSalemInsider.com sponsors one every year) St. Patrick’s day is a bit more laid back here than it is in Boston. With less options it’s easier to make a good solid plan.

1. Bring a buddy
St. Patrick’s day is one of the big three bar days (the others being Wednesday before Thanksgiving and New Years Eve) so it’s best to head out with a friend. Someone to grab the next round when it’s your time to break the seal or to hang with if you are waiting in line to go in somewhere.

2. Dress for Success
Are you Irish? Show it with a cool t-shirt that tells the world. Not Irish, get in the spirit by wearing green or busting out your favorite Guinness shirt. A scally cap or even a shamrock pin will give you some air of authenticity.

3. Know where to go
In Salem there are a couple of options, I usually start out over at The Old Spot then head over to O’Neills. Both will be packed but you will also have the best times here.

4. Think about what you drink
I personally stick to Guinness but there are other acceptable beverages to consume on St. Paddys day. The most well know stout is of course Guinness, but Murphy’s Irish stout is delicious and a bit smoother for the novice stout drinker as is Beamish. If you prefer something lighter, Harp larger or Smithwick’s (pronounced ‘smith-icks’) ale. There is some debate on whether a Black and Tan (Guinness and Harp) or a Black Velvet (Guinness and hard cider) are acceptable. They are served in Ireland but are a pain to build so for this outing I would keep my order simple to keep my bartender happy.

Beer is not the only beverage to be enjoyed on St. Patrick’s day. Irish whiskey is also a smooth, easy libation. Irish whiskey differs from Scotch whisky because it is distilled more than Scotch and peat moss is not used in the firing of mash. What does that mean to you? A smoother less earthy tasting beverage. Some Irish whiskeys you will find in Salem are Bushmills, Black Bush, Jamesons, and Tullamore Dew.

5. Eat your fill
One thing about Irish food, corned beef and cabbage or New England boiled dinner in particular, is that it’s comfort food. There’s nothing like coming home to the smell of a giant pot with corned beef, potato, turnip, carrot, and cabbage all boiling up. People with other heritages may find this food a bit bland but if it’s cooked correctly and seasoned with some malt vinegar, boiled dinner is heaven. The key to success in your boiled dinner is pink corned beef not gray and not over-cooking your veggies.

Not everyone can spend the day hanging out listening to Irish music, singing with new friends at the pub and watching the girls to their Irish step dancing. Some people actually have to work. When I had to do the 9 to 5 thing on St. Patrick’s day, I would meet up with some of my friends afterwards and we would have a toast with an Irish car bomb then head out for some dinner. This would inevitably lead to more late night car bombs. What is an Irish Car Bomb you ask? It’s liquid candy.

Irish Car Bomb
3/4 pint Guinness stout
1/2 shot Bailey’s Irish cream
1/2 shot Jameson Irish whiskey

Add the Bailey’s and Jameson to a shot glass, layering the Bailey’s on the bottom. Pour the Guinness into a pint glass 3/4 of the way full and let settle. Drop the shot glass into the Guinness and chug. The Bailey’s will react with the Guinness making it curdle so it’s best to drink this very quickly.

While the Irish have a reputation for being hard drinkers, the celebration of St. Patrick’s day is not a celebration of drink but a feast that celebrates St. Patrick and all things Irish. Unfortunately it can turn out to be amateur hour at the bar, so if you go out keep a good disposition and focus on having fun. Keep yourself and your friends safe and don’t do anything stupid. The best night you can have is the one where you build long lasting memories and get home safe and sound.

Send us a picture of your St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Salem and we’ll post it later this week.

Salem’s affinity with wine doesn’t end there (nor did it start there). Pamplemousse, Salem’s eclectically cute home, kitchen and bath store on Essex St. has been in the wine business for years. They stock a variety of wines, meads and micro brews. They also offer tastings
(I recall plenty of them on Sunday afternoons during tourist season) and the occasional wine class. Now Pamplemousse along with local art / craft gallery The Picklepot is hosting a celebration of food and wine.

Spring Fling: a Garden of Earthy Delights

Fashioned after the Bacchanalia – a religious festival in honor of the wine god Bacchus – Spring Fling -
will feature a tasting of over 50 fine wines and international and domestic craft beers. Local breweries
Ipswich, Cape Ann Mercury and Harpoon, among others, will be pouring their spring offerings.
Professionals will be on hand with an assortment of fine wines from around the world.

Salem Restaurants such as The Old Spot, GuluGulu Cafe, 62 on the Wharf, Rockafellas and more will
tickle and tantalize your palate with delectable culinary delights! North Shore Artists will be offering an
eclectic variety of art to please your eye and warm your home. Boston singer-songwriter Katrin Roush will
be performing live – often compared to Bonnie Raitt, Katrin is spellbinding on stage, both soulful and
passionate. A siren to awaken the gods of spring!

Meet familiar characters from myth and legend and enjoy the goddesses and nymphs that wander the
“Garden of Earthly Delights.” Seek out The Oracle of Delphi to hear your fortune. Traditional ancient
attire is encouraged! This is Salem, after all. Experience the intoxicating power of this celebration on
March 15th from 3 – 6pm at Old Town Hall in beautiful, historic downtown Salem, Massachusetts.

We’re always happy to see any event that gives props to one of our favorite painters Hieronymus Bosch. Also, it’s great to have an opportunity to sample some great wines, beers and food. Make sure to mark your calendar for fun.
SPRING FLING: A GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS
Saturday, March 15th from 3 – 6 pm
Old Town Hall, Essex Street, Salem, MA
Tickets $20 advance/$25 door available at www.pmousse.com

Special Events

Runway Fashion Show
The Woman’s Friend Society is hosting their biggest fund raiser of the year, their Runway Fashion Show at the Salem Waterfront Hotel, Friday, Feb. 22. A cash bar with hot and cold hors d’oeuvres opens at 6:30 p.m., and the show on the runway begins at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are Required and cost $45.00. You may pick up reservation cards at the participating shops or you may contact: womansfriend@verizon.net for reservations.

This is a great organization that has been helping women in Salem for over one hundred years. If you have the time and the money attending this Fashion Show is a great way to help out our community.

Music

Friday February 22nd

• Moonglow @ Rockafellas
• Autumn Above (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Karen Cameron (jazz 6:30-9:30) AJ Edwards (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• CentripitalForce (Electronica / Drum & Bass / Breakbeat 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday February 23rd

• Wildfire @ Rockafellas
• Demon’s Alley, Crash Midnight & Switchblade Suicide (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30) Mamadou (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Bring Back Pluto (funk / jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Vantage Point (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 7:30, 9:50
Sun: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 6:00

Spiderwick (PG)
Friday and Saturday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15 and 9:30;
Sunday – Thursday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45) and 7:15.

Fools Gold (PG-13)
Friday and Saturday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00 and 9:40;
Sunday-Thursday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30) and 7:00.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Fri: 11:30 PM

Salem Film Fest 2008 - Although not this weekend plan some serious time at the movies from February 28th to March 6th

Art

Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style @ PEM
This exhibit is a must-see for Salem residents (who get in for FREE) and comes to an end on February 24th, SEE IT NOW!

Insider Picks

With the snow already falling and the weatherman telling us it will last most of the weekend our picks are easy. First stop after work is off to get a snow storm beverage. Do you know what to do in Salem when there is a snow storm? Our Friday pic has to be Gulu-Gulu the sweet beats that Centripitalforce lays down is a perfect mix for the chill vibe of this urban oasis. Saturday Dodge Street is a must if you want some good old ass kickin’ rock-n-roll. Switchblade Suicide is a relatively new band but we saw them a while back in Somerville and they busted out.

As always have a blast, don’t drive and tell us about it.

Eric sent over a note that said:

Restarting tastings every Tuesday starting the 19th. Greek, Austria, and Swiss will be opened and evaluated. Come join us for an adventure in “emerging wines” at 6;30 or later.

If wine is something you have always wanted to know more about, Salem Wine Imports may be offering classes. For those of you who would be interested in attending wine classes, please contact them. If they can get enough interest classes would be every other Thurs. from 7-9.PM. A nominal fee of between $15 to $20 depending on wines tried.

It’s great to see a new business off and running! Good luck and go get your drink on.

Update: Spirits closed their doors in May 2009 and has reopened as Murphys.

One time Salem hot spot Roosevelt’s, after a few owners, much speculation, and many months of being closed, has reopened with a new name – Spirit’s.

We went in for drinks and appetizers the other night and our first impression is that Spirits has potential. The restaurant / bar is brand spanking new but the overall feel of the place is dark and not too inviting. Exposed dark wood beams, and a stone back wall give off a cavern vibe. There is a large stone fireplace opposite the bar in the dining room. The dining room holds a good number of rich wood tables set on a mix of dark stained wood and cream colored tile. Everything was kept very clean (including the spacious bathroom facilities). We were told the second floor space is set to be a function area.

The horse shoe shaped bar can easily fit 25+ people and was full from about 10pm on. We found the bartenders to be attentive and affable. One stand out feature of the aptly named Spirit’s is their exceptional top shelf liquor selection. Someone obviously with knowledge has taken the time to stock the bar with a wide variety of high quality spirits at reasonable prices.

While we did not order dinner, we did try the spinach dip and the nachos. Neither were very impressive. The dip was heavy on the cream and light on the spinach while the nachos were uninspiring with some cheese and veggies dumped on a heap of chips.

We are, however, looking forward to the summer at Spirit’s. They have by far the largest outdoor patio around which should make for some serious summer fun.

As was the case with Fresh Taste of Asia we will give Spirits some time to work out the kinks and go back in a month or two.

Atmosphere: C+
Food: C
Drinks: A
Staff: B
Overall: C+

While we were out Friday night talking to local business owner Natan Lin about his latest project we snapped the above photos of Bangkok Paradise mixologist Jay serving up one of his specialties, the Flaming Jay.

Jay keeps his recipe close to the vest but is happy to instruct you as to the proper way to drink down one of these combustible concoctions. Served partly in a martini glass and also from a flowing creamer, the lights are turned down so others can enjoy the blue flame waterfall while you focus on the mint green beverage.

For those of you who don’t want your eyebrows singed off Jay suggests a house favorite the Bangkok Cocaine. Other favorites of the Salem Insider crew are the Fire and Ice and the Lychee Martini, an Asian treat.

I enjoy the bunghole for something fun and different once in a while. It’s also fun to share a friends first bunghole experience with them, I love to see the look on their face. The bunghole never fails to get a smile. I love Bunghole Liquors.

With the recent holidays, I hosted a few out of town guests who were excited to go to the bunghole of all places. This modest package store (packie and package store are Massachusetts slang for liquor store) probably sells more T-shirts than cases of beer. They have parlayed their unique name into an online brand and sell swag near and far.

Salem’s Bunghole has a storied past with the building being used as a funeral palour during the time of prohibition (19th century prohibition not Salem’s first prohibition in 1657). Downstairs in a room perhaps used for embalming, the funeral director and his cohorts would meet to put back a few cocktails (he put the “fun” back in funeral). For whatever reason, the group refered to this private drinking spot as “the bunghole.” A bunghole is actually a hole bored into liquor casks (think scotch, wine or rum) which is plugged by a large cork known as a bung. One of the owners drinking buddies suggested that if prohibition was ever lifted he should turn the place into a liquor store. On December 5th, 1933 when the Twenty First Amendment was ratified Bunghole Liquors applied for and was granted the second liquor license that Salem issued.

There are plenty of better package stores in town but the Bunghole is fine for a neighborhood packie. And if you are like many tourists you’ll want to swing by for a photo and perhaps a coosy, church key or t-shirt. Just don’t forget, they sell alcohol in there too.

Prior to our New Years Eve bash, some of our contributors were making the rounds and met up with a couple from New York City who were looking for a taste of something different. What they found is sure to spice up your new year.

Rockafellas “helltini” will make fire shoot out your ears, it’s so spicy you have to sign a waiver before you will be served. I had only a few drops and while tasty my tongue and lips were dancing a Cajun two step for the next 10 minutes. Made with vodka, cinnamon, jagermeister and an evil looking spice concoction this martini doesn’t come cheap. But if you are man (or woman) enough to finish this $20 drink you are rewarded not only with a warm glow but you choice of souvenir t-shirt.

A warning from our new tourist friends – “do not take part in any sort of amorous activities directly following consuming this beverage or you run the risk of incinerating your partner’.

Well, after much anticipation and a huge flame war on one of Salem’s message boards, Salem Wine Imports is now open.

Now we at TheSalemInsider.com are not oneologists but we do like a good glass of wine now and again. Thankfully the owner of Salem Wine Imports was available to help guide us through the store. Wines are arranged by region and nicley displayed around the shop.

A special bonus for any wine n00b is the eight bottle draught system in the rear room. A nitrous system keeps the wine fresh so you can sample a variety of bottles before you buy. This is a great feature and I can for see many wine tastings in the future.

In a time when so many other businesses are moving or closing their doors its great to see a new and somewhat unique shop open up in Salem. We wish them success.

Nestled on the edge of down town Salem sits what I can only describe as an adult contemporary dining experience.

Stregas exterior does nothing to inform you as to what lies beyond its doors. Once inside you enjoy a beautiful wood bar with impressive columns, warm walls with geometric patterns, and fun retro-style lighting. Three plasma screens at the bar were tuned into the sporting game du jour (Patriots Sunday night game) while the room was filled with the sounds of latin hip-hop and later ambient chill out lounge.

We were promptly seated and a waitress took our drink order. I was disappointed to find out they did not have Bombay Sapphire, a staple at any respectable restaurant. I opted for a Hendrix martini while my dining companion ordered a cosmo. The menu was robust with an emphasis on Italian far. We opted for the PEI Muscles as an appetizer which was beautifully presented and tasted as good as it looked.

Entrees were priced from $12 -$26 and there was a three course price fixe option. We chose the rigatoni ala vodka and the seafood scampi. Portions were hearty and prepared well. The seafood was delicious but the scampi sauce and pasta left much to be desired. The rigatoni hit the spot and forced me to move my belt one notch to finish it.

The desert menu offered standard choices so we went with a creme brulee and a Bailey’s chocolate mousse. The mousse was rich and just melted in your mouth, the creme brulee was creamy with a hint of vanilla and caramelized just enough to impart a touch of flavor. Desert was capped off with an Irish coffee.

Reservations are not required but suggested especially for Friday or Saturday night.

Atmosphere: A
Drinks: A
Food: B
Overall: B+